This verse describes the next steps in the construction of an idol: it is covered with silver and gold, then nailed down to keep it from falling over (see Good News Translation). But the verb move may possibly have the meaning reflected in New English Bible: “so that they do not fall apart.”

Men deck it with silver and gold can be active or passive, according to the language, but it should follow the previous sentence naturally. For the whole verse, translators can say “People then decorate [or, cover] it with silver and gold, and they fasten it down with nails so it won’t be unsteady.”

If hammer and nails are not known, translators may use an expression such as “they use metal tools to fasten it together so it won’t move.”

Quoted with permission from Newman, Barclay M. and Stine, Philip C. A Handbook on Jeremiah. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2003. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .