And they sang hymns, giving thanks to the Lord: The Greek word for hymns more likely refers to “psalms” (Good News Bible) in this context.

Because his goodness and his glory are for ever upon all Israel: The Greek word for because may be a logical connector here (so Revised Standard Version), or it may be used to introduce the content of what was said when the priests and Levites sang and praised the Lord (so Good News Bible). The words following because are clearly a direct quote in the parallel passage of Ezra 3.11, and are certainly how Revised Standard Version translates them there. Good News Bible renders his glory as “his glorious presence.” This phrase refers to the shining light showing that God was present.

Here are alternative models for this verse:

• They sang hymns to thank the Lord, singing, “The Lord is always good to all Israel, and his glorious presence is always with us.”

• They sang hymns to thank the Lord, because he is always good to all Israel, and his shining light is always with his people.

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on 1-2 Esdras. (UBS Helps for Translators). Miami: UBS, 2019. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.