1 Samuel

1 Samuel front

Introduction to 1 Samuel

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of 1 Samuel

Samuel as the last judge over Israel (1:1–7:17)
- Samuel’s birth and dedication to Yahweh (1:1–2:21)
- Yahweh’s judgment against Eli the priest and his family (2:22–3:21)
- The Philistines capture and return the Box of Yahweh (4:1–6:21)
- Samuel leads the people to repent and defeat the Philistines (7:1–17)
Saul becomes the first king of Israel (8:1–15:35)
- Samuel agrees to choose a king (8:1–22)
- Samuel anoints Saul as king (9:1–10:27)
- Saul defeats the Ammonites (11:1–15)
- Samuel’s farewell speech (12:1–25)
- Saul makes bad decisions and disobeys Yahweh (13:1–15:35)
Yahweh chooses David to be the next king of Israel (16:1–31:13)
- Yahweh tells Samuel to anoint David (16:1–23)
- David fights Goliath (17:1–58)
- Jonathan befriends David, but Saul is jealous of David (18:1–20:42)
- David flees from Saul to Philistia and the wilderness (21:1–30:31)
- The Philistines kill Saul in battle (31:1–13)

What is the book of 1 Samuel about?

The book of 1 Samuel is the first of four books compiled by the prophets of Israel that together tell the story of the Israelite monarchy. (The other books in this series are 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, and 2 Kings. Originally they were all one long book.) This book begins with the story of Samuel, who was the last of the judges over Israel. He anointed Saul to be the first king of Israel. Much of the book is about how Saul became king but then later sinned against Yahweh and died. Even while Saul was still alive, Yahweh chose David to be king after him. This book shows how God protected David when Saul tried to kill him.

What title should translators use for this book?

Translators can use the traditional title “1 Samuel” or “First Samuel.” Translators may also consider another title such as “The Book About Samuel, Saul, and David.” (See: How to Translate Names)

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. (Later prophets would have continued the story through the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings.) After 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 all the people of Israel.

The book of 1 Samuel makes two references to Israel and Judah, in 17:52 and 18:16. However, these references appear in the text in relation to events that took place long before the two kingdoms split apart. These references to Israel and Judah in the text suggest that the author wrote at a time after the kingdoms split. He wanted the readers to understand that all of the twelve tribes had originally supported David.

Part 2: Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Book

Who is “Yahweh’s anointed”?

The author and characters in 1 Samuel often use the phrase “Yahweh’s anointed.” To “anoint” means to pour oil on someone’s head to show symbolically that they are assuming an office such as king or high priest. In this book, Samuel pours oil on Saul’s head to show that God is making him the king (10:1) and he later pours oil on David’s head to show that God will make him the next king (16:13). So the phrase “Yahweh’s anointed” refers to the one whom Yahweh chose to be the king of his people. Its use in this book 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: Translation Issues in This Book

“And it happened”

The author often uses the phrase “And it happened” to introduce new event in the story or a new development within an episode. To translate this phrase in its various occurrences, use a word, phrase, or other method in your language that is natural for introducing a new event or development. (See: Introduction of a New Event)

“behold”

The author and characters often use the word “behold” to focus their listeners’ attention on what they are about to say. While the word literally means “look,” the speakers do not want their listeners to look at something, but to pay careful attention. (See: Metaphor)

curses

A curse is a strong statement that a person makes to cause bad things to happen to a person if that person does or does not do a certain thing. A curse usually has this pattern: “Thus may God do to you, and thus may he add, if you hide from me a word from all of the word that he spoke to you” (3:17). Other instances of curses are found in 14:44, 20:13, and 25:22. We recommend that you represent these curses in your language in a way that shows that they are strong, threatening statements.

“to this day”

In 1 Samuel 5:5, 6:18, 27:6, and 30:25, the author uses the phrase “to this day.” He is referring to the time when he was writing. The translator should be aware that “to this day” refers to a time that is now in the past. He must avoid giving the impression that the present day of the translation’s readers is meant. The translator might decide to say “at the time when this is being written” or “at the time of this writing.”

“in the eyes of”

The author and characters often use the term “eyes” by association to mean sight. Sight, in turn, represents attention, perspective, and judgment. For example, Elkanah says to Hannah in 1:23, “Do the good in your eyes,” meaning that she should do what she considers best. The author says in 8:6 that “the matter was evil in the eyes of Samuel,” meaning that Samuel did not think that it was at all the right thing to do. (See: Metonymy)

“to the face of” (before)

The author and characters often use the word “face” to represent the presence of a person or group, by association with the way people can see the face of someone who is present. The expression “to the face of” can have different shades of meaning, depending on the context. The focus may be more on the actual presence of a person, as in 17:57, where the author says that after David killed Goliath, one of Saul’s generals “brought him to the face of Saul.” In other words, he brought him into Saul’s presence. The focus may also be on something being in front of or near a person or thing, such as in 9:23, where the author says that Samuel’s cook took a special portion and “set it to the face of Saul.” That means that he put it in front of him as he sat at the table. Or the focus may be on the relationship between people or groups, as in 3:1, where the author says that “Samuel was serving Yahweh before the face of Eli.” This probably does not mean that Samuel was always in the presence of Eli. Rather, it means that he served at the tent of meeting under Eli’s authority and supervision. (See: Metonymy)

“to the face of” (representing a person)

In other contexts, the author or a character may use the word “face,” describing part of a person, in order to represent the whole person as being present. For example, in 1:12, the author says that Hannah was praying “to the face of Yahweh.” While this does indicate that Hannah was in the presence of Yahweh, since she was at the tent of meeting, the focus seems to be on the fact that Hannah was praying to Yahweh himself. (See: Synecdoche)

“into the hand of”/“into your hand”

The author and characters often use the word “hand” by association to represent power and capability. For example, when the Philistines ask in 4:8, “Who will rescue us from the hand of these mighty gods?” they are asking who will deliver them from the power of these gods (mistakenly thinking that the Israelites worship a number of gods). The word “hand” may also represent possession, as when the author says in 7:8 that Gideon’s soldiers “took provision into their hand.” The word “hand” may also represent agency, as when the author speaks in 3:4 of the commandments that Yahweh gave the Israelites “by the hand of Moses.” Notes will help distinguish the difference between these shades of meaning when that may not be clear from the context. (See: Metonymy)

“listen”

The author and characters often use the term “listen” to mean complying with what someone has said. For example, the author says in 2:25 that Eli’s wicked sons “would not listen to the voice of their father,” meaning that they refused to obey him. Samuel says to Yahweh in 3:10, “Speak, for your servant is listening,” to indicate that he is ready to obey whatever Yahweh tells him. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

name of a person representing him and associated or accompanying people

The author and characters often use the name of a person to represent that person and others who are associated with or accompanying that person. For example, in 2:11, when the author says that “Elkanah went to Ramah, to his house,” he is using Elkanah, one person who was involved in this action, to represent everyone who was involved. The text makes clear that Elkanah’s family accompanied him when he went to Shiloh. So the author means that Elkanah and his family returned together to their house in Ramah. (See: Synecdoche)

name of nation, tribe, or city representing its people

The author and characters often use the name of a nation, tribe, or city by association to represent its people. When a nation has the same name as its ancestor, this is the same thing as using the name of the ancestor by association to mean his descendants. For example, in 1:17, when Eli speaks of “the God of Israel,” he is using the name of the nation of Israel to refer by association to its people, the Israelites. Since the Israelites were all descended from a man named Israel, Eli may also be using the name of an ancestor by association to mean his descendants. (See: Metonymy)

“saying”

The author frequently uses the term “saying” to introduce a direct quotation. In your translation, use a natural way of introducing direct quotations in your language. It may not be necessary to represent this term explicitly. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/unfoldingWord/en_ta/src/branch/master/translate//01.md writing-quotations]])

“shall”

The ULT represents the Hebrew instructional verb form with the English helping verb “shall.” For example, when Eli tells Samuel in 3:9 “you shall say,” he means “you are to say” or “you must say.” Translate this form with the most natural way in your language for giving instructions. (See: Irregular Use of Tenses)

“sons of”

The author and characters often speak of “the sons of” a person to mean the nation or tribe that consists of his descendants. For example, in 2:28 a man of God speaks of the “sons of Israel” to mean the Israelites. In 12:12, Samuel speaks of the “sons of Ammon” to mean the Ammonites. In this case, “sons” does not mean first-generation offspring but later descendants. (See: Metaphor)

“struck”

In many places, the author says that soldiers “struck” an opposing army, city, or king as if they had only hit them. But he means that they attacked those opponents, and in some contexts the meaning is clearly that they killed them. That is the case in 4:2, for example, where the author says that the Philistines “struck in the array in the field about 4,000 men.” He means that they killed that many soldiers from the Israelite army. (See: Metonymy)

“went up,” “went down”

In Hebrew, writers and speakers generally indicated whether people were going up to a higher elevation or going down to a lower elevation when they traveled. For example, the author says in 1:3 that Elkanah and his family “went up” to Shiloh because they were traveling to a higher elevation. In 10:8, Samuel tells Saul to “go down” to Gilgal because that would be a journey to a lower elevation. If your language does not mark travel for change in elevation, you can translate instances such as these simply as “went” or “go.” See: Making Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information Explicit)

1 Samuel 1

1 Samuel 1 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter is the beginning of the first section of the book of 1 Samuel, chapters 1–7, which describe Samuel as a religious leader of Israel. This chapter tells how Samuel was born and how his parents dedicated him to Yahweh.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

Why does the author use the name Ramathaim Zophim for Ramah in 1:1?

The author says in 1:1 that Elkanah was from a town called Ramathaim Zophim. However, in all subsequent references in the book, the author uses the name Ramah for the town where Elkanah and later his son Samuel lived. The word Ramathaim is the dual of the word Ramah, which means “hill.” The city may have been built on two hills, and it may originally have had the name Ramathaim. This name may eventually have been shortened to Ramah, but the author may wish to use the original name for clarity and accuracy in his historical account. The author adds the term Zophim, meaning that this was where the descendants of a man named Zuph lived. He does this to distinguish this city from the three other cities in the land of Canaan that also had the name Ramah. In your translation, you could use the name Ramathaim Zophim and spell it the way it sounds in your language. However, if your readers might wonder why the author says in 1:19 that Elkanah and his family returned to “their house in Ramah,” in 1:1 you could use a description such as “the city called Ramah where the descendants of Zuph live.” (See: Copy or Borrow Words)

Why does the author call the tent of meeting the “temple” in 1:9?

The author says in 1:9 that the priest Eli was sitting by the doorpost of “the temple of Yahweh.” However, Yahweh had no temple at this time. King Solomon built a temple for him in Jerusalem many years later. It could be that this account was written or edited after the temple was built and that the author knew that his readers would understand that he was using that term to mean generally the place where the Israelites worshiped Yahweh. Alternatively, the author could have been speaking of the tent of meeting in elevated language. The word that is often translated as “temple” can also mean “palace.” The author may have felt that the place where Yahweh was present among his people deserved to be described in grand language as a temple or palace. However, if it would not be clear to your readers that in 1:9 he means the tent of meeting, you could use the word that you have been using in your translation for that structure. The UST models one way to do that.

Why does Elkanah say “may Yahweh raise up his word” when Yahweh has not said anything?

In 1:23, Elkanah says “may Yahweh raise up his word,” that is, “may Yahweh do what he has said,” even though the author has not recorded Yahweh saying anything. It could be that Elkanah is referring to what Eli said to Hannah in 1:17, “may the God of Israel grant your request.” Elkanah would be considering that what Yahweh’s priest had spoken constituted a “word” from Yahweh himself. Hannah’s request involved not only her having a son but that son having a long life throughout which he was specially dedicated to God and effective in his service. Elkanah could be wishing that Yahweh would make all of these things happen. Another possibility is that the term translated as “word” could have the meaning of “thing” or “matter” in this context. In that case Elkanah would be saying “may Yahweh accomplish his purpose” for the child. He would not be referring to anything that Yahweh had explicitly said.

What “vow” did Elkanah make?

In 1:21, the author says that Elkanah went to Shiloh to sacrifice a “vow.” He is referring to a sacrifice that Elkanah had promised to make, and he assumes that readers will understand what he means by this. However, he has not described Elkanah making a vow. The most probable explanation is that the previous year, Hannah had told Elkanah that Eli had said to her, “may the God of Israel grant your request.” Elkanah would then have made a vow that if God would indeed grant this request, he would offer a special sacrifice. Some interpreters suggest that Elkanah made this vow when, as 1:19 says, the family worshiped Yahweh the morning after Eli spoke with Hannah. However, since the text does not state any of this explicitly, it would probably be best to express the meaning of the term “vow” without saying what Elkanah vowed or when. A note to 1:21 suggests one way to do that.

1 Samuel 1:1

Now {there} was a man

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִי֩ אִ֨ישׁ אֶחָ֜ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

The author is using this phrase to introduce Elkanah as a new participant in the story. If your language has its own way of introducing new participants, you can use it here in your translation. Alternate translation: [There once was a man]

Ramathaim Zophim

Quote: הָ⁠רָמָתַ֛יִם צוֹפִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Ramathaim Zophim is the name of a city. This is the same city that the author calls Ramah in the rest of the book. See the discussion in the Introduction to 1 Samuel of why he uses a different name here.

1 Samuel 1:2

the second

Quote: הַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֖ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use a cardinal number here or an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: [the other]

1 Samuel 1:3

that man

Quote: הָ⁠אִ֨ישׁ הַ⁠ה֤וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is speaking of Elkanah to mean him and his entire family. The text makes clear in the next two verses that his wives and children accompanied him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [that man and his family]

And that man went up

Quote: וְ⁠עָלָה֩ הָ⁠אִ֨ישׁ הַ⁠ה֤וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

See the discussion in the Introduction to 1 Samuel of how Hebrew speakers and writers marked travel notices for change in elevation. The author says up here because Shiloh was at a higher elevation than the city where Elkanah and his family lived. Alternate translation: [And that man went]

from days to days

Quote: מִ⁠יָּמִ֣ים ׀ יָמִ֔ימָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-plural

In Hebrew, the plural days can mean a year. That is the meaning in this context. Alternate translation: [from year to year]

1 Samuel 1:4

And it was the day, and Elkanah sacrificed, and he gave

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֣י הַ⁠יּ֔וֹם וַ⁠יִּזְבַּ֖ח אֶלְקָנָ֑ה וְ⁠נָתַ֞ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term day by association to mean a specific time or occasion. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And on each occasion when Elkanah sacrificed, he gave]

1 Samuel 1:5

one portion {for} two faces, for

Quote: מָנָ֥ה אַחַ֖ת אַפָּ֑יִם כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of two people, their faces, to mean the people themselves. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [a portion large enough to feed two people] or [a double portion]

but Yahweh had shut her womb

Quote: וַֽ⁠יהוָ֖ה סָגַ֥ר רַחְמָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

By association, the author is using the idea of a womb opening to release a child into the world to mean the ability to have children. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [but Yahweh had prevented her from having children]

1 Samuel 1:6

but her adversary … provoked her

Quote: וְ⁠כִֽעֲסַ֤תָּ⁠ה צָֽרָתָ⁠הּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will know that by her adversary, he means Peninnah. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [but Peninnah]

but … provoked her {with} provocation

Quote: וְ⁠כִֽעֲסַ֤תָּ⁠ה & כַּ֔עַס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

For emphasis, the author is using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, your language may have another way of showing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [greatly provoked her]

to make her thunder

Quote: הַרְּעִמָ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if Hannah would actually thunder. He means that Peninnah would try to make her so upset that she would speak loudly and emotionally. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [to make her explode] or [to make her lose her composure]

because Yahweh had shut up her womb

Quote: כִּֽי־סָגַ֥ר יְהוָ֖ה בְּעַ֥ד רַחְמָֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:5.

1 Samuel 1:7

And thus he did

Quote: וְ⁠כֵ֨ן יַעֲשֶׂ֜ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will know that by thus he did, he means that Elkanah gave portions to his wives and children as he has described. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And Elkanah gave these portions to his family]

her going up … she would provoke her. And she wept

Quote: עֲלֹתָ⁠הּ֙ & תַּכְעִסֶ֑⁠נָּה וַ⁠תִּבְכֶּ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The first instances of her and she refer to Peninnah, while the second instances of her and she refer to Hannah. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [Peninnah’s going up … Peninnah would provoke Hannah. And Hannah wept]

1 Samuel 1:8

Hannah, why do you weep? And why do you not eat? And why is your heart bad? {Am} I not better for you than ten sons

Quote: חַנָּה֙ לָ֣⁠מֶה תִבְכִּ֗י וְ⁠לָ֨⁠מֶה֙ לֹ֣א תֹֽאכְלִ֔י וְ⁠לָ֖⁠מֶה יֵרַ֣ע לְבָבֵ֑⁠ךְ הֲ⁠ל֤וֹא אָֽנֹכִי֙ ט֣וֹב לָ֔⁠ךְ מֵ⁠עֲשָׂרָ֖ה בָּנִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Elkanah is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [Hannah, you should not weep. You should eat. Your heart should not be bad. I am better for you than ten sons!]

And why is your heart bad

Quote: וְ⁠לָ֖⁠מֶה יֵרַ֣ע לְבָבֵ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Elkanah is using a common expression of his culture to mean that Hannah feeling badly. He does not mean that she is entertaining any wrong thoughts. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And why are you feeling badly]

1 Samuel 1:9

And Hannah arose

Quote: וַ⁠תָּ֣קָם חַנָּ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

While in this context the term arose could refer to getting up from sitting or reclining at a table for a meal, the author could be using it here to mean that Hannah took action to address her situation by going to the tent of meeting and praying to Yahweh. Alternate translation: [And Hannah took action]

after eating and after drinking

Quote: אַחֲרֵ֛י אָכְלָ֥ה & וְ⁠אַחֲרֵ֣י שָׁתֹ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Elkanah assumes that readers will know that by after eating and after drinking he means after the others had finished eating and drinking. He said in verse 7 that Hannah herself did not eat. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [after the others had finished eating and drinking]

Now Eli the priest was sitting on a seat by the doorpost of the temple of Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠עֵלִ֣י הַ⁠כֹּהֵ֗ן יֹשֵׁב֙ עַל־הַ⁠כִּסֵּ֔א עַל־מְזוּזַ֖ת הֵיכַ֥ל יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing background information to help readers understand what happens next in the story. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

was sitting on a seat by the doorpost of the temple of

Quote: יֹשֵׁב֙ עַל־הַ⁠כִּסֵּ֔א עַל־מְזוּזַ֖ת הֵיכַ֥ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Sitting by the doorpost was a symbolic action that indicated that Eli, as a priest, would listen to people’s concerns and try to address them. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [was sitting on a seat by the doorpost of the temple to show that he was available to listen to people’s concerns]

the temple of

Quote: הֵיכַ֥ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of why the author uses the term temple here. Alternate translation: [the tent of meeting]

1 Samuel 1:10

And she {was} bitter of soul

Quote: וְ⁠הִ֖יא מָ֣רַת נָ֑פֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean that Hannah was deeply distressed. He does not mean that she was harboring any feelings of bitterness or thoughts of revenge. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And she was deeply distressed]

and weeping, she wept

Quote: וּ⁠בָכֹ֥ה תִבְכֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

The author is repeating the verb wept in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [and she wept bitterly]

1 Samuel 1:11

And she vowed a vow

Quote: וַ⁠תִּדֹּ֨ר נֶ֜דֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [And she made a vow]

if looking, you will look

Quote: אִם־רָאֹ֥ה תִרְאֶ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Hannah is repeating the verb look in order to intensify her expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [if you will indeed look]

your maidservant … your maidservant

Quote: אֲמָתֶ֗⁠ךָ & אֶת־אֲמָתֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Hannah is speaking about herself humbly in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [me, your maidservant, … me, your maidservant,]

and remember me and not forget your maidservant

Quote: וּ⁠זְכַרְתַּ֨⁠נִי֙ וְ⁠לֹֽא־תִשְׁכַּ֣ח אֶת־אֲמָתֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The terms remember and not forget mean similar things. Hannah is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [and surely remember me]

and remember me and not forget your maidservant

Quote: וּ⁠זְכַרְתַּ֨⁠נִי֙ וְ⁠לֹֽא־תִשְׁכַּ֣ח אֶת־אֲמָתֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Hannah is speaking as if Yahweh actually needs to be reminded of her. In contexts such as this, the term remember describes Yahweh thinking about a person or group and considering what action he can take on their behalf. It does not suggest that God ever forgets about people. Alternate translation: [and surely take action to help me]

to Yahweh

Quote: לַֽ⁠יהוָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Hannah is speaking to Yahweh, but she is respectfully using the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the second person. Alternate translation: [to you, Yahweh,]

all of the days of his life

Quote: כָּל־יְמֵ֣י חַיָּ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Hannah is using the term days by association to a specific time, Samuel’s lifetime. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for his entire life]

and a razor will not go up on his head

Quote: וּ⁠מוֹרָ֖ה לֹא־יַעֲלֶ֥ה עַל־רֹאשֽׁ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

This is an expression that people of this culture commonly used to describe cutting the hair on a person’s head. Alternate translation: [No one will ever cut his hair]

and a razor will not go up on his head

Quote: וּ⁠מוֹרָ֖ה לֹא־יַעֲלֶ֥ה עַל־רֹאשֽׁ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Not cutting one’s hair was a symbolic action that indicated a vow of dedication to Yahweh. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [and to show that he has been dedicated to Yahweh, no one will ever cut his hair]

1 Samuel 1:12

And it happened

Quote: וְ⁠הָיָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

See the discussion of this phrase in the Introduction to 1 Samuel. The author is using this phrase to introduce a new event in the story. Here and in the other instances throughout the book, use a word, phrase, or other method in your language that is natural for introducing a new event.

she made much to pray

Quote: הִרְבְּתָ֔ה לְ⁠הִתְפַּלֵּ֖ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two verbs together. The verb made much tells in what way Hannah prayed. Alternate translation: [she prayed extensively]

to the face of Yahweh

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See the discussion of the phrase to the face of in the Introduction to 1 Samuel. Here, the author is using one part of Yahweh, his face, to mean all of him as someone who was present. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to Yahweh]

1 Samuel 1:13

Now Hannah, she was speaking in her heart

Quote: וְ⁠חַנָּ֗ה הִ֚יא מְדַבֶּ֣רֶת עַל־לִבָּ֔⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

in her heart

Quote: עַל־לִבָּ֔⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the heart represents the thoughts. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [in her thoughts] or [to herself]

and her voice was not heard

Quote: וְ⁠קוֹלָ֖⁠הּ לֹ֣א יִשָּׁמֵ֑עַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [so no one heard her voice]

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 using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You must stop making yourself drunk!]

1 Samuel 1:15

And Hannah answered and said

Quote: וַ⁠תַּ֨עַן חַנָּ֤ה וַ⁠תֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two verbs connected with and. The verb answered tells for what purpose Hannah said what she did. Alternate translation: [And Hannah replied]

my lord

Quote: אֲדֹנִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

Hannah is referring to Eli by a respectful title. Use a comparable title or expression for addressing someone respectfully in your language. Alternate translation, as in the UST: “sir]

but I have been pouring out my soul

Quote: וָ⁠אֶשְׁפֹּ֥ךְ אֶת־נַפְשִׁ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Hannah is speaking as if her soul were a liquid that she could pour out. She means that she has been expressing her deepest feelings to Yahweh. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [but I have been expressing my deepest feelings]

but I have been pouring out my soul

Quote: וָ⁠אֶשְׁפֹּ֥ךְ אֶת־נַפְשִׁ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Hannah is using one part of herself, her soul, to mean all of herself in the act of praying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [but I have been expressing myself completely]

1 Samuel 1:16

Do not give your maidservant to the face of a daughter of wickedness

Quote: אַל־תִּתֵּן֙ אֶת־אֲמָ֣תְ⁠ךָ֔ לִ⁠פְנֵ֖י בַּת־בְּלִיָּ֑עַל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Hannah is speaking as if Eli might put her in front of a daughter of wickedness, meaning that he might make her a servant or slave of such a person. This represents Eli thinking that Hannah was such a person. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Do not think that your maidservant is a daughter of wickedness]

your maidservant

Quote: אֶת־אֲמָ֣תְ⁠ךָ֔ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Hannah is speaking about herself humbly in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [me, your maidservant]

a daughter of wickedness

Quote: בַּת־בְּלִיָּ֑עַל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

In certain contexts, the biblical text uses the expression daughter of to indicate that a person shares the qualities of something. That is the case here. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [a wicked woman]

from the abundance of my complaint and my provocation I have been speaking until now

Quote: מֵ⁠רֹ֥ב שִׂיחִ֛⁠י וְ⁠כַעְסִ֖⁠י דִּבַּ֥רְתִּי עַד־הֵֽנָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

Hannah is describing one event before describing another event that preceded it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they happened. Alternate translation: [I have been provoked greatly, and that is why I have been speaking so much until now to ask Yahweh to help me]

1 Samuel 1:17

And Eli answered and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֧עַן עֵלִ֛י וַ⁠יֹּ֖אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

See how you translated the expression answered and said in 1:15. Alternate translation: [And Eli replied]

Go in peace

Quote: לְכִ֣י לְ⁠שָׁל֑וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [Go peacefully]

And … the God of Israel

Quote: וֵ⁠אלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

As the Introduction to 1 Samuel discusses, Eli is using the name Israel by association to mean his descendants. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the God of us Israelites]

your request that you requested from him

Quote: אֶת־שֵׁ֣לָתֵ֔⁠ךְ אֲשֶׁ֥ר שָׁאַ֖לְתְּ מֵ⁠עִמּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [what you requested from him]

1 Samuel 1:18

May your maidservant find favor in your eyes

Quote: תִּמְצָ֧א שִׁפְחָתְ⁠ךָ֛ חֵ֖ן בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See the discussion in the Introduction to 1 Samuel of this use of the term eyes. Hannah is using the term by association to mean Eli’s judgment or opinion. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [May your maidservant find favor in your judgment] or [May you think favorably of your maidservant]

your maidservant

Quote: שִׁפְחָתְ⁠ךָ֛ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Hannah is speaking about herself humbly in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [me, your maidservant]

and she ate

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּאכַ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Hannah ate as a symbolic action that showed she was no longer too distressed to eat. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [and she began eating again, showing that she was no longer distressed]

And her face was no longer to her

Quote: וּ⁠פָנֶ֥י⁠הָ לֹא־הָיוּ־לָ֖⁠הּ עֽוֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. You could also express the meaning in plain language. Alternate translation: [And her sad face was no longer to her] or [And her face was no longer sad]

1 Samuel 1:19

And Elkanah knew Hannah

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֤דַע אֶלְקָנָה֙ אֶת־חַנָּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

The author is speaking in a polite way about a private matter. Your language may have a similar discreet expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [And Elkanah slept with Hannah]

and Yahweh remembered her

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽזְכְּרֶ֖⁠הָ יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:11. Alternate translation: [and Yahweh helped her]

1 Samuel 1:20

in the turning of the days, that Hannah conceived and bore a son

Quote: לִ⁠תְקֻפ֣וֹת הַ⁠יָּמִ֔ים וַ⁠תַּ֥הַר חַנָּ֖ה וַ⁠תֵּ֣לֶד בֵּ֑ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to describe one period of time ending and another one beginning. This could mean: (1) that the author, as in 1:3, is using the plural form days to mean a year. Alternate translation: [by that time the next year, that she had conceived and borne a son] (2) that the author is referring to Hannah’s pregnancy reaching full term and ending in childbirth. In that case, he would mean that she conceived to begin this period and that she bore a son at the end of it. Alternate translation: [that Hannah conceived and, when she had reached full term, she bore a son]

And she called his name

Quote: וַ⁠תִּקְרָ֤א אֶת־שְׁמ⁠וֹ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [And she called him]

for “I requested him from Yahweh

Quote: כִּ֥י מֵ⁠יְהוָ֖ה שְׁאִלְתִּֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [for she said, ‘I requested him from Yahweh’]

Samuel

Quote: שְׁמוּאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The name Samuel sounds like the words in the Hebrew language that mean “heard by God.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain this in the text of your translation or in a footnote.

for “I requested him from Yahweh

Quote: כִּ֥י מֵ⁠יְהוָ֖ה שְׁאִלְתִּֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

It may be more natural in your language to have an indirect quotation here. Alternate translation: [since she had requested him from Yahweh]

1 Samuel 1:21

and all of his house

Quote: וְ⁠כָל־בֵּית֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term house by association to mean Elkanah’s family. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and all of his family]

and all of his house

Quote: וְ⁠כָל־בֵּית֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The author is making an overstatement for emphasis. He means that most of Elkanah’s family went with him. The next verse explains that Hannah did not go with him on this occasion. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [and most of his family]

the sacrifice of the days

Quote: אֶת־זֶ֥בַח הַ⁠יָּמִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-plural

As in 1:3, the author is using the plural form days to mean a year. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the yearly sacrifice]

and his vow

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־נִדְרֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of the term vow here in the Introduction to this chapter. Alternate translation: [and a sacrifice that he had promised to make]

1 Samuel 1:22

Until the boy is weaned

Quote: עַ֣ד יִגָּמֵ֤ל הַ⁠נַּ֨עַר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Hannah is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [Let me wait until the boy is weaned]

Until the boy is weaned

Quote: עַ֣ד יִגָּמֵ֤ל הַ⁠נַּ֨עַר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Until I have weaned the boy]

And he will be seen at the face of Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠נִרְאָה֙ אֶת־פְּנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And he will appear at the face of Yahweh]

And he will be seen at the face of Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠נִרְאָה֙ אֶת־פְּנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

When Hannah says he will be seen, she is using a common expression of her culture. This is similar to the expression “was found” in 13:22. If something was seen or was found in a place, this means that it was in that place. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And he will be at the face of Yahweh]

at the face of Yahweh

Quote: אֶת־פְּנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Hannah is using the term face by association to mean Yahweh’s presence. While the usual expression is “to the face,” here Hannah says at the face, perhaps to describe Samuel coming into Yahweh’s presence and remaining there. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in the presence of Yahweh]

1 Samuel 1:23

Do the good in your eyes

Quote: עֲשִׂ֧י הַ⁠טּ֣וֹב בְּ⁠עֵינַ֗יִ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of good, you could express the same idea in another way, such as by using “good” as an adjective. Alternate translation: [Do what seems good to you]

may Yahweh raise up his word

Quote: יָקֵ֥ם יְהוָ֖ה אֶת־דְּבָר֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Elkanah is speaking as if Yahweh’s word were something that Yahweh could raise up, as if it were a building. He means that he wants Yahweh to fulfill what he has promised. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [may Yahweh fulfill what he has promised]

may Yahweh raise up his word

Quote: יָקֵ֥ם יְהוָ֖ה אֶת־דְּבָר֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

When Elkanah says his word, he means what Yahweh promised through Eli when Eli said to Hannah, “may the God of Israel grant your request.” You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [may Yahweh fulfill what he promised through Eli]

his word

Quote: אֶת־דְּבָר֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term word by association to mean what Yahweh promised by using words, speaking through Eli. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [what he said]

1 Samuel 1:24

with three bulls and one ephah {of} flour and a skin of wine

Quote: בְּ⁠פָרִ֤ים שְׁלֹשָׁה֙ וְ⁠אֵיפָ֨ה אַחַ֥ת קֶ֨מַח֙ וְ⁠נֵ֣בֶל יַ֔יִן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will know that Hannah brought these things to be used as sacrifices. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [with three bulls and one ephah of flour and a skin of wine that she planned to offer as sacrifices]

and one ephah {of} flour

Quote: וְ⁠אֵיפָ֨ה אַחַ֥ת קֶ֨מַח֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume

This ephah was equivalent to 22 liters or nearly six gallons. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or in a footnote.

to} the house of Yahweh

Quote: בֵית־יְהוָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if Yahweh actually lived in a house. This was a way of describing the tent of meeting, where Yahweh was present. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to the tent where Yahweh was present]

Now the boy was a boy

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠נַּ֖עַר נָֽעַר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing background information to help readers understand an important detail in the story. He means that Samuel, the boy, was still very young, only a little boy. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

1 Samuel 1:25

the bull

Quote: אֶת־הַ⁠פָּ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will know that by the bull, he means one of the three bulls that Hannah brought. The family had decided to sacrifice this particular one as a whole burnt offering to consecrate Samuel to Yahweh’s service. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [one bull as a whole burnt offering to consecrate Samuel to Yahweh’s service]

1 Samuel 1:26

my lord

Quote: אֲדֹנִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

See how you translated the same expression in 1:15.

The life of your soul

Quote: חֵ֥י נַפְשְׁ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Following the custom of her culture, Hannah is swearing an oath by guaranteeing it by something she holds sacred, the life of Yahweh’s high priest. Use a natural way in your language to express an oath.

The life of your soul

Quote: חֵ֥י נַפְשְׁ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Hannah is using one part of Eli, his soul, to mean all of him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [As you are alive]

1 Samuel 1:27

my request that I requested from him

Quote: אֶת־שְׁאֵ֣לָתִ֔⁠י אֲשֶׁ֥ר שָׁאַ֖לְתִּי מֵ⁠עִמּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [what I requested from him]

1 Samuel 1:28

I have granted him to Yahweh

Quote: אָנֹכִ֗י הִשְׁאִלְתִּ֨⁠הוּ֙ לַֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Hannah is using the past tense to describe something that she is about to do. She is doing that to indicate that she is certainly going to do this. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use the present or future tense. Alternate translation: [I will grant him to Yahweh] or [I am now granting him to Yahweh]

all of the days that he is

Quote: כָּל־הַ⁠יָּמִים֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר הָיָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term days by association to mean a period of time, Samuel’s lifetime. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for his entire life]

he {is} granted to Yahweh

Quote: ה֥וּא שָׁא֖וּל לַֽ⁠יהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [I have granted him to Yahweh]

And he worshiped Yahweh there

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁתַּ֥חוּ שָׁ֖ם לַ⁠יהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he could refer to: (1) Eli. The implication could be that Eli was moved to praise Yahweh for answering Hannah’s prayer and for Hannah’s generous dedication of her son to Yahweh. Alternate translation: [And Eli praised Yahweh there because of what Hannah told him] (2) Elkanah. The implication could be that Elkanah then led his family in offering the sacrifice that consecrated Samuel to Yahweh’s service. Alternate translation: [And Elkanah then led his family in the worship of Yahweh there]

1 Samuel 2

1 Samuel 2 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the first section of the book, chapters 1–7, which describe Samuel as a religious leader of Israel. This chapter tells how Samuel’s mother Hannah celebrated his birth with a song. It also tells how the sons of the high priest Eli dishonored Yahweh by stealing from his offerings. This information leads into the action of the next chapter, in which Samuel has a central role.

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.

Religious and Cultural Issues in This Chapter

Why did Hannah speak of a “king” when Israel had no king?

Hannah says at the end of her prayer that Yahweh will “give strength to his king and lift up the horn of his anointed one” (2:10). Israel had no king at this time. However, the people may have been expecting that Yahweh might soon appoint a king for them. The law of Moses said in Deuteronomy 17:14–20 that Israel could have a king, and it described there what kind of person he had to be and how he needed to conduct himself. The enemies of the Israelites were trying to conquer their territory, and the Israelites were wishing for a king to defend them, as Samuel describes in 12:12. It was the baby whose birth Hannah was celebrating in this prayer, Samuel, whom Yahweh told to anoint Saul as Israel’s first king and then to anoint David as a king who would obey him more faithfully. So it seems that Yahweh also gave Hannah prophetic insight into what he would soon do for Israel through her son. That is why she was able to speak confidently in this prayer about what Yahweh would do for Israel’s king.

What should have happened when people brought sacrifices?

The law of Moses said that when Israelites brought animals to Yahweh as sacrifices, they should slaughter the animal and cut it into pieces. They should lift up the breast and the fat to offer them to Yahweh and that a priest should burn the fat. The priest could then roast and eat the breast. The people would boil the rest of the meat from the animal. The law told them to give the right thigh to the priest. But the people could then eat the rest of the animal with their family and friends as a festive meal. The law of Moses also said that the people making the sacrifice should cut the fat off the meat and that the priests should burn this fat as a sacrifice to Yahweh. In this chapter, the author describes how Eli’s sons disobeyed these regulations and took more for themselves from the sacrifices than they were entitled to have. This was disrespectful and dishonoring to Yahweh, as a prophet tells Eli in this chapter and as Yahweh tells Samuel in the next chapter.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

Poetry in Hannah’s prayer

In several places in her prayer in verses 1–10, Hannah speaks consecutive phrases that mean basically the same thing. The second phrase emphasizes the meaning of the first one by repeating the same idea with different words. Hebrew poetry made frequent use of this kind of repetition, and it would be good to show this to your readers by including both phrases in your translation rather than combining them. It may be clearer in your language to connect the phrases with a word that shows that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. For example, in verse 1 you might say, “My heart rejoices in Yahweh, indeed, my horn is high in Yahweh.” (See: Parallelism)

Hannah’s use of the third person

In her prayer, although she is addressing Yahweh, Hannah speaks about him respectfully in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this consistently in the first person. For example, as the UST illustrates, you could say “you, Yahweh” rather than simply “Yahweh.” (See: First, Second or Third Person)

thunder

A note to 2:10 explains that in her prayer, Hannah uses the term “thunder” to speak of God’s impending judgment against those who oppose him. That note suggests that you could express the idea behind the term with a phrase about impending judgement. However, the author uses this same term “thunder” in 1:6 to mean that Peninnah was trying to make Hannah so upset that she would lose control of her emotions. Hannah is saying here, in effect, “Be careful of trying to cause thunder—you might make Yahweh thunder against you!” So that your readers can recognize this connection, you may wish to retain the thunder image in your translation and use the same term in 1:6 as in 2:10. (See: Metaphor)

Why does the author say “at the face of” instead of “to the face of” in verses 11, 17, and 18?

In three places in this chapter, the author slightly varies the usual phrase “to the face of” and says “at the face of.” In 2:11, the word “at” probably indicates that Samuel was “serving Yahweh” not just in the presence of Eli but together with him, under his guidance and direction. In 2:17, the word “at” may indicate that Eli’s sons were not just committing a great sin in the presence of Yahweh but against him personally, against his honor and holiness. In 2:18, conversely, the word “at” may indicate that Samuel was not merely serving Yahweh in his presence but with personal devotion. For each verse, a note suggests a way to express these possible meanings, and the UST models another way to do that. (See: Metonymy)

The author’s reintroduction of participants

In this chapter, after Hannah’s prayer, the author alternates between describing the wickedness of Eli’s sons and the growth of Samuel into a godly young man. He does this to draw a contrast that shows why Yahweh ultimately chose to replace the descendants of Eli with a different line of priests and to have Samuel lead the nation. The author alternately reintroduces Eli or his sons and Samuel at 2:12, 2:18, 2:22, and 2:26, and he introduces the “man of God” as a new participant in 2:27. Your language may have its own way of introducing or reintroducing participants that you can use in your translation in these places. (See: Introduction of New and Old Participants)

A long quotation within a quotation in 2:27–36

When the man of God speaks to Eli in 2:27–36, first he attributes what he says to Yahweh, then he communicates Yahweh’s message. As a result, there is a long second-level quotation (that is, a quotation within a quotation) in these verses. In 2:36, it becomes a third-level quotation. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there it is all a first-level quotation. For example, changing the text of the ULT only slightly, in 2:27 you might say, “Yahweh asks you whether revealing himself, he did not reveal himself to the house of your father in their being in Egypt, to the house of Pharaoh.” In 2:28 you might say, “Yahweh says that he chose him from all of the tribes of Israel for himself for a priest, to go up on his altar, to burn incense, to wear an ephod to his face. He says that he gave to the house of your father all of the gifts of the sons of Israel.” The UST models further ways of translating this part of the chapter so that there are not quotations within quotations. ((See: Quotes within Quotes)

A “faithful” priest or an “established” priest (2:35)?

In 2:35, the word that the ULT translates as “faithful” is actually the same word that it translates as “established” in the second part of that verse and in 3:20. Yahweh could be saying that Samuel will be an “established priest” in the sense that he and his descendants will serve “all of the days,” that is, perpetually, by contrast with the descendants of Eli. In that case, 3:20 would be a confirmation of what Yahweh says here. However, the immediate context suggests that Yahweh may be using the same term in two different senses, as was common in prophetic speech, which often had poetic characteristics. Yahweh says that this priest “will do just as is in my heart and in my soul,” meaning that he will be loyal and obedient. That is why ULT translates the term as “faithful.” But the term really could have either meaning. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of ULT.

1 Samuel 2:1

And … prayed and said

Quote: וַ⁠תִּתְפַּלֵּ֤ל & וַ⁠תֹּאמַ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two verbs connected with and. The verb prayed tells in what way Hannah said what follows. Alternate translation: [said in prayer]

My heart rejoices in Yahweh, my horn is high in Yahweh

Quote: עָלַ֤ץ לִבִּ⁠י֙ בַּֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה רָ֥מָה קַרְנִ֖⁠י בַּֽ⁠יהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of how Hebrew poetry frequently uses pairs of phrases that mean basically the same thing, in which the second phrase emphasizes the meaning of the first phrase by repeating the same idea in different words. Consider that discussion and decide as a team how you will translate instances of that usage here and throughout verses 1–10.

My heart rejoices

Quote: עָלַ֤ץ לִבִּ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Hannah is using one part of her, her heart, representing her thoughts and feelings, to mean all of her in the act of rejoicing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I rejoice]

in Yahweh, … in Yahweh

Quote: בַּֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה & בַּֽ⁠יהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

As the Introduction to this chapter discusses, although Hannah is addressing Yahweh, she is speaking about him respectfully in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the second person, here and throughout her prayer. Alternate translation: [in you, Yahweh, … in you, Yahweh]

my horn is high in Yahweh

Quote: רָ֥מָה קַרְנִ֖⁠י בַּֽ⁠יהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Hannah is speaking as if she were an animal that had a horn that she could life up high. An animal that lifts its horn is demonstrating strength and assertiveness. Accordingly, in this culture, a horn represented strength and dignity. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Yahweh has given me strength and dignity]

My mouth {is} wide against my enemies, for I rejoice in your salvation

Quote: רָ֤חַב פִּ⁠י֙ עַל־א֣וֹיְבַ֔⁠י כִּ֥י שָׂמַ֖חְתִּי בִּ⁠ישׁוּעָתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

My mouth {is} wide against my enemies

Quote: רָ֤חַב פִּ⁠י֙ עַל־א֣וֹיְבַ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Hannah is using the idea of opening her mouth wide by association to mean speaking boldly. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [I speak boldly against my enemies]

my enemies

Quote: א֣וֹיְבַ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Hannah assumes that readers will know that by enemies she means people such as Peninnah, who has mocked her for being childless. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [those who have mocked me]

in your salvation

Quote: בִּ⁠ישׁוּעָתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of salvation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [the way you have saved me]

1 Samuel 2:2

and {there is} no rock like our God

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֥ין צ֖וּר כֵּ⁠אלֹהֵֽי⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Hannah is speaking as if God were a rock. She means that he provides protection and security, just as people could find safety by climbing up on a high rock or by hiding among rocks. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and no one provides protection as our God does]

1 Samuel 2:3

May you not multiply, may you {not} speak, haughty, haughty! Let the arrogant go out from your mouth

Quote: אַל־תַּרְבּ֤וּ תְדַבְּרוּ֙ גְּבֹהָ֣ה גְבֹהָ֔ה יֵצֵ֥א עָתָ֖ק מִ⁠פִּי⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe

Hannah is speaking to people who are not present, particularly Peninnah, who had mocked her for being childless. She is doing this to show in a very strong way how she feels about their arrogant behavior. If your readers might not understand this kind of speech, you could translate her words as if she were speaking directly about these people. Alternate translation: [Let very haughty people stop talking so much! Let them stop saying arrogant things]

haughty, haughty

Quote: גְּבֹהָ֣ה גְבֹהָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Hannah is using the adjective haughty as a noun to mean a certain kind of person. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [you haughty, haughty person]

haughty, haughty

Quote: גְּבֹהָ֣ה גְבֹהָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Hannah is repeating the word haughty in order to intensify her expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [you very haughty person]

Let the arrogant go out from your mouth

Quote: יֵצֵ֥א עָתָ֖ק מִ⁠פִּי⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Hannah is using the adjective arrogant as a noun to mean arrogant things that people say. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [Let arrogant words go out from your mouth]

Let the arrogant go out from your mouth

Quote: יֵצֵ֥א עָתָ֖ק מִ⁠פִּי⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Hannah is referring to a group of people (your is plural), it may be more natural in your language to use the plural form of mouth. Alternate translation: [Let the arrogant go out from your mouths]

Let the arrogant go out from your mouth

Quote: יֵצֵ֥א עָתָ֖ק מִ⁠פִּי⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Hannah is using a common expression of her culture to mean that people should stop speaking arrogantly. She does not mean that arrogant words should go out from the mouth of these people in the sense that they should speak them. She means that those words should not be in their mouths, that is, they should not speak them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Do not say any more arrogant things]

Yahweh {is} a God of knowledge

Quote: אֵ֤ל דֵּעוֹת֙ יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of knowledge, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [Yahweh is a God who knows everything]

and by him actions are weighed

Quote: וְל֥וֹ נִתְכְּנ֖וּ עֲלִלֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and he weighs people’s actions]

and by him actions are weighed

Quote: וְל֥וֹ נִתְכְּנ֖וּ עֲלִלֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Hannah is speaking as if actions were objects that could be weighed on a scale. She means that Yahweh evaluates everything that people do. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and he evaluates everything that people do]

1 Samuel 2:4

The bow of the mighty are broken

Quote: קֶ֥שֶׁת גִּבֹּרִ֖ים חַתִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The context suggests that Yahweh is the agent. Alternate translation: [Yahweh breaks the bow of the mighty]

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: The bow of (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Hannah is referring to a group of people, it may be more natural in your language to use the plural form of bow. Alternate translation: [The bows of]

the mighty

Quote: גִּבֹּרִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Hannah is using the adjective mighty as a noun to mean people of a certain type. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [mighty people]

but the stumbling ones

Quote: וְ⁠נִכְשָׁלִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Hannah assumes that readers will know that by the stumbling ones, she means people who are so weak that they can barely walk. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [but those who were so weak that they could barely walk]

gird on strength

Quote: אָ֥זְרוּ חָֽיִל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Hannah is speaking as if strength were a piece of clothing that people could put on. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [become strong]

1 Samuel 2:5

The satisfied … but the hungry

Quote: שְׂבֵעִ֤ים & וּ⁠רְעֵבִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Hannah is using the adjectives satisfied and hungry as nouns to mean certain kinds of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [Satisfied people … but hungry people] or [Well-fed people … but hungry people]

The satisfied hire themselves out for bread

Quote: שְׂבֵעִ֤ים בַּ⁠לֶּ֨חֶם֙ נִשְׂכָּ֔רוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Hannah assumes that readers will know that by the satisfied ones, she means people who formerly were satisfied in the sense that they had enough to eat. The context suggests further that they had plenty of food without having to work. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Those who were formerly prosperous and at leisure now have to work to get enough to eat]

for bread

Quote: בַּ⁠לֶּ֨חֶם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Hannah is using the term bread by association to mean food in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for food] or [to get enough food to live on]

but the hungry cease

Quote: וּ⁠רְעֵבִ֖ים חָדֵ֑לּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Even the barren bears seven, but the plenteous of sons languishes

Quote: עַד־עֲקָרָה֙ יָלְדָ֣ה שִׁבְעָ֔ה וְ⁠רַבַּ֥ת בָּנִ֖ים אֻמְלָֽלָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Hannah is using the adjectives barren, plenteous, and seven as nouns to mean certain kinds of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate these adjectives with equivalent phrases. Alternate translation: [Even women who could not have children now have seven children, but women who have had many sons stop having children]

seven

Quote: שִׁבְעָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Hannah is speaking as if the woman she is describing has had exactly seven children. In this culture, seven was a number of completeness that was often used to indicate “many.” If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [many children]

1 Samuel 2:6

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: Yahweh makes die and makes alive, causing to go down to Sheol and causing to come up (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

and causing to come up

Quote: וַ⁠יָּֽעַל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Hannah is speaking as if people could come up from Sheol, the place of the dead. She means that Yahweh can heal people who are so sick they seem almost to have died. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and healing people with deadly illnesses so that it seems they have come back from the realm of the dead]

1 Samuel 2:7

Yahweh is making poor and making rich, bringing down yet bringing up

Quote: יְהוָ֖ה מוֹרִ֣ישׁ וּ⁠מַעֲשִׁ֑יר מַשְׁפִּ֖יל אַף־מְרוֹמֵֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

bringing down yet bringing up

Quote: מַשְׁפִּ֖יל אַף־מְרוֹמֵֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Hannah is speaking as if people’s social status were a physical location that they could move down from or up to. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [lowering some people’s status yet raising other people’s status]

1 Samuel 2:8

Raising the poor from the dust, he lifts up the needy from the trash heap

Quote: מֵקִ֨ים מֵ⁠עָפָ֜ר דָּ֗ל מֵֽ⁠אַשְׁפֹּת֙ יָרִ֣ים אֶבְי֔וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

This could mean: (1) that Hannah is using one specific circumstance of the poor and needy to represent their desperate circumstances in general. Alternate translation: [He brings people out of poverty, yes, he helps people to have a decent living standard] (2) that Hannah is speaking of the poor and needy as if they were mourners, by association with the way that people in this culture who were mourning would show their grief by sitting down in the dust of the ground or in a trash heap. Alternate translation: [He helps people who are sad about their impoverished situations, yes, he helps people who are grieving over their desperate circumstances]

the poor … the needy

Quote: דָּ֗ל & אֶבְי֔וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Hannah is using the adjectives poor and needy as nouns to mean certain kinds of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate these adjectives with equivalent phrases. Alternate translation: [poor people and needy people]

to make {them} sit with nobles, and

Quote: לְ⁠הוֹשִׁיב֙ עִם־נְדִיבִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

In this culture, offering a person a prestigious place to sit was a symbolic action that showed them honor and conferred high status on them. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [to give them high status by having them sit with nobles]

to make {them} sit … and he makes them inherit a seat of honor

Quote: לְ⁠הוֹשִׁיב֙ & וְ⁠כִסֵּ֥א כָב֖וֹד יַנְחִלֵ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Hannah is speaking as if a seat of honor were something that these people could inherit as if it were property. She means that people will consider a seat of honor to be their seat, in other words, that they have the right to sit in such seats. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [so that people consider that they have the right to sit in a seat of honor]

a seat of honor

Quote: וְ⁠כִסֵּ֥א כָב֖וֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of honor, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [an honorable seat]

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces not a reason but an explanation. The implicit idea is that since Yahweh arranged the entire physical world, he can certainly determine arrangements among people. Alternate translation: [After all]

the pillars of the earth {are} to Yahweh, and he has set the world on them

Quote: לַֽ⁠יהוָה֙ מְצֻ֣קֵי אֶ֔רֶץ וַ⁠יָּ֥שֶׁת עֲלֵי⁠הֶ֖ם תֵּבֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Hannah is speaking as if the earth were a building that had pillars supporting it. Speaking from the perspective of her culture, she is describing how Yahweh structured his creation to ensure that the world would be a stable place. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Yahweh structured his creation so that the world would be a stable place]

1 Samuel 2:9

He will keep the feet of his faithful ones

Quote: רַגְלֵ֤י חֲסִידָיו֙ יִשְׁמֹ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

He will keep the feet of his faithful ones

Quote: רַגְלֵ֤י חֲסִידָיו֙ יִשְׁמֹ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Hannah is using one part of people, their feet, to mean all of them in the act of walking, which represents living. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [He will protect his faithful ones from harm wherever they go]

but the wicked will be silenced

Quote: וּ⁠רְשָׁעִ֖ים & יִדָּ֑מּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

but the wicked will be silenced

Quote: וּ⁠רְשָׁעִ֖ים & יִדָּ֑מּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Hannah is using the term silenced by association to mean that the wicked will die, since people make no further sounds after they die. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [but the wicked will be put to death] or [but Yahweh will slay the wicked]

in darkness

Quote: בַּ⁠חֹ֣שֶׁךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Hannah is using the term darkness by association to mean the abode of the dead, which her culture considered to be a very dark place. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in the grave] or [in the abode of the dead]

For

Quote: כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces an explanation of why the wicked will be silenced, even though they seem to be powerful. Alternate translation: [This is true because]

a man

Quote: אִֽישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here the masculine term man has a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use language in your translation that is clearly inclusive of both men and women. Alternate translation: [a person]

1 Samuel 2:10

By} Yahweh, the ones opposing him will be shattered

Quote: יְהוָ֞ה יֵחַ֣תּוּ מְרִיבָ֗יו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Yahweh will shatter the ones opposing him]

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: He will make thunder against him in the heavens (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Hannah is referring to a group of people, it may be more natural in your language to use a plural pronoun instead of him. Alternate translation: [He makes thunder against them in the heavens]

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: He will make thunder against him in the heavens (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Hannah is using the first thing that she feels Yahweh would do when coming to judge and punish his enemies, make thunder in the sky, to mean all that he would do. In this culture, people regarded thunder as something that could indicate that Yahweh was about to act powerfully. In 7:10, for example, Yahweh thunders against the Philistines and defeats them when they attack the Israelites. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. The UST models one way to do this.

