9:11a

Yet before the twins were born: The Greek is literally “for though having not yet been born.” The word “for” introduces an explanation, but it is an explanation of something that is only implied. That is, in 9:10a Paul implied that what follows is another illustration of how God’s word had not failed (9:6). The “for” connects to that implied statement and introduces an explanation. Here are other ways to translate this clause:

for, before they were born
-or-
for though the twins were not yet born (New American Standard Bible)

In some languages it may be clearer to omit the conjunction and imply the connection. For example:

Even before they had been born (New Revised Standard Version)
-or-
When Ribka was about to give birth

the twins: This refers to the two sons of Rebekah, Esau and Jacob.

9:11b

bad: The Greek word here often refers to something being worthless. It is different from the Greek word that is often translated “bad.” It refers to something not morally right.

9:11c

in order that God’s plan of election might stand: This is a purpose clause. God called Jacob before he and his brother were born so that it would be clear the choosing was not based on the deeds of either of them.

God’s plan of election: The Greek is more literally “the according-to-election purpose of God.” It indicates that God’s purpose was worked out through his own choice rather than for any other reason. Here are other ways to translate this phrase:

God’s purpose according to His choice (New American Standard Bible)
-or-
God’s purpose in election (New International Version)
-or-
so that God’s plan would remain a matter of his choice (God’s Word)

election: This word refers to God choosing the younger brother Jacob over the older brother. He chose him to be the founder of the nation of Israel. Here are other ways to translate this word:

choice (New Jerusalem Bible)
-or-
God chooses (New Living Translation (2004))

might stand: Here the word might refers to something that should or will happen. The Greek word that the Berean Standard Bible translates as stand refers to something that stays and does not end. Here are other ways to translate this phrase:

would stand (New American Standard Bible)
-or-
would remain (God’s Word)

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