1:31

Notice the parallel parts that are similar in meaning:

31a So they will eat the fruit of their own way,

31b and be filled with their own devises.

This verse gives the consequences/results of the behavior in 1:29–30.

1:31a

So they will eat the fruit of their own way: The clause they will eat the fruit of their own way is a figure of speech. It means “they will suffer the consequences of their conduct/behavior.”

In some languages, a literal translation of this figure of speech may be difficult to understand. Some other ways to translate it are:

• Keep the figure of speech, but make explicit part of the meaning. For example, the New Living Translation (2004) makes explicit the words “bitter” and “living”:

Therefore, they must eat the bitter fruit of living their own way (New Living Translation (2004))

• Translate the meaning without the figure of speech. For example:

So then, you will get what you deserve. (Good News Translation)

• Use a different figure of speech with a similar meaning. For example:

Therefore, since you chose to plant evil, you will have to harvest the bitter crop that it bears.

1:31b

and be filled with their own devices: In Hebrew, this expression is literally “be filled from their schemes.” There are two ways to interpret this expression:

(1) The phrase “the fruit” from 31a does not apply. This line describes a parallel but different consequence to the behavior in 1:29–30. It means “filled to the point of disgust with their own plans.” For example:

until you are stuffed full with your own schemes (Contemporary English Version)

(2) The phrase “the fruit” from 31a does apply. This line has a similar meaning to the first line, and it means “filled with the bitter consequences that their plans have produced.” For example:

you will get what you planned for others (New Century Version)

It is recommended that you follow interpretation (1), along with most versions.

In some languages, it may be clearer to translate the meaning without the figure of speech. For example:

your own actions will make you sick (Good News Translation)

devices: Another translation for devices is:

what you planned for others (New Century Version)

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