As indicated in the previous verse, it is possible to understand verses 3-6 as referring to future events. If translators have followed that interpretation in verse 3, then the verbs here and in the next two verses should also be in the future tense.

But when in their distress they turned to the LORD: See, for example, Jdg 2.18; see also Deut 4.30. The common Hebrew conjunction rendered But marks the contrast between the behavior of the Israelites before trouble came to them and their behavior after the difficulties began. The Hebrew word rendered distress may also be translated “trouble” or “difficulty.” They turned translates a third person singular verb in Hebrew, but the subject is “Israel,” so the meaning is plural.

The God of Israel may be more naturally translated “their God” in some languages.

And sought him: See 2Chr 15.4.

He was found by them: See the comments on a similar passive expression in 2Chr 15.2. In this verse translators may say “they found him” or “he allowed them to find him.”

This verse may be broken down into several shorter sentences by saying:

• But there came a time when they experienced problems. So they turned to the LORD their God. When they really searched for him, he let them find him.”

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Chronicles, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). Miami: UBS, 2014. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .