1 Samuel

1 Samuel front

1 Samuel front:intro

Introduction to 1 Samuel

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of 1 Samuel

Samuel as judge over Israel (1:1–7:17)
- Samuel as a child (1:1–3:21)
- Shiloh priesthood; the fall and death of Eli the priest (4:1–22)
- The ark of God and the war with the Philistines (5:1–6:21)
- Mizpah; Samuel's rule over Israel (7:1–17)
Saul and Samuel (8:1–15:35)
- Samuel lets the people seek a king (8:1–22)
- Saul anointed king (9:1–10:27)
- Battle and victory over the Ammonites (11:1–15)
- Samuel's farewell (12:1–25)
- Saul's weakness and failures (13:1–15:35)
David and his conflicts with Saul (16:1–31:13)
- God's choice of David to be king (16:1–23)
- David fights Goliath (17:1–58)
- Saul's jealousy of David; David and Jonathan (18:1–20:42)
- David in the wilderness; David in Philistia (21:1–30:31)
- Death of Saul (31:1–13)

What is the Book of 1 Samuel about?

The Book of 1 Samuel is about Samuel, Saul, and David. Samuel was the last of the judges over Israel. Saul was the first king of Israel. Much of the book is about how Saul became king, then how he later sinned against God and died. God chose David to be king after Saul. This book shows how God protected David when Saul tried to kill him.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators can use the traditional title "1 Samuel" or "First Samuel." Or, translators may consider a clearer title such as "The First Book About Samuel, Saul, and David." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

What is the purpose of the Book of 1 Samuel?

The purpose of 1 Samuel is to give an account of the events leading up to David becoming king of Israel. In 1 Samuel, the twelve tribes of Israel unite under the first king of Israel, Saul. But Saul does not obey Yahweh's commands. So God uses Samuel to choose David as a king who will trust and obey Yahweh.

Who wrote the Book of 1 Samuel?

It is uncertain who wrote 1 Samuel. It may have been someone alive soon after King Solomon died. When Solomon died, the kingdom of Israel split into two kingdoms. The author probably lived in the southern kingdom of Judah. A descendant of David continued to rule over the southern kingdom. The author may have written 1 Samuel to defend David's right to be king. This would prove that David's descendant was the rightful king of God's people.

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

Who is "Yahweh's anointed"?

The writer of 1 Samuel often speaks of "Yahweh's anointed." This refers to the one whom Yahweh chose to be the king of his people. Also, the phrase "Yahweh's anointed" would make later readers think about the future descendant of David who would become king of God's people. This person who Yahweh chose would be known as the Messiah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/anoint.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/peopleofgod.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/christ.md]])

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What are curses, as found in 1 Samuel and elsewhere?

A curse is a strong statement a person makes to cause bad things to happen to the person or thing being cursed. A curse usually has this pattern: "May God do so to you, and even more, if you hide anything from me of all the words that he spoke to you" (1 Sam. 3:17). Other instances of curses in 1 and 2 Samuel are found in 1 Sam 14:44; 20:13; 25:22; 2 Sam 3:9, 35; and 19:13. The translator should represent a curse in the project language in as strong a way as possible.

How is the name "Israel" used in the Bible?

The name "Israel" is used in many different ways in the Bible. Jacob was the son of Isaac. God changed his name to Israel. The descendants of Jacob became a nation also called Israel. Eventually, the nation of Israel split into two kingdoms. The northern kingdom was named Israel. The southern kingdom was named Judah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/israel.md]])

The Book of 1 Samuel has two references to Israel and Judah (1 Samuel 17:52, 1 Samuel 18:16). However, these references appear in the text long before the two kingdoms split apart. It seems clear that the references to Israel and Judah are in the text because the author wrote at a time after the kingdoms split. He wanted the readers to understand that all the twelve tribes had supported David.

What is the meaning of the phrase "to this day"?

This phrase was used by the narrator to refer to the time when he was writing. The translator should be aware that "to this day" refers to a time already passed. He must avoid giving the impression that the present day of the translation's readers is meant. The translator might decide to say, "to this day, at the time when this is being written" or "to this day, at the time of writing." This phrase occurs in 1 Samuel 5:5; 6:18: 27:6; 30:25.

1 Samuel 1

1 Samuel 1:intro-0

1 Samuel 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter introduces Samuel. It is the beginning of the section 1 Samuel 1-7 which tells about Samuel, the religious leader of Israel.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Two wives

This was a common practice in the ancient Near East. It was against the law of Moses. The men of Israel would have sinned if they married more than one woman. This type of marriage always creates problems because of jealousy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lawofmoses.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/jealous.md]])

# "Pay his vow"

It was customary for Israelites to promise God to make a sacrifice to him if God answered special prayers. Making such a sacrifice was called paying one's vow. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/vow.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Idioms

When Hannah wanted to assure Eli she was telling the truth, she used the idiom "as you live." This is a type of oath formula meaning "I promise you I am telling the truth." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

The author also uses the phrase "call to mind." This is a common idiom meaning "remember."

1 Samuel 1:1

Ramathaim

This is the name of a small village possibly located eight kilometers northwest of Jerusalem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

the Zuphites

This is the name of a people group that descended from Zuph. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Elkanah ... Jeroham ... Elihu ... Tohu ... Zuph

These are the names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 1:2

Peninnah

This is the name of a woman. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 1:3

This man

"This man" refers to Elkanah.

Yahweh

This is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament. See the translationWord page about Yahweh concerning how to translate this.

Eli, Hophni and Phinehas

These are the names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 1:4

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 1:5

Hannah

This is a woman's name. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 1:2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

closed her womb

"made her barren" or "prevented her from becoming pregnant"

1 Samuel 1:6

Her rival provoked her severely

The other wife would often grieve and shame Hannah.

1 Samuel 1:7

her rival

This is Peninnah, the other wife of Elkanah. A rival is someone who competes against another person. In this case Peninnah was competing against Hannah to try to get Elkanah to love her best.

1 Samuel 1:8

Hannah, why do you weep? Why do you not eat? Why is your heart sad? Am I not better to you than ten sons?

These rhetorical questions can be translated as statements, if necessary. Alternate translation: "Hannah, you should not weep. You should eat, and your heart should be glad because I am better to you than ten sons!" or "You have little reason for sadness. I favor you and that should be enough." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

than ten sons

Elkanah is exaggerating to emphasize how important Hannah is to him. Alternate translation: "than any son could be" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

1 Samuel 1:9

General Information:

Hannah begins to pray to Yahweh, and Eli watches.

Hannah rose up after

Implicit information here can be made explicit. Either Hannah's tent was next to the tabernacle tent or she walked from her tent to the tabernacle to pray. Alternate translation: "Hannah rose up and went to the house of Yahweh to pray after" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Now Eli the priest

"Now" is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here the author tells about a new person in the story. This person is the priest Eli. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

the temple of Yahweh

The "temple" was actually a tent, but it was where the people worshiped, so it is best to translate as "temple" here.

1 Samuel 1:10

She was deeply distressed

Hannah was deeply troubled or grieved because of not having any children and being ridiculed regularly by Peninnah, her husband's other wife. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 1:11

Connecting Statement:

Hannah's prayer to Yahweh continues.

the affliction of your servant

The abstract noun "affliction" can be translated as a verb phrase. This refers either to 1) Hannah being unable to become pregnant. Alternate translation: "how I am suffering because I cannot become pregnant" or 2) the way Peninnah always insulted her. Alternate translation: "how that woman is afflicting me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

call me to mind

This is a special plea to God to take action on Hannah's behalf. God does know what is happening to Hannah; he has not forgotten.

do not forget your servant

This phrase says almost the same thing as "call me to mind." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

1 Samuel 1:12

Eli watched her

Eli was the chief priest, so he was in the tabernacle of God and in charge of it. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 1:13

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 1:14

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 1:15

I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit

"I am a woman who is deeply sad"

pouring out my soul before Yahweh

This is an idiom that means "telling Yahweh my deepest emotions." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 1:16

Do not consider your servant to be

Hannah speaks of herself in the second person to show her humility. It can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: "Do not consider me, your servant, to be" or "Do not consider me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

I have been speaking out of the abundance of my great concern and provocation

This is another way of saying that she has a "sorrowful spirit," as in 1:15. The abstract nouns "abundance," "concern," and "provocation" can be translated as adjectives and verbs. Alternate translation: "I have been speaking because I am very sad, and my rival has greatly provoked me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

concern and provocation

These words both mean that Hannah is sad and annoyed because her rival has been provoking her. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

concern

Peninnah irritates and annoys her.

provocation

Hannah is referring to the grief and shame she feels because Peninnah is being cruel to her.

1 Samuel 1:17

Then Eli answered

Eli was the head priest residing over the tabernacle.

1 Samuel 1:18

Let your servant find

Hannah speaks of herself in the second person to show respect for Eli, the head priest. This can be stated in the first person. Alternate translation: "Let me, your servant, find" or "Let me find" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

find favor in your eyes

Here "find favor" is an idiom that means be approved of or that he is pleased with her. Here the eyes are a metonym for sight, and seeing represents judging or deciding the value of something. Alternate translation: "evaluated me and approve" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

ate; her face was

Here "her face" represents Hannah herself. You can make this a separate sentence, if needed. Alternate translation: "ate. She was" or "ate. People could see that she was" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 1:19

Elkanah knew Hannah

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: "Elkanah had sexual relations with Hannah" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

remembered her

God knew what was happening to Hannah; he had not forgotten her. See how you translated similar words in 1 Samuel 1:11.

1 Samuel 1:20

Hannah conceived

"Hannah became pregnant"

1 Samuel 1:21

his house

The word "house" is a metonym for the people who lived in the house. Alternate translation: "his family" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 1:22

is weaned

stops drinking milk and starts eating only solid food

he may appear before Yahweh and live there forever

Hannah had promised God that she would allow Samuel to live and work with Eli the priest in the temple (1 Samuel 1:11).

1 Samuel 1:23

nursed her son

"gave her son milk"

1 Samuel 1:24

ephah

An ephah is about 22 liters of dry material. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-bvolume/01.md]])

bottle

Wine was kept in animal skins, not glass bottles.

1 Samuel 1:25

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 1:26

Oh, my master! As you live, my master

Here the idiom "As you live" shows that Hannah is being sincere and truthful. Alternate translation: "Sir, what I am going to tell you is certainly true" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 1:27

has given me my petition which I asked of him

The noun "petition" refers to a formal request for another person to do something. It can be translated with a verb. The idiom "to give a petition" means to do what the person requests. Alternate translation: "has agreed to do what I solemnly requested that he do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 1:28

he is lent to Yahweh

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "I am loaning him to Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

he worshiped Yahweh

Possible meanings: 1) "He" refers to Elkanah or 2) "he" is a synecdoche referring to both Elkanah and his family. Alternate translation: "Elkanah and his family" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 2

1 Samuel 2:intro-0

1 Samuel 02 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with Hannah's poetic prayer in 2:1-10 .

Special concepts in this chapter

# Hannah's song of praise to God

This song is about how God protects the weak and strengthens them. He humbles the rich, provides for the poor, and defeats his enemies.

# Eli's Sons

Eli, the chief priest, had two sons. They were ungodly priests who continually sinned and did not honor God. Eli corrected them but they did not listen. A prophet warned Eli that God would stop his family from being priests and his sons would both die on the same day. At the same time, Samuel was growing up and serving God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/godly.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

This chapter has many figures of speech because the first part of the chapter is a song and the last part of the chapter is a prophecy. Songs and prophecy tend to have many figures of speech.

# Synecdoches

"My heart" and "my mouth" are synecdoches referencing the speaker. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

# Metonymies

Body parts are often used to stand for activities involving that part of the body. "The feet of his faithful people" is a metonym meaning what they are doing or where they are going. Place names are often used for people in that place such as "the ends of the earth" meaning the people living in the ends of the earth. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

# Metaphors

Hannah used many military metaphors: "rock," representing protection; "the bows of the mighty men are broken," representing military defeat; "the horn of his anointed," representing the power of the one that God has chosen to be king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

# Rhetorical questions

God used three rhetorical questions to correct and condemn Eli. "Did I not reveal myself to the house of your ancestor, when they were in Egypt in bondage to Pharaoh's house?" "Why then do you scorn my offerings that I required in the place where I live?" "Why do you honor your sons above me by making yourselves fat with the best of every offering of my people Israel?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 2:1

General Information:

Hannah recites a song to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

My heart exults

"I have great joy"

in Yahweh

"because of who Yahweh is" or "because Yahweh is so great"

My horn is exalted

A horn is a symbol of strength. Alternate translation: "I am now strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 2:2

Connecting Statement:

Hannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

there is no rock like our God

This is another way of saying that God is strong and faithful. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

rock

This is a rock large enough to hide behind or to stand on and so be high above one's enemies.

1 Samuel 2:3

Connecting Statement:

Hannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh. She speaks as if other people were listening to her. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

no arrogance

"no arrogant words"

by him actions are weighed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "he weighs people's actions" or "he understands why people act as they do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 2:4

Connecting Statement:

Hannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

The bow of the mighty men are broken

Possible meanings are 1) the bows themselves are broken or 2) the men who carry the bows are prevented from acting. Alternate translation: "Mighty bowmen are kept from acting"

The bow of the mighty men are broken

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh breaks the bows of the mighty men" or "Yahweh can make even the strongest of people weak" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

those who stumble put on strength like a belt

This metaphor means they will no longer stumble, but their strength will remain with them as tightly as a belt. Alternate translation: "he will make those who stumble strong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

put on ... a belt

This is the general term for putting something around one's waist to prepare for work.

1 Samuel 2:5

Connecting Statement:

Hannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

gives birth to seven

"gives birth to seven children"

languishes

becomes weak and sad and lonely

1 Samuel 2:6

Connecting Statement:

Hannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Yahweh kills ... brings to life ... brings down ... raises up

Yahweh is in control of everything. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

1 Samuel 2:7

Connecting Statement:

Hannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

makes some people poor ... some rich ... humbles ... lifts up

Yahweh is in control of everything. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

1 Samuel 2:8

Connecting Statement:

Hannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

out of the dust ... from the ash heap

These are metaphors for the lowest position in society. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the needy

people who do not have the things that they need

1 Samuel 2:9

Connecting Statement:

Hannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

guard the feet of his faithful people

Here "feet" is a metonym for the way a person walks, which in turn is a metaphor for the way a person decides how to live his life. Alternate translation: "keep his faithful people from making foolish decisions" or "enable his faithful people to make wise decisions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the wicked will be put to silence in darkness

This polite way of saying that Yahweh will kill the wicked can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will put the wicked to silence in darkness" or "Yahweh will put the wicked in the dark and silent world of the dead" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

the wicked will be put to silence

The words "be put to silence" are an idiom for "be made silent." This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will make them silent" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

by strength

"because he is strong"

1 Samuel 2:10

Connecting Statement:

Hannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Those who oppose Yahweh will be broken

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will break those who oppose him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

broken to pieces

This idiom means "defeated." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the ends of the earth

This is an idiom that means everywhere. Alternate translation: "the whole earth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

exalt the horn of his anointed

A horn is a symbol of strength. See how you translated similar words in 1 Samuel 2:1. Alternate translation: "he will make the leader he has chosen stronger than his enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

his anointed

This speaks of the person that Yahweh chose and empowered for his purposes as if Yahweh had anointed the person with oil. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the one he has anointed" or "the one he has chosen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 2:11

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 2:12

General Information:

When people would offer animals as sacrifices, they would first burn the animal's fat and then boil the meat and eat it.

did not know Yahweh

"did not listen to Yahweh" or "did not obey Yahweh"

1 Samuel 2:13

custom

A custom is an action that people regularly do.

1 Samuel 2:14

into the pan, or kettle, or cauldron, or pot

These are containers in which food could be cooked. If your language does not have separate words for these items it can be stated more generally. Alternate translation: "into whatever the people were cooking the meat in"

pan

a small metal container for boiling and cooking

kettle

a large, heavy metal container for boiling and cooking

cauldron

a large, heavy metal container for boiling and cooking

pot

a clay container for cooking

1 Samuel 2:15

General Information:

When people would offer animals as sacrifices, they would first burn the animal's fat and then boil the meat, give some to the priest, and eat the rest.

Worse, before

"They even did something worse than that. Before"

they burned

The person who actually did the burning can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "the man who was sacrificing took his sacrifice to the priests and the priests burned" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Give meat to roast for the priest

"Give me some meat so I can give it to the priest so he can roast it"

roast

cook over a fire

boiled

cooked in water

raw

not cooked

1 Samuel 2:16

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 2:17

despised Yahweh's offering

The young men did not like Yahweh's instructions regarding the offering and paid no attention to them.

1 Samuel 2:18

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 2:19

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 2:20

because of the request she made of Yahweh

Hannah had asked Yahweh for a baby and promised him that she would give the baby to serve in the temple.

1 Samuel 2:21

before Yahweh

This means where Yahweh could see him and Samuel could learn about Yahweh.

1 Samuel 2:22

they were lying with the women

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: "they were having sexual relations with the women" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

1 Samuel 2:23

Why do you do such things?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "It is terrible that you do such things!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 2:24

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 2:25

who will speak for him?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "there is certainly no one who can speak for him." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

speak for him

"ask Yahweh to have mercy on him"

the voice of their father

Here the father's "voice" represents the father. Alternate translation: "their father" or "what their father said" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 2:26

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 2:27

man of God

This phrase usually means a prophet of Yahweh. Alternate translation: "a man who hears and tells words from God"

Did I not reveal myself ... house of Pharaoh?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "You should know that I revealed myself ... house of Pharaoh." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the house of your father

The word "house" is a metonym for the people who lived in the house, and "father" refers to a distant ancestor. Alternate translation: "the family of your ancestor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

your father

Aaron

1 Samuel 2:28

to go up to my altar, and to burn incense

This refers to making an offering to Yahweh.

to wear an ephod before me

The words "wear an ephod" are a metonym for the work of the priests who wear the ephod. Alternate translation: "to do what I had commanded the priests to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 2:29

Connecting Statement:

The man of God continues to speak to Eli.

Why, then, do you scorn my sacrifices ... live?

This rhetorical question is a rebuke. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "You should not scorn my sacrifices ... where I live." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the place where I live

"the place where my people bring offerings to me"

making yourselves fat with the best of every offering

The best part of the offering was to be burned up as an offering to Yahweh, but the priests were eating it.

1 Samuel 2:30

the house of your father

The word "house" is a metonym for the people who lived in the house, and "father" in this case refers to a distant ancestor. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 2:27. Alternate translation: "the family of your ancestor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

should walk before me

This is an idiom that means "live in obedience to me." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Far be it from me to do this

"I will certainly not allow your family to serve me forever"

those who despise me will be lightly esteemed

The words "lightly esteemed" is an ironic euphemism for "greatly despised." This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I will lightly esteem those who despise me" or "I will greatly despise those who despise me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-irony/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 2:31

See

"Listen carefully to what I am about to say" or "What I am about to say is very important"

I will cut off your strength and the strength of your father's house

The words "cut off ... strength" are probably a euphemism for the death of strong, young men; the words "your father's house" are a metonym for "your family." Alternate translation: "I will kill you and all strong, young male descendants in your family" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

be any old man

"be any old men" or "be any men who grow old"

1 Samuel 2:32

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 2:33

cause your eyes to fail

"cause you to lose your eyesight" or "cause you to go blind"

1 Samuel 2:34

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 2:35

I will raise up ... a faithful priest

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "I will cause a man to become priest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

for myself

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "to serve me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

what is in my heart and in my soul

"what I want him to do and what I tell him to do"

I will build him a sure house

Here "house" is an idiom used for "descendants." Alternate translation: "I will ensure that he always has a descendant who serves as high priest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 2:36

him

the faithful priest whom God will raise up

so I can eat a piece of bread

Here "piece of bread" is used for "food. "Alternate translation: "so I can have something to eat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 3

1 Samuel 3:intro-0

1 Samuel 03 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# God speaks to Samuel

God spoke at night to Samuel when he was a small boy, telling him that he would punish Eli's family. As Samuel grew up, God gave him many messages. People came from all over Israel to find out what God had to say.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Metonymy

In order to show respect when talking to God, Samuel calls himself "your servant" when referring to himself. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

# Idioms

One characteristic of prophecy is the use of figures of speech. In this passage there are two idioms: "ears will shake," meaning "will shock everyone who hears" and "carry out," meaning "do." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

In order to be sure Samuel would tell him the whole truth, Eli used the standard formula for a curse: "may God do to you, and even more, if," meaning "God will punish severely if the person does what the curse says he will do." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/curse.md]])

1 Samuel 3:1

Yahweh's word was rare

"Yahweh did not often speak to people"

1 Samuel 3:2

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 3:3

The lamp of God

This is the seven-candle lampstand in the holy place of the tabernacle that burned every day and through the night until it was empty.

the temple of Yahweh

The "temple" was actually a tent, but it was where the people worshiped, so it is best to translate the word as "temple" here. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 1:9.

1 Samuel 3:4

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 3:5

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 3:6

my son

Eli was not Samuel's true father. Eli speaks as if he were Samuel's father to show Samuel that he is not angry but that Samuel needs to listen to him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 3:7

nor had any message from Yahweh ever been revealed to him

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "nor had Yahweh ever revealed any message to him" or "and Yahweh had never revealed any message to him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 3:8

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 3:9

your servant is

Eli tells Samuel to speak to Yahweh as if Samuel were another person so that Samuel would show respect to Yahweh. Alternate translation: "I am" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 3:10

Yahweh came and stood

Possible meanings are 1) Yahweh actually appeared and stood before Samuel or 2) Yahweh made his presence known to Samuel.

your servant is

Samuel speaks to Yahweh as if Samuel were another person to show respect to Yahweh. Alternate translation: "I am" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 3:11

at which the ears of everyone who hears it will tingle

Here "ears ... will tingle" is an idiom that means everyone will be shocked by what they hear. Alternate translation: "that will shock everyone who hears it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

tingle

This means to feel like someone is gently poking with small, sharp objects, usually because of the cold or because someone has slapped that body part with their hand.

1 Samuel 3:12

from beginning to end

This is a merism for completeness. Alternate translation: "absolutely everything" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

1 Samuel 3:13

brought a curse upon themselves

"did those things which Yahweh had said he would punish those who did them"

1 Samuel 3:14

the sins of his house will never be atoned for by sacrifice or offering

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "there is no sacrifice or offering that anyone can offer that will atone for the sins of his house" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the sins of his house

"the sins that the people in his family have committed"

1 Samuel 3:15

the house of Yahweh

The "house" was actually a tent, but it would be best to translate "house" here.

1 Samuel 3:16

my son

Eli was not Samuel's true father. Eli speaks as if he were Samuel's father to show Samuel that he is not angry but that Samuel needs to answer him. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 1:6. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 3:17

the word he spoke

"the message Yahweh gave"

May God do so to you, and even more

This is an idiom to emphasize how serious Eli is. Alternate translation: "May God punish you the same way he said he will punish me, and even more" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 3:18

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 3:19

he let none of his prophetic words fall to the ground

Here messages that do not come true are spoken of as if they fell to the ground. This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: "he made all the things he prophesied happen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

1 Samuel 3:20

All Israel

"All the people in Israel"

from Dan to Beersheba

This is a merism for "in every part of the land." Alternate translation: "from one end of the land to the other" or "from Dan in the very north to Beersheba in the very south" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Samuel was appointed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh had appointed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 3:21

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 4

1 Samuel 4:intro-0

1 Samuel 04 General Notes

Structure and formatting

# The Ark of the Covenant in Philistine country

This chapter begins a new section on the Ark and the Philistines. It recounts two battles between Israel and the Philistines. In both battles, Israel was badly defeated and, in the second, the Ark was captured.

