Translation commentary on Mark 15:27

Exegesis:

duo lēstas (cf. 11.17) ‘two bandits,’ ‘two robbers’: perhaps, like Barabbas, insurrectionists.

ek dexiōn (cf. 10.37) ‘on the right.’

ek euōnumōn (cf. 10.40) ‘on the left.’

Translation:

With him must be translated spatially, but with caution, e.g. ‘at the same place.’ A literal rendering of ‘with him’ might imply three men on one cross.

One on his right and one on his left is somewhat elliptical, therefore requiring some additions in certain languages, e.g. ‘they crucified one man at Jesus’ right side and another man was crucified at Jesus’ left side.’ In some circumstances, however, a much more natural and meaningful translation would be ‘one on each side of Jesus.’

Quoted with permission from Bratcher, Robert G. and Nida, Eugene A. A Handbook on the Gospel of Mark. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1961. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .

SIL Translator's Notes on Mark 15:27

15:27a

Along with Jesus, they crucified two robbers: The clause Along with Jesus, they crucified two robbers means that the soldiers nailed a robber to a cross on each side of Jesus. The two robbers were on their own crosses near Jesus. They were not all crucified on the same cross.

robbers: The Greek word that the Berean Standard Bible translates as robbers refers to people who steal from other people in a violent manner. (An alternative interpretation prominent in the commentaries is to understand the word translated “robbers.” If you have more than one word for “robber,” use a word that describes a dangerous robber. This kind of robber may hurt people when he steals from them. Do not use a word that describes someone who secretly steals small things.

15:27b

one on His right and one on His left: In some languages it may be necessary to repeat your word or phrase for “crucified.” For example:

They nailed one man/robber to a cross and placed it to the right of Jesus, and they nailed one man/robber to a cross and placed it to the left of Jesus.

In some languages it may be more natural to say “one on each side of Jesus” instead of one on His right and one on His left.

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