7:17a
For: This conjunction introduces the reason why believers will no longer suffer from hunger, thirst, or heat. For example:
because (Good News Translation)
the Lamb in the center of the throne: The Greek words are literally “the Lamb in the middle/midst of the throne.” This phrase probably has the same meaning as in 5:6b–c. There the Lamb is in the midst of the throne, the four living creatures, and the elders. Other ways to translate this phrase are:
the Lamb at the throne
-or-
The lamb in the center near the throne (God’s Word)
See how you translated this phrase in 5:6.
will be their shepherd: The Greek words are literally “will shepherd them.” The verb “shepherd” refers to watching over, protecting, and leading sheep or goats to new pasture. Here the phrase indicates that the Lamb watches over, protects, and provides for his people. Other ways to translate this phrase are:
will shepherd them (NET Bible)
-or-
will watch over them
7:17b
‘He will lead them to springs of living water’: This clause refers figuratively to providing for people’s needs. Like shepherds lead sheep to food and water, the Lamb will lead believers to the things they need. For example:
he will guide them to springs of life-giving water (Good News Translation)
springs: Here the word springs refers to places where water arises out of the ground.
living water: The Greek phrase is literally “water of life.” This phrase indicates that the water is the source of life. Other ways to translate this phrase are:
the water of life (New Revised Standard Version)
-or-
water that gives ⌊eternal⌋ life
-or-
life-giving water (Good News Translation)
7:17c
‘God will wipe away every tear from their eyes’: This clause implies that believers will not suffer or be sad again. In some languages a literal translation would wrongly refer only to wiping tears, without giving true comfort. If that is true in your language, you may want to:
• Include this implied information in your translation. For example:
He will wipe every tear from their eyes ⌊so that they will not be sad ever again⌋
• Translate the meaning with this implied information. For example:
God will remove all their grief and sorrows
-or-
God will comfort them so that they never cry/weep again
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