And he did evil: In languages that do not distinguish masculine and feminine pronouns, it may be necessary to use the name “Rehoboam” (New Century Version) instead of the pronoun he, since Rehoboam’s mother is mentioned at the end of the previous verse. He did evil may be rendered “He did what was wrong” (Revised English Bible), “He did evil things” (God’s Word), or “He sinned.”

The connector for introduces the reason for Rehoboam’s evil behavior. It will be important in translation to show this relationship clearly. In some languages the connecting word will be “because” (New International Version, Bible en français courant, La Bible du Semeur).

He did not set his heart to seek the LORD: See the comments on 2 Chr 11.16. Revised English Bible renders this clause well by saying “he did not make a practice of seeking guidance of the LORD.” New Century Version has “he did not want to obey the LORD,” and God’s Word says “he was not serious about dedicating himself to serving the LORD.”

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Chronicles, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). Miami: UBS, 2014. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .