[18:6] 1 tn The word “take” is supplied in the translation for stylistic reasons. In the Hebrew text the sentence lacks a verb other than the imperative “hurry.” The elliptical structure of the language reflects Abraham’s haste to get things ready quickly.
[18:6] 2 sn Three measures (Heb “three seahs”) was equivalent to about twenty quarts (twenty-two liters) of flour, which would make a lot of bread. The animal prepared for the meal was far more than the three visitors needed. This was a banquet for royalty. Either it had been a lonely time for Abraham and the presence of visitors made him very happy, or he sensed this was a momentous visit.
[18:6] 3 sn The bread was the simple, round bread made by bedouins that is normally prepared quickly for visitors.
[32:13] 4 tn Heb “and he”; the referent (Jacob) has been specified in the translation for clarity.
[32:13] 5 tn Heb “and he took from that which was going into his hand,” meaning that he took some of what belonged to him.
[32:13] 6 sn The Hebrew noun translated gift can in some contexts refer to the tribute paid by a subject to his lord. Such a nuance is possible here, because Jacob refers to Esau as his lord and to himself as Esau’s servant (v. 4).
