1:33

In this verse, 1:33a is very similar in meaning to 1:33b. Specific words and phrases in these parts of the verse are also similar: “He will reign” and “His kingdom” are similar. “Forever” and “never end” are similar.

In some languages, it may be confusing to repeat the same meaning in different words here. It may imply that the angel was making two separate statements that had different meanings. If that is true in your language, you may need to translate the parts of the verse in a different way. See the General Comment on 1:33a–b at the end of 1:33b for a suggestion.

1:33a

He will reign: The phrase He will reign means “he will be king” or “he will rule as king.”

the house of Jacob: The expression the house of Jacob refers to all the descendants of Jacob. Another name for Jacob was Israel. He lived hundreds of years before this time, and all twelve of the tribes of Israel were descended from him. People often called the nation of Israel the house of Jacob.

1:33b

His kingdom will never end: The clause His kingdom will never end repeats part of the meaning of 1:33a. This repetition emphasizes that Jesus will rule forever.

General Comment on 1:33a–b

In some languages, it may be confusing to repeat the same meaning in different words. It may imply that the angel was making two separate statements that had different meanings. If that is true in your language, here are other ways to translate it:

• Combine 1:33a and 1:33b as one statement. For example:

33a–bHe will reign forever over Jacob’s people.
-or-

33a–bHe will never cease to reign over the nation of Israel.

• Indicate in some way that 1:33a and 1:33b have the same meaning. For example:

He will be king over Jacob’s people forever—yes, his kingdom will never end!

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