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b-hebrew - Re: [b-hebrew] Ex 34:7 GUILT??

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  • From: "B. M. Rocine" <brocine AT twcny.rr.com>
  • To: "B-Hebrew" <b-hebrew AT lists.ibiblio.org>
  • Subject: Re: [b-hebrew] Ex 34:7 GUILT??
  • Date: Sun, 10 Apr 2005 17:14:26 -0400

Hi Chris, you asked about the expression

venaqqeh lo' yenaqqeh

This can not be referring to the GUILTY surely?

You notice that several translators add the words *the guilty*. Translators add a word because nqh in the Piel stem means "acquit," which in English is a transitive verb requiring a direct object. "The guilty" are suggested by the previous clauses that laud the Lord's mercy towards none other than the guilty. Yet, Lord knows, all are guilty. As you have understood, some of the guilty are forgiven while others of the guilty are judged and passing down judgment to their children. As a result of these two different futures for two sets of the guilty, I think we should suggest supplying a different direct object than "the guilty." Here's my translation:

"maintaining grace for thousands and forgiving rebellion, transgression and sin, or not at all acquitting the unrepentant, visiting the rebellion of fathers upon sons and sons of sons until the third and fourth generations."

First notice what a difference the *or* makes. Second, repentance is one thing I can think of that would divide the forgiven guilty from the unforgiven guilty. I am sure there can be other ways to divide the guilty from the guilty.

Hoping to help.

Shalom,
Bryan


B. M. Rocine
Living Word Church
6101 Court St. Rd.
Syracuse, NY 13206

ph: 315.437.6744
fx: 315.437.6766




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