For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth …: Revised Standard Version understands the Hebrew conjunction rendered For to be a logical connector. For Revised Standard Version the first half of verse 9 indicates why God handed over the huge army of the Cushites and Libyans; it is because he watches over the whole earth and gives strength to those who are loyal to him. But this Hebrew conjunction may also be an emphatic marker, so NET Bible begins with “Certainly the LORD watches the whole earth carefully….” Similarly, Parole de Vie says “Yes, the LORD watches over all the earth….” The eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth is a Hebrew idiom that occurs also in Zech 4.10. This idiom may not be meaningful when translated literally into other languages. See the models of NET Bible and PV above for nonfigurative renderings. Compare also “The LORD searches all the earth” (New Century Version).

To show his might in behalf of is literally “to strengthen himself.” This expression does not involve a show of force to the people in question, but it means to encourage them. Some possible models are “to encourage” (New American Bible), “to strengthen” (New Revised Standard Version, New International Version), and “to bring aid and comfort to” (Revised English Bible).

Those whose heart is blameless toward him is literally “with their heart complete toward him.” See the comments on 2 Chr 15.17. It may be more meaningful in some languages to translate “those whose hearts are loyal to him” (Good News Translation, Revised English Bible) or “those who are devoted to him” ( NET Bible).

You have done foolishly in this is the prophet’s reprimand of King Asa for having relied on a hastily created military partnership with an unbelieving ally rather than on the LORD. In some languages this clause may be expressed as “That was a foolish thing that you did.” New Living Translation says “What a fool you have been!” However, NET Bible provides a better model with “You have acted foolishly in this matter.”

For from now on you will have wars: The Hebrew conjunction rendered for introduces the consequence of Asa’s ill advised action. It is better translated “and so” (Good News Translation), “hence” (New Jerusalem Bible), or simply “so” (New Century Version). From now on may be rendered “for the rest of your life.” You will have wars may be expressed as “your enemies will make war against you” (Parole de Vie) or “you will have to fight wars” (God’s Word).

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 .