1 Samuel
1 Samuel front
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: How to Translate Names)
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: anoint, anointed, anointing and people of God and Christ, Messiah)
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: Israel, Israelites)
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 General Notes
Structure and formatting
This chapter introduces Samuel. It is the beginning of the section 1, Samuel chapters 1–7, which tell 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: law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God and sin, sinful, sinner, sinning and jealous, jealousy)
“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: INVALID bible/kt/vow)
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: Idiom)
The author also uses the phrase “call to mind.” This is a common idiom meaning “remember.”
1 Samuel 1:1
the Ramathaim
Quote: הָרָמָתַ֛יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a small village possibly located eight kilometers northwest of Jerusalem.
the Zuphites
Quote: צוֹפִ֖ים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
The phrase the Zuphites refers to the people group that descended from Zuph.
Ephraim
Quote: אֶפְרָ֑יִם (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Here, Ephraim refers to the land that was allotted to the people belonging to the Israelite tribe of Ephraim (See: Joshua 16:1–9).
was Elkanah, … Jeroham, … Elihu, … Tohu, … Zuph
Quote: אֶ֠לְקָנָה & יְרֹחָ֧ם & אֱלִיה֛וּא & תֹּ֥חוּ & צ֖וּף (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
an Ephraimite
Quote: אֶפְרָתִֽי (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Here, Ephraimite refers to anyone living in the territory of Ephraim.
1 Samuel 1:2
And for him
Quote: וְלוֹ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The pronoun him refers to Elkanah.
was Hannah … was Peninnah
Quote: חַנָּ֔ה & פְּנִנָּ֑ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of two women.
1 Samuel 1:3
that man
Quote: הָאִ֨ישׁ הַה֤וּא (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
The word that in the phrase that man is a demonstrative pronoun which refers to Elkanah. Alternate translation: “the man Elkanah”
And … went up
Quote: וְעָלָה֩ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
Here, went up indicates that in order to reach Shiloh, Elkanah had to travel from a lower location to a higher location because Shiloh was located in a mountainous region.
from days to days
Quote: מִיָּמִ֣ים׀ יָמִ֔ימָה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The expression days to days is a Hebrew idiom. Alternate translation: “year by year” or “annually”
Eli, Hophni and Phinehas
Quote: עֵלִ֗י & חָפְנִי֙ & וּפִ֣נְחָ֔ס (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
1 Samuel 1:4
portions
Quote: מָנֽוֹת (1)Here, portions refers to portions of meat. See UST. Alternate translation: “meat portions” or “portions of meat”
that he gave
Quote: וְנָתַ֞ן (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
Beginning here and continuing until the middle of verse 7, the author provides background information and explains what took place repeatedly year after year. The author does this to help readers better understand the story.
1 Samuel 1:5
But to Hannah
Quote: וּלְחַנָּ֕ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Hannah is a woman’s name. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 1:2.
one portion of two faces
Quote: מָנָ֥ה אַחַ֖ת אַפָּ֑יִם (1)The phrase, one portion of two faces could mean: (1) Elkanah gave Hannah a double portion. Alternate translation: “a double portion” (2) Elkanah gave Hannah especially desirable portions of meat. Alternate translation: “a special portion”
had shut her womb
Quote: סָגַ֥ר רַחְמָֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
The phrase shut her womb is used figuratively to mean that Yahweh had not allowed Hannah to become pregnant. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that would be most natural in your language. Alternative translation: “made her barren” or “prevented her from becoming pregnant”
portion
Quote: מָנָ֥ה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
Here, portion refers to the portion of meat that God let the people eat from the animal which they sacrificed.
1 Samuel 1:6
And her rival would provoke her, even with provocation in order to cause her to thunder
Quote: וְכִֽעֲסַ֤תָּה צָֽרָתָהּ֙ גַּם־כַּ֔עַס בַּעֲב֖וּר הַרְּעִמָ֑הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result
This means that Peninnah would intentionally seek ways to humiliate and mock Hannah so that she would feel emotionally disturbed and be greatly troubled in spirit. you could translate this in a way that would be most natural in your language. Alternate translation: “And Peninnah would intentionally provoke Hannah severely, for the purpose of hurting her feelings”
And her rival would provoke her, even with provocation
Quote: וְכִֽעֲסַ֤תָּה צָֽרָתָהּ֙ גַּם־כַּ֔עַס (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The word provocation is an abstract noun. If it would be more natural in your language you may translate this word using a verb phrase or adjective. Alternate translation: “And Peninnah would intentionally provoke Hannah severely”
her rival
Quote: צָֽרָתָהּ֙ (1)Here, her rival refers to Hannah’s rival Peninnah. It is probable that Elkanah took Peninnah as his second wife after Hannah was unable to bear children so that he could have offspring by Penninah. This would result in Hannah and Peninnah viewing each other as rivals. you could use a word or phrase that would be most natural in your language. Alternate translation: “his second wife” or “her co-wife”
cause her to thunder
Quote: הַרְּעִמָ֑הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
The phrase cause her to thunder is a figurative way of saying that Peninnah’s actions caused Hannah to be greatly irritated or troubled. The point of this comparison is that Peninnah would cause Hannah to be greatly bothered and disrupted in a way that is similar to the sky being disrupted to the point of thundering. you could communicate this in a way which would be most natural in your language.
shut up her womb
Quote: בְּעַ֥ד רַחְמָֽהּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
The phrase shut up her womb is a used figuratively to mean that Yahweh had not allowed Hannah to become pregnant. You can use a phrase that would be most natural in your language. Alternative translation: “made her barren” or “prevented her from becoming pregnant”
1 Samuel 1:7
she went up
Quote: עֲלֹתָהּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
Here, went up indicates that in order to reach Shiloh, Elkanah had to travel from a lower location to a higher location because Shiloh was located in a mountainous region. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 1:3.
she went up
Quote: עֲלֹתָהּ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns
Here, she refers to Hannah.
1 Samuel 1:8
why do you weep? And why do you not eat? And why is your heart displeased? Am I not better to you than ten sons
Quote: לָ֣מֶה תִבְכִּ֗י וְלָ֨מֶה֙ לֹ֣א תֹֽאכְלִ֔י וְלָ֖מֶה יֵרַ֣ע לְבָבֵ֑ךְ הֲל֤וֹא אָֽנֹכִי֙ ט֣וֹב לָ֔ךְ מֵעֲשָׂרָ֖ה בָּנִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
These rhetorical questions can be translated as statements, if it would be helpful in your language. Alternate translation: “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.”
Am I not better to you than ten sons
Quote: הֲל֤וֹא אָֽנֹכִי֙ ט֣וֹב לָ֔ךְ מֵעֲשָׂרָ֖ה בָּנִֽים (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
Elkanah is intentionally exaggerating to emphasize what he wants Hannah to understand. Alternate translation: “Am I not better to you than any son could be”
1 Samuel 1:9
And Hannah got up after
Quote: וַתָּ֣קָם חַנָּ֔ה אַחֲרֵ֛י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Here, implicit information can be made explicit. This could mean: (1) Hannah’s tent was next to the tabernacle tent. (2) Hannah walked from her tent to the tabernacle to pray. Alternate translation: “Hannah rose up and went to the house of Yahweh to pray after”
Now Eli
Quote: וְעֵלִ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
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.
the temple of
Quote: הֵיכַ֥ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
Here, the temple was actually a tent, but it was where the people worshiped, so it is translated as temple here. You could use an equivalent word or phrase to describe temple in your language.
1 Samuel 1:10
And she was bitter of spirit, and she prayed to Yahweh and wept abundantly
Quote: וְהִ֖יא מָ֣רַת נָ֑פֶשׁ וַתִּתְפַּלֵּ֥ל עַל־יְהוָ֖ה וּבָכֹ֥ה תִבְכֶּֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Hannah prayed to Yahweh because she was greatly grieved because she was not able to have any children and because Peninnah regularly ridiculed her. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly.
was bitter of spirit
Quote: מָ֣רַת נָ֑פֶשׁ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
The phrase bitter of spirit is a simile. The point of this comparison is that Hannah’s emotional state was very unpleasant and undesirable, comparable to the unpleasant experience of eating something very bitter tasting. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “was greatly distressed”
1 Samuel 1:11
And she vowed a vow
Quote: וַתִּדֹּ֨ר נֶ֜דֶר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The phrase vowed a vow is a way of saying that Hannah made a promise. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “made a promise”
and said
Quote: וַתֹּאמַ֗ר (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
Here, and said is introducing the authors quotation of Hannah’s prayer. Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “and this is what she prayed”
Yahweh of hosts, if you will indeed look on the affliction of your female servant and remember me, and not forget your female servant, and give to your female servant a seed of men, then I will give him to Yahweh all the days of his life, and a razor will not go up on his head
Quote: יְהוָ֨ה צְבָא֜וֹת אִם־רָאֹ֥ה תִרְאֶ֣ה׀ בָּעֳנִ֣י אֲמָתֶ֗ךָ וּזְכַרְתַּ֨נִי֙ וְלֹֽא־תִשְׁכַּ֣ח אֶת־אֲמָתֶ֔ךָ וְנָתַתָּ֥ה לַאֲמָתְךָ֖ זֶ֣רַע אֲנָשִׁ֑ים וּנְתַתִּ֤יו לַֽיהוָה֙ כָּל־יְמֵ֣י חַיָּ֔יו וּמוֹרָ֖ה לֹא־יַעֲלֶ֥ה עַל־רֹאשֽׁוֹ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations
This portion is the authors quotation of Hannah’s prayer to Yahweh.
on the affliction of your female servant
Quote: בָּעֳנִ֣י אֲמָתֶ֗ךָ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The abstract noun affliction can be translated as a verbal phrase. This could mean: (1) Hannah’s emotional suffering because she was unable to become pregnant. Alternate translation: “on how I am suffering because I cannot become pregnant” (2) Hannah’s emotional suffering because of Peninnah’s frequent insults and taunts. Alternate translation: “on how that woman is afflicting me”
and remember me, and not forget
Quote: וּזְכַרְתַּ֨נִי֙ וְלֹֽא־תִשְׁכַּ֣ח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine these two phrases. Alternate translation: “and indeed remember”
and remember me, and not forget
Quote: וּזְכַרְתַּ֨נִי֙ וְלֹֽא־תִשְׁכַּ֣ח (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
Hannah does not actually think that Yahweh is unaware of her situation or has forgotten about it. Rather, this is an emphatic and urgent way of asking Yahweh to act on her behalf by answering her prayer for a son. Alternate translation: “and give heed to, and act on behalf of”
then I will give him
Quote: וּנְתַתִּ֤יו (1)This portion of Hannah’s prayer begins her promise to Yahweh. She tells Yahweh that if he gives her, her request for a son, she will dedicate the child to Yahweh all the days of his life and not give him a haircut. She begins her promise with the phrase then I will give. If your language has a specific way that it would introduce a promise in this context, you may consider using it here if it would be natural in your language. Alternative translation: “then I promise I will give him”
1 Samuel 1:12
when she increased to pray
Quote: כִּ֣י הִרְבְּתָ֔ה לְהִתְפַּלֵּ֖ל (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase increased to pray is a Hebrew idiom. It means that Hannah was continuing in prayer, or making her prayers many. It is used here to show that Hannah was praying for a long time. Alternate translation: “when she continued praying”
before the face of
Quote: לִפְנֵ֣י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase before the face of is a Hebrew idiom. It is used to show that something takes place in front of or in the presence of someone or something else. It is used here to show that Hannah was praying in the presence of Yahweh. Use the term or phrase in your language that would most naturally communicate that something takes place in front of someone or in the presence of someone. Alternate translation: “in the presence of”
that Eli
Quote: וְעֵלִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
Eli was the chief priest, so he was in the tabernacle of God and in charge of it.
1 Samuel 1:13
Now Hannah, she was speaking to her heart, only her lips were quivering and her voice was not heard. So Eli thought of her as drunk
Quote: וְחַנָּ֗ה הִ֚יא מְדַבֶּ֣רֶת עַל־לִבָּ֔הּ רַ֚ק שְׂפָתֶ֣יהָ נָּע֔וֹת וְקוֹלָ֖הּ לֹ֣א יִשָּׁמֵ֑עַ וַיַּחְשְׁבֶ֥הָ עֵלִ֖י לְשִׁכֹּרָֽה (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal
If it would be misunderstood in you language, you could arrange the order of events in a way that is most natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Now Hannah was silently praying. And Eli assumed that she was drunk, because she was not making any sound, only her lips were moving”
was speaking to her heart
Quote: מְדַבֶּ֣רֶת עַל־לִבָּ֔הּ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here, heart is used figuratively. Use the term or phrase that would be most natural in your language. If you do not have a figurative way to express this in your language you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. See UST.
1 Samuel 1:14
Until when will you make yourself drunk
Quote: עַד־מָתַ֖י תִּשְׁתַּכָּרִ֑ין (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Eli is stating this in the form of a question for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or as an exclamation. See UST.
1 Samuel 1:15
my master
Quote: אֲדֹנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
The phrase my master is a way of politely or respectfully addressing someone. If you have an equivalent term or phrase in your language, consider using that. Alternate translation: “my lord” or “sir”
difficult of spirit
Quote: קְשַׁת־ר֨וּחַ֙ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase difficult of spirit is a Hebrew idiom. Alternative translation: “troubled of spirit” or “very unhappy”
but I have been pouring out my soul
Quote: וָאֶשְׁפֹּ֥ךְ אֶת־נַפְשִׁ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase pouring out refers to emptying the contents of what is inside something. Here it is used figuratively, and so the phrase pouring out my soul means telling Yahweh one’s troubles or deepest emotions. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but I have been telling my troubles” or “but I have been telling my deepest emotions”
before the face of
Quote: לִפְנֵ֥י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The phrase before the face of is a Hebrew idiom. It is used to show that something takes place in front of or in the presence of someone or something else. It is used here to show that Hannah was praying in the presence of Yahweh. Use the term or phrase in your language that would most naturally communicate that something takes place in front of someone or in the presence of someone. Alternate translation: “in the presence of”
1 Samuel 1:16
your female servant
Quote: אֲמָ֣תְךָ֔ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Hannah speaks of herself in the third person to show humility. If it would be helpful in your language, you may use a first person pronoun here. Alternate translation: “me”
your female servant
Quote: אֲמָ֣תְךָ֔ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
Here, Hannah calls herself Eli’s female servant as a humble way of showing respect. Hannah was not actually Eli’s servant. If you have an equivalent term or phrase in your language consider using it here if it would be natural.
from the abundance of my complaint and my provocation
Quote: מֵרֹ֥ב שִׂיחִ֛י וְכַעְסִ֖י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
Here, Hannah tells Eli why she is praying the way that she is. Hannah uses three abstract nouns, abundance, complaint,* and provocation.** If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate these using verbs, adjectives, or adverbs. Alternate translation: “because I am very troubled, and my rival has greatly provoked me”
1 Samuel 1:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then Eli answered (0)Eli was the head priest residing over the tabernacle.
1 Samuel 1:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Let your servant find (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: find favor in your eyes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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 also: Metaphor)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ate; her face was (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
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”
1 Samuel 1:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Elkanah knew Hannah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “Elkanah had sexual relations with Hannah”
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Quote: remembered her (0)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
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Quote: Hannah conceived (0)Alternate translation: “Hannah became pregnant”
1 Samuel 1:21
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Quote: his house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” is a metonym for the people who lived in the house. Alternate translation: “his family”
1 Samuel 1:22
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Quote: is weaned (0)stops drinking milk and starts eating only solid food
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Quote: he may appear before Yahweh and live there forever (0)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
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Quote: nursed her son (0)Alternate translation: “gave her son milk”
1 Samuel 1:24
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Quote: ephah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume
An ephah is about 22 liters of dry material.
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Quote: bottle (0)Wine was kept in animal skins, not glass bottles.
1 Samuel 1:26
As your spirit is alive
Quote: חֵ֥י נַפְשְׁךָ֖ (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula
The phrase As your spirit is alive is an oath formula. If you have a term or phrase that would be most natural in your language to express an oath in this context, consider using that. Alternative translation:
Please, my master
Quote: בִּ֣י אֲדֹנִ֔י (1)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness
The phrase Please, my master is a respectful way of addressing someone of higher status. Use the term or phrase that would be most natural in your language for addressing someone of higher status in this context. If your language has a specific way that a woman would address a man of higher status consider using that. Alternate translation: “Please, sir”
1 Samuel 1:27
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Quote: has given me my petition which I asked of him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
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 also: Idiom)
1 Samuel 1:28
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Quote: he is lent to Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “I am loaning him to Yahweh”
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Quote: he worshiped Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
This could mean: (1) “He” refers to Elkanah or (2) “he” is a synecdoche referring to both Elkanah and his family. Alternate translation: “Elkanah and his family”
1 Samuel 2
1 Samuel 2 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 ULT 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: sin, sinful, sinner, sinning and godly, godliness, ungodly, godless, ungodliness, godlessness and prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess)
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: Synecdoche)
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: Metonymy)
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: Metaphor)
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: Rhetorical Question)
1 Samuel 2:1
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismGeneral Information:
Hannah recites a song to Yahweh.
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Quote: My heart exults (0)Alternate translation: “I have great joy”
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Quote: in Yahweh (0)Alternate translation: “because of who Yahweh is” or “because Yahweh is so great”
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Quote: My horn is exalted (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
A horn is a symbol of strength. Alternate translation: “I am now strong”
1 Samuel 2:2
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismHannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh.
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Quote: there is no rock like our God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This is another way of saying that God is strong and faithful.
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Quote: rock (0)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
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismHannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh. She speaks as if other people were listening to her.
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Quote: no arrogance (0)Alternate translation: “no arrogant words”
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Quote: by him actions are weighed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he weighs people’s actions” or “he understands why people act as they do”
1 Samuel 2:4
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismHannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh.
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Quote: The bow of the mighty men are broken (0)This could mean: (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”
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Quote: The bow of the mighty men are broken (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh breaks the bows of the mighty men” or “Yahweh can make even the strongest of people weak”
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Quote: those who stumble put on strength like a belt (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
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Quote: put on … a belt (0)This is the general term for putting something around one’s waist to prepare for work.
1 Samuel 2:5
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismHannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh.
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Quote: gives birth to seven (0)Alternate translation: “gives birth to seven children”
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Quote: languishes (0)becomes weak and sad and lonely
1 Samuel 2:6
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismHannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh.
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Quote: Yahweh kills … brings to life … brings down … raises up (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
Yahweh is in control of everything.
1 Samuel 2:7
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismHannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh.
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Quote: makes some people poor … some rich … humbles … lifts up (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
Yahweh is in control of everything.
1 Samuel 2:8
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismHannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh.
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Quote: out of the dust … from the ash heap (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
These are metaphors for the lowest position in society.
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Quote: the needy (0)people who do not have the things that they need
1 Samuel 2:9
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismHannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh.
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Quote: guard the feet of his faithful people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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 also: Metaphor)
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Quote: the wicked will be put to silence in darkness (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
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”
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Quote: the wicked will be put to silence (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The words “be put to silence” are an idiom for “be made silent.” If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will make them silent” (See also: Active or Passive)
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Quote: by strength (0)Alternate translation: “because he is strong”
1 Samuel 2:10
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismHannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh.
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Quote: Those who oppose Yahweh will be broken (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will break those who oppose him”
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Quote: broken to pieces (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means “defeated.”
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Quote: the ends of the earth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means everywhere. Alternate translation: “the whole earth”
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Quote: exalt the horn of his anointed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
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Quote: his anointed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
This speaks of the person that Yahweh chose and empowered for his purposes as if Yahweh had anointed the person with oil. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the one he has anointed” or “the one he has chosen” (See also: Active or Passive)
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.
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Quote: did not know Yahweh (0)Alternate translation: “did not listen to Yahweh” or “did not obey Yahweh”
1 Samuel 2:13
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Quote: custom (0)A custom is an action that people regularly do.
1 Samuel 2:14
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Quote: into the pan, or kettle, or cauldron, or pot (0)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”
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Quote: pan (0)a small metal container for boiling and cooking
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Quote: kettle (0)a large, heavy metal container for boiling and cooking
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Quote: cauldron (0)a large, heavy metal container for boiling and cooking
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Quote: pot (0)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.
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Quote: Worse, before (0)Alternate translation: “They even did something worse than that. Before”
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Quote: they burned (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
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Quote: Give meat to roast for the priest (0)Alternate translation: “Give me some meat so I can give it to the priest so he can roast it”
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Quote: roast (0)cook over a fire
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Quote: boiled (0)cooked in water
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Quote: raw (0)not cooked
1 Samuel 2:17
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Quote: despised Yahweh’s offering (0)The young men did not like Yahweh’s instructions regarding the offering and paid no attention to them.
1 Samuel 2:20
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Quote: because of the request she made of Yahweh (0)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
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Quote: before Yahweh (0)This means where Yahweh could see him and Samuel could learn about Yahweh.
1 Samuel 2:22
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Quote: they were lying with the women (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “they were having sexual relations with the women”
1 Samuel 2:23
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Quote: Why do you do such things? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “It is terrible that you do such things!”
1 Samuel 2:25
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Quote: who will speak for him? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “there is certainly no one who can speak for him.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: speak for him (0)Alternate translation: “ask Yahweh to have mercy on him”
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Quote: the voice of their father (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here the father’s “voice” represents the father. Alternate translation: “their father” or “what their father said”
1 Samuel 2:27
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Quote: man of God (0)This phrase usually means a prophet of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “a man who hears and tells words from God”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Did I not reveal myself … house? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should know that I revealed myself … house.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of your ancestor (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” is a metonym for the people who lived in the house. Alternate translation: “the family of your ancestor”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your ancestor (0)Aaron
1 Samuel 2:28
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Quote: to go up to my altar, and to burn incense (0)This refers to making an offering to Yahweh.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to wear an ephod before me (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
1 Samuel 2:29
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Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
The man of God continues to speak to Eli.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why, then, do you scorn my sacrifices … live? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This rhetorical question is a rebuke. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not scorn my sacrifices … where I live.”
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Quote: the place where I live (0)Alternate translation: “the place where my people bring offerings to me”
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Quote: making yourselves fat with the best of every offering (0)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
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Quote: the house of your ancestor (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” is a metonym for the people who lived in the house. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 2:27. Alternate translation: “the family of your ancestor”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: should walk before me (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means “live in obedience to me.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Far be it from me to do this (0)Alternate translation: “I will certainly not allow your family to serve me forever”
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Quote: those who despise me will be lightly esteemed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony
The words “lightly esteemed” is an ironic euphemism for “greatly despised.” If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will lightly esteem those who despise me” or “I will greatly despise those who despise me” (See also: Euphemism and Active or Passive)
1 Samuel 2:31
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Quote: See (0)Alternate translation: “Listen carefully to what I am about to say” or “What I am about to say is very important”
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Quote: I will cut off your strength and the strength of your father’s house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
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 also: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: be any old man (0)Alternate translation: “be any old men” or “be any men who grow old”
1 Samuel 2:33
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: cause your eyes to fail (0)Alternate translation: “cause you to lose your eyesight” or “cause you to go blind”
1 Samuel 2:35
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Quote: I will raise up … a faithful priest (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “I will cause a man to become priest”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for myself (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “to serve me”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what is in my heart and in my soul (0)Alternate translation: “what I want him to do and what I tell him to do”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I will build him a sure house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “house” is an idiom used for “descendants.” Alternate translation: “I will ensure that he always has a descendant who serves as high priest”
1 Samuel 2:36
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: him (0)the faithful priest whom God will raise up
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so I can eat a piece of bread (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “piece of bread” is used for “food. “Alternate translation: “so I can have something to eat”
1 Samuel 3
1 Samuel 3 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: Metonymy)
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: prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess and Idiom)
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: curse, cursed, cursing)
1 Samuel 3:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh’s word was rare (0)Alternate translation: “Yahweh did not often speak to people”
1 Samuel 3:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The lamp of God (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the temple of Yahweh (0)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 3:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my son (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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.
1 Samuel 3:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: nor had any message from Yahweh ever been revealed to him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “nor had Yahweh ever revealed any message to him” or “and Yahweh had never revealed any message to him”
1 Samuel 3:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your servant is (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
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”
1 Samuel 3:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh came and stood (0)This could mean: (1) Yahweh actually appeared and stood before Samuel or (2) Yahweh made his presence known to Samuel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your servant is (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
Samuel speaks to Yahweh as if Samuel were another person to show respect to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I am”
1 Samuel 3:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: at which the ears of everyone who hears it will tingle (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: tingle (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from beginning to end (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
This is a merism for completeness. Alternate translation: “absolutely everything”
1 Samuel 3:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: brought a curse upon themselves (0)Alternate translation: “did those things which Yahweh had said he would punish those who did them”
1 Samuel 3:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the sins of his house will never be atoned for by sacrifice or offering (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the sins of his house (0)Alternate translation: “the sins that the people in his family have committed”
1 Samuel 3:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the house of Yahweh (0)The “house” was actually a tent, but it would be best to translate “house” here.
1 Samuel 3:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my son (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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.
1 Samuel 3:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the word he spoke (0)Alternate translation: “the message Yahweh gave”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: May God do so to you, and even more (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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”
1 Samuel 3:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he let none of his prophetic words fall to the ground (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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 also: Litotes)
1 Samuel 3:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All Israel (0)Alternate translation: “All the people in Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from Dan to Beersheba (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Samuel was appointed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh had appointed”
1 Samuel 4
1 Samuel 4 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: Rhetorical Question)
1 Samuel 4:1
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Quote: Ebenezer … Aphek (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of places.
1 Samuel 4:2
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Quote: Israel was defeated by the Philistines, who killed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “the Philistines defeated the Israelites and killed”
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Quote: about four thousand men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
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”
1 Samuel 4:3
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Quote: the people (0)the soldiers who had been fighting the battle
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Quote: Why has Yahweh defeated us today before the Philistines? Let us bring … enemies (0)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
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Quote: who sits above the cherubim (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
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Quote: Phinehas (0)This Phinehas is not the same as the grandson of Aaron in Exodus and Numbers.
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Quote: were there (0)were in Shiloh
1 Samuel 4:5
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Quote: When the ark of the covenant of Yahweh came into the camp (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“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”
1 Samuel 4:6
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Quote: the ark of Yahweh had come into the camp (0)Alternate translation: “the people had carried the ark of Yahweh into the camp”
1 Samuel 4:7
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Quote: they said … They said (0)“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.
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Quote: A god has come (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
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.”
1 Samuel 4:8
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Quote: Who will protect us from the strength of these mighty gods? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
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Quote: these mighty gods … the gods who attacked (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
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.
1 Samuel 4:9
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Quote: be men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “be strong and fight”
1 Samuel 4:10
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Quote: Israel was defeated (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Also, “Israel” refers to the army of Israel. Alternate translation: “they defeated the army of Israel” (See also: Synecdoche)
1 Samuel 4:11
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Quote: The ark of God was taken (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The Philistines also took the ark of God”
1 Samuel 4:12
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Quote: clothes torn and earth on his head (0)This is a way to express deep mourning in Israelite culture.
1 Samuel 4:13
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Quote: his heart trembled with concern (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom which means he was very fearful or terribly concerned about something.
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Quote: the whole city (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This is a metonym for “all the people in the city.”
1 Samuel 4:14
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Quote: The man (0)Alternate translation: “The man of Benjamin”
1 Samuel 4:16
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Quote: my son (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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.
1 Samuel 4:17
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Quote: Israel fled from the Philistines (0)This is a general statement about what happened. The rest of the man’s words give details.
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Quote: Also, there has been … people. Also, your two sons (0)Alternate translation: “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”
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Quote: the ark of God has been taken (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the Philistines have taken the ark of God”
1 Samuel 4:18
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Quote: When he mentioned (0)Alternate translation: “When the man of Benjamin mentioned”
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Quote: mentioned (0)Alternate translation: “spoke of”
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Quote: His neck was broken (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “His neck broke because he fell” or “He broke his neck when he fell”
1 Samuel 4:19
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Quote: his daughter-in-law (0)Eli’s daughter-in-law
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Quote: the ark of God was captured (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the Philistines had captured the ark of God”
1 Samuel 4:20
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Quote: take what they said to heart (0)Alternate translation: “pay any attention to what they said” or “allow herself to feel better”
1 Samuel 4:21
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Quote: Ichabod (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
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.
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Quote: for the ark of God had been captured (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “for the Philistines had captured the ark of God”
1 Samuel 4:22
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Quote: the ark of God has been captured (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “because the Philistines have captured the ark of God”
1 Samuel 5
1 Samuel 5 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: temple, house, house of God)
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: Idiom)
1 Samuel 5:1
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Quote: Now (0)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.
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Quote: ark of God (0)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
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Quote: house of Dagon (0)This refers to the temple of Dagon, the god of the Philistines.
1 Samuel 5:3
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Quote: behold, Dagon (0)Alternate translation: “they were very surprised to see that Dagon”
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Quote: Dagon had fallen facedown on the ground (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The reader should understand that Yahweh had caused the statue to fall on its face during the night.
1 Samuel 5:4
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Quote: Dagon had fallen (0)The reader should understand that Yahweh had caused Dagon to fall.
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Quote: The head of Dagon and both of his hands were lying cut off (0)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
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Quote: This is why, even today (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The writer is about to give some background information separate from the main story.
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Quote: even today (0)Here “today” means up to the day when the author was writing this book.
1 Samuel 5:6
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Quote: Yahweh’s hand was heavy upon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. “Yahweh severely judged”
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Quote: tumors (0)This could mean: (1) painful swelling under the skin or (2) hemorrhoids.
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Quote: both Ashdod and its territories (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
1 Samuel 5:7
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Quote: the men of Ashdod realized (0)Alternate translation: “the men of Ashdod understood”
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Quote: ark of the God of Israel (0)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 5:9
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Quote: Yahweh’s hand was against (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “Yahweh punished”
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Quote: both small and great (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
This could mean: (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”
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Quote: tumors (0)This could mean: (1) painful swelling under the skin or (2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 5:6
1 Samuel 5:10
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Quote: cried out (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Why they cried out can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “cried out in fear”
1 Samuel 5:11
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Quote: the ark of the God of Israel (0)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.
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Quote: the God of Israel (0)This could mean: (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.
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Quote: there was a deathly panic throughout the city (0)Alternate translation: “people all over the city were afraid that they were going to die”
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Quote: the hand of God was very heavy there (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The hand is a metonym for God punishing the people. “Yahweh was punishing the people there very severely”
1 Samuel 5:12
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Quote: The men who did not die (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This implies that many men actually died.
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Quote: tumors (0)This could mean: (1) painful swelling under the skin or (2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 5:6.
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Quote: the cry of the city went up to the heavens (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “city” is a metonym for the people of the city. This could mean: (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 also: Idiom)
1 Samuel 6
1 Samuel 6 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 6:2
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Quote: the priests and the diviners (0)These were pagan priests and diviners who worshiped Dagon.
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Quote: Tell us how we should send it (0)The Philistines wanted to know how to get rid of the ark without angering Yahweh any further.
1 Samuel 6:3
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Quote: the God of Israel (0)This could mean: (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.
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Quote: by all means send him a guilt offering (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The words “by all means” are a forceful way of saying something. Alternate translation: “you must send a guilt offering”
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Quote: you will be healed (0)Alternate translation: “you will no longer be ill”
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Quote: you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you
The pronoun “you” is plural, referring to all of the Philistines.
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Quote: why his hand has not been lifted off of you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand” is a metonym used to represent God’s power to afflict or discipline. Alternate translation: “why he has not relieved your suffering”
1 Samuel 6:4
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Quote: tumors (0)This could mean: (1) painful swelling under the skin or (2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 5:6.
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Quote: mice (0)more than one mouse
1 Samuel 6:5
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Quote: models (0)A model is something that looks like a real thing.
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Quote: tumors (0)This could mean: (1) painful swelling under the skin or (2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 5:6.
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Quote: that ravage (0)Alternate translation: “that are destroying”
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Quote: the God of Israel (0)This could mean: (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.
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Quote: lift his hand from you, from your gods, and from your land (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
1 Samuel 6:6
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Quote: Why should you harden your hearts, as the Egyptians and Pharaoh hardened their hearts? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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!”
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Quote: harden your hearts (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means to be stubborn or unwilling to obey God. Alternate translation: “refuse to obey God”
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Quote: did not the Egyptians send away the people, and they left? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “remember that the Egyptians sent the Israelites out of Egypt.”
1 Samuel 6:7
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Quote: two nursing cows (0)Alternate translation: “two cows that have calves that are still drinking milk”
1 Samuel 6:8
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Quote: Then send it off and let it go its own way (0)Normally the two cows would head back home to their calves.
1 Samuel 6:9
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Quote: if it goes … to Beth Shemesh, then it is Yahweh (0)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
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Quote: two nursing cows (0)“two cows that have calves that are still drinking milk” See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 6:7.
1 Samuel 6:11
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Quote: mice (0)Translated this as in 1 Samuel 6:4.
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Quote: castings of their tumors (0)Alternate translation: “models of their tumors”
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Quote: tumors (0)This could mean: (1) painful swelling under the skin or (2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 5:6.
1 Samuel 6:12
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Quote: The cows went straight in the direction of Beth Shemesh (0)Nursing cows would normally return to their calves, but these cows went to Beth Shemesh.
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Quote: lowing as they went (0)Lowing is the noise cows make with their voices.
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Quote: they did not turn aside either to the right or to the left (0)Alternate translation: “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
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Quote: Now (0)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.
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Quote: people of Beth Shemesh (0)These were Israelites.
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Quote: lifted up their eyes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “looked up”
1 Samuel 6:14
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Quote: A great stone was there (0)The people used this stone as an altar when they offered the cows as sacrifices.
1 Samuel 6:15
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Quote: The Levites took down the ark of Yahweh (0)This actually happened before they chopped the cart into firewood to use in offering the cows to Yahweh.
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Quote: The Levites took down the ark (0)According to the law of Moses, only the Levites were permitted to handle the ark.
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Quote: the box that was with it, where the golden figures were (0)Alternate translation: “the box containing the gold models of the rats and the tumors”
1 Samuel 6:16
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Quote: the five rulers of the Philistines (0)Alternate translation: “the five Philistine kings”
1 Samuel 6:17
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Quote: tumors (0)This could mean: (1) painful swelling under the skin or (2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 5:6.
1 Samuel 6:18
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Quote: mice (0)Translated this as in 1 Samuel 6:4.
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Quote: fortified cities (0)These are cities with high walls around them to protect the people inside from attack by their enemies.
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Quote: The great stone … remains a witness (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
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”
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Quote: Joshua (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a man’s name.
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Quote: the Bethshemite (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is what a person from Beth Shemesh is called. Alternate translation: “from Beth Shemesh”
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Quote: to this day (0)to the time at which the writer wrote the book
1 Samuel 6:19
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Quote: they had looked into the ark (0)The ark was so holy that no one was permitted to look inside it. Only the priests were allowed to even see the ark.
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Quote: 50,070 men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“fifty thousand and seventy men”
1 Samuel 6:20
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Quote: Who is able to stand before Yahweh, this holy God? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This could mean: (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 also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
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Quote: To whom will the ark go up from us? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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?”
1 Samuel 6:21
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Quote: Kiriath Jearim (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This was a town in Israel.
1 Samuel 7
1 Samuel 7 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: Idiom)
1 Samuel 7:1
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Quote: Kiriath Jearim (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
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Quote: Abinadab … Eleazar (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
1 Samuel 7:2
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Quote: twenty years (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“20 years”
1 Samuel 7:3
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Quote: the entire house of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
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Quote: return to Yahweh with your whole heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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”
1 Samuel 7:5
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Quote: all Israel (0)Alternate translation: “all the people of Israel” or “all the Israelites”
1 Samuel 7:6
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Quote: drew water and poured it out before Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This could mean: (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.
1 Samuel 7:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the rulers of the Philistines attacked Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
1 Samuel 7:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: save us from the hand of the Philistines (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
1 Samuel 7:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: nursing lamb (0)a lamb that is still drinking its mother’s milk
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: cried out (0)Alternate translation: “cried out for help”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh answered him (0)Alternate translation: “Yahweh did what Samuel asked him to do”
1 Samuel 7:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: As Samuel … they were routed before Israel (0)This begins to explain what the writer means by “Yahweh answered him” in (1 Samuel 7:9).
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: threw them into confusion (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they were routed before Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. This could mean: (1) “Yahweh routed them before Israel” or (2) “Israel routed them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: routed (0)To rout people is to defeat them before they can cause any harm.
1 Samuel 7:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The men of Israel … Beth Kar (0)This finishes explaining what the writer means by “Yahweh answered him” in (1 Samuel 7:9).
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Beth Kar (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
1 Samuel 7:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: took a stone and set it (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Mizpah … Shen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of places.
1 Samuel 7:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So the Philistines were subdued (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Philistines were subdued (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh subdued the Philistines” or “Yahweh kept the Philistines from causing harm”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they did not enter the border of Israel (0)The Philistines did not enter Israel’s border to attack them.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The hand of Yahweh was against the Philistines (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “hand” is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: “Yahweh used his power against the Philistines”
1 Samuel 7:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The towns … from Israel were restored to Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This could mean: (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 also: Metonymy)
1 Samuel 7:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: went on a circuit (0)traveled from place to place in a rough circle
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He decided disputes (0)Disputes are arguments or disagreements between two or more people.
1 Samuel 8
1 Samuel 8 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: appoint, appointed, INVALID bible/other/oppress and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information and sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)
1 Samuel 8:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: chased after dishonest gain (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: perverted justice (0)Alternate translation: “judged in favor of those who did evil”
1 Samuel 8:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: do not walk in your ways (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Appoint for us a king to judge us like all the nations (0)This could mean: (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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Appoint for us a king to judge us (0)The leaders wrongly believed that a king, and his sons after him, would rule justly.
1 Samuel 8:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: But it displeased Samuel … Give us a king to judge us (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Obey the voice of the people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “the voice” is a metonym for the will or the desire of the people. Alternate translation: “Do what the people say”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: but they have rejected me (0)Yahweh knew that the people were not just rejecting corrupt judges, but they were rejecting Yahweh as their king.
1 Samuel 8:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I brought them out of Egypt (0)This refers to Yahweh freeing the Israelites from slavery in Egypt many years before.
1 Samuel 8:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now listen to them (0)Alternate translation: “Now do what they are asking you to do”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: warn them solemnly (0)Alternate translation: “be very serious as you warn them”
1 Samuel 8:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: This will be the practice … He will take (0)The practice of the king will be to take. This begins the list of things he will take.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: This will be the practice of the king who will reign over you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word practice, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. 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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: appoint them to his chariots (0)Alternate translation: “have them drive chariots in battle”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: be his horsemen (0)They will ride horses into battle.
1 Samuel 8:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
Samuel continues to tell what things the king will take.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to be perfumers (0)Alternate translation: “to make good-smelling oils to put on his body”
1 Samuel 8:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: olive orchards (0)Alternate translation: “fields of olive trees”
1 Samuel 8:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a tenth of your grain (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction
They will have to divide their grain into ten equal parts and give one of those parts to the king’s officers and servants.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a tenth … of your vineyards (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction
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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: officers (0)These are the leaders of the king’s army.
1 Samuel 8:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
Samuel continues to tell what things the king will take.
1 Samuel 8:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the tenth of your flocks (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction
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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you will be his slaves (0)Alternate translation: “you will feel as if you are his slaves”
1 Samuel 8:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you will cry out (0)This could mean: (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 8:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he repeated them in the ears of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
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”
1 Samuel 8:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Obey their voice (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here the metonym “their voice” refers to the will of the people. Alternate translation: “Obey the people”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: cause someone to be king for them (0)“make someone king over them.” Use the common term in your language for making someone king.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: go to his own city (0)Alternate translation: “go home”
1 Samuel 9
1 Samuel 9 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: Rhetorical Question)
1 Samuel 9:1
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-backgroundGeneral 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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a man of influence (0)This could mean: (1) he was a wealthy man or (2) he was a nobleman or (3) he was a mighty and brave man.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Kish … Abiel … Zeror … Bekorath … Aphiah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of the men of Saul’s family line.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Benjamite (0)A Benjamite is someone who belongs to the tribe of Benjamin.
1 Samuel 9:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: handsome (0)someone who looks good
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: From his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the people (0)The other tall people in Israel did not even come up to his shoulders.
1 Samuel 9:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now (0)The writer has ended the background information that began in (1 Samuel 9:1) and starts a new main part of the story.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: arise and go (0)Alternate translation: “stop what you are doing and go”
1 Samuel 9:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the hill country of Ephraim … the land of Shalishah … the land of Shaalim … the land of the Benjamites (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are all areas in Israel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: did not find them … they were not there … did not find them (0)The words “them” and “they” all refer to the donkeys.
1 Samuel 9:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: land of Zuph (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is an area in Israel just north of Jerusalem.
1 Samuel 9:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: man of God (0)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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: which way we should go on our journey (0)Alternate translation: “which way we should go to find the donkeys”
1 Samuel 9:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what can we bring the man? (0)Giving a gift is a sign of respect for the man of God.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: man of God (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: one-fourth of a shekel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney
“1/4 of a shekel.” A shekel is a type of money used in the Old Testament. (See also: Fractions)
1 Samuel 9:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Formerly in Israel … seer (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For today’s prophet was formerly called a seer (0)Alternate translation: “Seer is the old name for what we call a prophet today”
1 Samuel 9:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the people are sacrificing today (0)These are likely the feast or first-fruit sacrifices, not the sin sacrifices, which must be held at the tabernacle.
1 Samuel 9:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to go up to the high place (0)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
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-backgroundGeneral Information:
The writer stops telling the story and gives background information so the reader can understand what happens next.
1 Samuel 9:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you will anoint him to be prince (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
The term prince is used here instead of king. This is the man whom God has chosen to be king of Israel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the land of Benjamin (0)Alternate translation: “the land where people from the tribe of Benjamin live”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from the hand of the Philistines (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For I have looked on my people with pity (0)Alternate translation: “My people are suffering and I want to help them”
1 Samuel 9:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh told him (0)Alternate translation: “Yahweh told Samuel”
1 Samuel 9:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the seer (0)Alternate translation: “the prophet of Yahweh”
1 Samuel 9:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then on whom are all the desires of Israel set? Is it not on you and all your father’s house? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
1 Samuel 9:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Am not I a Benjamite … of Israel? Is not my clan … Benjamin? Why then have you spoken to me in this manner? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea behind these questions 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.”
1 Samuel 9:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the hall (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: head place (0)This is the seat of honor.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: thirty people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“30 people”
1 Samuel 9:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what was on it (0)This could mean: (1) the other food that Saul was to eat along with the meat or (2) other parts of the bull.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then Samuel said (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: on the rooftop (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Samuel called to Saul on the rooftop and said (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
1 Samuel 9:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ahead of us”—and he went ahead—”but you must stay (0)It is possible that Samuel speaks all of these words. Alternate translation: “ahead of us, and when he has gone ahead, you must stay”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that I may announce the message of God to you (0)Alternate translation: “so that I can tell you God’s message for you”
1 Samuel 10
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: prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess and Holy Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Lord, Spirit)
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: Rhetorical Question)
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: Idiom)
1 Samuel 10:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head (0)In Israelite culture, when a prophet poured oil on someone’s head, that person received a blessing from Yahweh.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: flask (0)a small container made from baked clay
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Has not Yahweh anointed you to be a ruler over his inheritance? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
1 Samuel 10:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Zelzah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What should I do about my son? (0)Saul’s father is now concerned about Saul and wants to find him.
1 Samuel 10:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Tabor (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
1 Samuel 10:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: take from their hands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The hands are a synecdoche for the person. “take from them” or “accept”
1 Samuel 10:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: tambourine (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
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.
1 Samuel 10:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The Spirit of Yahweh will rush upon you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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.
1 Samuel 10:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: do whatever your hand finds to do (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
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”
1 Samuel 10:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: God gave him another heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
God enabled Samuel to think differently from the way he had thought before.
1 Samuel 10:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Spirit of God rushed upon him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
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”
1 Samuel 10:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What has happened to the son of Kish? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This could mean: (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!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the son of Kish (0)Alternate translation: “Saul, the son of Kish”
1 Samuel 10:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then who is their father? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This man uses a rhetorical question to remind people that being a prophet has nothing to do with who one’s parents are. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question 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.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Because of this, it became a saying, “Is Saul also one of the prophets?” (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-proverbs
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 also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
1 Samuel 10:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then Saul’s uncle said to him (0)Alternate translation: “Then the brother of Saul’s father said to Saul”
1 Samuel 10:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he did not tell him about the matter of the kingdom (0)Alternate translation: “Saul did not tell his uncle that God had appointed him to be the king of Israel”
1 Samuel 10:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I brought up Israel out of Egypt (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The name “Israel” is a metonym for the people of Israel. “I brought the people of Israel out of Egypt”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the hand of the Egyptians … the hand of all the kingdoms (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “hand” is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: “the power of the Egyptians … the power of all the kingdoms”
1 Samuel 10:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: today (0)Samuel is speaking of the time since Israel had begun to reject God, not only the time since the sun had last set.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Set a king over us (0)Alternate translation: “Give us a king to rule us”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: present yourselves before Yahweh by your tribes and by your clans (0)Alternate translation: “gather together by tribes and clans and come to stand before Yahweh”
1 Samuel 10:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the tribe of Benjamin was chosen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
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”
1 Samuel 10:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the clan of the Matrites was chosen … Saul son of Kish was chosen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
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”
1 Samuel 10:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he was taller than any of the people from his shoulders upward (0)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 10:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the customs and rules of kingship (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word kingship, you can express the same idea with a noun clause. Alternate translation: “the customs and rules that a king would be required to follow”
1 Samuel 10:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: whose hearts God had touched (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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”
1 Samuel 10:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: How can this man save us? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This is a rhetorical question that is used to express sarcasm. Alternate translation: “This man has no power to save us!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: despised (0)strongly disliked or hated
1 Samuel 11
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: save, saved, safe, salvation and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
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: Idiom)
1 Samuel 11:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Nahash (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a man from Ammon, a descendent of Lot, Abraham’s nephew.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jabesh Gilead (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
1 Samuel 11:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I gouge out (0)Alternate translation: “I cut out” or “I pluck out”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bring disgrace on (0)Alternate translation: “bring shame on” or “bring a bad reputation to”
1 Samuel 11:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: seven days (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“7 days”
1 Samuel 11:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Gibeah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
1 Samuel 11:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the Spirit of God rushed upon him (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: does not come out after (0)Saul was calling all the men of Israel to come fight against Nahash and the Ammonites.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then the terror of Yahweh fell on the people (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Bezek (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a town near Jabesh Gilead.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the people of Israel were three hundred thousand, and the men of Judah thirty thousand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“the people of Israel were 300,000, and the men of Judah were 30,000”
1 Samuel 11:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They said to the messengers (0)“They” refers to Samuel and Saul.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: by the time the sun is hot (0)Alternate translation: “before the hottest part of the day” or “before noon”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jabesh Gilead … Jabesh (0)These are the names of places. See how you translated them in 1 Samuel 11:1.
1 Samuel 11:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Nahash (0)This is the name of a king. See how you translated this name in 1 Samuel 11:1.
1 Samuel 11:11
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Quote: the morning watch (0)This was before dawn when most people in the camp were still asleep.
1 Samuel 11:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: made Saul king before Yahweh (0)Alternate translation: “made Saul king while Yahweh watched”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: There they sacrificed peace offerings before Yahweh (0)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 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: holy, holiness, unholy, sacred and repent, repentance)
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: faithful, faithfulness, trustworthy and trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness)
1 Samuel 12:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the king walking before you … I have walked before you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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”
1 Samuel 12:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Here I am; testify against me before Yahweh and before his anointed one (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Whose ox have I taken? Whose donkey have I taken? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Whom have I defrauded? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Samuel uses another rhetorical question to say he has always been honest. Alternate translation: “I have never cheated or bribed any man.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Testify against me, and I will restore it to you (0)Alternate translation: “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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from any man’s hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
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.
1 Samuel 12:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in my hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
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.
1 Samuel 12:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all of the righteous deeds of Yahweh (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jacob … Moses … Aaron (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
1 Samuel 12:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: into the hand of Sisera … Philistines … king of Moab (0)Alternate translation: “into the power of Sisera … Philistines … king of Moab”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Sisera (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hazor (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he sold them (0)This is an expression for God giving them over to their enemies to be their slaves.
1 Samuel 12:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They cried out to Yahweh (0)“They” refers to the nation of Israel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: have served the Baals and the Ashtoreths (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Serving here is referring to acting worshipful towards the false gods. Alternate translation: “have worshiped false gods and goddesses”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the hand of our enemies (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This statement is using “hand” to refer to power. Alternate translation: “the power or control of our enemies”
1 Samuel 12:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jerub Baal (0)This is sometimes translated Jerubbaal. This is a name of godly honor and strength to fight the false god.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh sent … and gave you victory (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
Samuel is telling the story of what God did after the people’s confession of sin and plea for help.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jerub Baal, Bedan, Jephthah, and Samuel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of some judges that God raised up. Samuel included himself in this list.
1 Samuel 12:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: whom you have chosen, whom you have asked for (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases have similar meanings and emphasize that this is the king whom the people wanted.
1 Samuel 12:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: fear … serve … obey … not rebel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These similar words are used to emphasize how important this is.
1 Samuel 12:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh’s hand will be against you, as it was against your ancestors (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
1 Samuel 12:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: before your eyes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
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”
1 Samuel 12:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Is it not the wheat harvest today? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he may send thunder and rain (0)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 12:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so that we do not die (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Do not be afraid (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
1 Samuel 12:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: turn away after empty things (0)Alternate translation: “pursue worship of false gods”
1 Samuel 12:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For the sake of his great name (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “name” refers to the reputation of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “So that people will continue to honor and respect Yahweh”
1 Samuel 12:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: far be it from me that I should sin against Yahweh by ceasing to pray for you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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.
1 Samuel 13
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: Hyperbole)
1 Samuel 13:1
General Information:
Samuel has renewed Saul’s kingdom at Gilgal and Samuel has reminded the people to follow the Lord.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Saul was thirty years old … over Israel (0)The text of this verse in ancient copies seems to have been mutilated, 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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: chose three thousand men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“chose 3,000 men”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Two thousand were with him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“2,000 men were with him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Michmash (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a city.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Gibeah of Benjamin (0)Gibeah is a town. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 10:26.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The rest of the soldiers he sent home (0)Alternate translation: “He sent the rest of the soldiers home”
1 Samuel 13:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: garrison of the Philistines (0)Alternate translation: “military base of the Philistines” or “military camp of the Philistines”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Geba (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of the town that the Philistine garrison was stationed in.
1 Samuel 13:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All Israel heard that Saul had defeated (0)This could mean: (1) Saul was taking responsibility for Jonathan’s actions or (2) Saul was taking credit for Jonathan’s actions.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Israel had become a rotten smell to the Philistines (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the soldiers were summoned together to join Saul at Gilgal (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Saul called the soldiers together to join him at Gilgal”
1 Samuel 13:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: three thousand … six thousand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“3,000 … 6,000”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: troops as numerous as the sand on the seashore (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is an exaggeration that means a group of soldiers so large that it was difficult to count them.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Michmash (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Beth Aven (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
1 Samuel 13:6
General Information:
The Philistines had gathered together to fight against Israel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the people (0)This phrase refers to the nation of Israel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the people were distressed (0)Alternate translation: “the people worried greatly”
1 Samuel 13:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: followed him trembling (0)The people were greatly afraid.
1 Samuel 13:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the time Samuel had set (0)Alternate translation: “according to the time Samuel had told them he would come”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the people were scattering from Saul (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the people had started to leave Saul”
1 Samuel 13:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then he offered the burnt offering (0)Only the line of Aaron was permitted to perform the burnt offering sacrifice to God.
1 Samuel 13:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What have you done (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Samuel was not really asking a question, but giving a rebuke to Saul. Saul sought to defend his actions even though they were wrong.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Michmash (0)Michmash is the name of a place. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 13:2.
1 Samuel 13:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: You have not kept the command of Yahweh (0)Saul was to wait for Samuel to come and sacrifice the burnt offering to God. He was not to perform the sacrifice himself.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: established your rule (0)Alternate translation: “set up your rule” or “authorized your rule” or “appointed your rule”
1 Samuel 13:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your rule will not continue (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
This is a litotes that can be stated in the positive form. Alternate translation: “your rule will end soon”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a man after his own heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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 also: Idiom)
1 Samuel 13:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Samuel arose and went up (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom for “Samuel left and went up.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: went up from Gilgal (0)Gilgal is a city. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 7:15.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Gibeah of Benjamin (0)Gibeah is a town. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 10:26.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: six hundred men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“600 men”
1 Samuel 13:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Geba of Benjamin (0)Geba is a town. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 13:3.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Philistines camped at Michmash (0)Michmash is the name of a place. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 13:2.
1 Samuel 13:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Raiders came (0)Raiders are normally military people who attack enemy villages for their food and other supplies.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ophrah, to the land of Shual (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of places.
1 Samuel 13:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Beth Horon … Valley of Zeboyim (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of places.
1 Samuel 13:19
General Information:
The narrative shifts to background information regarding blacksmiths in Israel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: No blacksmith could be found (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “No one could find a blacksmith”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: blacksmith (0)Here “blacksmith” refers to someone who made or sharpened metal tools and weapons.
1 Samuel 13:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sharpen his plow points (0)The words “plow points” refer to the point of a metal tool used for digging up the ground for planting crops.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: mattock … ax … sickle (0)These are common garden tools.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: mattock (0)A “mattock” is a broad-bladed axe, with a horizontal blade that is used for breaking up hard soil.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sickle (0)a curved blade for cutting grasses and grain stalks
1 Samuel 13:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: two-thirds of a shekel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney
The shekel is divided into 3 parts, 2 of 3 parts are given. “2/3 of a shekel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: straightening the goads (0)Alternate translation: “taking out the bend and making the ox goad straight again so it could be used”
1 Samuel 13:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: there were no swords or spears (0)This explains in part why Saul’s army was afraid. They did not have any weapons to fight.
1 Samuel 14
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: circumcise, circumcised, circumcision, uncircumcised, uncircumcision)
1 Samuel 14:1
General Information:
Jonathan begins his second raid on the Philistines’ army.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his young armor bearer (0)a teenage boy who is responsible for caring for his master’s weapons of war
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Philistines’ garrison (0)This is an outpost staffed by the Philistine army.
1 Samuel 14:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Gibeah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a hill north of Jerusalem.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: under the pomegranate tree (0)a tree whose fruit is thick skinned, round, red and has many seeds to eat
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that is in Migron (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Migron” is the name of a place north of Jerusalem.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: six hundred men were with him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“600 men were with him”
1 Samuel 14:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: son of Ahitub (Ichabod’s brother) (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Ahitub” and “Ichabod” are names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Phinehas son of Eli (0)Phinehas was one of the priests. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 1:3.
1 Samuel 14:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: One rocky cliff was called Bozez (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
A “cliff” is a rocky height with a steep drop. The cliff was well-known and given the name “Bozez.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the other rocky cliff was called Seneh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This was the name of the other cliff.
1 Samuel 14:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Michmash … Geba (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
towns north of Jerusalem
1 Samuel 14:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his young armor bearer (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: uncircumcised fellows (0)a derogatory term used for non-Jewish men
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: work on our behalf (0)Alternate translation: “work for our support” or “help us”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: nothing can stop Yahweh from saving (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives
This double negative can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh can save”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: by many or by few people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
These extremes also include everything in between. Alternate translation: “by any number of people”
1 Samuel 14:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: everything that is in your heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “heart” refers to Jonathan’s desires. Alternate translation: “everything that you desire to do”
1 Samuel 14:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: will not cross over to them (0)Alternate translation: “will not go over to the other side of the valley where the Philistines are”
1 Samuel 14:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: has given them into our hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand” refers to the power to defeat them. Alternate translation: “will enable us to defeat them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: This will be the sign to us (0)Alternate translation: “This will confirm that the Lord will be with us”
1 Samuel 14:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: revealed themselves to the garrison of the Philistines (0)Alternate translation: “allowed the Philistine soldiers to see them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the garrison (0)the army camp
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: coming out of the holes where they have hidden themselves (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The Philistines implied that the Hebrews had been hiding in holes in the ground like animals.
1 Samuel 14:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: we will show you something (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means “we will teach you a lesson.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: has given them into the hand of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand” refers to power to defeat the Philistines. Alternate translation: “will enable Israel to defeat them”
1 Samuel 14:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jonathan climbed up on his hands and feet (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The Philistines were put to death before Jonathan (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Jonathan killed the Philistines”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his armor bearer put some to death behind him (0)Alternate translation: “Jonathan’s armor bearer followed him and also killed Philistine soldiers”
1 Samuel 14:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: There was a panic in the camp, in the field, and among the people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word panic, you can express the same idea with 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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the raiders (0)the Philistines who were raiding Israelite cities
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The earth quaked (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It may be helpful to state the cause. Alternate translation: “God caused the ground to shake”
1 Samuel 14:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Gibeah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This was the town where Saul was born. Translated “Gibeah” as in 1 Samuel 10:26.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: was dispersing … going here and there (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases share similar meanings and emphasize that the soldiers were running away in every direction.
1 Samuel 14:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Bring the ark of God here (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants
A few versions have “ephod” here instead of “ark of God.”
1 Samuel 14:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: commotion (0)great noise and confusion
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Withdraw your hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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”
1 Samuel 14:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the people who were with him (0)the remnant of the Israelite army that remained with Saul
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Every Philistine’s sword was against his fellow countrymen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification
The swords are spoken of as if they were living people. Alternate translation: “The Philistine soldiers were striking each other with their swords”
1 Samuel 14:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the men of Israel who had hidden themselves in the hills (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
1 Samuel 14:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Beth Aven (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a place in Israel. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 13:5.
1 Samuel 14:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So none of the troops tasted food (0)It was understood by the troops that no refreshment was permitted under Saul’s oath.
1 Samuel 14:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the people entered the forest (0)The Philistine soldiers fled through the forests and the Israelite soldiers followed them there.
1 Samuel 14:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the honey flowed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is an exaggeration to emphasize how much honey there was in the forest. Alternate translation: “there was a lot of honey everywhere”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: no one put his hand to his mouth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here putting one’s “hand to his mouth” is a metonym that means to eat. Alternate translation: “no one ate any”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the people feared the oath (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
1 Samuel 14:27
General Information:
Jonathan learns of his father’s oath.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bound the people with an oath (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He raised his hand to his mouth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand to his mouth” is a metonym that means to eat. Alternate translation: “He ate some honey”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his eyes brightened (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means that he was strengthened. Alternate translation: “he regained his strength”
1 Samuel 14:29
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for the land (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This is a metonym that represents the nation of Israel. Alternate translation: “for Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my eyes have become brightened (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means that he was strengthened. Alternate translation: “I regained my strength”
1 Samuel 14:30
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: How much better if the people … that they found? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jonathan uses this hypothetical question to state that the people should have been allowed to eat. This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “Our victory would have been better if the people had eaten freely today of the plunder that they took from their enemies.” (See also: Hypothetical Situations)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: plunder (0)This word refers to the things the people had taken from the battle with their enemy.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Because now the slaughter has not been great (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Michmash (0)This is the name of a town. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 13:2.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Aijalon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
a place in Zebulun in Israel
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The people (0)This refers to the Israelites.
1 Samuel 14:32
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ate them with the blood (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
1 Samuel 14:33
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: by eating with the blood (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: You have acted unfaithfully (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
Saul is accusing his whole army of acting unfaithfully though this is a generalization because not every soldier acted unfaithfully.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now, roll a big stone here to me (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The stone would hold the animals up and make it easier to drain the blood from them.
1 Samuel 14:34
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: kill them here, and eat (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Saul built an altar to Yahweh (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: let us not leave one of them alive (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Do whatever seems good to you (0)Saul had the support of his army to continue the fight.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Let us approach God here (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “approaching God” is associated with asking him counsel. Alternate translation: “Let us ask God what we should do”
1 Samuel 14:37
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: give them into the hand of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand” refers to the power to defeat them. Alternate translation: “enable us to defeat them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: But God did not answer him that day (0)This implies that God was not willing to help Saul.
1 Samuel 14:38
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the people (0)This refers to the Israelites.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: learn and see how this sin has happened (0)Alternate translation: “find who sinned”
1 Samuel 14:39
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: even if it is in Jonathan my son, he will surely die (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo
Saul stated this as a hypothetical situation because he did not believe that Jonathan was guilty.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: But none of the men among all the people answered him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
1 Samuel 14:40
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then he said to all Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This was a generalization since only the Israelite soldiers were present. Alternate translation: “Then he said to the Israelite soldiers who were there”
1 Samuel 14:41
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: give the Thummim (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Thummim (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate
This is a borrowed word from the original language.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jonathan and Saul were taken by lot, but the army was exonerated (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The lots indicated that either Jonathan or Saul was guilty, but the army was not guilty”
1 Samuel 14:42
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then Jonathan was taken by lot (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Then the lot indicated that Jonathan was guilty”
1 Samuel 14:43
General Information:
The lots had just showed that Jonathan had sinned.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Tell me what you have done (0)Alternate translation: “Tell me how you have sinned” or “Tell me what you have done that was wrong”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I will die (0)This could mean: (1) “I am willing to die” or (2) “do I deserve to be executed because of doing that?”
1 Samuel 14:44
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: God do so and more also to me, if you do not die, Jonathan (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Should Jonathan die, who has accomplished this great victory for Israel? Far from it! (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
The people scold Saul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Jonathan has just accomplished this great victory for Israel. He should surely not die.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: As Yahweh lives (0)The people were expressing their certainty that they would not let anything happen to Jonathan.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: not one hair of his head will fall to the ground (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
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 also: Litotes)
1 Samuel 14:47
General Information:
For a brief period Saul served with great courage in defeating Israel’s enemies.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This is a metonym that represents the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “the Israelites”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Moab (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This refers to the people of Moab. Alternate translation: “the Moabites”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Edom (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This refers to the people of Edom. Alternate translation: “the Edomites”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Wherever he turned (0)Alternate translation: “Wherever he sent his army”
1 Samuel 14:48
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: out of the hands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “hand” represents control. Alternate translation: “out of the control”
1 Samuel 14:49
General Information:
This is background information on Saul’s family.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ishvi … Malki-Shua (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Merab … Michal (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of women.
1 Samuel 14:50
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahinoam (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a woman.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahimaaz … Abner … Ner (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
1 Samuel 14:51
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Kish … Ner … Abner … Abiel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
1 Samuel 14:52
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the days of Saul (0)Alternate translation: “all of Saul’s life”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he attached him to himself (0)Alternate translation: “he forced him to join his army”
1 Samuel 15
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: Idiom)
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: Rhetorical Question)
1 Samuel 15:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the words of Yahweh (0)Alternate translation: “the message of Yahweh”
1 Samuel 15:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: completely destroy all that they have … kill both man and woman, child and infant, ox and sheep, camel and donkey (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases mean the same thing. The second phrase gives specific details about what they are to destroy completely.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Do not spare them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
This negative statement emphasizes the completeness of the destruction.
1 Samuel 15:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the people (0)Alternate translation: “the army”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: numbered them (0)Alternate translation: “counted them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: two hundred thousand men on foot, and ten thousand men of Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“200,000 men on foot, and 10,000 men of Judah”
1 Samuel 15:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Kenites (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
a nomad people group that had always been friendly to the nation of Israel
1 Samuel 15:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Havilah … Shur (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of places.
1 Samuel 15:8
General Information:
Yahweh had told Saul to destroy everything, but here Saul disobeys Yahweh’s command.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he took Agag (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here Saul represents himself accompanied by his army. Alternate translation: “Saul and his army took Agag” or “Saul and his army captured Agag”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he completely destroyed all the people with the edge of the sword (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
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”
1 Samuel 15:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Saul … spared Agag (0)Saul disobeyed God by letting Agag live.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: as well as the best of the sheep (0)Saul disobeyed God by keeping the best of the livestock.
1 Samuel 15:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the word of Yahweh came to Samuel, saying, (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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:”
1 Samuel 15:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It grieves me (0)Alternate translation: “I am sorry”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he has turned back from following me (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: has not performed my commandments (0)“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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Samuel was angry (0)This could mean: (1) Samuel was angry with Saul for his disobedience or (2) Samuel was disturbed.
1 Samuel 15:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Samuel was told (0)Alternate translation: “Someone told Samuel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he set up a monument to himself (0)Saul was full of pride.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: down to Gilgal (0)Gilgal was lower in elevation than Carmel.
1 Samuel 15:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I have fulfilled the command of Yahweh (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bleating of sheep … lowing of the oxen (0)These are the sounds that these animals make. Your language may have different terms for these.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in my ears … that I hear (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases mean the same thing. Here “in my ears” refers to hearing. (See also: Metonymy)
1 Samuel 15:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They have brought … the people spared (0)The word “they” and the phrase “the people” here both represent Saul’s army. Saul is blaming the people rather than himself.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to sacrifice to Yahweh your God (0)Saul is arguing that animals for sacrifice were an exception to Yahweh’s command to destroy everything.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh your God (0)Saul here does not describe Samuel’s God as his own God.
1 Samuel 15:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in your own sight (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “in your own opinion” or “in your judgment”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: were you not made the head of the tribes of Israel? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Samuel uses this question to remind Saul of now much God had given him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Yahweh made you the ruler of the tribes of Israel!”
1 Samuel 15:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why did you not obey … Yahweh? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Samuel asks this question to rebuke Saul for disobeying Yahweh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should have obeyed … Yahweh!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the voice of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “voice” refers to the commands that Yahweh spoke. Alternate translation: “the things that Yahweh commanded”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: but instead you seized the booty (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the booty (0)Alternate translation: “the plunder” or “the possessions you took from the enemy”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what was evil in the sight of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
1 Samuel 15:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I have indeed obeyed the voice of Yahweh (0)This is an emphatic statement. It is unclear if Saul thought this was true, or if he was simply making excuses for his sin.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the voice of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “voice” refers to the commands that Yahweh spoke. Alternate translation: “the things that Yahweh commanded”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Agag (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of the king of the Amalekites.
1 Samuel 15:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: But the people took (0)This appears to be shifting the blame to the people.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: things devoted to destruction (0)Alternate translation: “animals that Yahweh commanded them to destroy”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Gilgal (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
1 Samuel 15:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Has Yahweh as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of Yahweh? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Samuel asks this question to emphasize that obedience is much more important than sacrifice. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Yahweh does not delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying his voice!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the voice of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “voice” refers to the commands that Yahweh spoke. Alternate translation: “the things that Yahweh commanded”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Obedience is better than sacrifice (0)God wanted Saul’s complete obedience in the destruction of the Amalekites. Nothing in the land was fit for sacrifice.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: better than the fat of rams (0)Alternate translation: “better than to sacrifice the fat of rams as a burnt offering”
1 Samuel 15:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: rebellion is like the sin of divination (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word rebellion, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “to rebel is as sinful as practicing divination”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: stubbornness is like wickedness and iniquity (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word stubbornness, you can express the same idea with a verb. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word wickedness, you can express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “being stubborn is as bad as doing wicked things and practicing iniquity”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the word of Yahweh (0)Alternate translation: “Yahweh’s message” or “Yahweh’s command”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: rejected you from being king (0)Alternate translation: “decided that you will no longer be king”
1 Samuel 15:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I have broken Yahweh’s commandment (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means he had disobeyed the commandment. Alternate translation: “I have disobeyed what Yahweh commanded”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: because I was afraid of the people (0)This is the reason Saul gives for not obeying God. Alternate translation: “because I was afraid of the soldiers”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: obeyed their voice (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “voice” refers to what the soldiers asked Saul to do. Alternate translation: “did what they asked”
1 Samuel 15:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: return with me (0)Saul and Samuel were apparently talking in private away from the other people.
1 Samuel 15:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for you have rejected the word of Yahweh (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: rejected the word of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
“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”
1 Samuel 15:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Saul took hold of the hem of his robe (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
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Quote: the hem of his robe (0)Alternate translation: “the edge of his robe” or “the fringe of his robe”
1 Samuel 15:28
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Quote: Yahweh has torn the kingdom of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
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Quote: has given it to a neighbor of yours, one who is better than you (0)God had already decided who would be the next king after Saul.
1 Samuel 15:29
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Quote: the Strength of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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 also: Metonymy)
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Quote: will not lie nor change his mind (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
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”
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Quote: his mind (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This refers to his thoughts and decisions. Alternate translation: “what he has decided to do”
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Quote: he is not a man, that he should change his mind (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
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”
1 Samuel 15:30
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Quote: But please honor me now before the elders (0)Saul may have been more interested in being honored by the people than in actually worshipping God.
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Quote: before the elders of my people and before Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Israel” refers to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “before the people of Israel and the elders who lead them”
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Quote: Turn again with me (0)Alternate translation: “Come back with me” or “Return with me”
1 Samuel 15:31
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Quote: So Samuel turned again after Saul (0)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
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Quote: Agag came to him confined with chains and said (0)Alternate translation: “They brought Agag to him bound by chains and Agag said”
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Quote: Surely the bitterness of death has past (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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”
1 Samuel 15:33
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Quote: As your sword has made women childless, so shall your mother be childless among women (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
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”
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Quote: made women childless, so shall your mother be childless (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
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”
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Quote: Then Samuel chopped Agag to pieces (0)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
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Quote: Ramah … Gibeah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of places.
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Quote: went up to his house at Gibeah (0)Gibeah was higher in elevation than Gilgal where Saul and Samuel had been talking.
1 Samuel 15:35
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Quote: Samuel did not see Saul until the day of his death (0)Alternate translation: “Samuel did not see Saul again for as long as he lived”
1 Samuel 16
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: Holy Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Lord, Spirit)
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: judge, judgment and love, beloved)
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: Rhetorical Question)
1 Samuel 16:1
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Quote: How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
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Quote: Fill your horn with oil (0)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
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Quote: How can I go? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
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Quote: with you and say (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
You can state the understood information. Alternate translation: “with you to Bethlehem and say to the people there”
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Quote: say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to Yahweh.’ (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes
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 also: Direct and Indirect Quotations)
1 Samuel 16:4
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Quote: The elders of the city were trembling as they came to meet him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It seems the elders were trembling because they were worried that Samuel came to rebuke them.
1 Samuel 16:5
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Quote: In peace (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
This can be stated as a complete sentence. Alternate translation: “Yes, I have come in peace”
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Quote: to set … apart (0)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
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Quote: When they came (0)Here “they” refers to Jesse and his sons.
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Quote: he looked at Eliab (0)Here “he” refers to Samuel.
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Quote: Eliab (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of Jesse’s oldest son.
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Quote: standing before him (0)Here “him” refers to Yahweh.
1 Samuel 16:7
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Quote: Yahweh does not see as man sees (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here “see” means to evaluate something.
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Quote: For Yahweh does not see … Yahweh looks (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
Yahweh is speaking about himself in the third person. Alternate translation: “For I, Yahweh, do not see … I, Yahweh, look”
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Quote: on the heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “heart” represents a person’s inner being.
1 Samuel 16:8
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Quote: Abinadab (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of one of Jesse’s sons.
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Quote: made him pass before Samuel (0)Alternate translation: “told him to go to Samuel”
1 Samuel 16:9
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Quote: Jesse then made Shammah pass by (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
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”
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Quote: Shammah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of one of Jesse’s sons.
1 Samuel 16:11
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Quote: There remains yet the youngest (0)Alternate translation: “There is still my youngest son”
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Quote: we will not sit down (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
It is understood that they were waiting to sit down and eat. Alternate translation: “we will not sit down to eat”
1 Samuel 16:12
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Quote: Now … appearance (0)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.
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Quote: this son was ruddy (0)The word “ruddy” means David was healthy looking.
1 Samuel 16:13
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Quote: the horn of oil (0)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.
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Quote: Samuel rose up and went (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
It is implied that he rose up after they sat down to eat.
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Quote: The Spirit of Yahweh rushed on David (0)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
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Quote: Now (0)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.
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Quote: harmful spirit (0)This may refer to either a “spirit that causes trouble” or an “evil spirit.”
1 Samuel 16:16
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Quote: Let our master now command (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
The servants refer to Saul in the third person as “our master.” Alternate translation: “We ask that you, our master, command”
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Quote: command your servants who are before you to look (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
The servants refer to themselves in the third person as “your servants.” Alternate translation: “command us, your servants who attend to you, to look”
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Quote: is on you (0)Alternate translation: “troubles you”
1 Samuel 16:18
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Quote: a strong, courageous man (0)This could mean: (1) “a great warrior” or (2) “a very brave man.”
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Quote: one prudent in speech (0)Alternate translation: “one wise in speech” or “one who speaks wisely”
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Quote: Yahweh is with him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “with him” means Yahweh helps and blesses David.
1 Samuel 16:21
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Quote: David came to Saul (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go
Here “came” can be translated as “went.”
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Quote: entered his service (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word service, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “began to serve him”
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Quote: he became his armor bearer (0)Alternate translation: “David became Saul’s armor bearer”
1 Samuel 16:22
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Quote: Let David stand before me (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “stand before me” is an idiom that means to continue in Saul’s service. Alternate translation: “Let David stay in my service”
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Quote: he has found favor in my eyes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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 also: Metaphor)
1 Samuel 16:23
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Quote: harmful spirit (0)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.
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Quote: was upon Saul (0)Alternate translation: “troubled Saul”
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Quote: Saul would be refreshed and well (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the music would refresh Saul and make him well”
1 Samuel 17
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: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness and believe, believer, belief, unbeliever, unbelief)
Uncircumcised
The people of Israel often used the term “uncircumcised” to refer to Gentiles. Here it is used to describe the Philistines. (See: circumcise, circumcised, circumcision, uncircumcised, uncircumcision)
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: Rhetorical Question)
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 17:2
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Quote: the Valley of Elah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
1 Samuel 17:4
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Quote: six cubits and a span (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance
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”
1 Samuel 17:5
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Quote: he was armed with a coat of chainmail (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
A “coat of chainmail” is a flexible piece of body armor covered with protective scales or small plates. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he protected himself by wearing a coat of chainmail” or “he wore a coat of chainmail”
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Quote: five thousand shekels (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight
A shekel is a unit of weight equal to about 11 grams. Alternate translation: “about 55 kilograms”
1 Samuel 17:6
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Quote: a javelin of bronze (0)A “javelin” is a small spear that is meant to be thrown.
1 Samuel 17:7
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Quote: staff of his spear (0)Alternate translation: “the handle of his spear”
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Quote: loop of cord (0)Alternate translation: “rope rolled up into a circle”
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Quote: His spear’s head (0)Alternate translation: “The point of his spear”
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Quote: six hundred shekels of iron (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight
A shekel is a unit of weight equal to about 11 grams. Alternate translation: “about 7 kilograms”
1 Samuel 17:8
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Quote: Why have you come out to draw up for battle? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
“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!”
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Quote: Am not I a Philistine, and are you not servants of Saul? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
1 Samuel 17:10
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Quote: I challenge the ranks of Israel (0)Alternate translation: “I challenge the army of Israel”
1 Samuel 17:11
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Quote: all Israel (0)This refers to the Israelite soldiers who were there.
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Quote: they were discouraged and greatly afraid (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
The words “discouraged” and “greatly afraid” mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of their fear.
1 Samuel 17:12
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Quote: He had eight sons (0)“He” refers to Jesse.
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Quote: Jesse was an old man … very old among men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
The two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis.
1 Samuel 17:13
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Quote: second to him Abinadab, and the third Shammah (0)“Abinadab the second born, and Shammah the third born.” This phrase shows birth order.
1 Samuel 17:14
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Quote: The three oldest (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The implied information is that these are the sons of Jesse. Alternate translation: “The three oldest sons of Jesse”
1 Samuel 17:16
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Quote: For forty days (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“For 40 days”
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Quote: to present himself for battle (0)Alternate translation: “to show that he was ready to fight”
1 Samuel 17:17
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Quote: ephah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume
An ephah is a unit of measurement equal to about 22 liters.
1 Samuel 17:18
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Quote: the captain of their thousand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“the captain of your brothers’ thousand.” This could mean: (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”
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Quote: See how your brothers are doing (0)Alternate translation: “Check and find out how your brothers are doing”
1 Samuel 17:19
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Quote: all the men of Israel (0)Alternate translation: “all the soldiers of Israel”
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Quote: the Valley of Elah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place. See how you translated it in 1 Samuel 17:2.
1 Samuel 17:23
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Quote: Goliath by name (0)Alternate translation: “whose name was Goliath”
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Quote: came out of the ranks of the Philistines (0)Alternate translation: “stepped forward from the Philistines’ battle line”
1 Samuel 17:25
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Quote: Have you seen this man who has come up? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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!”
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Quote: The king (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This refers to the king of Israel. Alternate translation: “Our king”
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Quote: his daughter (0)This refers to the king’s daughter.
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Quote: to him … his father’s house (0)The words “him” and “his” refer to the man who kills Goliath.
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Quote: will make his father’s house free from taxation in Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” refers to the household or family. Alternate translation: “will no longer require his family to pay taxes”
1 Samuel 17:26
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Quote: takes away the disgrace from Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
This can be expressed with the verb “disgrace.” Alternate translation: “stops Israel from being disgraced” or “stops him from disgracing Israel”
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Quote: Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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!”
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Quote: this uncircumcised Philistine (0)This phrase is an insult and indicates that Goliath does not belong to the living God.
1 Samuel 17:28
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Quote: Eliab’s anger was kindled against David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here anger is spoken of as if it were a fire that could be kindled. Alternate translation: “Eliab became angry with David”
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Quote: Why did you come down here? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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”
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Quote: With whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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!”
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Quote: your pride, and the mischief in your heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis.
1 Samuel 17:29
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Quote: What have I done now? Was it not just a question? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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!”
1 Samuel 17:30
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Quote: He turned away from him (0)“He” refers to David and the word “him” refers to Eliab.
1 Samuel 17:31
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Quote: When the words that David said were heard (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “When the soldiers heard what David said”
1 Samuel 17:32
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Quote: Let no man’s heart fail (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
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Quote: your servant will go (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
David spoke of himself as “your servant” to show respect to Saul. Alternate translation: “I, your servant, will go”
1 Samuel 17:34
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Quote: Your servant used to keep his father’s sheep (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
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”
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Quote: used to keep his father’s sheep (0)Alternate translation: “used to take care of his father’s sheep”
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Quote: a bear (0)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
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Quote: chased after him and attacked him (0)Here “him” refers to the lion or bear. Some languages would use the word “it” instead of “him.”
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Quote: rescued it out of his mouth (0)Here “it” refers to the lamb.
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Quote: he rose up against me (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “rose up against” is an idiom that refers to attacking. Alternate translation: “it attacked me”
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Quote: caught him by his beard (0)The “beard” refers to the lion’s mane or the hair on the bear’s face.
1 Samuel 17:36
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Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
David continues speaking to King Saul.
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Quote: This uncircumcised Philistine (0)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.
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Quote: will be like one of them (0)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
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Quote: from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
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Quote: the hand of this Philistine (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The Philistine’s hand represents his power in fighting. Alternate translation: “the power of this Philistine” or “the Philistine”
1 Samuel 17:38
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Quote: coat of chainmail (0)a flexible piece of body armor covered with protective scales or small plates
1 Samuel 17:39
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his sword on his armor (0)Alternate translation: “Saul’s sword on the armor”
1 Samuel 17:40
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Quote: his staff in his hand (0)Here “his” refers to David.
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Quote: His sling was in his hand (0)A sling is a weapon for throwing stones.
1 Samuel 17:41
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Quote: with his shield bearer in front of him (0)Alternate translation: “and his shield bearer walked in front of him”
1 Samuel 17:42
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Quote: he despised him (0)Alternate translation: “he hated him”
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Quote: and ruddy (0)Alternate translation: “and healthy looking”
1 Samuel 17:43
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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 also: Rhetorical Question)
1 Samuel 17:44
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Quote: I will give your flesh to the birds of the heavens and to the beasts of the field (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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 beasts of the field will eat your body”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: birds of the heavens (0)Alternate translation: “birds of the sky” or “birds”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: beasts of the field (0)Alternate translation: “wild animals”
1 Samuel 17:45
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in the name of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “name” represents God’s power or authority. Alternate translation: “with the power of Yahweh” or “with the authority of Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: whom you have defied (0)Alternate translation: “whom you have provoked” or “whom you have insulted”
1 Samuel 17:46
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
David continues speaking to Goliath.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I will give the dead bodies … to the birds … and to the wild beasts of the earth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the earth may know (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “earth” refers to the people on earth. Alternate translation: “all the people of the earth may know”
1 Samuel 17:47
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh does not give victory with sword or spear (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the battle is Yahweh’s (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Winning the battle is spoken of as owning the battle. Alternate translation: “Yahweh always wins the battle” or “the victory belongs to Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he will give you into our hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Giving the Philistines into Israel’s hand represents helping Israel to defeat the Philistines in battle. Alternate translation: “he will help us defeat you”
1 Samuel 17:50
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David defeated … He hit … killed … There was no sword in David’s hand (0)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 UST.
1 Samuel 17:51
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then David ran and stood over the Philistine (0)David did this after Goliath fell to the ground in 1 Samuel 17:49.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: took his sword (0)“took the Philistine’s sword.” Here the word “his” refers to Goliath.
1 Samuel 17:52
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The dead Philistines lay along the way to Shaaraim (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
1 Samuel 17:53
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they plundered their camp (0)Alternate translation: “the Israelites plundered the Philistines’ camp”
1 Samuel 17:54
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he put his armor in his tent (0)Alternate translation: “he put Goliath’s armor in his own tent”
1 Samuel 17:55
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: When Saul saw David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events
The conversation in 17:55–56 happened before David killed Goliath. Alternate translation: “When Saul had seen David” or “Earlier when Saul saw David”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: go out against the Philistine (0)Alternate translation: “go to fight against the Philistine”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: whose son is this youth (0)Alternate translation: “who is this youth’s father”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: As you live (0)This was a way of swearing that what he was about to say was true.
1 Samuel 17:56
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: whose son the boy is (0)Alternate translation: “who the boy’s father is”
1 Samuel 17:57
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in his hand (0)Here “his” refers to David.
1 Samuel 17:58
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Whose son are you (0)Alternate translation: “Who is your father”
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Quote: I am the son of your servant Jesse the Bethlehemite (0)Alternate translation: “My father is your servant Jesse, the Bethlehemite”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your servant Jesse (0)David referred to his father as “your servant” to show that his father was faithful to King Saul.
1 Samuel 18
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 ULT 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: love, beloved)
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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the soul of Jonathan was bound to the soul of David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Very close friendship is spoken of as if it were binding together the souls of two people. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Jonathan felt a strong affection towards David” or “Jonathan committed himself to David” (See also: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jonathan loved him as his own soul (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
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”
1 Samuel 18:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jonathan loved him as his own soul (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
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”
1 Samuel 18:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he succeeded (0)Alternate translation: “he prospered”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: This was pleasing in the eyes of all the people and also in the sight of Saul’s servants (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
1 Samuel 18:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from all the cities of Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is generalization that emphasizes the great number of women who came from many cities. Alternate translation: “from many of the cities throughout Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with tambourines, with joy, and with musical instruments (0)Alternate translation: “joyfully playing tambourines and other musical instruments”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with tambourines (0)A “tambourine” is a small handheld drum.
1 Samuel 18:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David his ten thousands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The verb may be supplied from the previous line. Alternate translation: “David has killed his ten thousands”
1 Samuel 18:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They have ascribed (0)Alternate translation: “They have credited”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What more can he have but the monarchy? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “The only thing left for him to have is the kingship.”
1 Samuel 18:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a harmful spirit from God (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a harmful spirit from God rushed upon Saul (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he raved (0)Alternate translation: “he acted crazy”
1 Samuel 18:12
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Quote: Yahweh was with him (0)Alternate translation: “Yahweh was with David”
1 Samuel 18:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So Saul removed him from his presence (0)Alternate translation: “So Saul removed David from his presence”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a commander of a thousand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
This could mean: (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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David went out and came in before the people (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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 also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
1 Samuel 18:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he stood in awe of him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “stood in awe” is an idiom that means to fear. Alternate translation: “he feared David”
1 Samuel 18:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all Israel and Judah loved David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “Israel and Judah” represent the people of all of the tribes. Alternate translation: “all the people in Israel and Judah loved David”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: went out and came in before them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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”
1 Samuel 18:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Let not my hand be on him, but let the hand of the Philistines be on him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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 also: Euphemism)
1 Samuel 18:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Who am I, and who are my relatives, or my father’s clan in Israel … to the king? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: son-in-law to the king (0)Alternate translation: “husband of the king’s daughter”
1 Samuel 18:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: when Merab, Saul’s daughter, should have been given to David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “when Saul should have given his daughter Merab to David”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: she was given to Adriel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Saul gave her to Adriel”
1 Samuel 18:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Michal … loved David (0)Here “loved” means she had romantic feelings for David.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They told Saul (0)Here “they” refers to people who found out about Michal’s feelings, not to David and Michal.
1 Samuel 18:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that the hand of the Philistines may be against him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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 also: Euphemism)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: You will be my son-in-law (0)Alternate translation: “You will be the husband of my daughter”
1 Samuel 18:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all his servants love you (0)Alternate translation: “all of his servants admire you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now then (0)Alternate translation: “For these reasons you should”
1 Samuel 18:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Is it a small matter to you to be the king’s son-in-law, since I am a poor man, and lightly esteemed? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
1 Samuel 18:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The king does not desire any price for the bride except a hundred foreskins (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The verb for the second phrase may be supplied from the first. Alternate translation: “The king does not desire any price for the bride; he desires only that you bring to him 100 foreskins” (See also: Numbers)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: foreskins (0)The foreskin is a fold of skin on a man’s private part that is removed during circumcision.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to be avenged from the king’s enemies (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to get revenge on the king’s enemies”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to make David fall by the hand of the Philistines (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
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. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to have the Philistines kill David” (See also: Idiom and Active or Passive)
1 Samuel 18:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: two hundred Philistines (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
This can be rendered numerically. Alternate translation: “200 Philistines”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they gave them in full number to the king (0)Alternate translation: “David and his men gave all of them to the king”
1 Samuel 18:28
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Saul saw, and he knew (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
Here the words “saw” and “knew” share similar meanings and emphasize that Saul knew with certainty. Alternate translation: “Saul recognized”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Michal, Saul’s daughter, loved him (0)Here “loved” means she had romantic feelings for David.
1 Samuel 18:30
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so that his name was highly regarded (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “name” is a metonym for David. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that people greatly respected David” (See also: Active or Passive)
1 Samuel 19
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: jealous, jealousy and save, saved, safe, salvation and prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess)
1 Samuel 19:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to all his servants (0)Here “his” refers to Saul.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: took great pleasure in David (0)Jonathan greatly enjoyed being with David.
1 Samuel 19:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Do not let the king sin against his servant (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
Jonathan speaks as if Saul is another person to show Saul that Jonathan respects Saul. Alternate translation: “Do not sin against your servant”
1 Samuel 19:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he took his life in his hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “life in his hand” is an idiom that refers to risking his life. Alternate translation: “he risked his life”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why would you sin against innocent blood by killing David for no reason? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jonathan asks this question to rebuke Saul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not sin against innocent blood and kill David without cause.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sin against innocent blood (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “blood” is a metonym for the life of an innocent person. Alternate translation: “commit the sin of murder”
1 Samuel 19:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he will not be put to death (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will not put him to death” or “I will not kill him” or “I will certainly keep him alive”
1 Samuel 19:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he was in his presence (0)David was in Saul’s presence.
1 Samuel 19:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: A harmful spirit from Yahweh (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: pin David to the wall with the spear (0)throw his spear so it would go through David and into the wall
1 Samuel 19:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he might kill him (0)Alternate translation: “Saul might kill David”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Michal … told him (0)Michal told David
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: If you do not save your life (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “save your life” is an idiom that refers to escape. Alternate translation: “If you do not escape”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you will be killed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone will kill you”
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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: she put a pillow of goats’ hair at its head, and covered it with the clothes (0)This could mean: (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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: take David (0)Alternate translation: “take David back to Saul”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: she said (0)Here “she” refers to Michal.
1 Samuel 19:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Bring him up to me in the bed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
1 Samuel 19:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: pillow of goats’ hair (0)See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 19:13.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: behold (0)The word “behold” here shows that the messengers were surprised by what they saw.
1 Samuel 19:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why have you deceived me and let my enemy go, so that he has escaped? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This could mean: (1) Saul really wants to know why Michal did what she did or (2) Saul uses this question to rebuke Michal. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not have deceived me and let my enemy go, so that he has escaped.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Let me go. Why should I kill you? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Although David did not actually say this, Michal tells Saul that David threatened her with this question. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I will kill you if you do not help me to escape.”
1 Samuel 19:18
General Information:
David flees to Samuel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now (0)This word is used here to show that the writer has started to tell a new part of the story.
1 Samuel 19:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It was told to Saul (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Someone told Saul”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: See (0)Alternate translation: “Look” or “Listen” or “Pay attention to what I am about to tell you”
1 Samuel 19:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: standing as head over them (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “head” refers to a position of authority. Alternate translation: “acting as their leader”
1 Samuel 19:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: When Saul was told this (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “When someone told Saul this”
1 Samuel 19:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ramah … Seku … Naioth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are place names.
1 Samuel 19:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: This is why they ask, “Is Saul also among the prophets?” (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-proverbs
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 also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they ask (0)Here “they” refers to people in general. The question became a proverb among the people.
1 Samuel 20
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: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
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: Metaphor)
1 Samuel 20:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What have I done? What is my iniquity? What is my sin before your father, that he seeks to take my life? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism
These three questions mean basically the same thing. David uses them to emphasize that he has done nothing wrong to Saul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question 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 also: Rhetorical Question)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that he seeks to take my life? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “take my life” is an idiom for “kill me.”
1 Samuel 20:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Far from it (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “far from it” is an idiom that refers to that it is not true. Alternate translation: “This is certainly not true”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: nothing either great or small (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism
The words “great or small” include everything in between. Alternate translation: “nothing at all”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why should my father hide this thing from me? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jonathan uses this question to emphasize that Saul would have told him if he planned to kill David. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question 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!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It is not so (0)Alternate translation: “It is not true”
1 Samuel 20:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I have found favor in your eyes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “I have pleased you” or “you consider me favorably”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he will be grieved (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “this will grieve him” or “he will be very sad”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: there is but a step between me and death (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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”
1 Samuel 20:4
General Information:
David proposes a test against King Saul to Jonathan.
1 Samuel 20:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Tomorrow is the new moon (0)On the first of every month the people would celebrate and offer sacrifices to God.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: until the third day at evening (0)Alternate translation: “until the evening of the day after tomorrow”
1 Samuel 20:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
David’s continues to describe the test he proposes.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: asked leave of me (0)Alternate translation: “asked me if I would allow him to leave”
1 Samuel 20:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he says … he is … he has decided (0)The word “he” refers to Saul.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your servant will have peace (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
David speaks of himself as if he were another person to show that he respects Jonathan. Alternate translation: “I, your servant, will have peace”
1 Samuel 20:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
David continues speaking to Jonathan.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with your servant … have brought your servant (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you have brought your servant into a covenant of Yahweh with you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for why then should you bring me to your father? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “then there would be no reason for you to bring me to your father”
1 Samuel 20:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Far be it from you! (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom that means it will never happen to you. Alternate translation: “This will never happen to you!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: would I not tell you? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I would certainly tell you.”
1 Samuel 20:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: see (0)Alternate translation: “look” or “listen” or “pay attention to what I am about to tell you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: if there is good will (0)Alternate translation: “if my father wants to do good things for you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: will I not then send to you and make it known to you? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jonathan uses this question to emphasize that he will tell David if Saul intends to harm him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “then I will certainly send to you and make it known to you”
1 Samuel 20:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: may Yahweh do to Jonathan and more also (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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 also: Pronouns)
1 Samuel 20:14
General Information:
Jonathan asks David not to completely kill all his offspring so that a remnant will remain.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: will you not show me the covenant faithfulness of Yahweh, that I may not die? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Jonathan asks this question to confirm that David will do this. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “please show me the covenant faithfulness of Yahweh, that I may not die”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: show me the covenant faithfulness of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
The abstract noun faithfulness can be stated as faithful. Here, of Yahweh could mean: (1) “be faithful to me as Yahweh is faithful” or (2) “be faithful to me as Yahweh requires”
1 Samuel 20:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: house of David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “house” is a metonym for the people who live in the house. Alternate translation: “David’s family”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: May Yahweh require an accounting from the hand of the enemies of David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The hand is a synecdoche for the person. This could mean: (1) “May Yahweh use David’s enemies to punish David if David breaks this promise” or (2) “May Yahweh destroy the enemies of David.”
1 Samuel 20:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he loved him as he loved his own soul (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “his own soul” refers to himself. Alternate translation: “Jonathan loved David as much as he loved himself”
1 Samuel 20:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: You will be missed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “My father will miss you”
1 Samuel 20:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: when the business was in hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “business was in hand” is an idiom that refers to when everything happened. Alternate translation: “when everything happened”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the stone Ezel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Ezel” was the name of the stone. Alternate translation: “the stone that people call Ezel”
1 Samuel 20:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
Jonathan continues to speak to David.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to the side of it (0)Here the word “it” refers to the stone by which David was to hide.
1 Samuel 20:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my young man … the young boy (0)These refer to the same person.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Look (0)Alternate translation: “Listen” or “Pay attention to what I am about to tell you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: then come (0)Alternate translation: “then you, David, come”
1 Samuel 20:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
Jonathan continues to speak to David.
1 Samuel 20:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: see, Yahweh (0)This could mean: (1) “we know that Yahweh” or (2) “pay attention because this is important: Yahweh.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh is between you and me (0)This could mean: (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 20:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jonathan stood up (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-manuscripts
Some ancient copies have “Jonathan sat across from him.”
1 Samuel 20:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He is not clean; surely he is not clean (0)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 20:28
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: asked permission from me to go (0)Alternate translation: “asked me to allow him to go”
1 Samuel 20:29
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: if I have found favor in your eyes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the king’s table (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
Jonathan speaks of Saul as if he is another person to show that he respects Saul. Alternate translation: “your table”
1 Samuel 20:30
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Saul’s anger burned against Jonathan (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “anger burned” is a metonym that refers to becoming very angry. Alternate translation: “Saul became very angry with Jonathan”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: You son of a perverse, rebellious woman! (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Do I not know that you have chosen the son of Jesse … mother’s nakedness? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Saul uses this question to emphasize that he knows that Jonathan and David are friends. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I know that you have chosen the son of Jesse … mother’s nakedness.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to the shame of your mother’s nakedness (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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”
1 Samuel 20:31
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: neither you nor your kingdom will be established (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you will not become king and will not establish your kingdom”
1 Samuel 20:32
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For what reason should he be put to death? What has he done? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
1 Samuel 20:34
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the second day of the month (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal
This “second” is an ordinal number which refers to two. Alternate translation: “the second day of the new moon festival”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he was grieved over David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he was grieving over David”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: had dishonored him (0)Here “him” refers to David.
1 Samuel 20:35
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a young man was with him (0)Here “him” refers to Jonathan.
1 Samuel 20:36
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he shot an arrow beyond him (0)Alternate translation: “Jonathan shot an arrow beyond the young man”
1 Samuel 20:37
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Is not the arrow beyond you? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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 also: Litotes)
1 Samuel 20:38
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: called after the young man, “Hurry (0)Alternate translation: “called out to the young man, who was running away from him, ‘Hurry”
1 Samuel 20:41
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the mound (0)It seems that David had hidden behind a pile of earth or stones.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: lay facedown on the ground, and bowed himself three times. (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: May Yahweh be between you and me (0)This could mean: (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.” See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 20:23.
1 Samuel 21
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 ULT 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: Rhetorical Question)
1 Samuel 21:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Nob (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahimelech (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a man’s name.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: trembling (0)shaking in fear
1 Samuel 21:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: on a mission (0)Alternate translation: “to do work for him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I have directed the young men to a certain place (0)Alternate translation: “I have told the young men to go to another place, and I will meet them there later”
1 Samuel 21:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now then (0)David is starting a new part of the conversation.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what do you have on hand? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “on hand” is a metonym meaning “available.” Alternate translation: “What food do you have that you can give me?”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Give me five loaves of bread (0)This is a polite request.
1 Samuel 21:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ordinary bread (0)bread that the priests have not used in worship
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: if the young men have kept themselves from women (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
This can be translated as a complete sentence. Alternate translation: “Your men may eat it if they have not slept with women recently”
1 Samuel 21:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: women have been kept from us (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “we have kept ourselves from women”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: three days (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“3 days”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: when I set out (0)Alternate translation: “when I begin a journey”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The things belonging to the men have been set apart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “The men have set what belongs to them apart”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: How much more today will what they have be set apart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
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”
1 Samuel 21:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the bread that was set apart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “the bread that the priests had set apart”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: which was removed from before Yahweh, in order to put (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “which the priests had removed from before Yahweh so that they could put”
1 Samuel 21:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: detained before Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This could mean: (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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Doeg … herdsmen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
You may need to say clearly that Doeg saw what David did. Alternate translation: “Doeg … herdsmen, and he saw what Ahimelech did”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Doeg the Edomite (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man from the land of Edom.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: herdsmen (0)the keepers and protectors of a herd, especially of cattle or sheep
1 Samuel 21:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now is there not here on hand any spear or sword? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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?”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: weapons (0)a general name for such things as swords, knives, bows and arrows, and spears
1 Samuel 21:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Valley of Elah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place in Israel.
1 Samuel 21:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Is not this David, the king of the land? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
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 also: Rhetorical Question and Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Did they not sing to one another about him in dances, ‘Saul … thousands?’ (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question 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.’”
1 Samuel 21:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David took these words to heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “took … to heart” is a metonym to think seriously about what was said. Alternate translation: “David thought seriously about what the servants said”
1 Samuel 21:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in their hands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “hands” are a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “in their presence”
1 Samuel 21:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why have you brought him to me? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This could mean: (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.”
1 Samuel 21:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Do I lack madmen, so that you have brought this fellow to behave like one in my presence? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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 also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Will this fellow really come into my house? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Do not allow this fellow to enter my house.”
1 Samuel 22
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: priest, priesthood)
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: prophet, prophecy, prophesy, seer, prophetess)
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: high priest, chief priests)
1 Samuel 22:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: cave (0)a hollow space under the ground, generally opening into the side of a hill, large enough for people to enter
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Adullam (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a town near the city of Gath.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: heard it (0)heard that David had gone to hide in the cave
1 Samuel 22:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Everyone who was in distress … everyone who was discontented (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is a generalization. Alternate translation: “Many people who were distressed … many people who were unhappy”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: captain (0)military officer who leads soldiers
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: four hundred (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“400”
1 Samuel 22:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then David went from there (0)Alternate translation: “Then David went from the cave at Adullam”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Mizpah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a city.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: go out with you (0)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 UST.
1 Samuel 22:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: go into the land of Judah (0)Alternate translation: “go to your home land of Judah”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hereth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a city.
1 Samuel 22:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David had been discovered, along with the men who were with him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the tamarisk tree (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
This is a type of tree. Alternate translation: “a large shade tree”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in Ramah (0)Ramah is the name of a place in Gibeah. The name means “high place.” This could mean: (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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Will the son of Jesse give every one of you fields and vineyards? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Will the son of Jesse give (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
The time when he will give can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “When the son of Jesse becomes king, will he give”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the son of Jesse (0)Alternate translation: “David”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Will he make you all captains of thousands and captains of hundreds (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Will he make you all captains (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
You may need to make explicit when he will make them captains. Alternate translation: “When he becomes king, will he make you all captains”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: captains of thousands and captains of hundreds (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
This could mean: (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.
1 Samuel 22:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
This continues what Saul said to his servants.
1 Samuel 22:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Doeg the Edomite (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 21:7.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Nob … Ahimelech (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a place name and the name of a man. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 21:1.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahitub (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
1 Samuel 22:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He prayed to Yahweh that he might help him, and he gave him (0)Ahitub prayed to Yahweh that Yahweh might help David, and Ahitub gave David
1 Samuel 22:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in that you have given (0)Alternate translation: “by giving”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: rise up (0)Alternate translation: “rebel” or “fight”
1 Samuel 22:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Who among all your servants is so faithful as David … house? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “None of your servants is as faithful as David … house.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bodyguard (0)a person or group of people who protect someone
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: is honored in your house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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 also: Active or Passive)
1 Samuel 22:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Is today the first time I have prayed to God to help him? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
Ahimelech asks himself this question before Saul can ask it, then immediately answers it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “This is not the first time I have prayed to God to help David.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Far be it from me! (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This idiom means “Absolutely not!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Do not let the king impute anything to his servant or to all the house of my father. For your servant knows nothing (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: impute (0)to consider someone guilty
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to all the house of my father (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “house” represents “family.” Alternate translation: “to all my father’s family”
1 Samuel 22:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your father’s house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
1 Samuel 22:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the guard that stood around him (0)Alternate translation: “the soldiers standing nearby to protect him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Turn and kill (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “Turn” means to turn around or turn away from the king. Alternate translation: “Go and kill” or “Kill”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: their hand also is with David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The word “hand” is a metonym for the work done with the hand. Alternate translation: “they also help David”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: would not put out their hand to kill (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
1 Samuel 22:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Turn and kill the priests … turned and attacked the priests (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Doeg the Edomite turned and attacked … he killed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This could mean: (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 also: Synecdoche)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Doeg the Edomite (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 21:7.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: eighty-five persons (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“85 men” or “85 priests”
1 Samuel 22:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He also put to the sword … he put to the sword (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
This could mean: (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 also: Synecdoche)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: put to the sword (0)Alternate translation: “killed with the sword”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Nob (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
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 also: Metonymy)
1 Samuel 22:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Abiathar (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a man’s name.
1 Samuel 23
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: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness)
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: Synecdoche and faith)
1 Samuel 23:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: fighting against Keilah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
“Keilah” is the name of a town. Here “Keilah” represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “fighting against the people of Keilah” (See also: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: threshing (0)separating the grain or seeds, generally from a cereal plant or wheat by some mechanical means
1 Samuel 23:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: How much more then if we go to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “We will be even more fearful if we go to Keilah to fight the armies of the Philistines.”
1 Samuel 23:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: went … fought … led … struck … saved (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The writer pays the most attention to David, so these words are all singular, though David’s men helped him do all these things.
1 Samuel 23:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahimelech (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 21:1.
1 Samuel 23:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Saul was told (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone told Saul” or “They told Saul”
1 Samuel 23:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: summoned (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all his forces (0)Alternate translation: “all his soldiers”
1 Samuel 23:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David said (0)Alternate translation: “David asked” or “David prayed”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your servant has indeed heard (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
David speaks as if he were someone else to show his respect for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I have indeed heard”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: destroy the city (0)make the city so no one could live in it and kill all the people who live there
1 Samuel 23:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: as your servant has heard … tell your servant (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
David speaks as if he were someone else to show his respect for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “as I have heard … tell me”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: surrender me into his hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “give me over to Saul”
1 Samuel 23:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David said (0)or “David asked” or “David prayed”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: surrender me and my men into the hand of Saul (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “give me and my men over to Saul”
1 Samuel 23:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: six hundred (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“600”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It was told Saul (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone told Saul” or “They told Saul”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: had escaped (0)Alternate translation: “had run away from”
1 Samuel 23:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: wilderness of Ziph (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a deserted area near the city of Ziph.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: did not give him into his hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
1 Samuel 23:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: seek his life (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “try to kill him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Horesh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of city near Ziph.
1 Samuel 23:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: strengthened his hand in God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. AT “encouraged him to trust in God”
1 Samuel 23:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For the hand of Saul my father will not find you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
1 Samuel 23:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ziphites (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of the people group from Ziph.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Is not David hiding among us in … Jeshimon? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This rhetorical question can be translated as an exclamation. Alternate translation: “David is hiding among us in … Jeshimon!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the hill of Hakilah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a hill in the wilderness of Judah.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jeshimon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a desert area near the Dead Sea. It can also be translated as “the Judean Wilderness” or “the wasteland.”
1 Samuel 23:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: surrender him into the king’s hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
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 also: Metonymy)
1 Samuel 23:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: May you be blessed by Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “I hope that Yahweh blesses you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you have had compassion on me (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word compassion, you can express the same idea with an adjective such as “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”
1 Samuel 23:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Learn and find out (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet
These two words mean almost the same thing and can be translated as one phrase. Alternate translation: “Know for sure”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who has seen him (0)Alternate translation: “who saw him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: It is told to me (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “People tell me” or “I have heard”
1 Samuel 23:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: among all the thousands of Judah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “even if I have to arrest every man in Judah” or “among all the clans of Judah”
1 Samuel 23:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then they rose up (0)They stopped what they had been doing. The reader should not believe that they were sitting or lying.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then they (0)Alternate translation: “Then the Ziphites”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ziph (0)This is the name of a place. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 23:14.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jeshimon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the wilderness of Maon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of the deserted area around the city of Maon in southern Judah.
1 Samuel 23:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David was told of it (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone told David that they were coming” or “David learned that they were coming”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: rocky hill (0)a hill covered with many rocks or boulders
1 Samuel 23:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hurry and come (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys
The words “hurry” and “come” can be combined into one idea. Alternate translation: “Come quickly”
1 Samuel 23:28
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: pursuing David (0)Alternate translation: “chasing David, trying to catch him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Rock of Escape (0)a memorial or marker of David’s escape from Saul
1 Samuel 24
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: avenge, avenger, revenge, vengeance and chosen, choose, chosen people, Chosen One, elect and godly, godliness, ungodly, godless, ungodliness, godlessness)
1 Samuel 24:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he was told (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone told him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: wilderness of Engedi (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: three thousand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
3,000
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: chosen men (0)men whom he had chosen because of their superior military abilities
1 Samuel 24:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sheep pens (0)Alternate translation: “sheep corrals” or “sheep enclosures”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: cover his feet (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
This is a euphemism for “relieve himself” or “defecate” or “empty his intestines.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: cave (0)generally a natural hole under the ground, often with an opening in the side of a hill or cliff
1 Samuel 24:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David arose and quietly crept (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The word “arose” is an idiom for taking action. Alternate translation: “David took action; he quietly crept”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: crept (0)approached slowly, carefully or quietly
1 Samuel 24:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David’s heart afflicted him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “David was sad because he had done something wrong”
1 Samuel 24:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh’s anointed (0)Alternate translation: “the one whom Yahweh has chosen to lead his people” or “the one Yahweh has made king”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to put out my hand against him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The hand is a metonym for the ability to cause harm. Alternate translation: “to harm him in any way”
1 Samuel 24:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why do you listen to the men who say, ‘See, David is seeking your harm? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This is a rhetorical question. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not listen to the men who say, ‘See, David is seeking to harm you.”
1 Samuel 24:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your eyes have seen (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “your eyes” represent King Saul. Alternate translation: “you have seen with your own eyes”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: put you into my hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “hand” is a metonym for control. Alternate translation: “put you where I could kill you or allow you to live”
1 Samuel 24:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my father (0)Saul was not David’s real father. David calls him “father” to show that he respects Saul.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: there is no evil or treason in my hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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 also: Metonymy)
1 Samuel 24:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my hand shall not be against you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
1 Samuel 24:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: ancients (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj
This nominal adjective can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who lived long ago”
1 Samuel 24:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: After whom has the king of Israel come out? After whom do you pursue? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: After a dead dog (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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 also: Ellipsis)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: After a flea (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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 also: Ellipsis)
1 Samuel 24:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: see to it, and plead my cause (0)This could mean: (1) “do what is right, and plead my cause” or (2) “see that my cause is right and fight for me.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: from your hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “hand” is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: “so that you have no power over me”
1 Samuel 24:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my son David (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
Saul speaks as if David were his son to show David that he loves him.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: lifted up his voice and wept (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
The writer writes as if a voice were something a person could lift up with his hands. Alternate translation: “wept loudly”
1 Samuel 24:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you have done good to me (0)Saul acknowledges that David did show that he supported King Saul and was loyal to him by not killing him.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: for you did not kill me when Yahweh had put me at your mercy (0)Saul acknowledges that David chose to show mercy and demonstrated his loyalty to King Saul as Yahweh’s anointed.
1 Samuel 24:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For if a man finds his enemy, will he let him go safely? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For if a man finds his enemy, will he let him go safely? (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the kingdom of Israel will be established in your hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This could mean: (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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: in your hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “hand” is a metonym that represents power or control.
1 Samuel 24:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you will not cut off my descendants after me (0)“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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you will not destroy my name out of my father’s house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
1 Samuel 24:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David and his men (0)Alternate translation: “David and his army”
1 Samuel 25
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: avenge, avenger, revenge, vengeance)
1 Samuel 25:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: All Israel gathered together and mourned for him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole
This is likely a generalization. A large number of the people of Israel were probably there, but some were probably unable to attend.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: gathered together (0)Alternate translation: “met together”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: buried him in his house at Ramah (0)This could mean 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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David rose and went down (0)Alternate translation: “David and his men moved on and they went down”
1 Samuel 25:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: There was a man in Maon, whose possessions were in Carmel. The man was very wealthy. (0)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.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Maon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a town.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Carmel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a town. This is different from Mount Carmel.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: three thousand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
3,000
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: one thousand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
1,000
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: shearing his sheep (0)Alternate translation: “shaving the wool off his sheep”
1 Samuel 25:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 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. (0)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.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Nabal (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Abigail (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a woman.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He was a descendant of the house of Caleb (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Here “house” represents family. Alternate translation: “He was a descendant of the family of Caleb” or “He was a descendant of Caleb”
1 Samuel 25:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: shearing his sheep (0)Alternate translation: “shaving the wool off his sheep”
1 Samuel 25:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: greet him in my name (0)Alternate translation: “greet him as I would greet him if I were there”
1 Samuel 25:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Live in prosperity (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
“I desire that you may live in prosperity.” If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word prosperity, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “I desire that you possess many good things as long as you live”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Peace to you and peace to your house, and peace be to all that you have (0)Alternate translation: “I desire that peace may come to you, your household and your possessions”
1 Samuel 25:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you have shearers (0)“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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: we did them no harm, and they missed nothing (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
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”
1 Samuel 25:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: let my young men find favor in your eyes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to your servants (0)David was expressing respect toward Nabal by calling his men Nabal’s servants.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your son David (0)David spoke as if he were Nabal’s son to show that he respected Nabal, who was an older man.
1 Samuel 25:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David’s young men (0)Alternate translation: “David’s army”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: said all of this to Nabal on David’s behalf (0)Alternate translation: “gave Nabal David’s complete message”
1 Samuel 25:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Who is David, and who is the son of Jesse? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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 also: Parallelism)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: breaking away from (0)Alternate translation: “running away from” or “rebelling against”
1 Samuel 25:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my bread (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “bread” is an idiom for any kind of food.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: men who come from I do not know where (0)Alternate translation: “men when I do not know where they have come from” or “men whom I do not know”
1 Samuel 25:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that was said (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that Nabal had said”
1 Samuel 25:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: said to his men (0)Alternate translation: “said to his army”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: “Every man strap on his sword.” So every man strapped on his sword. David also strapped on his sword (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: four hundred (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
400
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: two hundred (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
200
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: stayed by the baggage (0)They remained at their base camp to prevent other raiders from stealing their possessions.
1 Samuel 25:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: But one of the young men told Abigail, Nabal’s wife (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
1 Samuel 25:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: We were not harmed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Nobody harmed us” or “We were safe”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: did not miss anything as long as we went with them (0)“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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: They were a wall (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
David’s men were like a wall around a city that protects the people in the city from their enemies.
1 Samuel 25:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: evil is plotted against our master (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: our master (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
The speaker speaks of David as if David were another person to show that he respects David. Alternate translation: “you”
1 Samuel 25:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: two hundred (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
200
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: loaves (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
A loaf is like a cake. You may need to make explicit what the loaves consisted of. Alternate translation: “loaves of bread”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: already prepared (0)Alternate translation: “that someone had already cooked” or “ready for someone to cook”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: measures (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume
This is a generic term as none is given.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: parched grain (0)Alternate translation: “grain that someone had cooked”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: clusters of raisins (0)Alternate translation: “cakes of raisins” or “masses of raisins”
1 Samuel 25:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David and his men (0)Alternate translation: “David and his army”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: by the cover of the mountain (0)This could mean: (1) into a low, narrow stream bed or (2) to where the men were hiding.
1 Samuel 25:21
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-backgroundThe writer gives background information before he continues with the story.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now David had said, “Surely … for good. (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now David (0)The word “Now” shows that the writer has stopped writing about Abigail and started writing about David.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: nothing was missed of all that belonged to him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
This can be stated positively and in active form. Alternate translation: “he still has everything that was his” (See also: Active or Passive)
1 Samuel 25:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: May God do so to me … belong to him (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: May God do so to me, David (0)The Hebrew text has “May God strike the enemies of David,” and some versions follow this. However, the reading of the ULT follows the main Greek tradition of the Old Testament, as some other modern versions do.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all who belong (0)Alternate translation: “all the people who belong to him” or “those in his family”
1 Samuel 25:23
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-backgroundThe writer has finished giving background information, so he continues the story.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: lay before David facedown and bowed herself to the ground (0)Abigail was being humble and showing that she would obey David because he was a powerful leader.
1 Samuel 25:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: listen to (0)Alternate translation: “hear”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my master … your servant … words of your servant (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
“David … me … my words.” Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are two other people, to show that she respects David.
1 Samuel 25:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
Abigail continues to advise David not to take revenge.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Let not my master regard … I your servant … the young men of my master (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: But I … did not see … whom you sent (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
1 Samuel 25:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
Abigail continues to advise David not to take revenge.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my master … my master (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
Abigail speaks of David as if he is another person to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: “David … you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bloodshed (0)murder
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: avenging yourself with your own hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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 also: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: let your enemies … be like Nabal (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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 also: Predictive Past)
1 Samuel 25:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
Abigail continues to tell David not to be angry.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: let this present that your servant has brought to my master be given to the young men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: this present (0)“these gifts.” The “present” was actually many different things.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your servant has … my master … my master (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
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”
1 Samuel 25:28
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
Abigail continues to reason with David.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the trespass of your servant … my master … my master is (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh will certainly make my master a sure house (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
Here “house” is an idiom used for “descendants.” Alternate translation: “Yahweh will ensure that my master always has a descendant who serves as king”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: fighting the battles of Yahweh (0)Alternate translation: “fighting against Yahweh’s enemies”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: evil will not be found in you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
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”
1 Samuel 25:29
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
Abigail continues to reason with David.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: pursue (0)chase and try to catch
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the life of my master will be bound in the bundle of the living by Yahweh your God (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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 also: Active or Passive)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the life of my master (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are two different people to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: “your life”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he will sling away the lives of your enemies, as from the pocket of a sling (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a sling (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
Abigail continues to reason with David.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my master (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
Abigail speaks of David as if he is another person, to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: “you”
1 Samuel 25:31
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
Abigail finishes reasoning with David.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: This will not be a staggering burden for you—that you have poured out innocent blood, or because my master attempted to rescue himself (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my master … himself … my master … your servant (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are two other people, to show that she respects David. “you … yourself … you … me”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: when Yahweh will do good for my master (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: May Yahweh … be blessed, he who (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. This could mean: (1) “I praise Yahweh … who” or (2) “May all people praise Yahweh … who.”
1 Samuel 25:33
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Your wisdom is blessed and you are blessed, because (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “I thank Yahweh because he has blessed you by making you wise and because”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bloodshed (0)murder. The same word appears in 1 Samuel 25:26.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: with my own hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The word “hand” here is a metonym for the action taken by the hand. Alternate translation: “by my own actions”
1 Samuel 25:34
General Information:
David accepts Abigail’s gifts and agrees to do as she has advised him.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: there would certainly have not been left to Nabal so much as one male baby (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “I would not have left to Nabal even one male baby”
1 Samuel 25:35
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: received from her hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Abigail did not unload all gifts from the donkeys herself. Alternate translation: “accepted all the gifts that she had brought”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: have listened to your voice (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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 also: Synecdoche)
1 Samuel 25:36
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: morning light (0)dawn
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Nabal’s heart was merry within him (0)Nabal was very happy
1 Samuel 25:37
General Information:
Yahweh’s judgment on Nabal
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the wine had gone out of Nabal (0)Nabal was no longer drunk and so was no longer feeling happy.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his heart died within him (0)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 25:39
General Information:
David offers to protect Abigail by marrying her.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: May Yahweh be blessed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 25:32. This could mean: (1) Alternate translation: “I praise Yahweh” or (2) Alternate translation: “May all people praise Yahweh”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: has taken up the cause of my insult from the hand of Nabal (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “has defended me after Nabal insulted me”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: has taken up the cause of my insult (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
The abstract nouns “cause” and “insult” can be translated as verbs. This could mean: (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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: has kept back his servant from evil (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
David speaks as if he were another person to show his respect for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “has kept me back from doing evil deeds”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: has turned Nabal’s evil action back on his own head (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word action, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “has done to Nabal what Nabal planned to do to me”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: on his own head (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The head is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “on him”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: sent and spoke to Abigail, to take her to himself as wife (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
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”
1 Samuel 25:41
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: She arose, bowed herself (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: See, your female servant is a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my master (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
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”
1 Samuel 25:42
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: hurried and arose, and rode (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: five servant girls of hers who followed her (0)Abigail was riding a donkey, but the servant girls were walking.
1 Samuel 25:43
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now David had also taken Ahinoam (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
This event took place before David married Abigail.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahinoam (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a woman.
1 Samuel 25:44
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Saul had given Michal (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
This event took place before David married Abigail.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Michal (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a woman.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Paltiel … Laish (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Gallim (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is a town north of Jerusalem.
1 Samuel 26
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: chosen, choose, chosen people, Chosen One, elect and righteous, righteousness, unrighteous, unrighteousness, upright, uprightness)
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: Rhetorical Question)
1 Samuel 26:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Is not David hiding … Jeshimon? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This rhetorical question can be translated as an exclamation. Alternate translation: “David is hiding … Jeshimon!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: before Jeshimon (0)Alternate translation: “from which we can see Jeshimon”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jeshimon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
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.
1 Samuel 26:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then Saul arose and went (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
The word “arose” is an idiom for taking action. Alternate translation: “Then Saul took action and he went”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: three thousand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
3,000
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: chosen men (0)men whom he had chosen because of their superior military abilities
1 Samuel 26:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: before Jeshimon (0)Alternate translation: “from which they could see Jeshimon”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jeshimon (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
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.
1 Samuel 26:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David arose and went (0)Alternate translation: “David took action and he went”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Abner … Ner (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
1 Samuel 26:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahimelech … Abishai (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of men.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Zeruiah (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of women.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: go down … to (0)David and his men were probably on higher ground than Saul.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I! I will go down (0)Alternate translation: “I want to be the one who goes down”
1 Samuel 26:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: God has put your enemy into your hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: pin him to the ground with the spear (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
This is a metonym that refers to “kill with a spear”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I will not strike him a second time (0)Alternate translation: “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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who can extend his hand against Yahweh’s anointed one and be guiltless? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question 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 also: Litotes)
1 Samuel 26:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: As Yahweh lives (0)Alternate translation: “as certainly as Yahweh lives” or “as surely as Yahweh lives”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his day will come to die (0)Alternate translation: “he will die a natural death”
1 Samuel 26:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: extend my hand against (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
The hand is a metonym for the harm a hand can do. Alternate translation: “do anything to harm”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: let us go (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive
David includes Abishai, so the word “us” here is inclusive.
1 Samuel 26:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a deep sleep from Yahweh had fallen on them (0)Yahweh had caused them to sleep deeply.
1 Samuel 26:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Do you not answer, Abner? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
David uses a question to shame Abner into answering. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Answer me, Abner!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David shouted (0)“David spoke as loudly as he could” so Saul and his men could hear him
1 Samuel 26:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Are not you a courageous man? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
David uses a question to rebuke Abner for not guarding Saul. Alternate translation: “You are a very brave man.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Who is like you in Israel? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
David uses a question to rebuke Abner for not guarding Saul. Alternate translation: “You are the greatest soldier in Israel.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why then have you not kept watch over your master the king? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This could mean: (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!”
1 Samuel 26:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my son (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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.
1 Samuel 26:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why does my master pursue his servant? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This could mean: (1) David really does want Saul to answer the question or (2) If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “My master has no reason to pursue his servant.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why does my master pursue his servant? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person
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?”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What have I done? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This could mean: (1) David really does want Saul to answer the question or (2) If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You know that I have done nothing to harm you.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What evil is in my hand? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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. This could mean: (1) David really does want Saul to answer the question. Alternate translation: “What have I done wrong?” or (2) If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I have done nothing wrong!” (See also: Rhetorical Question)
1 Samuel 26:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you, let my master the king listen to the words of his servant (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: stirred you up against me (0)Alternate translation: “caused you to be angry with me”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: let him accept an offering (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: may they be cursed in the sight of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “may Yahweh decide to punish them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: 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.’ (0)Alternate translation: “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.’”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that I should not cling to the inheritance of Yahweh (0)Alternate translation: “so that I will no longer trust that Yahweh will give me what he has promised me”
1 Samuel 26:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the king of Israel has (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
David speaks as if the king was another person to show respect to Saul. Alternate translation: “you have”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: do not let my blood fall to the earth (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
This is a polite way of saying “do not kill me.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the one flea (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: as when one hunts a partridge in the mountains (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile
Saul is chasing David as if he were hunting a valuable wild bird. (See also: Translate Unknowns)
1 Samuel 26:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Return (0)This could mean: (1) “Return to serve me in my palace” or (2) “Return to your home.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my son (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my life was precious in your eyes today (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: played the fool (0)Alternate translation: “been very foolish”
1 Samuel 26:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh put you into my hand today (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: pay each man (0)Alternate translation: “give what is proper to each man””
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: his anointed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
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”
1 Samuel 26:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your life was precious in my eyes today (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: so may my life be much valued in the eyes of Yahweh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
1 Samuel 26:25
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: May you be blessed (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “May Yahweh bless you”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my son (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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.
1 Samuel 27
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: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness)
1 Samuel 27:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David said in his heart (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
Here “his heart” is a metonym that means to himself. Alternate translation: “David thought to himself”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: escape out of his hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The word “hand” is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “escape from him”
1 Samuel 27:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David arose and passed over (0)Alternate translation: “David took action; he passed over”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: passed over (0)Alternate translation: “passed over the border between Israel and Philistia”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: six hundred men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
600
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Achish (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 21:10.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Maok (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man.
1 Samuel 27:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahinoam (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a woman. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 14:50.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Abigail (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a woman. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 25:3.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Nabal (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 25:3.
1 Samuel 27:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Saul was told (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Someone told Saul” or “Saul heard”
1 Samuel 27:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: If I have found favor in your eyes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: let them give me a place (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
Since Achish was the one who would “give,” this is a metonym for “please give me a place.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: one of the cities in the country (0)Alternate translation: “one of the outlying towns” or “one of the towns outside the city”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Why should your servant live in the royal city with you? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question 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.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your servant (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
David speaks as if he were another person to show that he respected Achish.
1 Samuel 27:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ziklag (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a city in the southwest part of Judah.
1 Samuel 27:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: making raids on (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
attacking and taking property many times
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Girzites (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
A people group who apparently lived somewhere between Philistia and Egypt.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: as you go to Shur (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
Here “you” is being used as an indefinite pronoun that refers to anyone. Alternate translation: “on the way most people travel to Shur”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Shur (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
region on the northeast border of Egypt
1 Samuel 27:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Achish (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
the king of Gath
1 Samuel 27:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Achish (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
the king of Gath
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jerahmeelites (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
a clan from the tribe of Judah
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Kenites (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
a people group who lived in the land of Midian
1 Samuel 27:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Gath (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
one of five Philistine city-states.
1 Samuel 27:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Achish (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
the king of Gath
1 Samuel 28
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: INVALID bible/other/death, law, law of Moses, law of Yahweh, law of God and Holy Spirit, Spirit of God, Spirit of the Lord, Spirit and sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)
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: Rhetorical Question)
1 Samuel 28:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: host (0)large assembly of armies
1 Samuel 28:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: So you will know … So I will (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases
The word “so” shows that the speaker agrees with what the other person has just said. Alternate translation: “Yes, I will go with you so that you will know … Very well, I will”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you will know what your servant can do (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your servant (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
David speaks as if he is another person so that Achish will think David respects him. Alternate translation: “I”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: make you (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
The word “you” refers to David and so is singular.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: bodyguard (0)a person who protects another person
1 Samuel 28:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now Samuel … with spirits (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background
The writer provides background information to prepare the reader for the events that follow.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: banned from the land (0)officially removed from the country or region, or prevented from entering Alternate translation: “expel from Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: those who talked with the dead or with spirits (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Then the Philistines gathered (0)after David and Achish spoke (1 Samuel 28:2)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: gathered all Israel together (0)Alternate translation: “gathered all his armies in Israel together”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Shunem … Gilboa (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
these are names of places
1 Samuel 28:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he was afraid, and his heart trembled very much (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
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 also: Parallelism)
1 Samuel 28:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Urim (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who talks with the dead (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Endor (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a place.
1 Samuel 28:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Saul disguised himself … and went … to the woman by night (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: disguised (0)changed his usual appearance no one would know who he was
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Divine for me … with a spirit (0)Alternate translation: “Talk to the dead for me”
1 Samuel 28:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: those who talk with the dead or with spirits (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my life (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
The word “life” represents the person. Alternate translation: “me”
1 Samuel 28:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a god (0)Other This could mean: (1) “one like God” or (2) “a judge” (1 Samuel 7:15).
1 Samuel 28:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: torn the kingdom out of your hand (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
1 Samuel 28:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh will give Israel along with you into the hand of the Philistines (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: will be with me (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism
This is a polite way to say that Saul will die. Alternate translation: “will be dead”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Yahweh will also give the army of Israel into the hand of the Philistines (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor
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”
1 Samuel 28:20
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: he had eaten no food all that day, neither that whole night (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I have put my life in my hand and have listened (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. “I could die because I listened” or “Someone could kill me because I listened”
1 Samuel 28:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the voice of your woman servant (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
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 also: or Synecdoche)
1 Samuel 28:23
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Saul refused (0)Alternate translation: “Saul would not do what they asked”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: compelled him (0)Alternate translation: “forced him”
1 Samuel 28:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: fatted calf (0)a calf that has been grown and fed to be available for a special feast
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: she … kneaded it (0)She mixed flour and oil, working and rolling the mixture thoroughly with her hands to produce dough for baking.
1 Samuel 29
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 ULT 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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: spring (0)a small stream of water flowing naturally from the Earth
1 Samuel 29:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: passed on by hundreds and by thousands (0)Alternate translation: “divided their men into groups; some groups had one hundred soldiers and some groups had one thousand soldiers”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: hundreds … thousands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
100s … 1,000s
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David and his men passed on in the rear guard with Achish (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: What are these Hebrews doing here? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Is not this David … these years, and I have found … this day? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
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.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: I have found no fault with him (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes
This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “I know of nothing that he has done wrong” or “I am very pleased with him”
1 Samuel 29:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: He will not go down with us into battle (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: For how else could he make himself acceptable to his master than by taking the heads of our own men? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question 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 also: Metonymy)
1 Samuel 29:5
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Is this not David of whom they sang one to another in dances, saying, ‘Saul … ten thousands’? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question 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’!”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: thousands … ten thousands (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
“1,000s … 10,000s”
1 Samuel 29:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: As Yahweh lives (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. “As certainly as Yahweh lives” or “This is a true statement”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your going out and your coming in with me in the army is good (0)Alternate translation: “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 29:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: my master the king (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns
David speaks as if Achish were another person so that Achish will think David respects him. Alternate translation: “you, my master and king”
1 Samuel 29:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: nevertheless, the princes (0)Alternate translation: “even though that is true, this is more important: the princes” or “however, the princes”
1 Samuel 29:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: your master (0)The reader should understand that Achish is speaking of Saul.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: have light (0)Alternate translation: “can see with the morning sun”
1 Samuel 30
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.
1 Samuel 30:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ziklag (0)Ziklag is a city in the southern part of Judah. This was where David and his men kept their families.
1 Samuel 30:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: they (0)the Amalekites
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: both small and great (0)This could mean: (1) “both unimportant people and important people” or (2) “both physically small and physically large.”
1 Samuel 30:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: their wives … sons … daughters (0)belonging to David and his men
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: it was burned, and their wives … daughters were taken captive (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive
This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “they saw that someone had burned it and taken their wives … captive”
1 Samuel 30:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the people that were with him (0)These were mainly his army of men.
1 Samuel 30:5
General Information:
David finds strength in Yahweh after the raid.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahinoam the Jezreelite woman (0)Alternate translation: “Ahinoam from Jezreel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Nabal the Carmelite (0)Alternate translation: “Nabal the man from Carmel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ahinoam … Abigail (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
women’s names
1 Samuel 30:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: distressed (0)suffering
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all the people were bitter in spirit (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche
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”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David strengthened himself in Yahweh, his God (0)This could mean: (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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David prayed to Yahweh for direction (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word direction, you can express the same idea with a clause. Alternate translation: “David prayed that Yahweh would tell David what David should do”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: pursue (0)chase and try to catch
1 Samuel 30:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: six hundred men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
600 men
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: brook (0)small stream
1 Samuel 30:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: kept pursuing (0)Alternate translation: “kept chasing them, trying to catch them”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: four hundred men (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
400 men
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: two hundred (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
200 men
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: who were so weak (0)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
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: an Egyptian in a field (0)He was left there to die from the Amalekite raiding party.
1 Samuel 30:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: clusters of raisins (0)Alternate translation: “clusters of dried grapes”
1 Samuel 30:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: David said to him (0)David questioned the Egyptian slave.
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Quote: three days ago (0)Alternate translation: “three days in the past”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: three days (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
3 days
1 Samuel 30:14
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a raid (0)an attack on a town to take property
1 Samuel 30:15
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: raiding party (0)a group of armed warriors who attack people or places unexpectedly
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: you will not … betray me up into the hands of my master (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
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”
1 Samuel 30:16
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: booty (0)the goods they had stolen in the raid
1 Samuel 30:17
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: twilight (0)the time just after the sun goes down until the sky is dark
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: four hundred (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
400
1 Samuel 30:18
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: recovered … rescued (0)“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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: rescued his two wives (0)Alternate translation: “got his two wives back” or “saved his two wives from danger”
1 Samuel 30:19
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Nothing was missing (0)Alternate translation: “None of the items the Amalekites had stolen were lost”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: neither small nor great (0)This could mean: (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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: booty (0)goods that the Amelekites had stolen. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 30:16.
1 Samuel 30:21
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: two hundred (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers
200
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the brook Besor (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
a small stream or creek named Besor. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 30:9.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: greeted them (0)spoke to them in a friendly way
1 Samuel 30:22
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the booty (0)the goods they had taken from the enemy in battle. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 30:16.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: we have recovered (0)Alternate translation: “we have regained” or “we have gotten back”
1 Samuel 30:24
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Who will listen to you in this matter? (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion
This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement: Alternate translation: “No one will listen to you in this matter.”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: as the share is for anyone who goes (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns
If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word share, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “as what belongs to anyone who goes”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: anyone who goes into battle (0)the warriors who actually fought the enemy in war
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: will share and share alike (0)Alternate translation: “will make sure that all receive the same amount”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: anyone who waits by the baggage (0)the people who supported the warriors by managing and guarding their supplies
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: baggage (0)belongings that the soldiers left behind when they went into battle
1 Samuel 30:26
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ziklag (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a town.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: booty (0)goods that David had taken from the Amalekites after the battle. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 30:16.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a present (0)Alternate translation: “a gift”
1 Samuel 30:27
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
The writer begins a list of towns whose elders received gifts from David.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Bethel … Jattir (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of towns.
1 Samuel 30:28
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
The writer continues the list that began in 1 Samuel 30:27 of towns whose elders received gifts from David.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Aroer … Siphmoth … Eshtemoa (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of towns.
1 Samuel 30:29
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
The writer continues the list that began in 1 Samuel 30:27 of towns whose elders received gifts from David.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Rakal (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a town.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jerahmeelites … Kenites (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are the names of people groups.
1 Samuel 30:30
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)Connecting Statement:
The writer continues the list that began in 1 Samuel 30:27 of towns whose elders received gifts from David.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Hormah … Bor Ashan … Athak (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of towns.
1 Samuel 30:31
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Connecting Statement: (0)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 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: will of God)
1 Samuel 31:1
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Now the Philistines fought against Israel (0)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.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: against Israel (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy
“Israel” refers to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “against the people of Israel”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Mount Gilboa (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a mountain
1 Samuel 31:2
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: closely pursued Saul and his sons (0)Alternate translation: “chased Saul and three of his sons”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Abinadab, and Malki-Shua (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
These are names of men.
1 Samuel 31:3
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: The battle went heavily against Saul (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom
This is an idiom. “Saul’s army began to lose the battle”
1 Samuel 31:4
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: armor bearer (0)The armor bearer carried the large shield of his commanding officer and other weapons. He protected the commanding officer during a battle.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: these uncircumcised (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj
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 also: Metonymy)
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: would not (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis
The ellipsis can be filled in. Alternate translation: “would not do what Saul had told him to do”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: took his own sword and fell on it (0)Alternate translation: “killed himself with his own sword”
1 Samuel 31:6
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: that same day (0)Alternate translation: “on that one day”
1 Samuel 31:7
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: lived in them (0)lived in the cities the men of Israel had left
1 Samuel 31:8
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: strip the dead (0)take the armor and weapons off the dead Israelites’ bodies
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Mount Gilboa (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
a mountain range overlooking the Valley of Jezreel in northern Israel, south of Nazareth
1 Samuel 31:9
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: the land of the Philistines throughout (0)Alternate translation: “all areas of the land of the Philistines”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: to carry the news to their idols’ temples and to the people (0)Alternate translation: “to speak the news inside the temples and to the people”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: their idols’ temples (0)the buildings where they worshiped their idols
1 Samuel 31:10
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Ashtoreths (0)ancient false goddesses and idols, also called “Asherah” or “Astarte”
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: fastened (0)attached, probably with a large spike or nail
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Beth Shan (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
the name of a city
1 Samuel 31:11
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: Jabesh (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names
This is the name of a town. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 11:1.
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: what the Philistines had done to Saul (0)Alternate translation: “how the Philistines had dishonored Saul”
1 Samuel 31:12
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: all night (0)Alternate translation: “throughout the whole night”
1 Samuel 31:13
[GL Quote Not Found!]
Quote: a tamarisk tree (0)Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown
This is a type of tree. See how you translated this in 1 Samuel 22:6. Alternate translation: “a large shade tree”