This verse begins with the Hebrew transition word translated For. What follows provides the explanation of how Tilgath-pilneser caused suffering to Ahaz.

Ahaz took from the house of the LORD … is literally “Ahaz divided the house of the LORD….” There are two translation problems here: (1) the meaning of the Hebrew verb, and (2) what object is to be supplied for the verb.

As for the first problem, the Hebrew verb here is chalaq, which means “divided.” However, in this context it seems to mean “plundered.” Some interpreters think that the Masoretic Text contains an error here in the final consonant and that the verb originally was chillets, which means “plundered” or “robbed.” But Critique Textuelle de l’Ancien Testament does not even deal with this as a textual problem, indicating that there is little doubt about the Hebrew text. Several modern versions understand the text to mean that Ahaz “took some of the things” (New International Version; similarly English Standard Version, Bible en français courant, Bible de Jérusalem).

As for the second problem, in some languages it may be necessary to indicate what was taken or plundered from the Temple and the homes of the king and the leaders. The meaning is that he took valuable items. NET Bible says “riches.” Good News Translation is perhaps too free in saying that he took “gold,” although gold was surely among the things taken.

The Hebrew word translated princes may also be rendered “leaders” (Good News Translation). Either interpretation is possible here.

And gave tribute to the king of Assyria is literally “and gave to the king of Assyria.” Many languages will require an object for the verb. Revised Standard Version adds tribute. Other acceptable objects are “it” (Good News Translation) and “the proceeds” (Anchor Bible).

But it did not help him is literally “and not for help for him.” The meaning is that even though Ahaz gave tribute to the Assyrian king, the Assyrian king did not help him. Anchor Bible translates “he received no support from him.” Some languages will require a connector such as but or “in spite of this” in order to make this clause fit naturally in the discourse.

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 .