But a certain Theodotus, determined to carry out the plot he had devised … : The connector But does not fit here, and may be omitted (see the model below). The Greek phrase rendered a certain Theodotus indicates that Theodotus is being introduced. We could say “A man named Theodotus.” The plot is a plan to assassinate Philopator, which does not become clear until later in the verse. Contemporary English Version moves the final sentence of the verse here in order to make it clear what the plot involves. Translators should consider doing this.

Took with him the best of the Ptolemaic arms that had been previously issued to him: The Greek word translated arms (meaning “weapons”) can also be translated “soldiers” (see the Revised Standard Version footnote). Either choice presents problems. Since we are told later in the verse that Theodotus intended to kill Philopator single-handedly, “soldiers” seems out of place, but if “weapons” are intended, why is it plural? A single sword would be all Theodotus would need. Anderson reasonably suggests that a small escort of soldiers may be intended here. Translators may go whichever way they wish. Our own preference is for “soldiers” and if translators choose “soldiers,” they may render took with him the best of the Ptolemaic arms as “took with him some of the best Egyptian soldiers.” Ptolemaic refers to the line of kings known as the Ptolemies, and means “Egyptian” (Contemporary English Version). If translators are using “soldiers” here, they may render that had been previously issued to him as “that had been under his command [or, had been with him before]”; but if “weapons” is chosen, they may say “that they had given him earlier.”

And crossed over by night to the tent of Ptolemy: A tent was a temporary shelter used by soldiers on campaigns and by nomads. It was made of animal skins or of cloth and held up by poles, and fastened to the ground by cords and pegs. As a descriptive phrase we may say, for example, “house made of animal hides,” “house made of cloth,” or “moveable house.” Ptolemy is Ptolemy Philopator, called simply “Philopator” in verse 1 (see the comments there).

Intending single-handed to kill him and thereby end the war: Theodotus’ intent was to end the war between Syria and Egypt by killing the Egyptian king. He intended to do it by himself (single-handed).

Contemporary English Version has arranged the material in this verse in a clear and logical manner. There are some additions, however. “Between Egypt and Syria” explains what is meant by the war; this is helpful. The text does not say “many of the best Egyptian weapons;” we need say only “some….” The text does not say “years before,” only “earlier.” The text does not specifically say that “he sneaked into Philopator’s tent,” but this addition is helpful.

Here is how we would rework Contemporary English Version‘s model:

• That same night a man named Theodotus decided to murder Philopator to end the war between Egypt and Syria. He took with him some of the best Egyptian soldiers, men who had been with him before,* and sneaked into Philopator’s tent.
* He took … before: Or “He took some fine Egyptian weapons that he had used for a long time.”

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on 3-4 Maccabees. (UBS Helps for Translators). Miami: UBS, 2018. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.