Translation commentary on 2 Maccabees 8:3

And to have mercy on the city which was being destroyed and about to be leveled to the ground: See 1Macc 1.29-32. While much of Jerusalem was destroyed, there were no plans to level it. However, from their hideouts in the wilderness, Judas and his men could well have thought that if things continued as they were, the city would be completely destroyed. So we may say “They would also pray, ‘God please have mercy on Jerusalem. Our enemies will soon level it [or, leave it in ruins] completely if they continue to destroy it [or, tear it down].’”

And to hearken to the blood that cried out to him: Compare Gen 4.10. The blood that cried out to him means that the killing of faithful Jews demanded revenge. God had to take action. Good News Bible has translated this clause as part of verse 4, saying “taking revenge on those who were murdering his people.” Some translators may wish to follow Good News Bible‘s model, but others will find that the Revised Standard Version‘s ordering will suit their languages. Alternative renderings for this clause are “They prayed that God would take revenge on those who murdered his faithful people” and “Please take revenge on those who have murdered your faithful people.”

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on 1-2 Maccabees. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2011. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.