Thus translates the common Hebrew conjunction. But because what follows is a kind of summary statement, it may be rendered “In this way” or “This is how.”

The Hebrew verb translated wiped out means “bring to nothing.” Elsewhere in Revised Standard Version, it is translated “destroy/destroyed” (Gen 34.30; Lev 26.30; 1 Kgs 13.34; 16.12). The same verb is used by New International Version and New Century Version in this verse. In this context it may also be rendered “rooted out” (New American Bible), “stamped out” (Revised English Bible), or “eradicated” (New Jewish Publication Society’s Tanakh). Compare also verse 17.

While the text literally says Jehu destroyed Baal, the meaning is that he eliminated “the worship of Baal” (Good News Translation, Revised English Bible, New American Bible, Die Bibel im heutigen Deutsch).

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Kings, Volume 2. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2008. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .