19:36a
Now: The Greek word that the Berean Standard Bible translates as Now is a conjunction that is usually translated as “for” or “because.” It is not a time word. Some English versions do not use a conjunction. Use an expression that is natural in your language.
these things happened: The phrase these things refers to the fact that the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side but did not break his bones.
so that the Scripture would be fulfilled: This clause indicates that what happened is what the scripture that was written long ago said would happen. See how you translated this idea in 12:38. For example:
so that the Scriptures would come true (Contemporary English Version)
-or-
This was done to make the Scripture come true (Good News Translation)
-or-
in fulfillment of the text of scripture (Revised English Bible)
the Scripture: This phrase here refers to a specific place or text in the Old Testament Scriptures. For example:
the text of scripture (Revised English Bible)
19:36b
Not one of His bones will be broken: This quotation may come from two different contexts:
• Psalm 34:20, where the Psalmist promised God’s protection for the righteous man.
• Exodus 12:46 and Numbers 9:12, which commanded the Jews not to break the bones of the Passover lamb.
If you write a footnote here, it is good to mention these Old Testament texts.
will be broken: This is a passive verb phrase. There are at least two ways to translate it:
• Use a passive verb like the Berean Standard Bible.
• Use an active verb. You may need to supply a general subject. For example:
they will not break any of his bones
-or-
No one will break even one of his bones
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