And renders the Hebrew verbal transition that is sometimes translated “And it happened” or “And it came to pass” (Jewish Publication Version). Good News Translation and most other modern versions do not render it explicitly here, but they do have a paragraph break.

At the time of the offering of the oblation: See the comments on verse 29.

Elijah the prophet came near: In some languages it may be more natural to omit the words the prophet since Elijah has already been introduced as a prophet in verse 22. Came near translates the same Hebrew verb that is rendered “Come near” in verse 30. Here, however, the text does not state what Elijah approached. In this context it is clear that he came near to the altar, and this may be made explicit as Good News Translation has done. This will be especially important in languages where the verb meaning “come near” or “approach” requires a grammatical object.

God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel: It is unusual to see the name Israel instead of “Jacob,” since the Old Testament usually says “Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.” But the use of the name Israel here recalls the name in verse 31, and is a reminder that God is the God of all Israel. Good News Translation and New Living Translation substitute the name “Jacob,” using the name that is better known to most English speakers.

Let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel: If the expression here is translated literally in some languages, it may be confusing. The prophet is praying for clear evidence that Yahweh is the true God of the people of Israel. Some possible models for translating the meaning are “reveal yourself today as the God of Israel,” “Now, prove that you are the God of this nation” (Contemporary English Version), and “I ask you now to prove that you are the God of Israel” (International Children’s Bible). Notice that these models do not keep the passive form of let it be known.

The use of the archaic pronouns thou and thy in verses 36-37 is characteristic of Revised Standard Version in translating prayers to God, but this does not reflect a difference in the Hebrew. Translators should not be concerned to find special ways of addressing God in their language. See the comments at 1 Kgs 3.6.

At thy word may be translated “at your bidding” (New Revised Standard Version) or “because you told me to do so.”

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Kings, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2008. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .