But: this indicates a contrast between the fate of the second goat as compared with the first one. Although this is omitted in Good News Translation, such a transition word may be very important in some languages.

The goat on which the lot fell for Azazel: this should be structured in a way similar to the corresponding phrase in verse 9. Or the model of Good News Translation, using the verb “chosen,” may be followed in some languages.

Presented alive before the LORD: this goat is not to be killed but is to be made to stand before the LORD alive.

To make atonement over it: Moffatt reads “perform expiatory rites over it,” and An American Translation shows even more clearly the relationship between these words and what follows: “that atonement may be made through it by sending it off to Azazel in the desert.” The restructuring of Good News Translation also brings out this same kind of relationship.

Sent away into the wilderness: this is similar to the setting free of one of the two birds in 14.7 and 14.53. The primary meaning of the word wilderness is “uninhabited region.” Compare 7.38. See also verses 21 and 22, where the same word is used.

Quoted with permission from Péter-Contesse, René and Ellington, John. A Handbook on Leviticus. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1990. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .