29:14 “But who am I and who are my people, that we should be in a position to contribute this much? 1 Indeed, everything comes from you, and we have simply given back to you what is yours. 2 29:15 For we are resident foreigners and nomads in your presence, like all our ancestors; 3 our days are like a shadow on the earth, without security. 4 29:16 O Lord our God, all this wealth, which we have collected to build a temple for you to honor your holy name, comes from you; it all belongs to you. 29:17 I know, my God, that you examine thoughts 5 and are pleased with integrity. With pure motives 6 I contribute all this; and now I look with joy as your people who have gathered here contribute to you. 29:18 O Lord God of our ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, maintain the motives of your people and keep them devoted to you. 7
1 tn Heb “that we should retain strength to contribute like this.”
2 tn Heb “and from you we have given to you.”
3 tn Heb “fathers” (also in vv. 18, 20).
4 tn Or perhaps “hope.”
5 tn Heb “a heart.”
6 tn Heb “with integrity of heart.”
7 tn Heb “keep this permanently with respect to the motive of the thoughts of the heart of your people, and make firm their heart to you.”