Special concepts in this chapter

# The Ark is captured

The Philistine army invaded Israel, and Israel's army went to fight them but was defeated. Israel decided that if they took the Ark into the next battle, God would cause them to win. When Eli's sons took the Ark into the next battle and the Philistines won the battle, they killed Eli's two sons and captured the Ark. When Eli heard the Ark was captured, he fell over, broke his neck, and died. Hearing this news, his daughter-in-law named her baby "the glory has departed."

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Rhetorical Question

The Philistines expressed their fear using a rhetorical question: "Who will protect us from the strength of this mighty God?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:1

Ebenezer ... Aphek

These are the names of places. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:2

Israel was defeated by the Philistines, who killed

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "the Philistines defeated the Israelites and killed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

about four thousand men

Here the number four thousand is a round number. There may have been a few more than that or a few less than that. The word "about" shows that it is not an exact number. Alternate translation: "about 4,000 men" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:3

the people

the soldiers who had been fighting the battle

Why has Yahweh defeated us today before the Philistines? Let us bring ... enemies

The elders truly did not know why Yahweh had defeated them, but they wrongly thought they knew how to make sure it did not happen again, by bringing the ark to be with them.

1 Samuel 4:4

who sits above the cherubim

You may need to make explicit that the cherubim are those on the lid of the ark of the covenant. The biblical writers often spoke of the ark of the covenant as if it were Yahweh's footstool upon which he rested his feet as he sat on his throne in heaven above. Alternate translation: "who sits on his throne above the cherubim on the ark of the covenant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Phinehas

This Phinehas is not the same as the grandson of Aaron in Exodus and Numbers.

were there

were in Shiloh

1 Samuel 4:5

When the ark of the covenant of Yahweh came into the camp

"When the people carried the ark of the covenant of Yahweh into the camp" Some languages may need to add understood information to make the meaning clear. Alternate translation: "The people, along with Hophni and Phinehas, picked up the ark of the covenant of Yahweh and carried it into the camp. When the people carried the ark into the camp" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:6

the ark of Yahweh had come into the camp

"the people had carried the ark of Yahweh into the camp"

1 Samuel 4:7

they said ... They said

"they said to themselves ... They said to each other" or "they said to each other ... They said to each other." The second clause clearly refers to what the Philistines said to each other. The first clause probably refers to what they thought, though it could also refer to what they said to each other. If possible, avoid stating who was spoken to.

A god has come

The Philistines worshiped many gods, so they probably believed that one of those gods, or one whom they did not worship, had come into the camp. Another possible meaning is that they were speaking the proper name of the God of Israel: "Yahweh has come." Because 4:8 speaks of "gods," some translations read, "Gods have come," that is, "It is gods who have come." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:8

Who will protect us from the strength of these mighty gods?

This rhetorical question is an expression of deep fear. It can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: "There is no one who can protect us from these mighty gods." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

these mighty gods ... the gods who attacked

Because the word "god" (or "God") in 4:7 is singular, many translations read "this mighty god ... the god who attacked," referring to any one of many possible gods, or "this mighty God ... the God who attacked," using the proper name of the God of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:9

be men

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "be strong and fight" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:10

Israel was defeated

This can be stated in active form. Also, "Israel" refers to the army of Israel. Alternate translation: "they defeated the army of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:11

The ark of God was taken

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "The Philistines also took the ark of God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:12

clothes torn and earth on his head

This is a way to express deep mourning in Israelite culture.

1 Samuel 4:13

his heart trembled with concern

This is an idiom which means he was very fearful or terribly concerned about something. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the whole city

This is a metonym for "all the people in the city." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:14

The man

"The man of Benjamin"

1 Samuel 4:15

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 4:16

my son

Eli was not the other man's true father. Eli speaks as if he were the man's father to show the man that he is not angry but that the man needs to answer him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:17

Israel fled from the Philistines

This is a general statement about what happened. The rest of the man's words give details.

Also, there has been ... people. Also, your two sons

"I will now tell you something worse ... I will now tell you something worse" or "Not only has there been ... people, but your two sons"

the ark of God has been taken

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the Philistines have taken the ark of God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:18

When he mentioned

"When the man of Benjamin mentioned"

mentioned

"spoke of"

His neck was broken

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "His neck broke because he fell" or "He broke his neck when he fell" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:19

his daughter-in-law

Eli's daughter-in-law

the ark of God was captured

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the Philistines had captured the ark of God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:20

take what they said to heart

"pay any attention to what they said" or "allow herself to feel better"

1 Samuel 4:21

Ichabod

The name is actually a phrase that means "no glory." The name of a person sometimes reveals information about the person, place, or thing it refers to. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

for the ark of God had been captured

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "for the Philistines had captured the ark of God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 4:22

the ark of God has been captured

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "because the Philistines have captured the ark of God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 5

1 Samuel 5:intro-0

1 Samuel 05 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The story of the Ark of the Covenant in Philistia continues.

Special concepts in this chapter

# The Ark in the Philistine Cities

The Philistines took the Ark of God to Ashdod and put it in their idol temple, but their idol fell down in front of the Ark and the people got sick with bubonic plague. They took it to Gath next, and the people of Gath began dying of the plague. When they took the Ark to Ekron, the people of Ekron were afraid of it too and did not want it there. Finally they decided to send it back to Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/temple.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Idioms

There are two slightly different idioms used in the same way: the "hand was heavy" and the "hand was hard." Both idioms mean "was severely punished." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 5:1

Now

This word marks the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a word or phrase that does the same, you could use it here.

ark of God

See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 3:3. This is the a same as the "ark of the covenant of Yahweh" in 1 Samuel 4:3.

1 Samuel 5:2

house of Dagon

This refers to the temple of Dagon, the god of the Philistines.

1 Samuel 5:3

behold, Dagon

"they were very surprised to see that Dagon"

Dagon had fallen facedown on the ground

The reader should understand that Yahweh had caused the statue to fall on its face during the night. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 5:4

Dagon had fallen

The reader should understand that Yahweh had caused Dagon to fall.

The head of Dagon and both of his hands were lying cut off

It was as if Yahweh were a soldier who had defeated his enemy and cut off the enemy's head and hands.

1 Samuel 5:5

This is why, even today

The writer is about to give some background information separate from the main story. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

even today

Here "today" means up to the day when the author was writing this book.

1 Samuel 5:6

Yahweh's hand was heavy upon

This is an idiom. "Yahweh severely judged" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

tumors

Possible meanings are 1) painful swelling under the skin or 2) hemorrhoids.

both Ashdod and its territories

The name of the town is a metonym for the people living in the town. "both the people of Ashdod and the people in the land surrounding Ashdod" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 5:7

the men of Ashdod realized

"the men of Ashdod understood"

ark of the God of Israel

See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 3:3. This is the a same as the "ark of the covenant of Yahweh" in 1 Samuel 4:3.

1 Samuel 5:8

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 5:9

Yahweh's hand was against

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "Yahweh punished" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

both small and great

Possible meanings are 1) this is a merism that refers to age. Alternate translation: "men of all ages" or 2) this is a merism that refers social class. Alternate translation: "from the poorest and weakest men to the richest and most powerful men" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

tumors

Possible meanings are 1) painful swelling under the skin or 2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 5:6

1 Samuel 5:10

cried out

Why they cried out can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: "cried out in fear" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 5:11

the ark of the God of Israel

See how you translated similar words in 1 Samuel 3:3. This is the a same as the "ark of the covenant of Yahweh" in 1 Samuel 4:3.

the God of Israel

Possible meanings are 1) they were speaking the proper name of the God of Israel or 2) they believed that Israel worshiped one of many gods, "the god of Israel." See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 5:7.

there was a deathly panic throughout the city

"people all over the city were afraid that they were going to die"

the hand of God was very heavy there

The hand is a metonym for God punishing the people. "Yahweh was punishing the people there very severely" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 5:12

The men who did not die

This implies that many men actually died. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

tumors

Possible meanings are 1) painful swelling under the skin or 2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 5:6.

the cry of the city went up to the heavens

The word "city" is a metonym for the people of the city. Possible meanings are 1) the words "went up to the heavens" is an idiom for "was very great." Alternate translation: "the people of the city cried out very loudly" or 2) the words "the heavens" is a metonym for the people's gods. Alternate translation: "the people of the city cried out to their gods" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 6

1 Samuel 6:intro-0

1 Samuel 06 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter ends the story of the Ark of the Covenant among the Philistines.

Special concepts in this chapter

# The Philistines send the Ark back to Israel

The Philistine leaders asked their priests what they should do with the Ark. The priests said to send it off with an offering. The Philistines put the Ark on a cart drawn by cows and let them go wherever they wanted to go. The cows went straight toward Israel. When some people peeked into the Ark, God killed them. Because of this, the people sent the Ark to Kiriath Jearim.

1 Samuel 6:1

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 6:2

the priests and the diviners

These were pagan priests and diviners who worshiped Dagon.

Tell us how we should send it

The Philistines wanted to know how to get rid of the ark without angering Yahweh any further.

1 Samuel 6:3

the God of Israel

by all means send him a guilt offering

The words "by all means" are a forceful way of saying something. Alternate translation: "you must send a guilt offering" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

you will be healed

"you will no longer be ill"

you

The pronoun "you" is plural, referring to all of the Philistines. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

why his hand has not been lifted off of you

Here "hand" is a metonym used to represent God's power to afflict or discipline. Alternate translation: "why he has not relieved your suffering" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 6:4

tumors

Possible meanings are 1) painful swelling under the skin or 2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 5:6.

mice

more than one mouse

1 Samuel 6:5

models

A model is something that looks like a real thing.

tumors

Possible meanings are 1) painful swelling under the skin or 2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 5:6.

that ravage

"that are destroying"

the God of Israel

lift his hand from you, from your gods, and from your land

Here "hand" is a metonym used to represent God's power to afflict or discipline. Alternate translation: "stop punishing you, your gods and your land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 6:6

Why should you harden your hearts, as the Egyptians and Pharaoh hardened their hearts?

The priests and diviners use a rhetorical question to urge the Philistines to think very seriously about what will happen if they refuse to obey God. This can be translated as a warning. Alternate translation: "Do not be stubborn like the Egyptians and Pharaoh were!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

harden your hearts

This is an idiom that means to be stubborn or unwilling to obey God. Alternate translation: "refuse to obey God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

did not the Egyptians send away the people, and they left?

This is another rhetorical question used to remind the Philistines how the Egyptians finally sent the Israelites out of Egypt so that God would stop afflicting the Egyptians. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "remember that the Egyptians sent the Israelites out of Egypt." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 6:7

two nursing cows

"two cows that have calves that are still drinking milk"

1 Samuel 6:8

Then send it off and let it go its own way

Normally the two cows would head back home to their calves.

1 Samuel 6:9

if it goes ... to Beth Shemesh, then it is Yahweh

It is unlikely that the cows would choose to wander to Beth Shemesh when their calves are back in the Philistine area.

1 Samuel 6:10

two nursing cows

"two cows that have calves that are still drinking milk" See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 6:7.

1 Samuel 6:11

mice

Translated this as in 1 Samuel 6:4.

castings of their tumors

"models of their tumors"

tumors

Possible meanings are 1) painful swelling under the skin or 2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 5:6.

1 Samuel 6:12

The cows went straight in the direction of Beth Shemesh

Nursing cows would normally return to their calves, but these cows went to Beth Shemesh.

lowing as they went

Lowing is the noise cows make with their voices.

they did not turn aside either to the right or to the left

"they did not wander off of the highway." This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: "they stayed on the highway" or "they went straight ahead"

1 Samuel 6:13

Now

The writer is introducing a new part of the story. If your language has a way of marking the beginning of a new part of the story, you could use it here.

people of Beth Shemesh

These were Israelites.

lifted up their eyes

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "looked up" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 6:14

A great stone was there

The people used this stone as an altar when they offered the cows as sacrifices.

1 Samuel 6:15

The Levites took down the ark of Yahweh

This actually happened before they chopped the cart into firewood to use in offering the cows to Yahweh.

The Levites took down the ark

According to the law of Moses, only the Levites were permitted to handle the ark.

the box that was with it, where the golden figures were

"the box containing the gold models of the rats and the tumors"

1 Samuel 6:16

the five rulers of the Philistines

"the five Philistine kings"

1 Samuel 6:17

tumors

Possible meanings are 1) painful swelling under the skin or 2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 5:6.

1 Samuel 6:18

mice

Translated this as in 1 Samuel 6:4.

fortified cities

These are cities with high walls around them to protect the people inside from attack by their enemies.

The great stone ... remains a witness

The stone is referred to as if it is a person who can see. Alternate translation: "The great stone ... is still there, and people remember what happened on it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

Joshua

This is a man's name. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

the Bethshemite

This is what a person from Beth Shemesh is called. Alternate translation: "from Beth Shemesh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

to this day

to the time at which the writer wrote the book

1 Samuel 6:19

they had looked into the ark

The ark was so holy that no one was permitted to look inside it. Only the priests were allowed to even see the ark.

50,070 men

"fifty thousand and seventy men" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 6:20

Who is able to stand before Yahweh, this holy God?

Possible meanings are 1) this is a rhetorical question that expresses the people's fear of Yahweh. Alternate translation: "There is no one who can resist Yahweh because he is so holy!" or 2) this is a question asking for information. The phrase "stand before Yahweh" may refer to priests who serve Yahweh. It is implied that the people were looking for a priest whom Yahweh would permit to handle the ark. Alternate translation: "Is there a priest among us who serves this holy God, Yahweh, and is able to handle this ark?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

To whom will the ark go up from us?

This is a question asking for information. It is implied that the people want Yahweh and the ark to go somewhere else so he will not punish them again. Alternate translation: "Where can we send this ark so that Yahweh will not punish us again?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 6:21

Kiriath Jearim

This was a town in Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 7

1 Samuel 7:intro-0

1 Samuel 07 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter completes the section on Samuel leading Israel.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Israel begins to worship Yahweh again

Samuel told the people to get rid of all their idols and worship Yahweh alone. The people were obedient. When the Philistines heard the Israelites were all gathered together, the Philistines attacked, but God defeated them. There was a time of peace during which Samuel settled disputes between the people as the judges had done before.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Idioms

Whenever Samuel spoke to a group of people, he used many idioms: "to turn to" means "to worship"; "with your whole heart" means "completely"; and "rescue from the hand" means "rescued from the power." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 7:1

Kiriath Jearim

This is the name of a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Abinadab ... Eleazar

These are the names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 7:2

twenty years

"20 years" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 7:3

the entire house of Israel

The word "house" is a metonym for the people who live in the house and their descendants. Alternate translation: "all of the descendants of Israel" or "all of the Israelite people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

return to Yahweh with your whole heart

Here "with your whole heart" is an idiom that means to be completely devoted to something. Alternate translation: "become completely devoted to worshiping and obeying Yahweh only" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 7:4

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 7:5

all Israel

"all the people of Israel" or "all the Israelites"

1 Samuel 7:6

drew water and poured it out before Yahweh

Possible meanings are 1) the people denied themselves water as part of fasting or 2) they got water out of a stream or well and poured it on the ground as an outward sign of being sorry for their sin. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 7:7

the rulers of the Philistines attacked Israel

It can be stated plainly that it was the army and not the rulers by themselves who attacked Israel. Alternate translation: "the Philistine rulers led their army and attacked Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 7:8

save us from the hand of the Philistines

The "hand" is a metonym for the power of the person. Alternate translation: "save us from the Philistine army" or "keep the Philistine army from harming us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 7:9

nursing lamb

a lamb that is still drinking its mother's milk

cried out

"cried out for help"

Yahweh answered him

"Yahweh did what Samuel asked him to do"

1 Samuel 7:10

As Samuel ... they were routed before Israel

This begins to explain what the writer means by "Yahweh answered him" in (1 Samuel 7:9).

threw them into confusion

The word "confusion" here is used as a casual way of saying the Philistines were unable to think clearly. Alternate translation: "made them unable to think clearly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

they were routed before Israel

This can be translated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) "Yahweh routed them before Israel" or 2) "Israel routed them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

routed

To rout people is to defeat them before they can cause any harm.

1 Samuel 7:11

The men of Israel ... Beth Kar

This finishes explaining what the writer means by "Yahweh answered him" in (1 Samuel 7:9).

Beth Kar

This is the name of a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 7:12

took a stone and set it

The Israelites and other peoples in that land would place a large stone where important events had happened as a reminder of God's help.

Mizpah ... Shen

These are the names of places. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 7:13

So the Philistines were subdued

The writer has just finished telling how the Philistines were subdued. If your language has a way of marking the end of a description, you could use it here.

the Philistines were subdued

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh subdued the Philistines" or "Yahweh kept the Philistines from causing harm" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

they did not enter the border of Israel

The Philistines did not enter Israel's border to attack them.

The hand of Yahweh was against the Philistines

The word "hand" is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: "Yahweh used his power against the Philistines" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 7:14

The towns ... from Israel were restored to Israel

This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) Here "Israel" refers to the "land" of Israel. "Yahweh restored to the land of Israel the towns ... from Israel" or 2) "Israel" is a metonym for the people who live there. Alternate translation: "the people of Israel were able to reclaim the towns ... from Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 7:15

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 7:16

went on a circuit

traveled from place to place in a rough circle

He decided disputes

Disputes are arguments or disagreements between two or more people.

1 Samuel 7:17

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 8

1 Samuel 8:intro-0

1 Samuel 08 General Notes

Structure and formatting

# Saul and Samuel

The section including chapters 8-16 begins a new part of the story. The people wanted a king, and God chose Saul, the man the people wanted, to be their king. He was not the king Yahweh wanted.

Special concepts in this chapter

# The people want a king

When Samuel was old, he appointed his sons to be judges. They were corrupt and took bribes, so the people came and asked Samuel to appoint a king for them. Samuel asked God, who gave them a king but warned them what a king would be like. Despite Samuel's warning that a king would oppress them, the people still wanted a king. This was sinful because they were rejecting God as their king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/appoint.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/oppress.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

1 Samuel 8:1

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 8:2

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 8:3

chased after dishonest gain

The writer speaks of money that people would give Samuel's sons as if it were a person or animal running away from Samuel's sons, and he speaks of Samuel's sons as if they were physically chasing that person or animal. Alternate translation: "they worked hard to gain money by being dishonest" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

perverted justice

"judged in favor of those who did evil"

1 Samuel 8:4

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 8:5

do not walk in your ways

The way a person lives is spoken of as walking on a path. Alternate translation: "do not do the things you do" or "do not do what is just the way you do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Appoint for us a king to judge us like all the nations

Possible meanings are 1) "Appoint for us a king like the kings of all the nations so that he can judge us" or 2) "Appoint for us a king who will judge us the way the kings of the nations judge them"

Appoint for us a king to judge us

The leaders wrongly believed that a king, and his sons after him, would rule justly.

1 Samuel 8:6

But it displeased Samuel ... Give us a king to judge us

Samuel was unhappy that the people did not just want him to remove his corrupt sons and to appoint honest judges, but they wanted a king to rule over them like other countries had.

1 Samuel 8:7

Obey the voice of the people

Here "the voice" is a metonym for the will or the desire of the people. Alternate translation: "Do what the people say" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

but they have rejected me

Yahweh knew that the people were not just rejecting corrupt judges, but they were rejecting Yahweh as their king.

1 Samuel 8:8

I brought them out of Egypt

This refers to Yahweh freeing the Israelites from slavery in Egypt many years before.

1 Samuel 8:9

Now listen to them

"Now do what they are asking you to do"

warn them solemnly

"be very serious as you warn them"

1 Samuel 8:10

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 8:11

This will be the practice ... He will take

The practice of the king will be to take. This begins the list of things he will take.

This will be the practice of the king who will reign over you

The abstract noun "practice" can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "This is how the king who will reign over you will act" or "This is what the king who will reign over you will do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

appoint them to his chariots

"have them drive chariots in battle"

be his horsemen

They will ride horses into battle.

1 Samuel 8:12

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 8:13

Connecting Statement:

Samuel continues to tell what things the king will take.

to be perfumers

"to make good-smelling oils to put on his body"

1 Samuel 8:14

olive orchards

"fields of olive trees"

1 Samuel 8:15

a tenth of your grain

They will have to divide their grain into ten equal parts and give one of those parts to the king's officers and servants. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-fraction/01.md]])

a tenth ... of your vineyards

They will have to divide the wine that they produce in their vineyards into ten equal parts and give one of those parts to the king's officers and servants. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-fraction/01.md]])

officers

These are the leaders of the king's army.

1 Samuel 8:16

Connecting Statement:

Samuel continues to tell what things the king will take.

1 Samuel 8:17

the tenth of your flocks

They will have to divide their flocks into ten equal parts and give one of those parts to the king's officers and servants. See how you translated "tenth" in 1 Samuel 8:15. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-fraction/01.md]])

you will be his slaves

"you will feel as if you are his slaves"

1 Samuel 8:18

you will cry out

Possible meanings are 1) the people will ask Yahweh to rescue them from the king or 2) the people will ask the king to stop treating them so badly .

1 Samuel 8:19

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 8:20

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 8:21

he repeated them in the ears of Yahweh

Here "the ears of Yahweh" refers to Yahweh. Samuel prayed to Yahweh repeating all that the people said. Alternate translation: "he repeated them to Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 8:22

Obey their voice

Here the metonym "their voice" refers to the will of the people. Alternate translation: "Obey the people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

cause someone to be king for them

"make someone king over them." Use the common term in your language for making someone king.

go to his own city

"go home"

1 Samuel 9

1 Samuel 9:intro-0

1 Samuel 09 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Samuel chooses Saul to be their king

When the donkeys of Saul's father strayed away, Saul went looking for them. When he could not find them, he asked Samuel to ask God where they were. Samuel said the donkeys had been found. He invited Saul as the guest of honor to a feast and gave him a place to sleep for the night.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Rhetorical questions

Saul uses two rhetorical questions to convince Samuel he is not important: "Am not I a Benjamite, from the smallest of the tribes of Israel? Is not my clan the least of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 9:1

General Information:

If your language has a way of telling the reader that the writer is giving background information in these verses, you could use it here. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

a man of influence

Possible meanings are 1) he was a wealthy man or 2) he was a nobleman or 3) he was a mighty and brave man.

Kish ... Abiel ... Zeror ... Bekorath ... Aphiah

These are names of the men of Saul's family line. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Benjamite

A Benjamite is someone who belongs to the tribe of Benjamin.

1 Samuel 9:2

handsome

someone who looks good

From his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the people

The other tall people in Israel did not even come up to his shoulders.

1 Samuel 9:3

Now

The writer has ended the background information that began in (1 Samuel 9:1) and starts a new main part of the story.

arise and go

"stop what you are doing and go"

1 Samuel 9:4

the hill country of Ephraim ... the land of Shalishah ... the land of Shaalim ... the land of the Benjamites

These are all areas in Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

did not find them ... they were not there ... did not find them

The words "them" and "they" all refer to the donkeys.

1 Samuel 9:5

land of Zuph

This is an area in Israel just north of Jerusalem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 9:6

man of God

This phrase usually means a prophet of Yahweh. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 2:27. Alternate translation: "a man who hears and tells words from God"

which way we should go on our journey

"which way we should go to find the donkeys"

1 Samuel 9:7

what can we bring the man?

Giving a gift is a sign of respect for the man of God.

man of God

This phrase usually means a prophet of Yahweh. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 2:27. Alternate translation: "a man who hears and tells words from God"

1 Samuel 9:8

one-fourth of a shekel

"1/4 of a shekel." A shekel is a type of money used in the Old Testament. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-bmoney/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-fraction/01.md]])

1 Samuel 9:9

Formerly in Israel ... seer

This is cultural information added by the Hebrew author. If it is not natural in your language to state this information here, it can be moved to the end of verse 11. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

For today's prophet was formerly called a seer

"Seer is the old name for what we call a prophet today"

1 Samuel 9:10

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 9:11

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 9:12

the people are sacrificing today

These are likely the feast or first-fruit sacrifices, not the sin sacrifices, which must be held at the tabernacle.

1 Samuel 9:13

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 9:14

to go up to the high place

This is a place that the people had designated as holy to make sacrifices and offerings to Yahweh. The writer writes as though it were outside the wall that was around the city.

1 Samuel 9:15

General Information:

The writer stops telling the story and gives background information so the reader can understand what happens next. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

1 Samuel 9:16

you will anoint him to be prince

The term prince is used here instead of king. This is the man whom God has chosen to be king of Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

the land of Benjamin

"the land where people from the tribe of Benjamin live"

from the hand of the Philistines

Here the word "hand" is a metonym for control. Alternate translation: "from the control of the Philistines" or "so the Philistines will no longer control them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

For I have looked on my people with pity

"My people are suffering and I want to help them"

1 Samuel 9:17

Yahweh told him

"Yahweh told Samuel"

1 Samuel 9:18

the seer

"the prophet of Yahweh"

1 Samuel 9:19

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 9:20

Then on whom are all the desires of Israel set? Is it not on you and all your father's house?

These questions are an expression of deep conviction that Saul is the one whom Yahweh wants to be the king that the Israelites are looking for. The questions can be translated as statements. Alternate translation: "You should know that it is on you that all the desires of Israel are set. They are set on you and your father's family." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 9:21

Am I not a Benjamite ... of Israel? Is not my clan ... Benjamin? Why then have you spoken to me in this manner?

Saul is expressing surprise because Benjamin was the smallest tribe in Israel, and other Israelites considered the tribe unimportant. Also, Benjamites considered the clan of which Saul was a member as unimportant. These questions can be translated as statements. Alternate translation: "I am from the tribe of Benjamin, the least important of all tribes. And my clan is the least important clan in our tribe. I do not understand why you are saying that the Israelite people want me and my family to do something important." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 9:22

the hall

The writer assumes that the reader knows that near the place where they would offer sacrifices there was a large building in which people would eat together.

head place

This is the seat of honor.

thirty people

"30 people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 9:23

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 9:24

what was on it

Possible meanings are 1) the other food that Saul was to eat along with the meat or 2) other parts of the bull.

Then Samuel said

In the original language it is not clear who is speaking. It is possible that the cook is speaking to Saul. Alternate translation: "Then the cook said"

1 Samuel 9:25

on the rooftop

This is a normal place for family and guests to eat, visit, and sleep. It tends to be cooler in the evening and at night than the inside of the house.

1 Samuel 9:26

Samuel called to Saul on the rooftop and said

What Saul was doing on the rooftop can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "while Saul was sleeping on the rooftop, Samuel called to him and said" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 9:27

ahead of us"—and he went ahead—"but you must stay

It is possible that Samuel speaks all of these words. Alternate translation: "ahead of us, and when he has gone ahead, you must stay"

that I may announce the message of God to you

"so that I can tell you God's message for you"

1 Samuel 10

1 Samuel 10:intro-0

1 Samuel 10 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This is the first chapter about King Saul.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Saul as the New King

Samuel told Saul that God had chosen him to be king, and on the way home he would meet some prophets. Saul would then begin prophesying and God would give him the Holy Spirit to help him to know what to do. Samuel told everyone to come to Mizpah where he announced that God had chosen Saul to be their king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/holyspirit.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Rhetorical questions

This chapter uses rhetorical questions to express different ideas: to state a fact ("Has not Yahweh anointed you to be a ruler over his inheritance?"), to express surprise ("And who is their father?"), to say he is someone very special ("Do you see the man that Yahweh has chosen?"), and to express contempt ("How can this man save us?"). (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

# Idioms

Samuel frequently uses idioms when prophesying: "going to God" means "going to worship God"; "take it from their hands" means "accept their gift"; "rush upon you" means "control you"; "hand finds to do" means "what you think you should do"; "God is with you" means "God is directing you"; "another heart" means "a different way of thinking"; "came to pass" means "happened"; "before Yahweh" means "to do work for Yahweh"; and "hearts God had touched" means "God had made them want to help Saul." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:1

took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul's head

In Israelite culture, when a prophet poured oil on someone's head, that person received a blessing from Yahweh.

flask

a small container made from baked clay

Has not Yahweh anointed you to be a ruler over his inheritance?

Samuel knows the answer to his question. He is reminding Saul that Yahweh has chosen him to be king of Israel. Alternate translation: "Yahweh has certainly anointed you to be a ruler over his inheritance." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:2

Zelzah

This is the name of a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

What should I do about my son?

Saul's father is now concerned about Saul and wants to find him.

1 Samuel 10:3

Tabor

This is the name of a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:4

take from their hands

The hands are a synecdoche for the person. "take from them" or "accept" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:5

tambourine

This is a musical instrument with a head like a drum that can be hit and with pieces of metal around the side that sound when the instrument is shaken. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:6

The Spirit of Yahweh will rush upon you

The phrase "rush upon" means that Yahweh's Spirit will influence Saul. In this case it means it means he will make Saul prophesy and act like a different person. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:7

do whatever your hand finds to do

Here Samuel speaks of Saul's hand as if it were a person trying to find things. Alternate translation: "do whatever you think is right to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:8

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 10:9

God gave him another heart

God enabled Samuel to think differently from the way he had thought before. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:10

the Spirit of God rushed upon him

Samuel speaks as if the Spirit of Yahweh were a person running up to Saul and taking complete control of him. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 10:6. Alternate translation: "the Spirit of Yahweh took complete control of him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:11

What has happened to the son of Kish?

Possible meanings are 1) the people are asking for information or 2) this is a rhetorical question that means Saul is not important. Alternate translation: "Kish is not an important person, so it cannot be true that his son has become a prophet!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the son of Kish

"Saul, the son of Kish"

1 Samuel 10:12

Then who is their father?

This man uses a rhetorical question to remind people that being a prophet has nothing to do with who one's parents are. The question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "It does not matter who the parents of these other prophets are. What matters is that, amazingly, Saul is speaking messages from God." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Because of this, it became a saying, "Is Saul also one of the prophets?"

This became a proverb among the Israelites. Apparently people said this to express surprise when a person unexpectedly did something that he had not done before. The implied meaning of the question can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "And that is why, when people cannot believe some report, they think about what happened to Saul and say, 'Is Saul really one of the prophets?'" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-proverbs/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:13

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 10:14

Then Saul's uncle said to him

"Then the brother of Saul's father said to Saul"

1 Samuel 10:15

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 10:16

he did not tell him about the matter of the kingdom

"Saul did not tell his uncle that God had appointed him to be the king of Israel"

1 Samuel 10:17

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 10:18

I brought up Israel out of Egypt

The name "Israel" is a metonym for the people of Israel. "I brought the people of Israel out of Egypt" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the hand of the Egyptians ... the hand of all the kingdoms

The word "hand" is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: "the power of the Egyptians ... the power of all the kingdoms" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:19

today

Samuel is speaking of the time since Israel had begun to reject God, not only the time since the sun had last set.

Set a king over us

"Give us a king to rule us"

present yourselves before Yahweh by your tribes and by your clans

"gather together by tribes and clans and come to stand before Yahweh"

1 Samuel 10:20

the tribe of Benjamin was chosen

This can be translated in active form. It is probably best not to say how the people knew whom Yahweh had chosen. Alternate translation: "Yahweh chose the tribe of Benjamin" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:21

the clan of the Matrites was chosen ... Saul son of Kish was chosen

This can be translated in active form. It is probably best not to say how the people knew whom Yahweh had chosen. Alternate translation: "Yahweh chose the clan of the Matrites ... Yahweh chose Saul son of Kish" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:22

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 10:23

he was taller than any of the people from his shoulders upward

The other tall people in Israel did not even come up to his shoulders. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 9:2.

1 Samuel 10:24

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 10:25

the customs and rules of kingship

The abstract noun "kingship" can be translated with a noun clause. Alternate translation: "the customs and rules that a king would be required to follow" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:26

whose hearts God had touched

God touching a person's heart is an idiom that means God put something in their mind or moved them to do something. Alternate translation: "who wanted to go with Saul because God had changed their thinking" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 10:27

How can this man save us?

This is a rhetorical question that is used to express sarcasm. Alternate translation: "This man has no power to save us!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

despised

strongly disliked or hated

1 Samuel 11

1 Samuel 11:intro-0

1 Samuel 11 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter continues the story of King Saul by telling of his first victory in war.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Saul rescues the people of Jabesh Gilead

Nahash, king of the Ammonites, and his army surrounded the Israeli town of Jabesh Gilead. When the city's leaders asked for peace terms, Nahash demanded the right to poke out one eye of every man in order to show Israel their weakness. When Saul heard this, he called for all of Israel to help save this city. Many people came to help Saul's army. Israel was victorious and everyone wanted Saul as their king. At this time, Israel was not a truly unified country, even though it is often spoken of as one country. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Idioms

The idioms in this chapter explain the effect God has on his people: "rushed upon him" means "empowered him"; "terror ... fell" means "they became afraid"; "as one man" means "they all agreed"; and "put to death" means "kill." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 11:1

Nahash

This is a man from Ammon, a descendent of Lot, Abraham's nephew. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Jabesh Gilead

This is the name of a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 11:2

I gouge out

"I cut out" or "I pluck out"

bring disgrace on

"bring shame on" or "bring a bad reputation to"

1 Samuel 11:3

seven days

"7 days" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 11:4

Gibeah

This is the name of a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 11:5

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 11:6

the Spirit of God rushed upon him

The phrase "rushed upon" means Yahweh's Spirit influenced Saul. In this case he enabled Saul to cause the people to fearfully respect him as their king and to join his army. See how you translated a similar phrase in 1 Samuel 10:6.

1 Samuel 11:7

does not come out after

Saul was calling all the men of Israel to come fight against Nahash and the Ammonites.

Then the terror of Yahweh fell on the people

Yahweh enabled people to fearfully respect Saul as their king. The result was that the men rallied together with Saul at Bezek.

1 Samuel 11:8

Bezek

This is the name of a town near Jabesh Gilead. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

the people of Israel were three hundred thousand, and the men of Judah thirty thousand

"the people of Israel were 300,000, and the men of Judah were 30,000" ( See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 11:9

They said to the messengers

"They" refers to Samuel and Saul.

by the time the sun is hot

"before the hottest part of the day" or "before noon"

Jabesh Gilead ... Jabesh

These are the names of places. See how you translated them in 1 Samuel 11:1.

1 Samuel 11:10

Nahash

This is the name of a king. See how you translated this name in 1 Samuel 11:1.

1 Samuel 11:11

the morning watch

This was before dawn when most people in the camp were still asleep.

1 Samuel 11:12

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 11:13

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 11:14

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 11:15

made Saul king before Yahweh

"made Saul king while Yahweh watched"

There they sacrificed peace offerings before Yahweh

Part of Samuel's service to Yahweh is to offer sacrifices even though he is not from the line of Aaron or Levi.

1 Samuel 12

1 Samuel 12:intro-0

1 Samuel 12 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Samuel's farewell address

This chapter serves as a type of farewell address. This is a way for leaders to give instructions to their followers before they leave or die. Samuel first established his holiness before calling on the people to repent of their desire to have a king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/holy.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/repent.md]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

It is common in Scripture to use Israel's history to show how faithful God has been. This gives the readers evidence to trust in Yahweh in their current situation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faithful.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

1 Samuel 12:1

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 12:2

the king walking before you ... I have walked before you

These expressions mean that people can actually see the kind of lives Saul and Samuel are living. Alternate translation: "the king's life was seen ... My life was seen" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 12:3

Here I am; testify against me before Yahweh and before his anointed one

By this statement, Samuel is challenging the people to speak up if he has done anything wrong to anyone. Alternate translation: "I stand in front of you now. I ask you to speak in front of Yahweh and his anointed king if I have done you any wrong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Whose ox have I taken? Whose donkey have I taken?

Samuel uses rhetorical questions to remind the people that he has never stolen their animals. Alternate translation: "I have never stolen a prized animal from anyone." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Whom have I defrauded?

Samuel uses another rhetorical question to say he has always been honest. Alternate translation: "I have never cheated or bribed any man." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Testify against me, and I will restore it to you

"If I have done any of these evil things, speak now, and I will pay back what I owe. I will make right any wrong"

1 Samuel 12:4

from any man's hand

This phrase means what a person possesses or what they have done to obtain favor from others. This is a polite way of saying he has not stolen, nor has he given or taken bribes. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

1 Samuel 12:5

in my hand

1 Samuel 12:6

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 12:7

all of the righteous deeds of Yahweh

Samuel is calling their attention to the history of Yahweh's dealing with Israel, which has been filled with goodness and purpose.

1 Samuel 12:8

Jacob ... Moses ... Aaron

These are names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 12:9

into the hand of Sisera ... Philistines ... king of Moab

"into the power of Sisera ... Philistines ... king of Moab"

Sisera

This is the name of a man. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Hazor

This is the name of a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

he sold them

This is an expression for God giving them over to their enemies to be their slaves.

1 Samuel 12:10

They cried out to Yahweh

"They" refers to the nation of Israel.

have served the Baals and the Ashtoreths

Serving here is referring to acting worshipful towards the false gods. Alternate translation: "have worshiped false gods and goddesses" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the hand of our enemies

This statement is using "hand" to refer to power. Alternate translation: "the power or control of our enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 12:11

Jerub Baal

This is sometimes translated Jerubbaal. This is a name of godly honor and strength to fight the false god.

Yahweh sent ... and gave you victory

Samuel is telling the story of what God did after the people's confession of sin and plea for help. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Jerub Baal, Bedan, Jephthah, and Samuel

These are the names of some judges that God raised up. Samuel included himself in this list. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 12:12

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 12:13

whom you have chosen, whom you have asked for

These two phrases have similar meanings and emphasize that this is the king whom the people wanted. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

1 Samuel 12:14

fear ... serve ... obey ... not rebel

These similar words are used to emphasize how important this is. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

1 Samuel 12:15

Yahweh's hand will be against you, as it was against your ancestors

This speaks of Yahweh punishing the people as his "hand" being against them. The word "hand" here represents Yahweh's power and control. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will punish you, just as he punished your ancestors" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 12:16

before your eyes

The word "eyes" here represents the people of the nation of Israel. Alternate translation: "out in the open where all of the nation of Israel may see" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 12:17

Is it not the wheat harvest today?

Samuel knows it is harvest time. He is using a rhetorical question to emphasize that it does not usually rain at this time so the people will know that the rain that will ruin their harvest is a judgment from Yahweh. Alternate translation: "It is harvest time and does not usually rain at this time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

he may send thunder and rain

Samuel is asking Yahweh to punish Israel for asking for a king by sending a rainstorm during the harvest which will ruin the grain.

1 Samuel 12:18

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 12:19

so that we do not die

The ultimate punishment for sin is death. The nation of Israel had seen Yahweh destroy the nations that had oppressed them. They were concerned that they had become "dedicated for destruction" like those nations.

1 Samuel 12:20

Do not be afraid

The people did evil and were afraid of God destroying them. Alternate translation: "Do not be afraid that God will be angry and destroy you because of this sin" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 12:21

turn away after empty things

"pursue worship of false gods"

1 Samuel 12:22

For the sake of his great name

Here "name" refers to the reputation of Yahweh. Alternate translation: "So that people will continue to honor and respect Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 12:23

far be it from me that I should sin against Yahweh by ceasing to pray for you

The people are filled with fear because of the rain and thunder that Yahweh sent when Samuel prayed. Some people may believe Samuel would use his prayers to harm them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 12:24

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 12:25

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 13

1 Samuel 13:intro-0

1 Samuel 13 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is the beginning of a story about Jonathan's victory over the Philistines.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Preparation for the battle

Saul sent most of his army home before Jonathan attacked and defeated a Philistine garrison. This attack made the Philistines very angry, and they brought a huge army into Israel and camped at the top of a hill. Most of Saul's army ran away in fear and hid from the Philistines. There are many aspects of this story that give the reader the impression that Israel was unprepared for battle.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Hyperbole

Wanting to express the vast number of enemy soldiers, the author uses a hyperbole: "as numerous as the sand on the seashore," meaning "too many to count." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

1 Samuel 13:1

General Information:

Samuel has renewed Saul's kingdom at Gilgal and Samuel has reminded the people to follow the Lord.

Saul was thirty years old ... over Israel

The text of this verse in ancient copies is uncertain, so modern versions have many different translations. They are all attempts to represent the most probable meaning of the original text.

1 Samuel 13:2

Gibeah of Benjamin

Gibeah is a town. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 10:26.

The rest of the soldiers he sent home

"He sent the rest of the soldiers home"

1 Samuel 13:3

garrison of the Philistines

"military base of the Philistines" or "military camp of the Philistines"

Geba

This is the name of the town that the Philistine garrison was stationed in. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 13:4

All Israel heard that Saul had defeated

Possible meanings are that 1) Saul was taking responsibility for Jonathan's actions or 2) Saul was taking credit for Jonathan's actions.

Israel had become a rotten smell to the Philistines

The Philistines hating the Israelites is spoken of as if the Israelites had become a bad smell that offended the Philistines. Alternate translation: "the Philistines hated the Israelites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the soldiers were summoned together to join Saul at Gilgal

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Saul called the soldiers together to join him at Gilgal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 13:5

three thousand ... six thousand

"3,000 ... 6,000" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

troops as numerous as the sand on the seashore

This is an exaggeration that means a group of soldiers so large that it was difficult to count them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Michmash

This is the name of a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Beth Aven

This is the name of a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 13:6

General Information:

The Philistines had gathered together to fight against Israel.

the people

This phrase refers to the nation of Israel.

the people were distressed

"the people worried greatly"

1 Samuel 13:7

followed him trembling

The people were greatly afraid.

1 Samuel 13:8

the time Samuel had set

"according to the time Samuel had told them he would come"

the people were scattering from Saul

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the people had started to leave Saul" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 13:9

Then he offered the burnt offering

Only the line of Aaron was permitted to perform the burnt offering sacrifice to God.

1 Samuel 13:10

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 13:11

What have you done

Samuel was not really asking a question, but giving a rebuke to Saul. Saul sought to defend his actions even though they were wrong. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Michmash

Michmash is the name of a place. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 13:2.

1 Samuel 13:12

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 13:13

You have not kept the command of Yahweh

Saul was to wait for Samuel to come and sacrifice the burnt offering to God. He was not to perform the sacrifice himself.

established your rule

"set up your rule" or "authorized your rule" or "appointed your rule"

1 Samuel 13:14

your rule will not continue

This is a litotes that can be stated in the positive form. Alternate translation: "your rule will end soon" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

a man after his own heart

Here "heart" represents Yahweh's desire or will. The phrase "man after his own heart" is an idiom that means to be a person who does what Yahweh desires. Alternate translation: "a man who is the kind of person he wants" or "a man who will obey him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 13:15

Samuel arose and went up

This is an idiom for "Samuel left and went up." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

went up from Gilgal

Gilgal is a city. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 7:15.

Gibeah of Benjamin

Gibeah is a town. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 10:26.

six hundred men

"600 men" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 13:16

Geba of Benjamin

Geba is a town. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 13:3.

Philistines camped at Michmash

Michmash is the name of a place. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 13:2.

1 Samuel 13:17

Raiders came

Raiders are normally military people who attack enemy villages for their food and other supplies.

Ophrah, to the land of Shual

These are the names of places. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 13:18

Beth Horon ... Valley of Zeboyim

These are the names of places. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 13:19

General Information:

The narrative shifts to background information regarding blacksmiths in Israel.

No blacksmith could be found

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "No one could find a blacksmith" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

blacksmith

Here "blacksmith" refers to someone who made or sharpened metal tools and weapons.

1 Samuel 13:20

sharpen his plow points

The words "plow points" refer to the point of a metal tool used for digging up the ground for planting crops.

mattock ... ax ... sickle

These are common garden tools.

mattock

A "mattock" is a broad-bladed axe, with a horizontal blade that is used for breaking up hard soil.

sickle

a curved blade for cutting grasses and grain stalks

1 Samuel 13:21

two-thirds of a shekel

The shekel is divided into 3 parts, 2 of 3 parts are given. "2/3 of a shekel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-bmoney/01.md]])

straightening the goads

"taking out the bend and making the ox goad straight again so it could be used"

1 Samuel 13:22

General Information:

The narrative continues.

there were no swords or spears

This explains in part why Saul's army was afraid. They did not have any weapons to fight.

1 Samuel 13:23

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 14

1 Samuel 14:intro-0

1 Samuel 14 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter completes the story of Jonathan's victory over the Philistines.

Special concepts in this chapter

# The battle against the Philistines

Jonathan took his armor bearer to where the Philistines were on the top of the hill. He said God could use a few people just as easily as he could use many people to win his battles. He and his armor bearer started killing the Philistines, and suddenly the Philistines began fighting each other or running away. The rest of Israel, who had hidden, came and chased the Philistines. Even though Israel had a king, God was still in control of the nation of Israel.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Special reference

The people of Israel often used the term "uncircumcised" to refer to Gentiles. Here it is used to mean the Philistines. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/circumcise.md]])

1 Samuel 14:1

General Information:

Jonathan begins his second raid on the Philistines' army.

his young armor bearer

a teenage boy who is responsible for caring for his master's weapons of war

Philistines' garrison

This is an outpost staffed by the Philistine army.

1 Samuel 14:2

Gibeah

This is the name of a hill north of Jerusalem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

under the pomegranate tree

a tree whose fruit is thick skinned, round, red and has many seeds to eat

that is in Migron

"Migron" is the name of a place north of Jerusalem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

six hundred men were with him

"600 men were with him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:3

son of Ahitub (Ichabod's brother)

"Ahitub" and "Ichabod" are names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Phinehas son of Eli

Phinehas was one of the priests. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 1:3.

