Now translates the conjunction waw, which often occurs with the phrase these are to introduce a list or a new section. Most translations do not translate the waw in this context, since paragraph indentation has a similar function. The verse serves as an introduction to the ordinances (mishpatim) that follow. (These were referred to in the introductory comments before 20.22.) Revised Standard Version and New Revised Standard Version are usually consistent in translating this Hebrew word as ordinances, but others simply have “laws” (Good News Translation) or “rules” (New Jewish Publication Society’s Tanakh). In this context, however, the word seems to identify the casuistic form of law that first describes the situation or “case” and then states the way it should be dealt with. (See the introductory comment before 20.1.)

Now these are the ordinances therefore refers to all the laws that follow, particularly those from 21.1 to 22.15. Which you shall set before them is addressed by Yahweh (20.22) to Moses. Set before them means to place or “establish in their presence” (Durham). These “laws” are to be established for the Israelites, not simply given to them (see Good News Translation). Since this is the initial verse of a new chapter, starting it with a quote will be too abrupt in many languages. In such a case it will be helpful to use one of the following models: “The LORD told Moses to set down firmly [or, establish] the following laws for his people,” or “The LORD said to Moses, ‘You must set down firmly the following laws for my people,’ ” or even “This is what the Israelites must do in the following situations.”

Quoted with permission from Osborn, Noel D. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on Exodus. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1999. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .