We therefore have decided to write to the kings and countries that they should not seek their harm or make war against them and their cities and their country: The purpose of the letter was to let other governments know that Rome supported Judea, and warns them that making war against the Jews might bring on Roman retaliation. The word order in We therefore have decided may be slightly changed to “So [or, Therefore] we have decided” (Good News Bible). The specific kings and countries are named in verses 22-24. In English the phrase the kings and countries sounds odd, since there are only a small number of them, and the Romans are writing to them all. Good News Bible recognizes this by saying “various kings and countries” (similarly New Jerusalem Bible). It may be even better to say “certain kings and countries.” For that they should not seek their harm, Good News Bible has “urging them not to harm the Jews.” However, a better model is “warning them not to….”

Or make alliance with those who war against them: Good News Bible is helpful with “or give support to those who attack them.” Another possible model is “or help any enemies who attack them.”

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on 1-2 Maccabees. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2011. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.