[8:4] 1 tn Heb “but without me”; NCV “without asking my permission”; CEV “without consulting me.”
[8:4] 2 tn Heb “but I did not know”; NRSV “but without my knowledge.”
[8:4] 3 tn Heb “in order to be cut off.” The text gives the impression that they made the idols for this purpose, but the language is ironic and sarcastic, bringing out the futility of their efforts. One could paraphrase, “they made idols…but only so that they might be destroyed.” Though they had other plans for the idols, God’s judgment would bring their intentions to naught.