Yahweh will judge the ends of the earth

Quote: יְהוָ֖ה יָדִ֣ין אַפְסֵי־אָ֑רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Hannah is speaking of the ends or extreme limits of the earth in order to mean them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [Yahweh will judge the entire earth]

Yahweh will judge the ends of the earth

Quote: יְהוָ֖ה יָדִ֣ין אַפְסֵי־אָ֑רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Hannah is using the term earth by association to mean the people who live on the earth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [Yahweh will judge all the people in the world]

And he will give strength to his king

Quote: וְ⁠יִתֶּן־עֹ֣ז לְ⁠מַלְכּ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of why Hannah speaks of a king even though Israel had no king at this time.

and lift up the horn of his anointed one

Quote: וְ⁠יָרֵ֖ם קֶ֥רֶן מְשִׁיחֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar expression in 2:1. Alternate translation: [and give strength and dignity to his anointed one]

his anointed one

Quote: מְשִׁיחֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Hannah is using the term anointed one by association to mean the king she has just mentioned, since in this culture men were anointed with oil when they became kings. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [his king]

1 Samuel 2:11

Then Elkanah went to Ramah, to his house. And the boy was serving Yahweh at the face of Eli the priest

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֧לֶךְ אֶלְקָנָ֛ה הָ⁠רָמָ֖תָ⁠ה עַל־בֵּית֑⁠וֹ וְ⁠הַ⁠נַּ֗עַר הָיָ֤ה מְשָׁרֵת֙ אֶת־יְהוָ֔ה אֶת־פְּנֵ֖י עֵלִ֥י הַ⁠כֹּהֵֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory

Here the author is saying what happened at the end of the story of Hannah praying for a child and dedicating him to Yahweh. Your language may have its own way of presenting such information.

Elkanah

Quote: אֶלְקָנָ֛ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

As the Introduction to 1 Samuel discusses, here as in many other instances throughout the book, the author is using the name of a person to represent him and other people who are associated with or accompanying him. Be alert to this usage and represent it in a natural way in your translation. The UST will typically show when it is present. Alternate translation: [Elkanah and his wives and children]

And the boy

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠נַּ֗עַר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will know that by the boy, he means Samuel. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Samuel]

at the face of Eli

Quote: אֶת־פְּנֵ֖י עֵלִ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of why the author may say at here rather than the usual “to.” Alternate translation: [together with Eli] or [as an apprentice to Eli]

1 Samuel 2:12

Now the sons of Eli {were} sons of wickedness. They did not know Yahweh

Quote: וּ⁠בְנֵ֥י עֵלִ֖י בְּנֵ֣י בְלִיָּ֑עַל לֹ֥א יָדְע֖וּ אֶת־יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

See the Introduction to this chapter for a discussion of how the author repeatedly reintroduces Eli or his sons and Samuel in the rest of this chapter in order to draw a contrast between Samuel and Eli’s sons. Your language may have its own way of introducing or reintroducing participants that you can use in your translation, here and in the rest of the chapter.

were} sons of wickedness

Quote: בְּנֵ֣י בְלִיָּ֑עַל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:16. Alternate translation: [were very wicked men]

1 Samuel 2:13

Now the custom of the priests with the people {was}, {when} any

Quote: וּ⁠מִשְׁפַּ֥ט הַ⁠כֹּהֲנִ֖ים אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֑ם כָּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

the priests

Quote: הַ⁠כֹּהֲנִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will know that by the priests, he means specifically Eli’s sons. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Eli’s sons]

was}, {when} any man

Quote: כָּל־אִ֞ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

was sacrificing a sacrifice

Quote: זֹבֵ֣חַ זֶ֗בַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that the expression sacrificing a sacrifice contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [was making a sacrifice]

at the boiling of the meat

Quote: כְּ⁠בַשֵּׁ֣ל הַ⁠בָּשָׂ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will know that this refers to the meat from the sacrifice that the worshipers were boiling. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [while the worshipers were boiling the sacrificial meat]

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: and a fork {with} three prongs (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A fork is a utensil with prongs or tines used for picking up food. If your readers would not be familiar with what a fork is, in your translation you could use the name of a similar thing that your readers would recognize, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [a three-pronged meat hook] or [a large hooked utensil]

1 Samuel 2:14

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

Quote: בַ⁠כִּיּ֜וֹר א֣וֹ בַ⁠דּ֗וּד א֤וֹ בַ⁠קַּלַּ֨חַת֙ א֣וֹ בַ⁠פָּר֔וּר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

These are all different kinds of cooking vessels. If your readers would not be familiar with what these specific items are, in your translation you could use the names of similar things that your readers would recognize, or you could use general expressions. Alternate translation: [into whatever pot the meat was cooking in]

the priest would take with him

Quote: יִקַּ֥ח הַ⁠כֹּהֵ֖ן בּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that the servant would bring the meat back to the priest, who would take it for himself. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [the servant would bring back to the priest, and the priest would take it for himself]

Israel

Quote: יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See the discussion in the Introduction to 1 Samuel of the use of the name of an ancestor to mean his descendants, and see how you translated this usage in 1:17. Alternate translation: [the Israelites]

1 Samuel 2:15

they burned the fat

Quote: יַקְטִר֣וּ⁠ן אֶת־הַ⁠חֵלֶב֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here the author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [the fat was burned]

if not raw

Quote: כִּ֥י אִם־חָֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

If it would appear in your language that the servant was making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this as a positive statement. Alternate translation: [but only raw]

1 Samuel 2:16

Burning, let them burn

Quote: קַטֵּ֨ר יַקְטִיר֤וּ⁠ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

The person sacrificing is repeating the verb burn in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [Let the fat indeed be burned]

as the day

Quote: כַּ⁠יּוֹם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The person sacrificing is using a common expression of his culture to mean that something should happen that very day, with the implication that it should happen right away. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [right now]

your soul desires

Quote: תְּאַוֶּ֖ה נַפְשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The person sacrificing is using one part of the priest, his soul, to mean all of him in the act of wanting something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [you want]

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: but you shall give now, and if not, I will take by force (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The servant is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [but you must give me the meat now, and if you do not give it to me, I will take it by force]

1 Samuel 2:17

the young men

Quote: הַ⁠נְּעָרִ֛ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will know that by the young men he means Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Hophni and Phinehas]

at the face of Yahweh

Quote: אֶת־פְּנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of why the author may say at here rather than “to.” Alternate translation: [against Yahweh himself]

1 Samuel 2:18

Now Samuel was serving at the face of Yahweh

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁמוּאֵ֕ל מְשָׁרֵ֖ת אֶת־פְּנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of why the author may say at here rather than “to.” Alternate translation: [But Samuel was serving Yahweh devotedly]

girded {with} an ephod of linen

Quote: חָג֖וּר אֵפ֥וֹד בָּֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [who was wearing an ephod of linen]

girded {with} an ephod of linen

Quote: חָג֖וּר אֵפ֥וֹד בָּֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Wearing an ephod was a symbolic action that showed Samuel was serving as a priest. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [wearing a priestly garment made of linen]

1 Samuel 2:19

from days to days

Quote: מִ⁠יָּמִ֣ים ׀ יָמִ֑ימָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-plural

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:3. Alternate translation: [from year to year]

in her coming up

Quote: בַּֽ⁠עֲלוֹתָ⁠הּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

See the discussion in the Introduction to 1 Samuel of how Hebrew speakers and writers marked travel notices for change in elevation, and see how you translated the comparable expression in 1:3. Alternate translation: [in her coming] or [when she came]

to sacrifice the sacrifice of the days

Quote: לִ⁠זְבֹּ֖חַ אֶת־זֶ֥בַח הַ⁠יָּמִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that the expression sacrifice the sacrifice contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [to make the yearly sacrifice]

1 Samuel 2:20

And Eli would bless Elkanah and his wife and would say

Quote: וּ⁠בֵרַ֨ךְ עֵלִ֜י אֶת־אֶלְקָנָ֣ה וְ⁠אֶת־אִשְׁתּ֗⁠וֹ וְ⁠אָמַר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word say tells what Eli did in order to bless. Alternate translation: [And Eli would bless Elkanah and his wife by saying]

seed

Quote: זֶ֨רַע֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Eli is speaking as if children were seed that could be planted and grown. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [children]

the request

Quote: הַ⁠שְּׁאֵלָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Eli is using the term request by association to mean Samuel, whom Hannah requested from Yahweh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the son]

that one requested of Yahweh

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר שָׁאַ֖ל לַֽ⁠יהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here the author is not using the pronoun one to refer to a specific person. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [who was requested of Yahweh]

to his place

Quote: לִ⁠מְקֹמֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since the author is referring to Elkanah and his family, it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form. Alternate translation: [to their place]

1 Samuel 2:21

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: For (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

visited

Quote: פָקַ֤ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean that Yahweh helped Hannah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [helped]

And … grew with Yahweh

Quote: וַ⁠יִּגְדַּ֛ל & עִם־יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term with Yahweh by association to mean at the place where the Israelites worshiped Yahweh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [grew up while living at the tent of meeting]

1 Samuel 2:22

all that his sons were doing to all of Israel

Quote: אֵת֩ כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֨ר יַעֲשׂ֤וּ⁠ן בָּנָי⁠ו֙ לְ⁠כָל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author is alluding to what he said in 2:14 that Eli’s sons were doing “to all of Israel.” You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [how his sons were stealing meat from the offerings that the Israelites brought]

to all of Israel

Quote: לְ⁠כָל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The author is making an overstatement for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [to every Israelite who brought an animal to sacrifice]

they were lying with

Quote: יִשְׁכְּבוּ⁠ן֙ אֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

The author is speaking in a polite way about a matter that is usually private. Your language may have a similar expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [they were sleeping with]

the women serving {at} the entrance of the tent of meeting

Quote: הַ⁠נָּשִׁ֔ים הַ⁠צֹּ֣בְא֔וֹת פֶּ֖תַח אֹ֥הֶל מוֹעֵֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

These were women who helped with various tasks at the sanctuary. If your readers would not be familiar with who these women were and what they did, in your translation you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [the women who assisted at the sanctuary]

1 Samuel 2:23

Why do you do like these things, that I am hearing evil things of you from all of these people

Quote: לָ֥⁠מָּה תַעֲשׂ֖וּ⁠ן כַּ⁠דְּבָרִ֣ים הָ⁠אֵ֑לֶּה אֲשֶׁ֨ר אָנֹכִ֤י שֹׁמֵ֨עַ֙ אֶת־דִּבְרֵי⁠כֶ֣ם רָעִ֔ים מֵ⁠אֵ֖ת כָּל־הָ⁠עָ֥ם אֵֽלֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

all of these people

Quote: כָּל־הָ⁠עָ֥ם אֵֽלֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Eli assumes that his sons will know he means the Israelites who have been bringing sacrifices. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [all thee people who are bringing sacrifices]

1 Samuel 2:24

No, my sons

Quote: אַ֖ל בָּנָ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Eli is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [Stop doing these things, my sons!]

No, my sons! For the report {is} not good that I am hearing the people of Yahweh passing on

Quote: אַ֖ל בָּנָ֑⁠י כִּ֠י לֽוֹא־טוֹבָ֤ה הַ⁠שְּׁמֻעָה֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָנֹכִ֣י שֹׁמֵ֔עַ מַעֲבִרִ֖ים עַם־יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because the report that I am hearing the people of Yahweh passing on is not good, you must stop doing these things, my sons!]

the report {is} not good

Quote: לֽוֹא־טוֹבָ֤ה הַ⁠שְּׁמֻעָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

Eli is expressing a positive meaning by using a negative word together with a term that is the opposite of his intended meaning. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the report is very bad]

1 Samuel 2:25

a man … against a man, … a man

Quote: אִ֤ישׁ לְ⁠אִישׁ֙ & אִ֔ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

In each instance, the masculine term man has a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use language in your translation that is clearly inclusive of both men and women. Alternate translation: [someone … against another person … someone]

who will intercede for him

Quote: מִ֖י יִתְפַּלֶּל־ל֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Eli is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or exclamation. Alternate translation: [no one will be able to intercede for him!]

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: But they would not listen to the voice of their father, for Yahweh desired to make them die (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [But because Yahweh had decided to put them to death, they would not listen to the voice of their father]

But they would not listen to the voice of their father

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֤א יִשְׁמְעוּ֙ לְ⁠ק֣וֹל אֲבִי⁠הֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term voice by association to mean what Eli was saying. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [But they would not listen to what their father said]

But they would not listen to the voice of their father

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֤א יִשְׁמְעוּ֙ לְ⁠ק֣וֹל אֲבִי⁠הֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion in the Introduction to 1 Samuel of the author’s use of the term listen to mean “obey.” Alternate translation: [But they would not obey what their father told them to do]

1 Samuel 2:26

was going and growing

Quote: הֹלֵ֥ךְ וְ⁠גָדֵ֖ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word going tells in what way Samuel was growing. Alternate translation: [continued to grow]

and {was} good both with Yahweh and also with men

Quote: וָ⁠ט֑וֹב גַּ֚ם עִם־יְהוָ֔ה וְ⁠גַ֖ם עִם־אֲנָשִֽׁים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean that both Yahweh and people approved of Samuel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and both Yahweh and people approved of him]

1 Samuel 2:27

And a man of God came to Eli and said to him, “Thus says Yahweh, ‘Revealing myself, did I {not} reveal myself to the house of your father in their being in Egypt, to the house of Pharaoh

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֥א אִישׁ־אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶל־עֵלִ֑י וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלָ֗י⁠ו כֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה הֲ⁠נִגְלֹ֤ה נִגְלֵ֨יתִי֙ אֶל־בֵּ֣ית אָבִ֔י⁠ךָ בִּֽ⁠הְיוֹתָ֥⁠ם בְּ⁠מִצְרַ֖יִם לְ⁠בֵ֥ית פַּרְעֹֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

There are two levels of quotation in this verse. The author begins to quote a man of God directly (level 1). That man tells Eli something that Yahweh has said (level 2). He continues to do that through verse 36. Use the appropriate punctuation in your language to mark these levels of quotation. Alternatively, you could translate this so that there are not three levels of quotation (see the Quotes within Quotes note).

Thus says Yahweh, ‘Revealing myself, did I {not} reveal myself to the house of your father in their being in Egypt, to the house of Pharaoh

Quote: כֹּ֚ה אָמַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה הֲ⁠נִגְלֹ֤ה נִגְלֵ֨יתִי֙ אֶל־בֵּ֣ית אָבִ֔י⁠ךָ בִּֽ⁠הְיוֹתָ֥⁠ם בְּ⁠מִצְרַ֖יִם לְ⁠בֵ֥ית פַּרְעֹֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

See the Introduction to this chapter for a discussion of how, if that would be clearer in your language, you can translate verses 27–36 so that there is not a quotation within a quotation.

Revealing myself, did I {not} reveal myself

Quote: הֲ⁠נִגְלֹ֤ה נִגְלֵ֨יתִי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Yahweh is repeating the verb reveal in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [I certainly revealed myself]

Revealing myself, did I {not} reveal myself to the house of your father in their being in Egypt, to the house of Pharaoh

Quote: הֲ⁠נִגְלֹ֤ה נִגְלֵ֨יתִי֙ אֶל־בֵּ֣ית אָבִ֔י⁠ךָ בִּֽ⁠הְיוֹתָ֥⁠ם בְּ⁠מִצְרַ֖יִם לְ⁠בֵ֥ית פַּרְעֹֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Yahweh is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or exclamation. Alternate translation: [I certainly revealed myself to the house of your father in their being in Egypt, to the house of Pharaoh!]

your father

Quote: אָבִ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is using the term father to mean “ancestor.” He is referring specifically to Eli’s ancestor Aaron. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [your ancestor Aaron]

to the house of your father

Quote: אֶל־בֵּ֣ית אָבִ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using the term house by association to mean all the household or family of Eli’s ancestor Aaron. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to your ancestor Aaron and his family]

to the house of Pharaoh

Quote: לְ⁠בֵ֥ית פַּרְעֹֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Yahweh is using this possessive form to mean that Eli’s ancestors were slaves who belonged to Pharaoh’s household. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [when they were Pharaoh’s personal slaves]

1 Samuel 2:28

to go up on my altar

Quote: לַ⁠עֲל֣וֹת עַֽל־מִזְבְּחִ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Yahweh assumes that Eli will know what he means by the phrase to go up on my altar. This could mean: (1) that Yahweh chose the family of Aaron to do specific work at his altar. Alternate translation: [to approach my altar] or [to serve at my altar] (2) that Yahweh chose the family of Aaron to offer sacrifices on his altar. Alternate translation: [to offer sacrifices on my altar]

And I gave to the house of your father

Quote: וָֽ⁠אֶתְּנָ⁠ה֙ לְ⁠בֵ֣ית אָבִ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the term house by association to mean the household or family of Aaron, and in this context specifically his descendants. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [to your ancestor Aaron and to his descendants]

all of the gifts of the sons of Israel

Quote: אֶת־כָּל־אִשֵּׁ֖י בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

When Yahweh says all, he means “some of every,” not everything entirely. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [a portion of every animal that the Israelites sacrificed]

the sons of Israel

Quote: בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See the discussion in the Introduction to 1 Samuel of this use of the expression the sons of a person to mean the nation or tribe that consists of his descendants. Decide how you will translate it throughout the book. Alternate translation: [the Israelites]

1 Samuel 2:29

Why do you kick at my sacrifice and at my offering

Quote: לָ֣⁠מָּה תִבְעֲט֗וּ בְּ⁠זִבְחִ⁠י֙ וּ⁠בְ⁠מִנְחָתִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Yahweh is using a common expression of his culture to mean that Eli and his sons were treating his sacrifices with disrespect. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Why do you treat my sacrifices with such disrespect]

Why do you kick at my sacrifice and at my offering

Quote: לָ֣⁠מָּה תִבְעֲט֗וּ בְּ⁠זִבְחִ⁠י֙ וּ⁠בְ⁠מִנְחָתִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Yahweh is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You should not kick at my sacrifice and at my offering …!]

at my sacrifice and at my offering

Quote: בְּ⁠זִבְחִ⁠י֙ וּ⁠בְ⁠מִנְחָתִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

In other contexts, the words sacrifice and offering can refer to two different things. But here Yahweh is using them synonymously in a phrase that expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word offering tells what kind of sacrifice Yahweh means. Alternate translation: [at the sacrifices that people offer to me]

do you kick … and honor your sons … by the fattening of yourselves

Quote: תִבְעֲט֗וּ & וַ⁠תְּכַבֵּ֤ד אֶת־בָּנֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ & לְ⁠הַבְרִֽיאֲ⁠כֶ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The pronouns you and yourselves are plural because the man of God is referring to Eli and his sons. The pronoun your and the verb honor are singular because the man of God is referring to Eli alone. Use the appropriate forms in your translation if your language marks that distinction.

1 Samuel 2:30

Therefore’—the declaration of Yahweh, the God of Israel—‘saying, I said your house and the house of your father would walk about to my face forever. But now’—the declaration of Yahweh—‘profane to me

Quote: לָ⁠כֵ֗ן נְאֻם־יְהוָה֮ אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵל֒ אָמ֣וֹר אָמַ֔רְתִּי בֵּֽיתְ⁠ךָ֙ וּ⁠בֵ֣ית אָבִ֔י⁠ךָ יִתְהַלְּכ֥וּ לְ⁠פָנַ֖⁠י עַד־עוֹלָ֑ם וְ⁠עַתָּ֤ה נְאֻם־יְהוָה֙ חָלִ֣ילָ⁠ה לִּ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

The phrases the declaration of Yahweh, the God of Israel and the declaration of Yahweh are not part of what the man of God is telling Eli that Yahweh has said (level 2 in this quotation). The man is using those phrases to assure Eli that this is something that Yahweh has said. Use the appropriate punctuation in your language to end the second-level quotation before these phrases and to resume it after them.

saying, I said

Quote: אָמ֣וֹר אָמַ֔רְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Yahweh is repeating the verb say in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [I certainly said]

your house and the house of your father

Quote: בֵּֽיתְ⁠ךָ֙ וּ⁠בֵ֣ית אָבִ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural in your language to put the information about Eli’s ancestor’s family before the information about Eli’s family. Alternate translation: [the descendants of your ancestor, and therefore your family]

would walk about to my face

Quote: יִתְהַלְּכ֥וּ לְ⁠פָנַ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Using a common expression of his culture, Yahweh is saying walk about to mean “live.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [would live in my presence]

profane to me! For the ones honoring me, I will honor, but the ones disdaining me, they will despise

Quote: חָלִ֣ילָ⁠ה לִּ֔⁠י כִּֽי־מְכַבְּדַ֥⁠י אֲכַבֵּ֖ד וּ⁠בֹזַ֥⁠י יֵקָֽלּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since I honor those who honor me, but they will despise those who disdain me, profane to me!]