1 Samuel 14:4

One rocky cliff was called Bozez

A "cliff" is a rocky height with a steep drop. The cliff was well-known and given the name "Bozez." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

the other rocky cliff was called Seneh

This was the name of the other cliff. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:5

Michmash ... Geba

towns north of Jerusalem (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:6

his young armor bearer

This was a teenage boy who was responsible for caring for his master's weapons of war. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 14:1.

uncircumcised fellows

a derogatory term used for non-Jewish men

work on our behalf

"work for our support" or "help us"

nothing can stop Yahweh from saving

"Yahweh can save"

by many or by few people

These extremes also include everything in between. Alternate translation: "by any number of people" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:7

everything that is in your heart

Here "heart" refers to Jonathan's desires. Alternate translation: "everything that you desire to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:8

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 14:9

will not cross over to them

"will not go over to the other side of the valley where the Philistines are"

1 Samuel 14:10

has given them into our hand

Here "hand" refers to the power to defeat them. Alternate translation: "will enable us to defeat them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

This will be the sign to us

"This will confirm that the Lord will be with us"

1 Samuel 14:11

revealed themselves to the garrison of the Philistines

"allowed the Philistine soldiers to see them"

the garrison

the army camp

coming out of the holes where they have hidden themselves

The Philistines implied that the Hebrews had been hiding in holes in the ground like animals. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:12

we will show you something

This is an idiom that means "we will teach you a lesson." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

has given them into the hand of Israel

Here "hand" refers to power to defeat the Philistines. Alternate translation: "will enable Israel to defeat them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:13

Jonathan climbed up on his hands and feet

He did this because it was very steep. This could be made explicit. Alternate translation: "So Jonathan climbed up, using his hands and his feet because it was very steep" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

The Philistines were put to death before Jonathan

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Jonathan killed the Philistines" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

his armor bearer put some to death behind him

"Jonathan's armor bearer followed him and also killed Philistine soldiers"

1 Samuel 14:14

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 14:15

There was a panic in the camp, in the field, and among the people

The abstract noun "panic" can be translated as a verb or as an adjective. Alternate translation: "The Philistine soldiers in the camp and in the field, and all the people with them, panicked" or "The Philistine soldiers in the camp and in the field, and all the people with them, became very afraid" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the raiders

the Philistines who were raiding Israelite cities

The earth quaked

It may be helpful to state the cause. Alternate translation: "God caused the ground to shake" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:16

Gibeah

This was the town where Saul was born. Translated "Gibeah" as in 1 Samuel 10:26. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

was dispersing ... going here and there

These two phrases share similar meanings and emphasize that the soldiers were running away in every direction. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:17

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 14:18

Bring the ark of God here

A few versions have "ephod" here instead of "ark of God." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-textvariants/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:19

commotion

great noise and confusion

Withdraw your hand

This seems to be an idiom the means "Stop what you are doing." Saul did not want Ahijah to continue to use the ark to ask God for direction. Alternate translation: "Do not bring the sacred chest at this time" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:20

the people who were with him

the remnant of the Israelite army that remained with Saul

Every Philistine's sword was against his fellow countrymen

The swords are spoken of as if they were living people. Alternate translation: "The Philistine soldiers were striking each other with their swords" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:21

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 14:22

the men of Israel who had hidden themselves in the hills

This does not refer to an ambush. These soldiers were hiding because they were afraid of the Philistines. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "the Israelite soldiers who were afraid and had hidden themselves in the hills" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:23

Beth Aven

This is a place in Israel. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 13:5. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:24

So none of the troops tasted food

It was understood by the troops that no refreshment was permitted under Saul's oath.

1 Samuel 14:25

the people entered the forest

The Philistine soldiers fled through the forests and the Israelite soldiers followed them there.

1 Samuel 14:26

the honey flowed

This is an exaggeration to emphasize how much honey there was in the forest. Alternate translation: "there was a lot of honey everywhere" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

no one put his hand to his mouth

Here putting one's "hand to his mouth" is a metonym that means to eat. Alternate translation: "no one ate any" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the people feared the oath

The people were not afraid of the oath, but of the punishment that was associated with breaking the oath. Alternate translation: "the people were afraid of what Saul would do to them if they broke his oath" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:27

General Information:

Jonathan learns of his father's oath.

bound the people with an oath

Here the obligation to obey an oath is spoken of as if the people were bound with ropes. Alternate translation: "commanded that the people obey his oath" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

He raised his hand to his mouth

Here "hand to his mouth" is a metonym that means to eat. Alternate translation: "He ate some honey" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

his eyes brightened

This idiom means that he was strengthened. Alternate translation: "he regained his strength" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:28

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 14:29

for the land

This is a metonym that represents the nation of Israel. Alternate translation: "for Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

my eyes have become brightened

This idiom means that he was strengthened. Alternate translation: "I regained my strength" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:30

How much better if the people ... that they found?

Jonathan uses this rhetorical question to say that the people should have been allowed to eat the food in the plunder they had taken. Alternate translation: "It would have been much better if the people had eaten freely today of the plunder that they took from their enemies." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hypo/01.md]])

plunder

This word refers to the things the people had taken from the battle with their enemy.

Because now the slaughter has not been great

Because the troops were not able to eat during the battle, as the day progressed, they became weaker. Because of this, they were not able to kill as many of the Philistines.

1 Samuel 14:31

General Information:

Jonathan's words lead the army to sin against God in their great hunger.

Michmash

This is the name of a town. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 13:2.

Aijalon

a place in Zebulun in Israel (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

The people

This refers to the Israelites.

1 Samuel 14:32

ate them with the blood

The were so hungry they did not drain the blood first before eating. This was a violation of the Law which was given to Moses for the nation of Israel. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "ate them without draining the blood first as required by the law" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:33

by eating with the blood

This was a violation of the Law which was given to Moses for the nation of Israel. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "by eating meat without draining the blood first as required by the law" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

You have acted unfaithfully

Saul is accusing his whole army of acting unfaithfully though this is a generalization because not every soldier acted unfaithfully. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

Now, roll a big stone here to me

The stone would hold the animals up and make it easier to drain the blood from them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:34

slaughter them here and eat them

This would allow Saul to observe if the blood was properly drained from the animals.

1 Samuel 14:35

General Information:

Saul had told the people to bring their animals to a big stone to kill and eat.

Saul built an altar to Yahweh

It is unclear if Saul built this altar with the large stone that the people brought to him in 1 Samuel 14:33.

1 Samuel 14:36

General Information:

Saul seeks to continue the fight against the Philistines.

let us not leave one of them alive

This is stated in a negative way to emphasize the slaughter. It can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "let us kill every one of them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

Do whatever seems good to you

Saul had the support of his army to continue the fight.

Let us approach God here

Here "approaching God" is associated with asking him counsel. Alternate translation: "Let us ask God what we should do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:37

give them into the hand of Israel

Here "hand" refers to the power to defeat them. Alternate translation: "enable us to defeat them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

But God did not answer him that day

This implies that God was not willing to help Saul.

1 Samuel 14:38

the people

This refers to the Israelites.

learn and see how this sin has happened

"find who sinned"

1 Samuel 14:39

even if it is in Jonathan my son, he will surely die

The word "it' refers to the guilt. Alternate translation: "Even if Jonathan my son is the guilty one, he will surely die"

But none of the men among all the people answered him

The people remained silent because most of them knew that Jonathan had broken Saul's oath. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "His men knew who was guilty, but none of them said anything to Saul" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:40

Then he said to all Israel

This was a generalization since only the Israelite soldiers were present. Alternate translation: "Then he said to the Israelite soldiers who were there" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:41

give the Thummim

The Israelites at that time used special stones called the Urim and the Thummim to receive direction from God. Alternate translation: "Show us by means of the Thummim" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Thummim

This is a borrowed word from the original language. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-transliterate/01.md]])

Jonathan and Saul were taken by lot, but the army was exonerated

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "The lots indicated that either Jonathan or Saul was guilty, but the army was not guilty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:42

Then Jonathan was taken by lot

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Then the lot indicated that Jonathan was guilty" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:43

General Information:

The lots had just showed that Jonathan had sinned.

Tell me what you have done

"Tell me how you have sinned" or "Tell me what you have done that was wrong"

I will die

Possible meanings are 1) "I am willing to die" or 2) "do I deserve to be executed because of doing that?"

1 Samuel 14:44

God do so and more also to me, if you do not die, Jonathan

Saul makes a second foolish oath in less than one day. Alternate translation: "May God kill me if I do not kill you, Jonathan"

1 Samuel 14:45

General Information:

The Army defends and protects Jonathan from Saul.

Should Jonathan die, who has accomplished this great victory for Israel? Far from it!

The people scold Saul. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Jonathan has just accomplished this great victory for Israel. He should surely not die." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

As Yahweh lives

The people were expressing their certainty that they would not let anything happen to Jonathan.

not one hair of his head will fall to the ground

This exaggeration shows how the people of Israel would protect Jonathan and keep him safe. This litotes can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: "we will protect him from any harm" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:46

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 14:47

General Information:

For a brief period Saul served with great courage in defeating Israel's enemies.

Israel

This is a metonym that represents the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "the Israelites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Moab

This refers to the people of Moab. Alternate translation: "the Moabites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Edom

This refers to the people of Edom. Alternate translation: "the Edomites" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Wherever he turned

"Wherever he sent his army"

1 Samuel 14:48

out of the hands

The word "hand" represents control. Alternate translation: "out of the control" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:49

General Information:

This is background information on Saul's family.

Ishvi ... Malki-Shua

These are names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Merab ... Michal

These are names of women. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:50

Ahinoam

This is the name of a woman. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Ahimaaz ... Abner ... Ner

These are names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:51

Kish ... Ner ... Abner ... Abiel

These are names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 14:52

all the days of Saul

"all of Saul's life"

he attached him to himself

"he forced him to join his army"

1 Samuel 15

1 Samuel 15:intro-0

1 Samuel 15 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This is the end of the section on Saul and Samuel (8-15).

Special concepts in this chapter

# God wants total obedience

Samuel told Saul that God wanted him to completely destroy the Amalekite people and animals. Saul fought the Amalekites and killed all the people except the king. He destroyed the animals that were not very good but saved the best animals. Saul told Samuel he had obeyed God's command. Samuel asked him about the animals Saul had. Saul said he had saved them for a sacrifice to God. God said that obedience was better than sacrifice. Because Saul had disobeyed him, God had chosen someone else to become king.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Idiom

"He has turned back from following me" is an idiom meaning "he has stopped obeying me." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

# Rhetorical questions

When Saul insisted that he had obeyed God, Samuel rebuked him with these rhetorical questions: "What then is this bleating of sheep in my ears, and the lowing of the oxen that I hear?"; "Though you are little in your own sight, were you not made the head of the tribes of Israel?"; "Why then did you not obey the voice of Yahweh, but instead you seized the booty and did what was evil in the sight of Yahweh?"; and "Has Yahweh as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of Yahweh?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:1

the words of Yahweh

"the message of Yahweh"

1 Samuel 15:2

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 15:3

completely destroy all that they have ... kill both man and woman, child and infant, cattle and sheep, camel and donkey

These two phrases mean the same thing. The second phrase gives specific details about what they are to destroy completely. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

Do not spare them

"Do not allow any of them to live"

1 Samuel 15:4

the people

"the army"

numbered them

"counted them"

two hundred thousand men on foot, and ten thousand men of Judah

"200,000 men on foot, and 10,000 men of Judah" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:5

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 15:6

Kenites

a nomad people group that had always been friendly to the nation of Israel (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:7

Havilah ... Shur

These are the names of places. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:8

General Information:

Yahweh had told Saul to destroy everything, but here Saul disobeys Yahweh's command.

he took Agag

Here Saul represents himself accompanied by his army. Alternate translation: "Saul and his army took Agag" or "Saul and his army captured Agag" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

he completely destroyed all the people with the edge of the sword

The "edge of the sword" represents the swords and other weapons that soldiers used in battle. Here Saul represents himself accompanied by his army. Alternate translation: "they completely destroyed all of the people with their swords" or "they killed all of the people with their swords" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:9

Saul ... spared Agag

Saul disobeyed God by letting Agag live.

as well as the best of the sheep

Saul disobeyed God by keeping the best of the livestock.

1 Samuel 15:10

the word of Yahweh came to Samuel, saying,

The idiom "the word of Yahweh came to" is used to introduce a special message from God. Alternate translation: "Yahweh gave a message to Samuel. He said," or "Yahweh spoke this message to Samuel:" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:11

It grieves me

"I am sorry"

he has turned back from following me

Saul not obeying Yahweh is spoken of as if Saul had physically turned away from walking behind God. Alternate translation: "he has stopped following me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

has not performed my commandments

"has not obeyed what I commanded him to do." Saul was to completely destroy everything and everyone. God had placed a ban on the Amalekites. But Saul permitted some livestock to live.

Samuel was angry

Possible meanings are 1) Samuel was angry with Saul for his disobedience or 2) Samuel was disturbed.

1 Samuel 15:12

Samuel was told

"Someone told Samuel"

he set up a monument to himself

Saul was full of pride.

down to Gilgal

Gilgal was lower in elevation than Carmel.

1 Samuel 15:13

I have fulfilled the command of Yahweh

It is not clear if Saul understood that he had not fully obeyed God's command to completely destroy the Amalekites.

1 Samuel 15:14

General Information:

Samuel questions why Saul did not utterly destroyed the Amalekites.

bleating of sheep ... lowing of the cattle

These are the sounds that these animals make. Your language may have different terms for these.

in my ears ... that I hear

These two phrases mean the same thing. Here "in my ears" refers to hearing. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:15

They have brought ... the people spared

The word "they" and the phrase "the people" here both represent Saul's army. Saul is blaming the people rather than himself.

to sacrifice to Yahweh your God

Saul is arguing that animals for sacrifice were an exception to Yahweh's command to destroy everything.

Yahweh your God

Saul here does not describe Samuel's God as his own God.

1 Samuel 15:16

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 15:17

in your own sight

Here sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: "in your own opinion" or "in your judgment" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

were you not made the head of the tribes of Israel?

Samuel uses this question to remind Saul of now much God had given him. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Yahweh made you the ruler of the tribes of Israel!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:18

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 15:19

Why did you not obey ... Yahweh?

Samuel asks this question to rebuke Saul for disobeying Yahweh. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "You should have obeyed ... Yahweh!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the voice of Yahweh

Here "voice" refers to the commands that Yahweh spoke. Alternate translation: "the things that Yahweh commanded" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

but instead you seized the booty

Samuel is accusing Saul of direct disobedience. Yahweh commanded Saul to completely destroy everything belonging to the Amalekites, and not to bring anything back to camp.

the booty

"the plunder" or "the possessions you took from the enemy"

what was evil in the sight of Yahweh

Here "sight" refers to Yahweh's thoughts or opinion. Alternate translation: "what Yahweh considers to be evil" or "what is evil in Yahweh's judgement" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:20

I have indeed obeyed the voice of Yahweh

This is an emphatic statement. It is unclear if Saul thought this was true, or if he was simply making excuses for his sin.

the voice of Yahweh

Agag

This is the name of the king of the Amalekites. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:21

But the people took

This appears to be shifting the blame to the people.

things devoted to destruction

"animals that Yahweh commanded them to destroy"

Gilgal

This is the name of a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:22

Has Yahweh as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of Yahweh?

Samuel asks this question to emphasize that obedience is much more important than sacrifice. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Yahweh does not delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying his voice!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the voice of Yahweh

Obedience is better than sacrifice

God wanted Saul's complete obedience in the destruction of the Amalekites. Nothing in the land was fit for sacrifice.

better than the fat of rams

"better than to sacrifice the fat of rams as a burnt offering"

1 Samuel 15:23

rebellion is like the sin of divination

The abstract noun "rebellion" can be translated with a verb. Alternate translation: "to rebel is as sinful as practicing divination" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

stubbornness is like wickedness and iniquity

The abstract noun "stubbornness" can be translated with a verb and the abstract noun "wickedness" can be translated as an adjective. Alternate translation: "being stubborn is as bad as doing wicked things and practicing iniquity" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

the word of Yahweh

"Yahweh's message" or "Yahweh's command"

rejected you from being king

"decided that you will no longer be king"

1 Samuel 15:24

I have broken Yahweh's commandment

This is an idiom that means he had disobeyed the commandment. Alternate translation: "I have disobeyed what Yahweh commanded" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

because I was afraid of the people

This is the reason Saul gives for not obeying God. Alternate translation: "because I was afraid of the soldiers"

obeyed their voice

Here "voice" refers to what the soldiers asked Saul to do. Alternate translation: "did what they asked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:25

return with me

Saul and Samuel were apparently talking in private away from the other people.

1 Samuel 15:26

for you have rejected the word of Yahweh

Samuel made it clear that Saul understood that he was disobeying God at the time when he spared the best animals and did not kill Agag.

rejected the word of Yahweh

"rejected Yahweh's command" or "rejected Yahweh's message." This means that he refused to obey Yahweh's command. Alternate translation: "refused to obey Yahweh's command" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:27

Saul took hold of the hem of his robe

Saul did this to try to stop Samuel from leaving. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: "Saul tried to stop him by grabbing the edge of Samuel's robe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the hem of his robe

"the edge of his robe" or "the fringe of his robe"

1 Samuel 15:28

Yahweh has torn the kingdom of Israel

This refers back to when Saul tore Samuel's robe in 1 Samuel 15:27. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "Just as you tore my robe, Yahweh has torn the kingdom of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

has given it to a neighbor of yours, one who is better than you

God had already decided who would be the next king after Saul.

1 Samuel 15:29

the Strength of Israel

Here Yahweh is referred to as "the Strength of Israel" because he gives strength to the Israelites. Alternate translation: "Yahweh, who is the strength of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

will not lie nor change his mind

This is stated as a negative to emphasize that God tells the truth. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "will always tell the truth and do what he says" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

his mind

This refers to his thoughts and decisions. Alternate translation: "what he has decided to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

he is not a man, that he should change his mind

This is stated as a negative to emphasize that God is trustworthy. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "he is God, and will do what he says he will do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:30

But please honor me now before the elders

Saul may have been more interested in being honored by the people than in actually worshipping God.

before the elders of my people and before Israel

Here "Israel" refers to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: "before the people of Israel and the elders who lead them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Turn again with me

"Come back with me" or "Return with me"

1 Samuel 15:31

So Samuel turned again after Saul

This implies that Samuel changed his mind, and that they went together to where the people were. Alternate translation: "So Samuel finally agreed to do that, and they went together back to where the people were"

1 Samuel 15:32

Agag came to him confined with chains and said

"They brought Agag to him bound by chains and Agag said"

Surely the bitterness of death has past

This idiom appears to mean that Agag no longer thought he would be killed. Alternate translation: "Surely I am no longer in danger or dying" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 15:33

As your sword has made women childless, so shall your mother be childless among women

Both of these phrases have similar meaning and may be intended to be in poetic form. Alternate translation: "Since you have killed people, you will also be killed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

made women childless, so shall your mother be childless

This is a polite way of referring to killing people. Alternate translation: "killed the sons of other women, so shall I kill your mother's son" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Then Samuel chopped Agag to pieces

Samuel is the one who completed this task that Yahweh commanded Saul to do. Alternate translation: "Then Samuel cut Agag into pieces with his sword"

1 Samuel 15:34

Ramah ... Gibeah

These are the names of places. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

went up to his house at Gibeah

Gibeah was higher in elevation than Gilgal where Saul and Samuel had been talking.

1 Samuel 15:35

Samuel did not see Saul until the day of his death

"Samuel did not see Saul again for as long as he lived"

1 Samuel 16

1 Samuel 16:intro-0

1 Samuel 16 General Notes

Structure and formatting

# 1 Samuel 16-31 Saul and David

Chapter 16 establishes God's choice of David to be the next king. David receives the Holy Spirit to empower and guide him as the king. This chapter also records the Holy Spirit leaving Saul because of his disobedience. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/holyspirit.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# David chosen to be the next king

Humans judge others by what they look like, but God judges people by their true inner character. God rejected David's older brothers in favor of David, who truly loved and obeyed him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/judge.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/love.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

==Rhetorical Question == God scolds Samuel with this rhetorical question for his unwillingness to accept God's decision: "How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel?" It was wrong to mourn because it was God's punishment of Saul. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 16:1

How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel?

This rhetorical question is a rebuke from God and can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Stop mourning that I rejected Saul from being king over Israel." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Fill your horn with oil

The term "horn" was sometimes used to refer to a "flask" that was shaped like a horn and was used for holding water or oil. A flask of oil was used for anointing a king.

1 Samuel 16:2

How can I go?

Samuel uses a question to emphasize that he is worried about going to Bethlehem. Alternate translation: "I cannot go!" or "I am afraid to go." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Take a heifer with you and say

You can state the understood information. Alternate translation: "Take a heifer with you to Bethlehem and say to the people there" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

say, 'I have come to sacrifice to Yahweh.'

This has a quotation within a quotation. The direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: "say to the people there that you have come to sacrifice to Yahweh." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotesinquotes/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-quotations/01.md]])

1 Samuel 16:3

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 16:4

The elders of the city were trembling as they came to meet him

It seems the elders were trembling because they were worried that Samuel came to rebuke them. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 16:5

In peace

This can be stated as a complete sentence. Alternate translation: "Yes, I have come in peace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

to set ... apart

To set someone apart means to get that person ready for Yahweh's purposes by making sure that person is ritually clean according to the law of Moses.

1 Samuel 16:6

When they came

Here "they" refers to Jesse and his sons.

he looked at Eliab

Here "he" refers to Samuel.

Eliab

This is the name of Jesse's oldest son. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

standing before him

Here "him" refers to Yahweh.

1 Samuel 16:7

Yahweh does not see as man sees

Here "see" means to evaluate something. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

For Yahweh does not see ... Yahweh looks

Yahweh is speaking about himself in the third person. Alternate translation: "For I, Yahweh, do not see ... I, Yahweh, look" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

on the heart

Here "heart" represents a person's inner being. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 16:8

Abinadab

This is the name of one of Jesse's sons. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

made him pass before Samuel

"told him to go to Samuel"

1 Samuel 16:9

Jesse then made Shammah pass by

It is understood that Shammah passed by Samuel. Alternate translation: "Jesse then made Shammah pass before Samuel" or "Jesse then told Shammah to go to Samuel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Shammah

This is the name of one of Jesse's sons. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 16:10

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 16:11

There remains yet the youngest

"There is still my youngest son"

we will not sit down

It is understood that they were waiting to sit down and eat. Alternate translation: "we will not sit down to eat" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 16:12

Now ... appearance

The word "Now" is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here the narrator tells about a new person in the story.

this son was ruddy

The word "ruddy" means David was healthy looking.

1 Samuel 16:13

the horn of oil

The term "horn" was sometimes used to refer to a "flask" that was shaped like a horn and was used for holding water or oil. A flask of oil was used for anointing a king. See how you translated a similar phrase in 1 Samuel 16:1.

Samuel rose up and went

It is implied that he rose up after they sat down to eat. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

The Spirit of Yahweh rushed on David

The phrase "rushed on" means Yahweh's Spirit influenced David. In this case it means he enabled David to fulfill whatever Yahweh wanted him to do. See how you translated a similar phrase in 1 Samuel 10:6.

1 Samuel 16:14

Now

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here the narrator starts to tell a new part of the story.

harmful spirit

This may refer to either a "spirit that causes trouble" or an "evil spirit."

1 Samuel 16:15

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 16:16

Let our master now command

The servants refer to Saul in the third person as "our master." Alternate translation: "We ask that you, our master, command" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

command your servants who are before you to look

The servants refer to themselves in the third person as "your servants." Alternate translation: "command us, your servants who attend to you, to look" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

is on you

"troubles you"

1 Samuel 16:17

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 16:18

a strong, courageous man

Possible meanings are 1) "a great warrior" or 2) "a very brave man."

one prudent in speech

"one wise in speech" or "one who speaks wisely"

Yahweh is with him

Here "with him" means Yahweh helps and blesses David. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 16:19

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 16:20

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 16:21

David came to Saul

Here "came" can be translated as "went." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-go/01.md]])

entered his service

The abstract noun "service" can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: "began to serve him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

he became his armor bearer

"David became Saul's armor bearer"

1 Samuel 16:22

Let David stand before me

Here "stand before me" is an idiom that means to continue in Saul's service. Alternate translation: "Let David stay in my service" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

he has found favor in my eyes

Here "eyes" are a metonym for sight, and "my sight" represents how Saul judges or evaluates David. Alternate translation: "he has found favor in my judgment" or "I am pleased with him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 16:23

harmful spirit

Here "harmful spirit" may refer to either a "spirit that causes trouble" or an "evil spirit." See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 16:14.

was upon Saul

"troubled Saul"

Saul would be refreshed and well

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the music would refresh Saul and make him well" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17

1 Samuel 17:intro-0

1 Samuel 17 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter introduced David as a soldier, a skill that will be important for the rest of his life.

Special concepts in this chapter

# David kills Goliath

Trust in God is more powerful than physical might or military training and equipment. David, trusting in the Lord and armed only with a sling, defeats Goliath who is well-armed and physically strong but who did not believe in Yahweh. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/believe.md]])

# Uncircumcised

The people of Israel often used the term "uncircumcised" to refer to Gentiles. Here it is used to describe the Philistines. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/circumcise.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Rhetorical questions

David uses rhetorical questions to state his desire to fight the giant: "What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the disgrace from Israel? Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

His brother uses rhetorical questions to show his disdain for his younger brother, whom he thinks is pretending to be bigger than he really is: "Why did you come down here? With whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness?" David defends himself with some questions: "What have I done now? Was it not just a question?"

Goliath also uses a rhetorical question to show his contempt for young David: "Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?"

1 Samuel 17:1

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 17:2

the Valley of Elah

This is the name of a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:3

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 17:4

six cubits and a span

A cubit is a unit of measurement equal to about 46 centimeters. A span is a unit of measurement equal to about 23 centimeters. Alternate translation: "about 3 meters" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-bdistance/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:5

he was armed with a coat of chainmail

A "coat of chainmail" is a flexible piece of body armor covered with protective scales or small plates. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "he protected himself by wearing a coat of chainmail" or "he wore a coat of chainmail" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

five thousand shekels

A shekel is a unit of weight equal to about 11 grams. Alternate translation: "about 55 kilograms" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-bweight/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:6

a javelin of bronze

A "javelin" is a small spear that is meant to be thrown.

1 Samuel 17:7

staff of his spear

"the handle of his spear"

loop of cord

"rope rolled up into a circle"

His spear's head

"The point of his spear"

six hundred shekels of iron

A shekel is a unit of weight equal to about 11 grams. Alternate translation: "about 7 kilograms" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-bweight/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:8

Why have you come out to draw up for battle?

"Why have you come to fight in battle against us?" Goliath uses this question to mock the Israelites. Alternate translation: "You are fools if you think you can fight in battle against us!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Am I not a Philistine, and are you not servants of Saul?

Goliath uses this question to mock the Israelites. When he says that he is a Philistine, he is implying that he is strong. Alternate translation: "I am a great Philistine, and you are merely servants of Saul." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:9

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 17:10

I challenge the ranks of Israel

"I challenge the army of Israel"

1 Samuel 17:11

all Israel

This refers to the Israelite soldiers who were there.

they were discouraged and greatly afraid

The words "discouraged" and "greatly afraid" mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of their fear. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:12

He had eight sons

"He" refers to Jesse.

Jesse was an old man ... very old among men

The two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:13

second to him Abinadab, and the third Shammah

"Abinadab the second born, and Shammah the third born." This phrase shows birth order.

1 Samuel 17:14

The three oldest

The implied information is that these are the sons of Jesse. Alternate translation: "The three oldest sons of Jesse" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:15

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 17:16

For forty days

"For 40 days" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

to present himself for battle

"to show that he was ready to fight"

1 Samuel 17:17

ephah

An ephah is a unit of measurement equal to about 22 liters. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-bvolume/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:18

the captain of their thousand

"the captain of your brothers' thousand." Possible meanings are 1) the word "thousand" represents the exact amount of soldiers that this captain led. Alternate translation: "the captain of your brothers' unit of 1,000 soldiers" or 2) the word translated as "thousand" does not represent exact number, but is the name of a large military division. Alternate translation: "the captain of your brothers' military division" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

See how your brothers are doing

"Check and find out how your brothers are doing"

1 Samuel 17:19

all the men of Israel

"all the soldiers of Israel"

the Valley of Elah

This is the name of a place. See how you translated it in 1 Samuel 17:2. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:20

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 17:21

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 17:22

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 17:23

Goliath by name

"whose name was Goliath"

came out of the ranks of the Philistines

"stepped forward from the Philistines' battle line"

1 Samuel 17:24

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 17:25

Have you seen this man who has come up?

The soldiers were saying this to draw one another's attention to the man Goliath. Alternate translation: "Look at this man who has come up!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

The king

This refers to the king of Israel. Alternate translation: "Our king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

his daughter

This refers to the king's daughter.

to him ... his father's house

The words "him" and "his" refer to the man who kills Goliath.

will make his father's house free from taxation in Israel

The word "house" refers to the household or family. Alternate translation: "will no longer require his family to pay taxes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:26

takes away the disgrace from Israel

This can be expressed with the verb "disgrace." Alternate translation: "stops Israel from being disgraced" or "stops him from disgracing Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?

David said this to show his anger that this Philistine was defying God's army. Alternate translation: "This uncircumcised Philistine certainly has no power that he should defy the armies of the living God!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

this uncircumcised Philistine

This phrase is an insult and indicates that Goliath does not belong to the living God.

1 Samuel 17:27

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 17:28

Eliab's anger was kindled against David

Here anger is spoken of as if it were a fire that could be kindled. Alternate translation: "Eliab became angry with David" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Why did you come down here?

Eliab uses this question to show that he is angry that David came down. He was probably implying that David did not have a good reason for coming. Alternate translation: "You had no good reason to come here" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

With whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness?

Eliab uses this question to insult David by making his work seem unimportant and by accusing him of not taking care of his father's sheep. Alternate translation: "You simply had the responsibility of watching over a few sheep in the wilderness. You could not even carry out that simple responsibility!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

your pride, and the mischief in your heart

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:29

What have I done now? Was it not just a question?

David used these questions to express his frustration and to justify himself. Alternate translation: "I have done nothing wrong. I was only asking a question!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:30

He turned away from him

"He" refers to David and the word "him" refers to Eliab.

1 Samuel 17:31

When the words that David said were heard

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "When the soldiers heard what David said" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:32

Let no man's heart fail

The heart failing represents being terrified and losing confidence. Alternate translation: "Do not let anyone be terrified" or "Do not let anyone lose their confidence" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

your servant will go

David spoke of himself as "your servant" to show respect to Saul. Alternate translation: "I, your servant, will go" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:33

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 17:34

Your servant used to keep his father's sheep

David spoke of himself as "your servant" to show respect to Saul. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 17:32. Alternate translation: "I, your servant, used to keep my father's sheep" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

used to keep his father's sheep

"used to take care of his father's sheep"

a bear

A bear is a large animal with thick fur and long claws and that walks on four legs but can stand on two legs as a person does.

1 Samuel 17:35

chased after him and attacked him

Here "him" refers to the lion or bear. Some languages would use the word "it" instead of "him."

rescued it out of his mouth

Here "it" refers to the lamb.

he rose up against me

Here "rose up against" is an idiom that refers to attacking. Alternate translation: "it attacked me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

caught him by his beard

The "beard" refers to the lion's mane or the hair on the bear's face.

1 Samuel 17:36

Connecting Statement:

David continues speaking to King Saul.

This uncircumcised Philistine

This phrase is an insult and indicates that Goliath does not belong to the living God. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 17:26.

will be like one of them

David is saying that he will be able to kill the Philistine just as he was able to kill the lion and bear.

1 Samuel 17:37

from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear

Bears and lions use their paws when they attack, so the word "paw" represents the attack. Alternate translation: "from the attack of the lion and from the attack of the bear" or "from the lion and the bear" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the hand of this Philistine

The Philistine's hand represents his power in fighting. Alternate translation: "the power of this Philistine" or "the Philistine" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:38

coat of chainmail

a flexible piece of body armor covered with protective scales or small plates

1 Samuel 17:39

his sword on his armor

"Saul's sword on the armor"

1 Samuel 17:40

his staff in his hand

Here "his" refers to David.

His sling was in his hand

A sling is a weapon for throwing stones.

1 Samuel 17:41

with his shield bearer in front of him

"and his shield bearer walked in front of him"

1 Samuel 17:42

he despised him

"he hated him"

and ruddy

"and healthy looking"

1 Samuel 17:43

Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?

Here a dog represents a small animal that a person can easily kill. The word "sticks" refers to David's staff and shows Goliath's opinion that it is not a good weapon. Goliath uses this question to accuse David of insulting him. Alternate translation: "You insult me by coming at me with mere sticks as if I were just a dog!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:44

I will give your flesh to the birds of the heavens and to the wild animals of the field

Goliath speaks of killing David and leaving his body on the ground for the animals to eat it as if he were to give David's body to the animals. Alternate translation: "I will kill you, and the birds of the heavens and the wild animals of the field will eat your body" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

birds of the heavens

"birds of the sky" or "birds"

1 Samuel 17:45

in the name of Yahweh

Here "name" represents God's power or authority. Alternate translation: "with the power of Yahweh" or "with the authority of Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

whom you have defied

"whom you have provoked" or "whom you have insulted"

1 Samuel 17:46

Connecting Statement:

David continues speaking to Goliath.

I will give the dead bodies ... to the birds ... and to the wild beasts of the earth

David speaks of leading the Israelites in killing the Philistines and leaving their bodies on the ground for the animals to eat them as if he were to give their bodies to the animals. Alternate translation: "We Israelites will kill the Philistine army, and the birds of the heavens and the wild beasts of the earth will eat them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

all the earth may know

The word "earth" refers to the people on earth. Alternate translation: "all the people of the earth may know" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:47

Yahweh does not give victory with sword or spear

Swords and spears are examples of battle weapons. They represent human ways of fighting. Alternate translation: "The victory that Yahweh gives does not depend on sword and spear" or "when Yahweh gives us victory, he does not depend on how we fight" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

the battle is Yahweh's

Winning the battle is spoken of as owning the battle. Alternate translation: "Yahweh always wins the battle" or "the victory belongs to Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

he will give you into our hand

Giving the Philistines into Israel's hand represents helping Israel to defeat the Philistines in battle. Alternate translation: "he will help us defeat you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:48

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 17:49

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 17:50

David defeated ... He hit ... killed ... There was no sword in David's hand

Verse 50 is a summary of David's amazing victory over Goliath. The details about how he hit and killed Goliath are in 1 Samuel 17:49 and 17:51. Some languages do not use summary statements like this. In those situations, translators may restructure the verses as they are in the UDB.

1 Samuel 17:51

Then David ran and stood over the Philistine

David did this after Goliath fell to the ground in 1 Samuel 17:49.

took his sword

"took the Philistine's sword." Here the word "his" refers to Goliath.

1 Samuel 17:52

The dead Philistines lay along the way to Shaaraim

It can be stated clearly that the Israelites were killing the Philistines as they chased them. Alternate translation: "And they killed the Philistines as they chased them, and the bodies of the dead Philistines were on the ground along the way to Shaaraim" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 17:53

they plundered their camp

"the Israelites plundered the Philistines' camp"

1 Samuel 17:54

he put his armor in his tent

"he put Goliath's armor in his own tent"

1 Samuel 17:55

When Saul saw David

The conversation in 17:55-56 happened before David killed Goliath. Alternate translation: "When Saul had seen David" or "Earlier when Saul saw David" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-events/01.md]])

go out against the Philistine

"go to fight against the Philistine"

whose son is this youth

"who is this youth's father"

As you live

This was a way of swearing that what he was about to say was true.

1 Samuel 17:56

whose son the boy is

"who the boy's father is"

1 Samuel 17:57

in his hand

Here "his" refers to David.

1 Samuel 17:58

Whose son are you

"Who is your father"

I am the son of your servant Jesse the Bethlehemite

"My father is your servant Jesse, the Bethlehemite"

your servant Jesse

David referred to his father as "your servant" to show that his father was faithful to King Saul.

1 Samuel 18

1 Samuel 18:intro-0

1 Samuel 18 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This is the first chapter of a section explaining why Saul wants to kill David.

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetic song in 18:7.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Saul is jealous of David's popularity

Saul's son, Jonathan, loves David. David is successful in battling the Philistines, and Saul is happy until the women give David more attention than they give him. He fears that David will replace him as king. This is potentially confusing because the author has already established that David will be the next king. It is probably that Saul feared David would kill him in order to be the next king sooner, or that he did not really believe David would be the next king. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/love.md]])

# Jonathan's love of David

Some scholars believe Jonathan loved David as a man loves his wife. There is no reason to translate this as if Jonathan were a homosexual. Instead, treat this as a brotherly type of love.

1 Samuel 18:1

the soul of Jonathan was bound to the soul of David

Very close friendship is spoken of as if it were binding together the souls of two people. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Jonathan felt a strong affection towards David" or "Jonathan committed himself to David" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Jonathan loved him as his own soul

Here "loved" refers to the love between friends, not romantic love. The word "soul" represents the person or the person's life. Alternate translation: "Jonathan loved David as much as he loved himself" or "Jonathan loved David as he loved his own life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 18:2

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 18:3

Jonathan loved him as his own soul

Here "loved" refers to the love between friends, not romantic love. The word "soul" represents the person or the person's life. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 18:1. Alternate translation: "Jonathan loved David as much as he loved himself" or "Jonathan loved David as he loved his own life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 18:4

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 18:5

he succeeded

"he prospered"

This was pleasing in the eyes of all the people and also in the sight of Saul's servants

The phrases "in the eyes of" and "in the sight of" mean the same thing. The opinion of the people is spoken of as something that they view as either good or bad. Alternate translation: "This was pleasing in the opinions of all the people and of Saul's servants" or "This pleased all the people and Saul's servants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 18:6

from all the cities of Israel

This is generalization that emphasizes the great number of women who came from many cities. Alternate translation: "from many of the cities throughout Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

with tambourines, with joy, and with musical instruments

"joyfully playing tambourines and other musical instruments"

with tambourines

A "tambourine" is a small handheld drum.

1 Samuel 18:7

his thousands ... his ten thousands

"thousands of enemy soldiers ... ten thousand enemy soldiers"

David his ten thousands

The verb may be supplied from the previous line. Alternate translation: "David has killed his ten thousands" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

1 Samuel 18:8

They have ascribed

"They have credited"

What more can he have but the monarchy?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "The only thing left for him to have is the kingship." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 18:9

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 18:10

a harmful spirit from God

Here "harmful spirit" may refer to either "a spirit that causes trouble" or "an evil spirit." See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 16:15.

a harmful spirit from God rushed upon Saul

The phrase "rushed upon" means the harmful spirit influenced Saul. In this case it means it caused Saul to be troubled and act crazy. See how you translated a similar phrase in 1 Samuel 10:6.

he raved

"he acted crazy"

1 Samuel 18:11

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 18:12

Yahweh was with him

"Yahweh was with David"

1 Samuel 18:13

So Saul removed him from his presence

"So Saul removed David from his presence"

a commander of a thousand

Possible meanings are 1) the word "thousand" represents the exact amount of soldiers that he would lead. Alternate translation: "a commander of 1,000 soldiers" or 2) the word translated as "thousand" does not represent exact number, but is the name of a large military division. Alternate translation: "a commander of a large military division" See how you translated a similar phrase in 1 Samuel 17:18. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

David went out and came in before the people

Here "the people" refers to the soldiers under David's command. The phrases "went out" and "came in" are idioms that refer to leading the people into battle and leading them home from battle. Alternate translation: "David led his soldiers into battle and led them home from battle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 18:14

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 18:15

he stood in awe of him

Here "stood in awe" is an idiom that means to fear. Alternate translation: "he feared David" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 18:16

all Israel and Judah loved David

Here "Israel and Judah" represent the people of all of the tribes. Alternate translation: "all the people in Israel and Judah loved David" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

went out and came in before them

The phrases "went out" and "came in" are idioms that refer to leading the people into battle and leading them home from battle. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 18:13. Alternate translation: "led his soldiers into battle and led them home from battle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 18:17

Let not my hand be on him, but let the hand of the Philistines be on him

Harming someone is spoken of as if it were placing one's hand on that person. Here, Saul is referring to killing David. Alternate translation: "I will not be the one to kill him; I will let the Philistines kill him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

1 Samuel 18:18

Who am I, and who are my relatives, or my father's clan in Israel ... to the king?

David uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that he is not worthy of being Saul's son-in-law. Alternate translation: "I am nobody and neither my relatives nor my father's family are important enough in Israel ... to the king." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

son-in-law to the king

"husband of the king's daughter"

1 Samuel 18:19

when Merab, Saul's daughter, should have been given to David

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "when Saul should have given his daughter Merab to David" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

she was given to Adriel

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Saul gave her to Adriel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 18:20

Michal ... loved David

Here "loved" means she had romantic feelings for David.

They told Saul

Here "they" refers to people who found out about Michal's feelings, not to David and Michal.

1 Samuel 18:21

that the hand of the Philistines may be against him

Harming someone is spoken of as if it were placing one's hand on that person. Here, Saul is referring to killing David. See how you translated a similar phrase in 1 Samuel 18:17. Alternate translation: "so that the Philistines may kill him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

You will be my son-in-law

"You will be the husband of my daughter"

1 Samuel 18:22

all his servants love you

"all of his servants admire you"

Now then

"For these reasons you should"

1 Samuel 18:23

Is it a small matter to you to be the king's son-in-law, since I am a poor man, and lightly esteemed?

David asks this rhetorical question to emphasize that he is not worthy to be the king's son-in-law. Alternate translation: "It is a great matter to be the king's son-in-law, and I am too poor and unimportant for that." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 18:24

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 18:25

The king does not desire any price for the bride except a hundred foreskins

This double negative emphasizes that a hundred foreskins is the only price that the king desires. The verb for the second phrase may be supplied from the first. Alternate translation: "The king desires only a hundred foreskins as price for the bride" or "The king does not desire any price for the bride; he desires only that you bring to him a hundred foreskins" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

a hundred

100

foreskins

The foreskin is a fold of skin on a man's private part that is removed during circumcision.

to be avenged from the king's enemies

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "to get revenge on the king's enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

to make David fall by the hand of the Philistines

Here "fall" means to die. The phrase "by the hand" is an idiom that tells us the means by which something will happen, in this case, David will be killed by the Philistines. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "to have the Philistines kill David" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 18:26

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 18:27

two hundred Philistines

This can be rendered numerically. Alternate translation: "200 Philistines" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

they gave them in full number to the king

"David and his men gave all of them to the king"

1 Samuel 18:28

Saul saw, and he knew

Here the words "saw" and "knew" share similar meanings and emphasize that Saul knew with certainty. Alternate translation: "Saul recognized" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Michal, Saul's daughter, loved him

Here "loved" means she had romantic feelings for David.

1 Samuel 18:29

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 18:30

so that his name was highly regarded

Here "name" is a metonym for David. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "so that people greatly respected David" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 19

1 Samuel 19:intro-0

1 Samuel 19 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# God protects David

Jonathan persuades Saul not to kill David, but Saul again becomes jealous and orders his servants to bring David to him to be killed. God uses Michal to save David. David flees to Samuel and they begin prophesying. When Saul sends servants to capture David, they begin prophesying. This causes Saul to go himself and he begins to prophesy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/jealous.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/save.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

1 Samuel 19:1

to all his servants

Here "his" refers to Saul.

took great pleasure in David

Jonathan greatly enjoyed being with David.

1 Samuel 19:2

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 19:3

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 19:4

Do not let the king sin against his servant

Jonathan speaks as if Saul is another person to show Saul that Jonathan respects Saul. Alternate translation: "Do not sin against your servant" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 19:5

he took his life in his hand

Here "life in his hand" is an idiom that refers to risking his life. Alternate translation: "he risked his life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Why would you sin against innocent blood by killing David for no reason?

Jonathan asks this question to rebuke Saul. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "You should not sin against innocent blood and kill David without cause." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

sin against innocent blood

Here "blood" is a metonym for the life of an innocent person. Alternate translation: "commit the sin of murder" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 19:6

he will not be put to death

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I will not put him to death" or "I will not kill him" or "I will certainly keep him alive" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 19:7

he was in his presence

David was in Saul's presence.

1 Samuel 19:8

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 19:9

A harmful spirit from Yahweh

Here "harmful spirit" may refer to either "a spirit that causes trouble" or "an evil spirit." See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 16:14.

1 Samuel 19:10

pin David to the wall with the spear

throw his spear so it would go through David and into the wall

1 Samuel 19:11

he might kill him

"Saul might kill David"

Michal ... told him

Michal told David

If you do not save your life

Here "save your life" is an idiom that refers to escape. Alternate translation: "If you do not escape" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

you will be killed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "someone will kill you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 19:12

General Information:

Michal helps David escape King Saul. She uses a household idol to make David's bed look like he is sleeping in it.

1 Samuel 19:13

she put a pillow of goats' hair at its head, and covered it with the clothes

Possible meanings are 1) the head of the idol was lying on the goat's hair pillow and Michal dressed the idol in David's clothes or 2) Michal used David's clothes as a blanket to completely cover the idol and made the "pillow" of goat's hair look like David's hair sticking out from under the blanket of clothes.

1 Samuel 19:14

General Information:

Saul acts out his desire to kill David.

take David

"take David back to Saul"

she said

Here "she" refers to Michal.

1 Samuel 19:15

Bring him up to me in the bed

The reason why the men thought David was in bed can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "If he really is too sick to come to me, bring me the bed with him in it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 19:16

pillow of goats' hair

See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 19:13.

behold

The word "behold" here shows that the messengers were surprised by what they saw.

1 Samuel 19:17

Why have you deceived me and let my enemy go, so that he has escaped?

Possible meanings are 1) Saul really wants to know why Michal did what she did or 2) Saul uses this question to rebuke Michal. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "You should not have deceived me and let my enemy go, so that he has escaped." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Let me go. Why should I kill you?

Although David did not actually say this, Michal tells Saul that David threatened her with this question. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "I will kill you if you do not help me to escape." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 19:18

General Information:

David flees to Samuel.

Now

This word is used here to show that the writer has started to tell a new part of the story.

1 Samuel 19:19

It was told to Saul

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Someone told Saul" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

See

"Look" or "Listen" or "Pay attention to what I am about to tell you"

1 Samuel 19:20

standing as head over them

Here "head" refers to a position of authority. Alternate translation: "acting as their leader" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 19:21

When Saul was told this

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "When someone told Saul this" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 19:22

Ramah ... Seku ... Naioth

These are place names. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 19:23

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 19:24

This is why they ask, "Is Saul also among the prophets?"

This became a proverb among the Israelites. Apparently people said this to express surprise when a person unexpectedly did something that he had not done before. The implied meaning of the question can be stated explicitly. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 10:12. Alternate translation: "That is the reason that when people see someone doing something that is very unexpected, they say, 'Is Saul also a prophet?'" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-proverbs/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

they ask

Here "they" refers to people in general. The question became a proverb among the people.

1 Samuel 20

1 Samuel 20:intro-0

1 Samuel 20 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Jonathan warns David

David tells Jonathan that Saul is still trying to kill him. Jonathan promises to find out if this is true. When David misses dinner two consecutive days, Saul asks about him. Jonathan says that David went home for an annual sacrifice. Saul gets angry at Jonathan, telling him he will never be king unless they kill David. Saul throws his spear at Jonathan. Jonathan warns David to run away, but first they both promise to always be friends. It was usually a king's son who became king after his death in the ancient Near East. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Metaphor

David uses a powerful metaphor and an oath to impress Jonathan with the danger he is in: "But as truly as Yahweh lives, and as you live, there is but a step between me and death." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:1

What have I done? What is my iniquity? What is my sin before your father, that he seeks to take my life?

These three questions mean basically the same thing. David uses them to emphasize that he has done nothing wrong to Saul. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "I have done nothing wrong. I have not committed any iniquity. I have not sinned against your father. He has no reason to take my life." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

that he seeks to take my life?

Here "take my life" is an idiom for "kill me." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:2

Far from it

Here "far from it" is an idiom that refers to that it is not true. Alternate translation: "This is certainly not true" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

nothing either great or small

The words "great or small" include everything in between. Alternate translation: "nothing at all" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-merism/01.md]])

Why should my father hide this thing from me?

Jonathan uses this question to emphasize that Saul would have told him if he planned to kill David. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "My father has no reason to hide this thing from me!" or "If this thing were true, my father would certainly let me know!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

It is not so

"It is not true"

1 Samuel 20:3

I have found favor in your eyes

Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: "I have pleased you" or "you consider me favorably" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

he will be grieved

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "this will grieve him" or "he will be very sad" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

there is but a step between me and death

Here "step between me and death" is an idiom that refers to being very close to death. Alternate translation: "I am very close to death" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:4

General Information:

David proposes a test against King Saul to Jonathan.

1 Samuel 20:5

Tomorrow is the new moon

On the first of every month the people would celebrate and offer sacrifices to God.

until the third day at evening

"until the evening of the day after tomorrow"

1 Samuel 20:6

Connecting Statement:

David's continues to describe the test he proposes.

asked leave of me

"asked me if I would allow him to leave"

1 Samuel 20:7

he says ... he is ... he has decided

The word "he" refers to Saul.

your servant will have peace

David speaks of himself as if he were another person to show that he respects Jonathan. Alternate translation: "I, your servant, will have peace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:8

Connecting Statement:

David continues speaking to Jonathan.

with your servant ... have brought your servant

David speak of himself in the third person as a form of humility. Alternate translation: "with me, your servant ... have brought me, your servant" or "with me ... have brought me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

you have brought your servant into a covenant of Yahweh with you

What it was that the two men agreed on can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "Yahweh heard you when you made a solemn agreement with me that you and I will always be good friends" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

for why then should you bring me to your father?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "then there would be no reason for you to bring me to your father" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:9

Far be it from you!

This is an idiom that means it will never happen to you. Alternate translation: "This will never happen to you!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

would I not tell you?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "I would certainly tell you." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:10

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 20:11

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 20:12

see

"look" or "listen" or "pay attention to what I am about to tell you"

if there is good will

"if my father wants to do good things for you"

will I not then send to you and make it known to you?

Jonathan uses this question to emphasize that he will tell David if Saul intends to harm him. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "then I will certainly send to you and make it known to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:13

may Yahweh do to Jonathan and more also

This is an idiom. Jonathan uses this oath for emphasis and speaks of himself as if he were another person. Alternate translation: "may Yahweh do to me whatever harm my father intends to do to you, and even more than that" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:14

General Information:

Jonathan asks David not to completely kill all his offspring so that a remnant will remain.

will you not show me the covenant faithfulness of Yahweh, that I may not die?

Jonathan asks this question to confirm that David will do this. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "please show me the covenant faithfulness of Yahweh, that I may not die" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

show me the covenant faithfulness of Yahweh

The abstract noun "faithfulness" can be stated as "faithful." Possible meanings for "of Yahweh" are 1) "be faithful to me as Yahweh is faithful" or 2) "be faithful to me as Yahweh requires" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:15

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 20:16

house of David

The word "house" is a metonym for the people who live in the house. Alternate translation: "David's family" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

May Yahweh require an accounting from the hand of the enemies of David

The hand is a synecdoche for the person. Possible meanings are 1) "May Yahweh use David's enemies to punish David if David breaks this promise" or 2) "May Yahweh destroy the enemies of David." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:17

he loved him as he loved his own soul

Here "his own soul" refers to himself. Alternate translation: "Jonathan loved David as much as he loved himself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:18

You will be missed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "My father will miss you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:19

when the business was in hand

Here "business was in hand" is an idiom that refers to when everything happened. Alternate translation: "when everything happened" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

the stone Ezel

"Ezel" was the name of the stone. Alternate translation: "the stone that people call Ezel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:20

Connecting Statement:

Jonathan continues to speak to David.

to the side of it

Here the word "it" refers to the stone by which David was to hide.

1 Samuel 20:21

my young man ... the young boy

These refer to the same person.

Look

"Listen" or "Pay attention to what I am about to tell you"

then come

"then you, David, come"

1 Samuel 20:22

Connecting Statement:

Jonathan continues to speak to David.

1 Samuel 20:23

see, Yahweh

Possible meanings are 1) "we know that Yahweh" or 2) "pay attention because this is important: Yahweh."

Yahweh is between you and me

Possible meanings are 1) "Yahweh is a witness between you and me" or "Yahweh will be watching how we treat each other" or 2) "May Yahweh be a witness between you and me" or "May Yahweh watch how we treat each other"

1 Samuel 20:24

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 20:25

Jonathan stood up

Some ancient copies have "Jonathan sat across from him." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-manuscripts/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:26

He is not clean; surely he is not clean

According to the law of Moses, a person who is ceremonially unclean is not to participate in the feast until the priest declares that he is clean. Saul repeats this phrase as if he is trying to convince himself.

1 Samuel 20:27

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 20:28

asked permission from me to go

"asked me to allow him to go"

1 Samuel 20:29

if I have found favor in your eyes

Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 20:3. Alternate translation: "I have pleased you" or "you consider me favorably" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the king's table

Jonathan speaks of Saul as if he is another person to show that he respects Saul. Alternate translation: "your table" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:30

Saul's anger burned against Jonathan

Here "anger burned" is a metonym that refers to becoming very angry. Alternate translation: "Saul became very angry with Jonathan" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

You son of a perverse, rebellious woman!

This is an idiom. Saul uses this phrase as a harsh rebuke to Jonathan and his concern for David. Alternate translation: "You stupid son of a prostitute" or "You stupid traitor" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Do I not know that you have chosen the son of Jesse ... mother's nakedness?

Saul uses this question to emphasize that he knows that Jonathan and David are friends. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "I know that you have chosen the son of Jesse ... mother's nakedness." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

to the shame of your mother's nakedness

Here "mother's nakedness" is an idiom that refers to the mother who gave birth to you. Alternate translation: "to the shame of your mother who gave birth to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:31

neither you nor your kingdom will be established

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "you will not become king and will not establish your kingdom" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:32

For what reason should he be put to death? What has he done?

Jonathan is trying to get Saul to think carefully about what he is doing. This can be translated as a statement, and the words "should he be put to death" can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "You have no good reason to put him to death. He has done nothing wrong." or "You have no good reason to kill him. He has done nothing wrong." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:33

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 20:34

the second day of the month

This "second" is an ordinal number which refers to two. Alternate translation: "the second day of the new moon festival" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-ordinal/01.md]])

he was grieved over David

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "he was grieving over David" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

had dishonored him

Here "him" refers to David.

1 Samuel 20:35

a young man was with him

Here "him" refers to Jonathan.

1 Samuel 20:36

he shot an arrow beyond him

"Jonathan shot an arrow beyond the young man"

1 Samuel 20:37

Is not the arrow beyond you?

Jonathan uses this question to emphasize that the arrow is farther ahead of the young man. The uses of litotes also emphasizes this. The rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "You should know that the arrow is beyond you." or "The arrow is far beyond you." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

1 Samuel 20:38

called after the young man, "Hurry

"called out to the young man, who was running away from him, 'Hurry"

1 Samuel 20:39

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 20:40

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 20:41

the mound

It seems that David had hidden behind a pile of earth or stones.

lay facedown on the ground, and bowed himself three times.

David bowed before Jonathan, who was still the King's son, worthy of such respect. Also, this was the last time David met with Jonathan.

1 Samuel 20:42

May Yahweh be between you and me

1 Samuel 21

1 Samuel 21:intro-0

1 Samuel 21 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetic song in 21:11.

Special concepts in this chapter

# David and the chief priest

David visits the chief priest and lies to him about being on a special mission for the king. He asks for food, weapons, and prayer. The chief priest gives him some sacred bread and Goliath's sword and prays for him.

# David and the king of Gath

David flees to Gath. The advisers to the king tell him that David is almost the king of Israel. David becomes afraid of the king and pretends to be insane.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Rhetorical questions

The king of Gath's advisers use two rhetorical questions to warn him about how dangerous David could be: "Is not this David the king of the land? Did they not sing to one another about him in dances, 'Saul has killed his thousands, and David his ten thousands?'" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 21:1

Nob

This is the name of a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Ahimelech

This is a man's name. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

trembling

shaking in fear

1 Samuel 21:2

on a mission

"to do work for him"

I have directed the young men to a certain place

"I have told the young men to go to another place, and I will meet them there later"

1 Samuel 21:3

Now then

David is starting a new part of the conversation.

what do you have on hand?

Here "on hand" is a metonym meaning "available." Alternate translation: "What food do you have that you can give me?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Give me five loaves of bread

This is a polite request.

1 Samuel 21:4

ordinary bread

bread that the priests have not used in worship

if the young men have kept themselves from women

This can be translated as a complete sentence by supplying the understood information. Alternate translation: "Your men may eat it if they have not slept with women recently" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

1 Samuel 21:5

women have been kept from us

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "we have kept ourselves from women" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

three days

"3 days" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

when I set out

"when I begin a journey"

The things belonging to the men have been set apart

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "The men have set what belongs to them apart" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

How much more today will what they have be set apart

This is a statement, not a question. It can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "It is especially true today that they will set apart what they have" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 21:6

there was no bread there except the bread of the presence

This double negative emphasizes that the bread of the presence was the only bread that was there. Alternate translation: "the only bread that was there was the bread of the presence" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

the bread that was set apart

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "the bread that the priests had set apart" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

which was removed from before Yahweh, in order to put

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "which the priests had removed from before Yahweh so that they could put" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 21:7

detained before Yahweh

Possible meanings are that 1) Doeg had some religious work regarding Yahweh to do there. Alternate translation: "for some work before Yahweh" or 2) Yahweh detained Doeg there. Alternate translation: "because Yahweh had detained him there" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Doeg ... herdsmen

You may need to say clearly that Doeg saw what David did. Alternate translation: "Doeg ... herdsmen, and he saw what Ahimelech did" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Doeg the Edomite

This is the name of a man from the land of Edom. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

herdsmen

the keepers and protectors of a herd, especially of cattle or sheep

1 Samuel 21:8

Now is there not here on hand any spear or sword?

Here "on hand" is a metonym meaning "available." See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 21:3. Alternate translation: "Do you have a spear or sword that you can give me?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

weapons

a general name for such things as swords, knives, bows and arrows, and spears

1 Samuel 21:9

Valley of Elah

This is the name of a place in Israel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 21:10

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 21:11

Is not this David, the king of the land?

They were probably exaggerating when they said that David was king of the land. They used this question to imply that David was a powerful enemy and Achish should not let him stay there. Alternate translation: "You know that this is David, who is as dangerous as the king of the land" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Did they not sing to one another about him in dances, 'Saul ... thousands?'

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "You know that when the people of the land were dancing, they sang to each other about him, 'Saul ... thousands.'" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 21:12

David took these words to heart

Here "took ... to heart" is a metonym to think seriously about what was said. Alternate translation: "David thought seriously about what the servants said" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 21:13

in their hands

Here "hands" are a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: "in their presence" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 21:14

Why have you brought him to me?

Possible meanings are 1) Achish demands that his servants explain why they have brought David to him or 2) Achish is scolding them with a rhetorical question. Alternate translation: "You should have known not to bring him to me." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 21:15

Do I lack madmen, so that you have brought this fellow to behave like one in my presence?

This rhetorical question is a rebuke. Alternate translation: "There are enough madmen here who waste my time. You should not have brought this fellow to behave like one in my presence." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

Will this fellow really come into my house?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Do not allow this fellow to enter my house." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 22

1 Samuel 22:intro-0

1 Samuel 22 General Notes

Structure and formatting

There are two stories in this chapter: David gathering a group of followers and Saul having all the priests and their families killed. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/priest.md]])

Special concepts in this chapter

# David assembles a force of unhappy people

David hides in the wilderness, and people in trouble come to him. Soon he has a force of 500 men. The prophet then tells him to leave the wilderness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/prophet.md]])

# Saul and the chief priest's family

Doeg tells Saul that Ahimelech the priest gave David food and a sword and prayed for him. Saul accuses the priests of encouraging David to rebel. This is a serious accusation because the priests are God's representatives and are rebelling against God's king if the accusation is true. Saul has the priests and all their families killed except those who escape to David. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/highpriest.md]])

1 Samuel 22:1

cave

a hollow space under the ground, generally opening into the side of a hill, large enough for people to enter

Adullam

This is the name of a town near the city of Gath. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

heard it

heard that David had gone to hide in the cave

1 Samuel 22:2

Everyone who was in distress ... everyone who was discontented

This is a generalization. Alternate translation: "Many people who were distressed ... many people who were unhappy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

captain

military officer who leads soldiers

four hundred

"400" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 22:3

Then David went from there

"Then David went from the cave at Adullam"

Mizpah

This is the name of a city. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

go out with you

David wanted his parents to live with the king of Moab so that King Saul would not be able to harm them. Translators can express his basic meaning by using the ideas of "come to stay with you," "stay with you," or "live here with you," as in the UDB.

1 Samuel 22:4

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 22:5

go into the land of Judah

"go to your home land of Judah"

Hereth

This is the name of a city. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 22:6

David had been discovered, along with the men who were with him

Saul was most interested in David, so the writer mentions the other men separately. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "someone had discovered where David and all the men who were with him were hiding" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the tamarisk tree

This is a type of tree. Alternate translation: "a large shade tree" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

in Ramah

Ramah is the name of a place in Gibeah. The name means "high place." Possible meanings are 1) it refers here to the place called Ramah, or 2) it refers to any high place. Alternate translation: "on a hill"

1 Samuel 22:7

Will the son of Jesse give every one of you fields and vineyards?

Saul uses a question to emphasize that David, who is from the tribe of Judah, does not desire to do this for the people of the tribe of Benjamin. Alternate translation: "The son of Jesse will not give you fields or vineyards." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Will the son of Jesse give

The time when he will give can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "When the son of Jesse becomes king, will he give" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

the son of Jesse

"David"

Will he make you all captains of thousands and captains of hundreds

Saul uses a question to emphasize that David, who is from the tribe of Judah, does not desire to do this for the people of the tribe of Benjamin. Alternate translation: "He will not make you captains of thousands and captains of hundreds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Will he make you all captains

You may need to make explicit when he will make them captains. Alternate translation: "When he becomes king, will he make you all captains" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

captains of thousands and captains of hundreds

Possible meanings are 1) these numbers represent the exact amount of soldiers that these captains led. Alternate translation: "captains of 1,000 soldiers and captains of 100 soldiers" or 2) the words translated as "thousands" and "hundreds" do not represent exact numbers, but are the names of larger and smaller military divisions. Alternate translation: "captains of large military divisions and captains of smaller military divisions" See how you translated a similar phrase in 1 Samuel 17:18. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 22:8

Connecting Statement:

This continues what Saul said to his servants.

1 Samuel 22:9

Doeg the Edomite

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 21:7. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Nob ... Ahimelech

This is a place name and the name of a man. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 21:1. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Ahitub

This is the name of a man. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 22:10

He prayed to Yahweh that he might help him, and he gave him

Ahitub prayed to Yahweh that Yahweh might help David, and Ahitub gave David

1 Samuel 22:11

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 22:12

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 22:13

in that you have given

"by giving"

rise up

"rebel" or "fight"

1 Samuel 22:14

Who among all your servants is so faithful as David ... house?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "None of your servants is as faithful as David ... house." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

bodyguard

a person or group of people who protect someone

is honored in your house

The word "house" is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "whom your family honors" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 22:15

Is today the first time I have prayed to God to help him?

Ahimelech asks himself this question before Saul can ask it, then immediately answers it. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "This is not the first time I have prayed to God to help David." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Far be it from me!

This idiom means "Absolutely not!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Do not let the king impute anything to his servant or to all the house of my father. For your servant knows nothing

Ahimelech speaks of himself in the third person as the "servant." Ahimelech also refers to Saul in the third person as "the king." Ahimelech speaks this way to show respect to Saul. Alternate translation: "Please, King Saul, do not consider me, your servant, or anyone in the house of my father to be guilty. For I know nothing" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

impute

to consider someone guilty

to all the house of my father

Here "house" represents "family." Alternate translation: "to all my father's family" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 22:16

your father's house

The word "house" is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. Alternate translation: "your father's family" or "your father's descendants" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 22:17

the guard that stood around him

"the soldiers standing nearby to protect him"

Turn and kill

Here "Turn" means to turn around or turn away from the king. Alternate translation: "Go and kill" or "Kill" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

their hand also is with David

The word "hand" is a metonym for the work done with the hand. Alternate translation: "they also help David" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

would not put out their hand to kill

The word "hand" is a metonym for the work done with the hand. Alternate translation: "did not do anything to kill" or "refused to kill" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 22:18

Turn and kill the priests ... turned and attacked the priests

Here "Turn" means to turn around or turn away from the king. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 22:17. Alternate translation: "Go and kill the priests ... went and attacked" or "Kill the priest ... attacked the priests" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Doeg the Edomite turned and attacked ... he killed

Possible meanings are 1) Doeg killed all the priests himself or 2) the word "Doeg" is a synecdoche for Doeg and the men who went with him. Alternate translation: "Doeg the Edomite and his men turned and attacked ... they killed" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

Doeg the Edomite

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 21:7. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

eighty-five persons

"85 men" or "85 priests" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 22:19

He also put to the sword ... he put to the sword

Possible meanings are 1) Doeg killed all the priests himself or 2) the word "Doeg" is a synecdoche for Doeg and the men who went with him. Alternate translation: "They also put to the sword ... they put to the sword" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

put to the sword

"killed with the sword"

Nob

Nob is the name of a city. Here the name "Nob" represents the people of that city. Alternate translation: "the people in the city of Nob" or "the people of Nob" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 22:20

Abiathar

This is a man's name. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 22:21

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 22:22

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 22:23

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 23

1 Samuel 23:intro-0

1 Samuel 23 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Saul chases David

Saul wants to kill David, but David trusts in God who keeps rescuing him. David rescues the town of Keilah from the Philistines who are stealing their harvest. Saul goes to Keilah to capture David, but David flees to the wilderness near Ziph. When David goes deeper into the wilderness, Saul follows but he has to leave to fight the Philistines who have invaded the land. Saul's pursuit of David shows that Saul cares more about killing his enemies than pleasing God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Synecdoche

Jonathan strengthens David with a synecdoche: "For the hand of Saul my father will not find you." This helps to strengthen David's faith. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faith.md]])

1 Samuel 23:1

fighting against Keilah

"Keilah" is the name of a town. Here "Keilah" represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: "fighting against the people of Keilah" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

threshing

separating the grain or seeds, generally from a cereal plant or wheat by some mechanical means

1 Samuel 23:2

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 23:3

How much more then if we go to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "We will be even more fearful if we go to Keilah to fight the armies of the Philistines." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:4

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 23:5

went ... fought ... led ... struck ... saved

The writer pays the most attention to David, so these words are all singular, though David's men helped him do all these things. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:6

Ahimelech

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 21:1. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:7

Saul was told

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "Someone told Saul" or "They told Saul" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:8

summoned

officially called. The reader should understand that Saul probably told his officials to gather the soldiers. He did not call with a loud voice to get them to come.

all his forces

"all his soldiers"

1 Samuel 23:9

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 23:10

David said

"David asked" or "David prayed"

your servant has indeed heard

David speaks as if he were someone else to show his respect for Yahweh. Alternate translation: "I have indeed heard" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

destroy the city

make the city so no one could live in it and kill all the people who live there

1 Samuel 23:11

as your servant has heard ... tell your servant

David speaks as if he were someone else to show his respect for Yahweh. Alternate translation: "as I have heard ... tell me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

surrender me into his hand

Here "hand" represents power or control. Alternate translation: "give me over to Saul" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:12

David said

or "David asked" or "David prayed"

surrender me and my men into the hand of Saul

Here "hand" represents power or control. Alternate translation: "give me and my men over to Saul" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:13

six hundred

"600" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

It was told Saul

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "Someone told Saul" or "They told Saul" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

had escaped

"had run away from"

1 Samuel 23:14

wilderness of Ziph

This is the name of a deserted area near the city of Ziph. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

did not give him into his hand

The word "hand" is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: "did not allow Saul to have power over David" or "did not allow Saul to do as he desired with David" or "did not allow Saul to capture David" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:15

seek his life

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "try to kill him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Horesh

This is the name of city near Ziph. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:16

strengthened his hand in God

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "encouraged him to trust in God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:17

For the hand of Saul my father will not find you

Here "hand" is a metonym for Saul and his power. Alternate translation: "For Saul my father will not find you" or "For Saul my father will never be able to have power over you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:18

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 23:19

Ziphites

This is the name of the people group from Ziph. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Is not David hiding among us in ... Jeshimon?

This rhetorical question can be translated as an exclamation. Alternate translation: "David is hiding among us in ... Jeshimon!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

the hill of Hakilah

This is the name of a hill in the wilderness of Judah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Jeshimon

This is the name of a desert area near the Dead Sea. It can also be translated as "the Judean Wilderness" or "the wasteland." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:20

surrender him into the king's hand

The word "hand" is a metonym for power. The Ziphites speak to Saul as if he were another man to show him that they respect him. Alternate translation: "give David to you so you can do whatever you desire with him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:21

May you be blessed by Yahweh

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "I hope that Yahweh blesses you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you have had compassion on me

The abstract noun "compassion" can be translated with the adjective "kind." Saul says this because they had told him about David and they were willing to help Saul capture David. Alternate translation: "you have been kind to me" or "you have kindly told this to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:22

Learn and find out

These two words mean almost the same thing and can be translated as one phrase. Alternate translation: "Know for sure" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

who has seen him

"who saw him"

It is told to me

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "People tell me" or "I have heard" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:23

among all the thousands of Judah

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "even if I have to arrest every man in Judah" or "among all the clans of Judah" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:24

Then they rose up

They stopped what they had been doing. The reader should not believe that they were sitting or lying.

Then they

"Then the Ziphites"

Ziph

This is the name of a place. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 23:14.

Jeshimon

This is the name of a desert area near the Dead Sea. It can also be translated as "the Judean Wilderness" or "the wasteland." See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 23:19. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

the wilderness of Maon

This is the name of the deserted area around the city of Maon in southern Judah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:25

David was told of it

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "Someone told David that they were coming" or "David learned that they were coming" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

rocky hill

a hill covered with many rocks or boulders

1 Samuel 23:26

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 23:27

Hurry and come

The words "hurry" and "come" can be combined into one idea. Alternate translation: "Come quickly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hendiadys/01.md]])

1 Samuel 23:28

pursuing David

"chasing David, trying to catch him"

Rock of Escape

a memorial or marker of David's escape from Saul

1 Samuel 23:29

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 24

1 Samuel 24:intro-0

1 Samuel 24 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Even though Saul tries again and again to kill David, David does not avenge himself on Saul because God had chosen Saul as king. This is meant to contrast with Saul's treatment of David, the future king. Saul represents the king the people wanted, a selfish man. David is the king God wanted, a godly man. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/avenge.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/elect.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/godly.md]])

1 Samuel 24:1

he was told

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "someone told him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

wilderness of Engedi

Engedi is a place in Israel west of the Dead Sea where there is water with dry land all around it.

1 Samuel 24:2

three thousand

3,000 (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

chosen men

men whom he had chosen because of their superior military abilities

1 Samuel 24:3

sheep pens

"sheep corrals" or "sheep enclosures"

cover his feet

This is a euphemism for "relieve himself" or "defecate" or "empty his intestines." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

cave

generally a natural hole under the ground, often with an opening in the side of a hill or cliff

1 Samuel 24:4

David arose and quietly crept

The word "arose" is an idiom for taking action. Alternate translation: "David took action; he quietly crept" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

crept

approached slowly, carefully or quietly

1 Samuel 24:5

David's heart afflicted him

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "David was sad because he had done something wrong" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 24:6

Yahweh's anointed

"the one whom Yahweh has chosen to lead his people" or "the one Yahweh has made king"

to put out my hand against him

The hand is a metonym for the ability to cause harm. Alternate translation: "to harm him in any way" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 24:7

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 24:8

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 24:9

Why do you listen to the men who say, 'See, David is seeking your harm?

This is a rhetorical question. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "You should not listen to the men who say, 'See, David is seeking to harm you." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 24:10

your eyes have seen

Here "your eyes" represent King Saul. Alternate translation: "you have seen with your own eyes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

put you into my hand

The word "hand" is a metonym for control. Alternate translation: "put you where I could kill you or allow you to live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 24:11

my father

Saul was not David's real father. David calls him "father" to show that he respects Saul.

there is no evil or treason in my hand

David speaks as if evil and treason were physical objects he could hold in his hand. Here "hand" represents a person acting or doing something. Alternate translation: "I have done no evil deed against you, nor have I rebelled against you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 24:12

my hand shall not be against you

The hand is a metonym for the ability to cause harm. See how you translated a similar phrase in 1 Samuel 24:6. Alternate translation: "I will not harm you in any way" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 24:13

ancients

This nominal adjective can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: "people who lived long ago" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]])

1 Samuel 24:14

After whom has the king of Israel come out? After whom do you pursue?

These rhetorical questions can be translated as statements. When David asks the questions, he knows that he will answer the questions himself. Alternate translation: "Let me tell you who the king of Israel has come out after. Let me tell you who it is that you are pursuing." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

After a dead dog

The words "dead dog" are a metaphor for a powerless person. This sentence can be made complete. Alternate translation: "You are pursuing a person who is as powerless as a dead dog" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

After a flea

The word "flea" is a metaphor for a person whom others do not consider important. Alternate translation: "You are pursuing a person who is as unimportant as a flea" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

1 Samuel 24:15

see to it, and plead my cause

Possible meanings are 1) "do what is right, and plead my cause" or 2) "see that my cause is right and fight for me."

from your hand

The word "hand" is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: "so that you have no power over me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 24:16

my son David

Saul speaks as if David were his son to show David that he loves him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

lifted up his voice and wept

The writer writes as if a voice were something a person could lift up with his hands. Alternate translation: "wept loudly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 24:17

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 24:18

you have done good to me

Saul acknowledges that David did show that he supported King Saul and was loyal to him by not killing him.

for you did not kill me when Yahweh had put me at your mercy

Saul acknowledges that David chose to show mercy and demonstrated his loyalty to King Saul as Yahweh's anointed.

1 Samuel 24:19

For if a man finds his enemy, will he let him go safely?

A rhetorical question with the answer included in the question. Alternate translation: "For if a man finds his enemy, he will not let him go safely." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

For if a man finds his enemy, will he let him go safely?

Where Saul had believed David was his enemy, he learns that even though David will be king, David will not take over the throne from Saul by force, but will wait for Yahweh's appointed time.

1 Samuel 24:20

the kingdom of Israel will be established in your hand

This can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) David will cause the kingdom of Israel to prosper through his power as king. Alternate translation: "the kingdom of Israel will prosper as you rule the Israelite people" or 2) Yahweh will cause David to have complete control over the kingdom of Israel. Alternate translation: "you will have complete rule over the kingdom of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

in your hand

The word "hand" is a metonym that represents power or control. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 24:21

you will not cut off my descendants after me

"you will not kill my sons and their families." It was common for a new king who was not from the previous family line to kill off all the children of the former king to prevent any of them from challenging him for the throne.

you will not destroy my name out of my father's house

It is important for each family in Israel to have descendants from generation to generation carrying on the family name and land inheritance. Alternate translation: "you will not destroy my family and descendants" or "you will allow my family to live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 24:22

David and his men

"David and his army"

1 Samuel 25

1 Samuel 25:intro-0

1 Samuel 25 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Revenge

When David decides to kill all of the men in Nabal's household, Abigail convinces David not to avenge himself but to leave revenge to God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/avenge.md]])

1 Samuel 25:1

All Israel gathered together and mourned for him

This is likely a generalization. A large number of the people of Israel were probably there, but some were probably unable to attend. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hyperbole/01.md]])

gathered together

"met together"

buried him in his house at Ramah

Possible meanings are that they buried Samuel 1) in his home town of Ramah or 2) on his family's land in Ramah but not physically in the house or 3) in his house in Ramah.

David rose and went down

"David and his men moved on and they went down"

1 Samuel 25:2

There was a man in Maon, whose possessions were in Carmel. The man was very wealthy.

Some translators may need to put the ideas in these verses in a different order. Alternate translation: "There was a very wealthy man in Maon whose possessions were in Carmel."

Maon

This is the name of a town. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Carmel

This is the name of a town. This is different from Mount Carmel. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

three thousand

3,000 (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

one thousand

1,000 (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

shearing his sheep

"shaving the wool off his sheep"

1 Samuel 25:3

The man's name was Nabal, and the name of his wife was Abigail. The woman was intelligent and beautiful in appearance. But the man was harsh and evil in his dealings. He was a descendant of the house of Caleb.

This verse give some background information about the man Nabal and his character. Some translators may need to put the ideas in this verse in a different order. Alternate translation: "Now the man was a descendant of the house of Caleb. His name was Nabal, and the name of his wife was Abigail. She was intelligent and beautiful in appearance. But the man was harsh and evil in his dealings."

Nabal

This is the name of a man. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Abigail

This is the name of a woman. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

He was a descendant of the house of Caleb

Here "house" represents family. Alternate translation: "He was a descendant of the family of Caleb" or "He was a descendant of Caleb" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:4

shearing his sheep

"shaving the wool off his sheep"

1 Samuel 25:5

greet him in my name

"greet him as I would greet him if I were there"

1 Samuel 25:6

Live in prosperity

"I desire that you may live in prosperity." The abstract noun "prosperity" can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "I desire that you possess many good things as long as you live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

Peace to you and peace to your house, and peace be to all that you have

"I desire that peace may come to you, your household and your possessions"

1 Samuel 25:7

you have shearers

"your shearers are working" or "your shearers have sheep to shear." David wants his men to speak so that Nabal understands that his sheep were well because David's men helped guard them.

we did them no harm, and they missed nothing

David is pointing out how he and his men offered protection to Nabal's servants and flocks. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "we kept them and all their property from harm" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:8

let my young men find favor in your eyes

Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: "may you be pleased with my young men" or "may you consider my young men favorably" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

to your servants

David was expressing respect toward Nabal by calling his men Nabal's servants.

your son David

David spoke as if he were Nabal's son to show that he respected Nabal, who was an older man.

1 Samuel 25:9

David's young men

"David's army"

said all of this to Nabal on David's behalf

"gave Nabal David's complete message"

1 Samuel 25:10

Who is David, and who is the son of Jesse?

Nabal used questions to emphasize that he had no reason to help Daved. These two rhetorical questions can be translated as statements. Alternate translation: "This David son of Jesse you speak of—I do not know him." or "I do not know who this David is, so I will not do as he says. I do not know who Jesse is, so I do not care what happens to his son." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

breaking away from

"running away from" or "rebelling against"

1 Samuel 25:11

my bread

Here "bread" is an idiom for any kind of food. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

men who come from I do not know where

"men when I do not know where they have come from" or "men whom I do not know"

1 Samuel 25:12

that was said

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that Nabal had said" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:13

said to his men

"said to his army"

"Every man strap on his sword." So every man strapped on his sword. David also strapped on his sword

If swords are not known in your language, you can treat "strap on his sword" as a metonym meaning to prepare for war. Alternate translation: "'Every man, prepare for war.' And every man prepared for war. David also prepared for war" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

four hundred

400 (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

two hundred

200 (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

stayed by the baggage

They remained at their base camp to prevent other raiders from stealing their possessions.

1 Samuel 25:14

But one of the young men told Abigail, Nabal's wife

You may need to make explicit what the young man did before he spoke with Abigail. Alternate translation: "One of Nabal's servants found out what David and his men were planning to do, so he went to Nabal's wife Abigail" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:15

We were not harmed

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "Nobody harmed us" or "We were safe" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

did not miss anything as long as we went with them

"we did not lose anything when we were with them." David's men kept wild animals and other people from stealing Nabal's flocks.

1 Samuel 25:16

They were a wall

David's men were like a wall around a city that protects the people in the city from their enemies. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:17

evil is plotted against our master

The speaker is careful not to name the one plotting the evil. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "someone is plotting to do evil things to our master" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

our master

The speaker speaks of David as if David were another person to show that he respects David. Alternate translation: "you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:18

two hundred

200 (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

loaves

A loaf is like a cake. You may need to make explicit what the loaves consisted of. Alternate translation: "loaves of bread" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

already prepared

"that someone had already cooked" or "ready for someone to cook"

measures

This is a generic term as none is given. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-bvolume/01.md]])

parched grain

"grain that someone had cooked"

clusters of raisins

"cakes of raisins" or "masses of raisins"

1 Samuel 25:19

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 25:20

David and his men

"David and his army"

by the cover of the mountain

Possible meanings are 1) into a low, narrow stream bed or 2) to where the men were hiding.

1 Samuel 25:21

Connecting Statement:

The writer gives background information before he continues with the story. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

Now David had said, "Surely ... for good.

The reader needs to understand that David had said these things before he said, "Every man strap on his sword" in 1 Samuel 25:13.

Now David

The word "Now" shows that the writer has stopped writing about Abigail and started writing about David.

nothing was missed of all that belonged to him

This can be stated positively and in active form. Alternate translation: "he still has everything that was his" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:22

May God do so to me ... belong to him

The reader needs to understand that David had said these things before he said, "Every man strap on his sword" in 1 Samuel 25:13.

May God do so to me, David

The Hebrew text has "May God strike the enemies of David," and some versions follow this. However, the reading of the ULB follows the main Greek tradition of the Old Testament, as some other modern versions do.

all who belong

"all the people who belong to him" or "those in his family"

1 Samuel 25:23

Connecting Statement:

The writer has finished giving background information, so he continues the story. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

lay before David facedown and bowed herself to the ground

Abigail was being humble and showing that she would obey David because he was a powerful leader.

1 Samuel 25:24

listen to

"hear"

my master ... your servant ... words of your servant

"David ... me ... my words." Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are two other people, to show that she respects David. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:25

Connecting Statement:

Abigail continues to advise David not to take revenge.

Let not my master regard ... I your servant ... the young men of my master

Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are other people to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: "Do not regard ... I ... your young men" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

But I ... did not see ... whom you sent

You may need to make explicit what Abigail would have done. Alternate translation: "But if I ... had seen ... whom you sent, I would have given them food" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:26

Connecting Statement:

Abigail continues to advise David not to take revenge.

my master ... my master

Abigail speaks of David as if he is another person to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: "David ... you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

bloodshed

murder

avenging yourself with your own hand

The hand is a metonym for what a person does with the hand. Abigail assumes that David should allow Yahweh to take vengeance for him. Alternate translation: "taking vengeance yourself instead of letting Yahweh do it" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

let your enemies ... be like Nabal

Abigail speaks as if Yahweh has already punished Nabal. Alternate translation: "I hope that Yahweh will punish your enemies ... as he will punish Nabal" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pastforfuture/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:27

Connecting Statement:

Abigail continues to tell David not to be angry.

let this present that your servant has brought to my master be given to the young men

Abigail uses the passive to show her respect for David. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "please give this present, which your servant has brought to my master, to the young men" or "please let my master give this present, which your servant has brought to my master, to the young men" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

this present

"these gifts." The "present" was actually many different things.

your servant has ... my master ... my master

Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are two other people to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: "I have ... you ... you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:28

Connecting Statement:

Abigail continues to reason with David.

the trespass of your servant ... my master ... my master is

Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are two other people, to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: "my trespass ... you ... you are" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

Yahweh will certainly make my master a sure house

Here "house" is an idiom used for "descendants." Alternate translation: "Yahweh will ensure that my master always has a descendant who serves as king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

fighting the battles of Yahweh

"fighting against Yahweh's enemies"

evil will not be found in you

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "no one will ever see you do any evil thing" or "you will never do anything evil" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:29

Connecting Statement:

Abigail continues to reason with David.

pursue

chase and try to catch

the life of my master will be bound in the bundle of the living by Yahweh your God

Abigail speaks of David's life as if it were a long and thin object that a person could put with other long and thin objects and then tie together into a bundle with a rope. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "Yahweh your God will bind the life of my master in the bundle of the living" or "Yahweh your God will keep you alive with those who are alive" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

the life of my master

Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are two different people to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: "your life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

he will sling away the lives of your enemies, as from the pocket of a sling

Abigail speaks of David's enemies' lives as if they were small objects like a stone that could be put in a sling and shot a long distance. Alternate translation: "he will kill your enemies as easily as a man slings a stone a long distance" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

a sling

a piece of animal skin with long cords at both ends in which a person can put a stone or other small, hard object and throw it a long distance

1 Samuel 25:30

Connecting Statement:

Abigail continues to reason with David.

my master

Abigail speaks of David as if he is another person, to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: "you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:31

Connecting Statement:

Abigail finishes reasoning with David.

This will not be a staggering burden for you—that you have poured out innocent blood, or because my master attempted to rescue himself

Abigail is stating that if David chooses not to take revenge he will have a clear conscience when Yahweh makes him king of Israel. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "You will always be glad you acted as you did-that you have not poured out innocent blood, or because my master did not attempt to rescue himself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

my master ... himself ... my master ... your servant

Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are two other people, to show that she respects David. "you ... yourself ... you ... me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

when Yahweh will do good for my master

That is, when Yahweh actually makes him king after Saul's reign is over.

1 Samuel 25:32

General Information:

David accepts Abigail's counsel and gifts.

May Yahweh ... be blessed, he who

This can be translated in active form. Possible meanings are 1) "I praise Yahweh ... who" or 2) "May all people praise Yahweh ... who." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:33

Your wisdom is blessed and you are blessed, because

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "I thank Yahweh because he has blessed you by making you wise and because" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

bloodshed

murder. The same word appears in 1 Samuel 25:26.

with my own hand

The word "hand" here is a metonym for the action taken by the hand. Alternate translation: "by my own actions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:34

General Information:

David accepts Abigail's gifts and agrees to do as she has advised him.

there would certainly have not been left to Nabal so much as one male baby

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "I would not have left to Nabal even one male baby" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:35

received from her hand

This is an idiom. Abigail did not unload all gifts from the donkeys herself. Alternate translation: "accepted all the gifts that she had brought" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

have listened to your voice

The word "voice" is a metonym for the message the person speaks and a synecdoche for the person who speaks. Alternate translation: "have listened to what you have told me" or "will do as you have advised me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:36

morning light

dawn

Nabal's heart was merry within him

Nabal was very happy

1 Samuel 25:37

General Information:

Yahweh's judgment on Nabal

the wine had gone out of Nabal

Nabal was no longer drunk and so was no longer feeling happy.

his heart died within him

Nabal was unable to move because was so afraid that he was no longer physically healthy, probably because he had suffered a stroke.

1 Samuel 25:38

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 25:39

General Information:

David offers to protect Abigail by marrying her.

May Yahweh be blessed

This can be translated in active form. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 25:32. Possible meanings are 1) Alternate translation: "I praise Yahweh" or 2) Alternate translation: "May all people praise Yahweh" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

has taken up the cause of my insult from the hand of Nabal

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: "has defended me after Nabal insulted me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

has taken up the cause of my insult

The abstract nouns "cause" and "insult" can be translated as verbs. Possible meanings are 1) Alternate translation: "has shown that what I was doing was right by punishing Nabal for insulting me" or 2) Alternate translation: "has acted, when Nabal insulted me, as if Nabal had insulted him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

has kept back his servant from evil

David speaks as if he were another person to show his respect for Yahweh. Alternate translation: "has kept me back from doing evil deeds" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

has turned Nabal's evil action back on his own head

The abstract noun "action" can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "has done to Nabal what Nabal planned to do to me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

on his own head

The head is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: "on him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

sent and spoke to Abigail, to take her to himself as wife

You may make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: "sent men to speak to Abigail and tell her that David wanted to take her to be his wife" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:40

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 25:41

She arose, bowed herself

Abigail responded by bowing. The reader should understand that she was probably already standing when the men were talking to her in 1 Samuel 25:40, and so the word "arose" is a metonym for deciding to bow down. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

See, your female servant is a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my master

Abigail speaks as if she were another person to show that she is humble. She shows that she desires to be David's new wife by offering to wash the feet of David's servants. Alternate translation: "See, I will serve you, the servants of my master David, by washing your feet" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:42

hurried and arose, and rode

You may need to make explicit what Abigail did after she arose and before she rode. Alternate translation: "quickly did what she needed to do to prepare for the journey, and then she rode" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

five servant girls of hers who followed her

Abigail was riding a donkey, but the servant girls were walking.

1 Samuel 25:43

Now David had also taken Ahinoam

This event took place before David married Abigail. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

Ahinoam

This is the name of a woman. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 25:44

Saul had given Michal

This event took place before David married Abigail. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

Michal

This is the name of a woman. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Paltiel ... Laish

These are names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Gallim

This is a town north of Jerusalem. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 26

1 Samuel 26:intro-0

1 Samuel 26 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Vengeance

David has another opportunity to kill Saul but he refuses to kill the one God had chosen as king. This contrasts with Saul, who tried to find David and kill him. Saul came to admit that David was more righteous than he was because he did not kill his enemy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/elect.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/righteous.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Rhetorical question

David put his reason for not killing Saul in a rhetorical question: "Do not destroy him; for who can extend his hand against Yahweh's anointed one and be guiltless?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 26:1

Is not David hiding ... Jeshimon?

This rhetorical question can be translated as an exclamation. Alternate translation: "David is hiding ... Jeshimon!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

before Jeshimon

"from which we can see Jeshimon"

Jeshimon

1 Samuel 26:2

Then Saul arose and went

The word "arose" is an idiom for taking action. Alternate translation: "Then Saul took action and he went" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

three thousand

3,000 (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

chosen men

men whom he had chosen because of their superior military abilities

1 Samuel 26:3

before Jeshimon

"from which they could see Jeshimon"

Jeshimon

1 Samuel 26:4

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 26:5

David arose and went

"David took action and he went"

Abner ... Ner

These are the names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 26:6

Ahimelech ... Abishai

These are the names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Zeruiah

These are the names of women. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

go down ... to

David and his men were probably on higher ground than Saul.

I! I will go down

"I want to be the one who goes down"

1 Samuel 26:7

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 26:8

God has put your enemy into your hand

Abishai speaks as if the enemy were a small object that God had put into David's hand. The word "hand" is a metonym for the power the hand can wield. Alternate translation: "God has given you complete control over your enemy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

pin him to the ground with the spear

This is a metonym that refers to "kill with a spear" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

I will not strike him a second time

"I will kill him the first time I strike him" or "I will not need to strike him a second time"

1 Samuel 26:9

who can extend his hand against Yahweh's anointed one and be guiltless?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. This can also be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "No one can strike Yahweh's anointed one and be without guilt." or "Anyone who strikes Yahweh's anointed one will be guilty of murder." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-litotes/01.md]])

1 Samuel 26:10

As Yahweh lives

"as certainly as Yahweh lives" or "as surely as Yahweh lives"

his day will come to die

"he will die a natural death"

1 Samuel 26:11

extend my hand against

The hand is a metonym for the harm a hand can do. Alternate translation: "do anything to harm" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

let us go

David includes Abishai, so the word "us" here is inclusive. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 26:12

a deep sleep from Yahweh had fallen on them

Yahweh had caused them to sleep deeply.

1 Samuel 26:13

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 26:14

Do you not answer, Abner?

David uses a question to shame Abner into answering. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Answer me, Abner!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

David shouted

"David spoke as loudly as he could" so Saul and his men could hear him

1 Samuel 26:15

Are not you a courageous man?

David uses a question to rebuke Abner for not guarding Saul. Alternate translation: "You are a very brave man." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Who is like you in Israel?

David uses a question to rebuke Abner for not guarding Saul. Alternate translation: "You are the greatest soldier in Israel." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Why then have you not kept watch over your master the king?

Possible meanings are 1) this is a real question and David wants Abner to answer him or 2) this is a rhetorical question and David is rebuking Abner. Alternate translation: "Therefore you should have kept watch over your master the king!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 26:16

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 26:17

my son

Saul was not David's true father. Saul speaks as if he were David's father to show David that he wants David to trust and respect him as David would trust and respect his own father. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 26:18

Why does my master pursue his servant?

Possible meanings are 1) David really does want Saul to answer the question or 2) this rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "My master has no reason to pursue his servant." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Why does my master pursue his servant?

