Hear the word of the LORD: The first part of the message from Yahweh is bracketed by this statement and the final words of verse 17, which are says the LORD. This structure concentrates attention on the message that comes between these two formulas. The LORD translates the Hebrew name Yahweh, which is normally rendered “the LORD” in Good News Translation. It is not clear why Good News Translation renders it “The LORD Almighty” here. No other translation does this.

Behold: The focusing particle in Hebrew here fixes attention on the message from the LORD which follows. In languages that have a similar particle, it should be used in this context. For the fulfillment of the prophecy that follows, see 2 Kgs 24.13-17 and 2 Chr 36.10.

The days are coming may be rendered “the time is coming.” This expression is found in 1 Sam 2.31 and very frequently in the book of Jeremiah.

Your fathers: As in similar cases previously, this will be better translated “your ancestors” in most languages.

Nothing shall be left is an emphatic but negative restatement of what has already been said. If everything is gone, then nothing is left. Nevertheless, the emphasis is important and where it is natural, it should be retained.

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 .