The sentence that begins at the start of this verse continues through the end of the following verse in Revised Standard Version. This structure is much too long and complex to be easily understood. For this reason many translators will want to break it down into two or more shorter sentences in order to make the meaning more understandable (so Good News Translation).

Some interpreters consider the structure of this verse to be too difficult to explain. They assume that the writer broke off his sentence at the end of the verse without finishing his thought. New Jerusalem Bible, for example, ends the verse with three dots (an ellipsis), saying “As for the king of Judah who sent you to consult Yahweh, say this to him: As regards the words you have heard…” (similarly Osty-Trinquet). A footnote here in New Jerusalem Bible says “The sentence breaks off. Perhaps supply ‘they will be fulfilled.’ ” Following the Vulgate, La Bible Pléiade adds “in the book” in square brackets at the end of the verse.

The initial conjunction But marks the contrast between the LORD’s approach to King Josiah and his treatment of the other people of Judah.

Thus shall you say to him, Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel …: In many languages the embedded quotation in the second half of this verse may be better introduced by saying “I am the LORD, the God of Israel. This is what I want you to say to King Josiah….”

Words is translated “threats” in New American Bible because the words of judgment communicated through the book of the Law were perceived as warnings. However, most versions leave this implicit, translating words literally.

You have heard: The context demonstrates that what is meant here is more than mere passive hearing. Attentive and sympathetic listening is intended. Here and in the following verse, the personal pronoun you is singular, referring to King Josiah.

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