Here David speaks of Saul in third person calling him "my master," and he speaks of himself in third person calling himself "his servant." David speaks this way to show respect to Saul. Alternate translation: "Why are you, my master, pursuing me, your servant?" or "Why are you pursuing me?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-123person/01.md]])

What have I done?

Possible meanings are 1) David really does want Saul to answer the question or 2) this rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "You know that I have done nothing to harm you." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

What evil is in my hand?

This speaks of evil as if it were an object that is held in the hand. Here "hand" represents a person acting or doing something. Possible meanings are 1) David really does want Saul to answer the question. Alternate translation: "What have I done wrong?" or 2) this rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "I have done nothing wrong!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 26:19

you, let my master the king listen to the words of his servant

David speaks as if he and the king were other people to show respect to Saul. Alternate translation: "you my king, listen to my words" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

stirred you up against me

"caused you to be angry with me"

let him accept an offering

You may need to make explicit the reason he will give an offering. Alternate translation: "I will give him an offering so he will no longer cause you to be angry with me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

may they be cursed in the sight of Yahweh

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "may Yahweh decide to punish them" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

for they have today driven me out, that I should not cling to the inheritance of Yahweh; they have said to me, 'Go worship other gods.'

"for they have today driven me out. It is as if they want me to stop clinging to the inheritance of Yahweh. It is as if they have said to me, 'Go worship other gods.'"

that I should not cling to the inheritance of Yahweh

"so that I will no longer trust that Yahweh will give me what he has promised me"

1 Samuel 26:20

the king of Israel has

David speaks as if the king was another person to show respect to Saul. Alternate translation: "you have" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

do not let my blood fall to the earth

This is a polite way of saying "do not kill me." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

the one flea

David uses the word "flea" as a metaphor for a person, himself, who cannot do any great harm. Alternate translation: "this single flea" or "me, and I cannot harm you any more than one flea can" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

as when one hunts a partridge in the mountains

Saul is chasing David as if he were hunting a valuable wild bird. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

1 Samuel 26:21

Return

Possible meanings are 1) "Return to serve me in my palace" or "Return to your home."

my son

my life was precious in your eyes today

Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: "today you have considered my life to be very valuable" or "today you showed me that you really do respect me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

played the fool

"been very foolish"

1 Samuel 26:22

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 26:23

Yahweh put you into my hand today

The word "hand" is a metonym for the person's power. "Yahweh gave me an opportunity to attack you today" or "Yahweh placed me where I could easily have killed you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

pay each man

"give what is proper to each man"

his anointed

David speaks as if Saul were another person to show that he respects Saul because Saul is king. Alternate translation: "the one he has chosen to be king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 26:24

your life was precious in my eyes today

Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. See how you translated similar words in 1 Samuel 26:21. Alternate translation: "I have considered your life to be very valuable" or "I showed you today that I really do respect you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

so may my life be much valued in the eyes of Yahweh

Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: "so may Yahweh consider my life very valuable as well" or "so may Yahweh value my life as much as I have valued your life" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 26:25

May you be blessed

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "May Yahweh bless you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

my son

1 Samuel 27

1 Samuel 27:intro-0

1 Samuel 27 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This begins a section about David living with the Philistines.

Special concepts in this chapter

# David's move

David is afraid Saul will someday catch him and kill him, so he moves to the Philistine city of Gath. This is a type of exile David creates for himself out of fear. It is caused by his lack of trust in God. This is the same reason his descendants would come to be exiled. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/trust.md]])

Links: ###=

1 Samuel 27:01 Notes

<< | >>

1 Samuel 27:1

David said in his heart

Here "his heart" is a metonym that means to himself. Alternate translation: "David thought to himself" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

escape out of his hand

The word "hand" is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: "escape from him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 27:2

David arose and passed over

"David took action; he passed over"

passed over

"passed over the border between Israel and Philistia"

six hundred men

600 (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

Achish

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 21:10. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Maok

This is the name of a man. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 27:3

Ahinoam

This is the name of a woman. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 14:50. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Abigail

This is the name of a woman. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 25:3. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Nabal

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 25:3. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 27:4

Saul was told

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Someone told Saul" or "Saul heard" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 27:5

If I have found favor in your eyes

Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 20:3. Alternate translation: "If I have pleased you" or "If you consider me favorably" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

let them give me a place

Since Achish was the one who would "give," this is a metonym for "please give me a place." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

one of the cities in the country

"one of the outlying towns" or "one of the towns outside the city"

Why should your servant live in the royal city with you?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "I do not need to live in the city with you." or "I am not important enough to live here with you in the royal city." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

your servant

David speaks as if he were another person to show that he respected Achish. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 27:6

Ziklag

This is the name of a city in the southwest part of Judah. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 27:7

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 27:8

making raids on

attacking and taking property many times (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

Girzites

A people group who apparently lived somewhere between Philistia and Egypt. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

as you go to Shur

Here "you" is being used as an indefinite pronoun that refers to anyone. Alternate translation: "on the way most people travel to Shur" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

Shur

region on the northeast border of Egypt (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 27:9

Achish

the king of Gath (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 27:10

Achish

the king of Gath (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Jerahmeelites

a clan from the tribe of Judah (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Kenites

a people group who lived in the land of Midian (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 27:11

Gath

one of five Philistine city-states. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 27:12

Achish

the king of Gath (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 28

1 Samuel 28:intro-0

1 Samuel 28 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# Talking to the dead

Talking to the dead was against the law of Moses. God or the Holy Spirit left Saul because of his sin and would not help him. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/other/death.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lawofmoses.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/holyspirit.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/sin.md]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Rhetorical question

Samuel uses a rhetorical question to say it was useless to ask his advice since there was no way Saul could be successful with God against him: "What then do you ask me, since Yahweh has left you, and he has become your enemy?" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

1 Samuel 28:1

to fight with Israel

"to fight against Israel"

1 Samuel 28:2

That being the case, you will know ... "Then I will make

The phrases "That being the case" and "Then" show that the speaker agrees with what the other person has just said. Alternate translation: "Very well, I will go with you so that you will know ... Very well, I will make" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-connectingwords/01.md]])

you will know what your servant can do

David probably wanted Achish to think that David would kill many Israelites, but "what your servant can do" could also mean that David was planning to kill Philistines instead. Try to translate so that the reader can see both of these possible meanings.

your servant

David speaks as if he is another person so that Achish will think David respects him. Alternate translation: "I" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

make you

The word "you" refers to David and so is singular. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

bodyguard

a person who protects another person

1 Samuel 28:3

Now Samuel ... with spirits

The writer provides background information to prepare the reader for the events that follow. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/writing-background/01.md]])

banned from the land

officially removed from the country or region, or prevented from entering Alternate translation: "expel from Israel"

those who talked with the dead or with spirits

The words "those who talked with the dead" translate as one word in the original language, and the words "those who ... talked with spirits" also translate as one word in the original language. If your language has one word for those who talk with the dead and one word for those who talk with spirits, or if your language has only one word for those who talk with the dead and with spirits, you should use those words here.

1 Samuel 28:4

Then the Philistines gathered

after David and Achish spoke (1 Samuel 28:2)

gathered all Israel together

"gathered all his armies in Israel together"

Shunem ... Gilboa

these are names of places (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 28:5

he was afraid, and his heart trembled very much

These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of his fear. Here Saul is referred to by his "heart." Alternate translation: "he was terrified" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-parallelism/01.md]])

1 Samuel 28:6

Urim

The high priest carried the sacred lots called Urim and Thummin in his breastplate, in a marked pouch, next to his heart.

1 Samuel 28:7

who talks with the dead

These words translate as one word in the original language. If your language has one word for a person who talks to the dead, you should use it here. See how you translated similar words in 1 Samuel 28:3.

Endor

This is the name of a place. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 28:8

Saul disguised himself ... and went ... to the woman by night

Saul disguised himself because the way from Gilboa (1 Samuel 28:4) to Endor (1 Samuel 28:7) was through land that the Philistines were living in. He traveled all day and reached the woman after the sun had gone down.

disguised

changed his usual appearance no one would know who he was

Divine for me by a spirit

"Talk to the dead for me"

1 Samuel 28:9

those who talk with the dead or with spirits

The words "those who talk with the dead" translate as one word in the original language, and the words "those who ... talk with spirits" also translate as one word in the original language. If your language has one word for those who talk with the dead and one word for those who talk with spirits, or if your language has only one word for those who talk with the dead and with spirits, you should use those words here. See how you translated similar words in 1 Samuel 28:3.

my life

The word "life" represents the person. Alternate translation: "me" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 28:10

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 28:11

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 28:12

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 28:13

a god

Other possible meanings are 1) "one like God" or 2) "a judge" (1 Samuel 7:15).

1 Samuel 28:14

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 28:15

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 28:16

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 28:17

torn the kingdom out of your hand

Samuel speaks as if the kingdom were a physical object that could be held in the hand and grabbed out by another person. Alternate translation: "made you so you are no longer king" or "made another person king in your place" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 28:18

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 28:19

Yahweh will give Israel along with you into the hand of the Philistines

Samuel speaks as if the people of Israel were a small object that Yahweh would give to the Philistines, whom he speaks of as if they were one person. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will allow the Philistines to do whatever they want to do to you and the people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

will be with me

This is a polite way to say that Saul will die. Alternate translation: "will be dead" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

Yahweh will also give the army of Israel into the hand of the Philistines

Samuel speaks as if the army of Israel were a small object that Yahweh would give to the Philistines, whom he speaks of as if they were one person. Alternate translation: "Yahweh will allow the Philistines to do whatever they want to do to the army of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

1 Samuel 28:20

he had eaten no food all that day, neither that whole night

Saul had not eaten during the night before he traveled from Gilboa (1 Samuel 28:4) to Endor (1 Samuel 28:7), nor during the day as he journeyed, nor during the night on which he visited the woman.

1 Samuel 28:21

I have put my life in my hand and have listened

This is an idiom. "I could die because I listened" or "Someone could kill me because I listened" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 28:22

the voice of your woman servant

The woman speaks as if she is another person to show that she respects Saul. She refers to herself by her "voice" to emphasize what she says. Alternate translation: "my voice" or "me speak to you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]] or [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

1 Samuel 28:23

Saul refused

"Saul would not do what they asked"

compelled him

"forced him"

1 Samuel 28:24

fatted calf

a calf that has been grown and fed to be available for a special feast

she ... kneaded it

She mixed flour and oil, working and rolling the mixture thoroughly with her hands to produce dough for baking.

1 Samuel 28:25

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 29

1 Samuel 29:intro-0

1 Samuel 29 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULB does this with the poetic song in 29:5.

Other possible translation difficulties

It is unclear whether David wanted to go into battle with the Philistines. He would have been fighting against Saul, but he also would have been fighting against Israel's soldiers. It is probably best to see that David is conflicted over this issue, but some scholars believe that David planned on turning against the Philistines in the battle.

1 Samuel 29:1

spring

a small stream of water flowing naturally from the Earth

1 Samuel 29:2

passed on by hundreds and by thousands

"divided their men into groups; some groups had one hundred soldiers and some groups had one thousand soldiers"

hundreds ... thousands

100s ... 1,000s (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

David and his men passed on in the rear guard with Achish

The groups of hundreds and thousands passed on first, then Achish and his helpers, and then David, his men, and the other Philistine soldiers, who were guarding Achish.

1 Samuel 29:3

What are these Hebrews doing here?

Possible ways to translate this rhetorical question as a statement are Alternate translation: 1) "You should not have allowed these Hebrews, our enemies, to be here with us." or 2) "Tell us who these Hebrews are." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

Is not this David ... these years, and I have found ... this day?

Another possible translation is "Is not this David, ... these years? I have found ... this day." The rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "You should know that this is David ... these years. I have found ... this day." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

I have found no fault with him

"I know of nothing that he has done wrong"

1 Samuel 29:4

He will not go down with us into battle

The person here is a synecdoche for the army he commands. Alternate translation: "Do not let his army join with our army against our enemies" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

For how else could he make himself acceptable to his master than by taking the heads of our own men?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Here "taking the heads" is a metonym for killing. Alternate translation: "The best way for David to make peace with his master would be by killing our soldiers!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 29:5

Is this not David of whom they sang one to another in dances, saying, 'Saul ... ten thousands'?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "You should not trust David—he is the one of whom they sang one to another in dances, saying, 'Saul ... ten thousands'!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

thousands ... ten thousands

"1,000s ... 10,000s" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 29:6

As Yahweh lives

This is an idiom. "As certainly as Yahweh lives" or "This is a true statement" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

your going out and your coming in with me in the army is good

"I am happy to have you go out and come in with me and my army" or "It is good that you go everywhere with me and my army"

1 Samuel 29:7

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 29:8

my master the king

David speaks as if Achish were another person so that Achish will think David respects him. Alternate translation: "you, my master and king" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-pronouns/01.md]])

1 Samuel 29:9

nevertheless, the princes

"even though that is true, this is more important: the princes" or "however, the princes"

1 Samuel 29:10

your master

The reader should understand that Achish is speaking of Saul.

have light

"can see with the morning sun"

1 Samuel 29:11

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 30

1 Samuel 30:intro-0

1 Samuel 30 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

# David fights the Amalekites

When David and his men arrive home, they find the Amalekites have raided Ziklag and taken everything. They catch and destroy them and bring back all of their goods and families. Then David sends gifts to all the cities in Judah through which they had traveled.

Links: ###=

1 Samuel 30:01 Notes

<< | >>

1 Samuel 30:1

Ziklag

Ziklag is a city in the southern part of Judah. This was where David and his men kept their families.

1 Samuel 30:2

they

the Amalekites

both small and great

Possible meanings are 1) "both unimportant people and important people" or 2) "both physically small and physically large."

1 Samuel 30:3

their wives ... sons ... daughters

belonging to David and his men

it was burned, and their wives ... daughters were taken captive

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: "they saw that someone had burned it and taken their wives ... captive" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

1 Samuel 30:4

the people that were with him

These were mainly his army of men.

1 Samuel 30:5

General Information:

David finds strength in Yahweh after the raid.

Ahinoam the Jezreelite woman

"Ahinoam from Jezreel"

Nabal the Carmelite

"Nabal the man from Carmel"

Ahinoam ... Abigail

women's names (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 30:6

distressed

suffering

all the people were bitter in spirit

The word "bitter" is a metaphor for the desire to rebel. The word "spirit" is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: "all the people were ready to rebel against David" or "all the people were very unhappy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

David strengthened himself in Yahweh, his God

Possible meanings are 1) "David took courage because he knew Yahweh his God would help him" or 2) "Yahweh his God made David strong."

1 Samuel 30:7

General Information:

David seeks Yahweh's direction in dealing with the raid on his people.

1 Samuel 30:8

David prayed to Yahweh for direction

The abstract noun "direction" can be translated as a clause. Alternate translation: "David prayed that Yahweh would tell David what David should do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

pursue

chase and try to catch

1 Samuel 30:9

six hundred men

600 men (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

brook

small stream

1 Samuel 30:10

kept pursuing

"kept chasing them, trying to catch them"

four hundred men

400 men (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

two hundred

200 men (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

who were so weak

They were tired from their own raids and now in pursuit of the Amalekites. They no longer had the strength to continue.

1 Samuel 30:11

an Egyptian in a field

He was left there to die from the Amalekite raiding party.

1 Samuel 30:12

clusters of raisins

"clusters of dried grapes"

1 Samuel 30:13

David said to him

David questioned the Egyptian slave.

three days ago

"three days in the past"

three days

3 days (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 30:14

a raid

an attack on a town to take property

1 Samuel 30:15

raiding party

a group of armed warriors who attack people or places unexpectedly

you will not ... betray me up into the hands of my master

Here "hands" refers to control. Alternate translation: "you will not ... violate the trust I have in you by allowing my master to control me again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

1 Samuel 30:16

booty

the goods they had stolen in the raid

1 Samuel 30:17

twilight

the time just after the sun goes down until the sky is dark

Not a man escaped except for four hundred young men

This double negative emphasizes that the four hundred young men were the only ones who escaped. Alternate translation: "The only ones who escaped were four hundred young men" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

four hundred

400 (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

1 Samuel 30:18

recovered ... rescued

"got back ... got back." These two words translate the same Hebrew word. Your language may also have a word for a person getting his own property back from the person who stole it that is different from the word for a person getting his wife back from those who have captured her.

rescued his two wives

"got his two wives back" or "saved his two wives from danger"

1 Samuel 30:19

Nothing was missing

"None of the items the Amalekites had stolen were lost"

neither small nor great

Possible meanings are 1) "neither unimportant people nor important people" or 2) "neither physically small nor physically large." See how you translated similar words in 1 Samuel 30:2.

booty

goods that the Amelekites had stolen. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 30:16.

1 Samuel 30:20

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 30:21

two hundred

200 (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-numbers/01.md]])

the brook Besor

a small stream or creek named Besor. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 30:9. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

greeted them

spoke to them in a friendly way

1 Samuel 30:22

the booty

the goods they had taken from the enemy in battle. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 30:16.

we have recovered

"we have regained" or "we have gotten back"

1 Samuel 30:23

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 30:24

Who will listen to you in this matter?

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement: Alternate translation: "No one will listen to you in this matter." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

as the share is for anyone who goes

The abstract noun "share" can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: "as what belongs to anyone who goes" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-abstractnouns/01.md]])

anyone who goes into battle

the warriors who actually fought the enemy in war

will share and share alike

"will make sure that all receive the same amount"

anyone who waits by the baggage

the people who supported the warriors by managing and guarding their supplies

baggage

belongings that the soldiers left behind when they went into battle

1 Samuel 30:25

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 30:26

Ziklag

This is the name of a town. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

booty

goods that David had taken from the Amalekites after the battle. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 30:16.

a present

"a gift"

1 Samuel 30:27

Connecting Statement:

The writer begins a list of towns whose elders received gifts from David.

Bethel ... Jattir

These are names of towns. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 30:28

Connecting Statement:

The writer continues the list that began in 1 Samuel 30:27 of towns whose elders received gifts from David.

Aroer ... Siphmoth ... Eshtemoa

These are names of towns. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 30:29

Connecting Statement:

The writer continues the list that began in 1 Samuel 30:27 of towns whose elders received gifts from David.

Rakal

This is the name of a town. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Jerahmeelites ... Kenites

These are the names of people groups. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 30:30

Connecting Statement:

The writer continues the list that began in 1 Samuel 30:27 of towns whose elders received gifts from David.

Hormah ... Bor Ashan ... Athak

These are names of towns. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 30:31

Connecting Statement:

The writer finishes the list that began in 1 Samuel 30:27 of towns whose elders received gifts from David.

1 Samuel 31

1 Samuel 31:intro-0

1 Samuel 31 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This is the end of the section on Saul, but the book continues in 2 Samuel 1.

Special concepts in this chapter

# Saul's punishment

Saul receives his punishment from God: death for his disobedience and resisting the will of God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/willofgod.md]])

1 Samuel 31:1

Now the Philistines fought against Israel

This battle was the result of the conflict between David and the Philistines in 1 Samuel 29:11. The writer has finished telling the story of David that began in 1 Samuel 30:1, and now he tells about the battle between the Israelites and the Philistines.

against Israel

"Israel" refers to the people who live there. Alternate translation: "against the people of Israel" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

Mount Gilboa

This is the name of a mountain (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 31:2

closely pursued Saul and his sons

"chased Saul and three of his sons"

Abinadab, and Malki-Shua

These are names of men. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 31:3

The battle went heavily against Saul

This is an idiom. "Saul's army began to lose the battle" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

1 Samuel 31:4

armor bearer

The armor bearer carried the large shield of his commanding officer and other weapons. He protected the commanding officer during a battle.

these uncircumcised

The nominal adjective "uncircumcised" can be translated as an adjective. Not being circumcised is a metonym for being foreigners. Alternate translation: "these men who have not been circumcised" or "these non-Israelite men" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-nominaladj/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

would not

The ellipsis can be filled in. Alternate translation: "would not do what Saul had told him to do" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]])

took his own sword and fell on it

"killed himself with his own sword"

1 Samuel 31:5

General Information:

This page has intentionally been left blank.

1 Samuel 31:6

that same day

"on that one day"

1 Samuel 31:7

lived in them

lived in the cities the men of Israel had left

1 Samuel 31:8

strip the dead

take the armor and weapons off the dead Israelites' bodies

Mount Gilboa

a mountain range overlooking the Valley of Jezreel in northern Israel, south of Nazareth (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 31:9

the land of the Philistines throughout

"all areas of the land of the Philistines"

to carry the news to their idols' temples and to the people

"to speak the news inside the temples and to the people"

their idols' temples

the buildings where they worshiped their idols

1 Samuel 31:10

Ashtoreths

ancient false goddesses and idols, also called "Asherah" or "Astarte"

fastened

attached, probably with a large spike or nail

Beth Shan

the name of a city (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

1 Samuel 31:11

Jabesh

This is the name of a town. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 11:1. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

what the Philistines had done to Saul

"how the Philistines had dishonored Saul"

1 Samuel 31:12

all night

"throughout the whole night"

1 Samuel 31:13

a tamarisk tree

This is a type of tree. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 22:6. Alternate translation: "a large shade tree" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-unknown/01.md]])

open-licensed biblical content

1 Samuel

1 Samuel front

1 Samuel front:intro

Introduction to 1 Samuel

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of 1 Samuel

What is the Book of 1 Samuel about?

How should the title of this book be translated?

What is the purpose of the Book of 1 Samuel?

Who wrote the Book of 1 Samuel?

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

Who is "Yahweh's anointed"?

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What are curses, as found in 1 Samuel and elsewhere?

How is the name "Israel" used in the Bible?

What is the meaning of the phrase "to this day"?

1 Samuel 1

1 Samuel 1:intro-0

1 Samuel 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Special concepts in this chapter

# Two wives

# "Pay his vow"

Important figures of speech in this chapter

# Idioms

Links:

1 Samuel 1:1

Ramathaim

the Zuphites

Elkanah ... Jeroham ... Elihu ... Tohu ... Zuph

1 Samuel 1:2

Peninnah

1 Samuel 1:3

This man

Yahweh

Eli, Hophni and Phinehas

1 Samuel 1:4

General Information:

1 Samuel 1:5

Hannah

closed her womb

1 Samuel 1:6

Her rival provoked her severely

1 Samuel 1:7

her rival

1 Samuel 1:8

Hannah, why do you weep? Why do you not eat? Why is your heart sad? Am I not better to you than ten sons?

than ten sons

1 Samuel 1:9

General Information:

Hannah rose up after

Now Eli the priest

the temple of Yahweh

1 Samuel 1:10

She was deeply distressed

1 Samuel 1:11

Connecting Statement:

the affliction of your servant

call me to mind

do not forget your servant

1 Samuel 1:12

Eli watched her

1 Samuel 1:13

General Information:

1 Samuel 1:14

General Information:

1 Samuel 1:15

I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit

pouring out my soul before Yahweh

1 Samuel 1:16

Do not consider your servant to be

I have been speaking out of the abundance of my great concern and provocation

concern and provocation

concern

provocation

1 Samuel 1:17

Then Eli answered

1 Samuel 1:18

Let your servant find