19:29

Notice the parallel parts that are similar in meaning:

29a
Judgments are prepared for mockers,

29b and beatings for the backs of fools.

There is an ellipsis in 19:29b. In some languages, the missing verb will need to be supplied from 19:29a. For example:

29b and beatings ⌊are prepared⌋ for the backs of fools.

Because of the parallelism and the close connection with 19:28, the “mockers” mentioned here probably include the “corrupt witnesses” who “mock at justice” in 19:28a. Such people are all moral fools. So “beatings” are probably the specific “judgment” for both “mockers” in 19:29a and “fools” in 19:29b. See the earlier note on 19:28–29 for more details.

19:29a

Judgments are prepared: In Hebrew, this phrase refers to punishments or acts of judgment that the LORD has established or decided upon. These judgments are usually carried out by individuals or by enemy nations, plagues, or wild beasts.

This is a passive phrase. If it is necessary to make explicit the one who prepares the penalties, you may specify the LORD.

for mockers: The verse here does not specify what the mockers make fun of. It could be justice, the LORD, wisdom, or other people. If possible, translate this word in a way that refers generally to anyone who mocks.

Some other ways to translate this clause are:

Condemnation is ready for scoffers (English Standard Version)
-or-
Punishment is made for mockers (New Living Translation (2004))

19:29b

and beatings for the backs of fools: In some languages, it may be more natural to leave the word backs implied. For example:

and fools will certainly receive a beating

For fools see fool 2 in the Glossary.

General Comment on 19:29a–b

In some languages, it may be more natural to combine and/or reorder the parallel parts. For example:

There are punishments, such as a beating, that have been established for mockers and fools.

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