idol / idols

The Hebrew, Greek and Latin that is translated as “idol(s)” in English is translated in Central Subanen as ledawan or “images.” (Source: Robert Brichoux in OPTAT 1988/2, p. 80ff. )

In German, typically the term Götze is used. Originally this was used as a term of endearment for Gott (“God” — see here ), later for “icon” and “image, likeness.” Luther started to use it in the 16th century in the meaning of “false god, idol.”

Other terms that are used in German include Götzenbild(er) (“image[s] of idols”) or Bildnis (“image” — Protestant) / Kultbild (“cultish image” — Catholic) (used for instance in Exodus 20:4 and Deuteronomy 5:8). The latest revision of the Catholic Einheitsübersetzung (publ. 2016) also uses the neologism Nichtse (“nothings”) in 1 Chron. 16:26 and Psalm 96:5. (Source: Zetzsche)

See also worthless idols.

Translation commentary on 2 Esdras 16:69

And those who consent to eat shall be held in derision and contempt: Christians willing to eat food offered to idols will be ridiculed by their persecutors, not by their fellow Christians. The word contempt has a very similar meaning to derision. Both are used for emphasis. If possible, translators should try to find two words or expressions that have the sense of ridicule; for example, this clause may be rendered “Anyone who eats this food will be mocked and insulted” (Contemporary English Version) or “They will mock and insult any of you who eat this food.” The Revised Standard Version footnote here involves a translational matter, so it may be omitted.

And be trodden under foot means they will be treated as worthless.

Good News Bible keeps this verse in the second person for the Christians, following through from verse 68. This works well, and we recommend it as a model. Another possible one is:

• They will mock, insult, and humiliate any of you who eat this food.

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on 1-2 Esdras. (UBS Helps for Translators). Miami: UBS, 2019. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.