And: the transition word in Revised Standard Version is very weak. The rendering in the receptor language should make it clear that what is described in this verse takes place the day after the events mentioned in the previous verse. It may be possible to say “Then” (as in Good News Translation, New English Bible, New International Version, and others), but in some cases it may be necessary to say “the next day” or “on the following morning.”

Linen: a white cloth material made from the fibers of flax and known for its strength and coolness. In those areas where flax is unknown, one may have to use a more generic expression such as “fine white cloth.” Or it may be necessary to settle for an approximation in the text and add an explanatory footnote.

Garment: an outer garment corresponding most closely to a “robe” or a “cloak.”

Breeches: an undergarment for the lower body. Moffatt and New English Bible translate “drawers,” while Good News Translation has “shorts.” New International Version is close to the meaning, although more removed from common language, when it renders the word “undergarments.” The closest natural equivalent in the receptor language should be used.

Upon his body: this information may be left implicit in many languages. But New International Version retains this to emphasize the fact that the clothing in question is immediately “next to his body.”

The ashes: Good News Translation “the greasy ashes.” See 1.16.

In some languages it may be more natural to mention the actions of the priest first and then add “In order to do this, he [the priest] must wear the proper clothing: a linen robe and linen shorts.” It should also be noted that in some languages it will be more natural to mention the underclothing first and then the outer clothing. But in others the reverse will be more natural.

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 .