Paragraph 24:17–21
24:17a–b
Here Paul began speaking again to his defense (24:10–13). Languages have various ways to show that a topic is resumed. If possible, show that the earlier topic is resumed in a natural way. For example:
Now (Revised Standard Version)
-or-
Then
After several years, then: This phrase in Greek is literally “after many years.” The context implies that Paul did not visit Jerusalem during this period of time. So the Berean Standard Bible and some English versions add a phrase like After several years. Other ways to translate this phrase are:
after some years (Revised Standard Version)
-or-
After being away from Jerusalem for several years (Good News Translation)
I returned to Jerusalem: This clause in Greek is literally I returned. But the context clearly implies to Jerusalem. The context does not imply Caesarea, where Paul actually was when he spoke this. So the Berean Standard Bible and some other English versions add a phrase like to Jerusalem.
to bring alms to my people: The phrase my people refers to Jews in general. Paul actually brought gifts of money for Jews who believed in Jesus, but purposely does not explain the difference here. Translate literally without explaining the difference in your translation.
Use a word for a group of people with a common language and culture. Also, Paul brought the gifts, not the people. For example:
to bring gifts to ⌊people of⌋ my nation/tribe
-or-
to bring gifts to ⌊people of⌋ my own people group
to present offerings: The word offerings probably refers to the offering of 21:26 here. This would include sacrificing a male and female lamb, a male sheep and giving various food and drink offerings (Numbers 6:14–15). In 24:18–19, Paul refers to the events of 21:26–30. He also connects 24:18–19 with a connecting phrase that connects to the word offerings. Your translation should not refer only to animal sacrifices.
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