profane to me

Quote: חָלִ֣ילָ⁠ה לִּ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Yahweh is using a common expression of this culture to express horror at the idea he has just described. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [far be it from me!]

profane to me

Quote: חָלִ֣ילָ⁠ה לִּ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [profane to me to let that happen!] or [far be it from me to let that happen!]

they will despise

Quote: יֵקָֽלּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here the author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [will be despised]

1 Samuel 2:31

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

As the Introduction to 1 Samuel discusses, Yahweh is using the word Behold to focus Eli’s attention on what he is about to say. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation, here and throughout the book. Alternate translation: [Now listen:]

the days are coming

Quote: יָמִ֣ים בָּאִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the term days by association to mean a future time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the time is coming]

when I will cut off your arm and the arm of the house of your father

Quote: וְ⁠גָֽדַעְתִּי֙ אֶת־זְרֹ֣עֲ⁠ךָ֔ וְ⁠אֶת־זְרֹ֖עַ בֵּ֣ית אָבִ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if Eli’s strength and his family’s strength were each an arm that could be cut off. Strength, in turn, represents in this context the vigorous young men of a family. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [when I will cause the vigorous young men in your family and in the house of your father to die]

1 Samuel 2:32

he will do good

Quote: יֵיטִ֖יב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Yahweh is speaking about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [I will do]

in your house

Quote: בְּ⁠בֵיתְ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the term house by association to mean Eli’s family. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in your family]

all of the days

Quote: כָּל־הַ⁠יָּמִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the term days by association to mean time in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [ever again]

1 Samuel 2:33

But I will not cut off a man to you from near my altar, to make your eyes fail and to make your soul grieve

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֗ישׁ לֹֽא־אַכְרִ֤ית לְ⁠ךָ֙ מֵ⁠עִ֣ם מִזְבְּחִ֔⁠י לְ⁠כַלּ֥וֹת אֶת־עֵינֶ֖י⁠ךָ וְ⁠לַ⁠אֲדִ֣יב אֶת־נַפְשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [But to make your eyes fail and to make your soul grieve, I will not cut off a man to you from near my altar]

I will not cut off

Quote: לֹֽא־אַכְרִ֤ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if he would cut off people from life. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I will not kill]

But … a man to you

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֗ישׁ & לְ⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Yahweh is not referring to a specific man. He means in general the men of Eli’s family. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [all the men in your family]

to make your eyes fail and to make your soul grieve

Quote: לְ⁠כַלּ֥וֹת אֶת־עֵינֶ֖י⁠ךָ וְ⁠לַ⁠אֲדִ֣יב אֶת־נַפְשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using parts of Eli and his descendants, their eyes and souls, to mean all of them in the act of weeping and grieving. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to make you and your descendants weep greatly and grieve deeply]

And all of the increase of your house

Quote: וְ⁠כָל־מַרְבִּ֥ית בֵּיתְ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the term increase by association to further members who will be born into Eli’s family. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And all those who are born into your family]

as} men

Quote: אֲנָשִֽׁים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The specific term that Yahweh uses here for men indicates young men. You could state this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [as young men]

1 Samuel 2:34

And this {is} the sign for you that will come to the two of your sons, to Hophni and Phinehas

Quote: וְ⁠זֶה־לְּ⁠ךָ֣ הָ⁠א֗וֹת אֲשֶׁ֤ר יָבֹא֙ אֶל־שְׁנֵ֣י בָנֶ֔י⁠ךָ אֶל־חָפְנִ֖י וּ⁠פִֽינְחָ֑ס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Yahweh is speaking of this sign as if it were a living thing that could come to Eli. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And when this happens to your two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, it will be a sign for you]

1 Samuel 2:35

And I will raise up for myself a faithful priest

Quote: וַ⁠הֲקִימֹתִ֥י לִ⁠י֙ כֹּהֵ֣ן נֶאֱמָ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if he would raise up a priest to a height or to a standing position. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And I will appoint for myself a faithful priest]

a faithful priest

Quote: כֹּהֵ֣ן נֶאֱמָ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of the term that the ULT translates as faithful. This could mean: (1) Alternate translation: [an obedient priest] (2) Alternate translation: [an established priest]

just as {is} in my heart and in my soul

Quote: כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֛ר בִּ⁠לְבָבִ֥⁠י וּ⁠בְ⁠נַפְשִׁ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The terms heart and soul mean similar things, representing in this context inward desires. Yahweh is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [exactly what I desire for him to do]

And I will build for him an established house

Quote: וּ⁠בָנִ֤יתִי ל⁠וֹ֙ בַּ֣יִת נֶאֱמָ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And I will establish the house that I build for him]

And I will build for him an established house

Quote: וּ⁠בָנִ֤יתִי ל⁠וֹ֙ בַּ֣יִת נֶאֱמָ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if he would construct a physical house for this new priest. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And I will make sure that he has a lasting family line]

and he will walk about to the face of my anointed

Quote: וְ⁠הִתְהַלֵּ֥ךְ לִ⁠פְנֵֽי־מְשִׁיחִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 2:30. Alternate translation: [and he will personally serve my anointed]

all of the days

Quote: כָּל־הַ⁠יָּמִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

1 Samuel 2:36

And it will happen that every remaining one in your house will come to bow down to him for a piece of silver and a loaf of bread, and he will say, “Please assign me to one of the priestly positions to eat a piece of bread

Quote: וְ⁠הָיָ֗ה כָּל־הַ⁠נּוֹתָר֙ בְּ⁠בֵ֣יתְ⁠ךָ֔ יָבוֹא֙ לְ⁠הִשְׁתַּחֲוֺ֣ת ל֔⁠וֹ לַ⁠אֲג֥וֹרַת כֶּ֖סֶף וְ⁠כִכַּר־לָ֑חֶם וְ⁠אָמַ֗ר סְפָחֵ֥⁠נִי נָ֛א אֶל־אַחַ֥ת הַ⁠כְּהֻנּ֖וֹת לֶ⁠אֱכֹ֥ל פַּת־לָֽחֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotemarks

There are three levels of quotation in this verse. The author is continuing to quote the man of God (level 1). The man of God is continuing to tell Eli something that Yahweh has said (level 2). And in the last part of this verse, Yahweh describes what some of the remaining priests will say (level 3). Use the appropriate punctuation in your language to mark these levels of quotation. Alternatively, you could translate this so that there are not three levels of quotation (see the Quotes within Quotes note).

in your house

Quote: בְּ⁠בֵ֣יתְ⁠ךָ֔ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

to bow down to him

Quote: לְ⁠הִשְׁתַּחֲוֺ֣ת ל֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Bowing down was a symbolic action that expressed submission and indicated need. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [to bow down to him in order to beg him]

for a piece of silver and a loaf of bread

Quote: לַ⁠אֲג֥וֹרַת כֶּ֖סֶף וְ⁠כִכַּר & לָֽחֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using specific small amounts to represent money and food in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [for money and food]

and he will say

Quote: וְ⁠אָמַ֗ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Yahweh is referring to a group of people, it might be more natural in your language to use a plural form. Alternate translation: [and they will say]

to eat a piece of bread

Quote: לָ֑חֶם & לֶ⁠אֱכֹ֥ל פַּת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using one specific thing that people need to do to live, eating bread, to mean earning a living in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [so that I can earn enough to live on]

1 Samuel 3

1 Samuel 3 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the first section of the book, chapters 1–7, which describe Samuel as a religious leader of Israel. This chapter tells how Yahweh revealed to Samuel that he would judge and punish Eli and his descendants because Eli’s sons had dishonored him by stealing from his offerings. This chapter also tells how Samuel grew up to be a respected prophet of Yahweh.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

How did the tent of meeting come to have “doors” (3:15)?

The author says in 3:15 that Samuel “opened the doors of the house of Yahweh.” While the Bible itself does not record these developments, it appears that during the time when the tent of meeting was in Shiloh, the Israelites built some structures around it or made some changes to it so that people entered and left through doors rather than through curtains. These structural changes or additions are not significant to the biblical story itself, so you do not need to call attention in the text of your translation or in a footnote to this change from curtains to doors.

1 Samuel 3:1

Now the boy Samuel was serving Yahweh to the face of Eli. And the word of Yahweh was rare in those days; vision {was} not spread

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠נַּ֧עַר שְׁמוּאֵ֛ל מְשָׁרֵ֥ת אֶת־יְהוָ֖ה לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י עֵלִ֑י וּ⁠דְבַר־יְהוָ֗ה הָיָ֤ה יָקָר֙ בַּ⁠יָּמִ֣ים הָ⁠הֵ֔ם אֵ֥ין חָז֖וֹן נִפְרָֽץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

to the face of Eli

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י עֵלִ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 2:11. Alternate translation: [together with Eli] or [as an apprentice to Eli]

And the word of Yahweh was rare in those days; vision {was} not spread

Quote: וּ⁠דְבַר־יְהוָ֗ה הָיָ֤ה יָקָר֙ בַּ⁠יָּמִ֣ים הָ⁠הֵ֔ם אֵ֥ין חָז֖וֹן נִפְרָֽץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author may be using two types of revelation, a word and a vision, to represent revelation in general, which would also include such things as dreams, signs, etc. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Not many people received revelations from Yahweh in those days]

And the word of Yahweh was rare

Quote: וּ⁠דְבַר־יְהוָ֗ה הָיָ֤ה יָקָר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term word by association to mean what Yahweh said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And Yahweh rarely spoke to people]

in those days

Quote: בַּ⁠יָּמִ֣ים הָ⁠הֵ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term days by association to mean a specific time, since time is made up of days. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [at that time]

vision {was} not spread

Quote: אֵ֥ין חָז֖וֹן נִפְרָֽץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Yahweh was not spreading visions]

vision {was} not spread

Quote: אֵ֥ין חָז֖וֹן נִפְרָֽץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if a vision were a physical thing that could be spread. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [not many people had visions]

1 Samuel 3:2

And it happened

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

See how you translated this phrase in 1:12.

in that day

Quote: בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠ה֔וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term day by association to mean a specific time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [at that time]

Now his eyes had begun {to be} dim; he was not able to see

Quote: וְעֵינָיו֙ הֵחֵ֣לּוּ כֵה֔וֹת לֹ֥א יוּכַ֖ל לִ⁠רְאֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Now his eyes had begun {to be} dim; he was not able to see

Quote: וְעֵינָיו֙ הֵחֵ֣לּוּ כֵה֔וֹת לֹ֥א יוּכַ֖ל לִ⁠רְאֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [Now it had begun to be difficult for him to see well]

Now his eyes

Quote: וְעֵינָיו֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term eyes by association to mean. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [Now his vision]

1 Samuel 3:3

And the lamp of God had not yet gone out

Quote: וְ⁠נֵ֤ר אֱלֹהִים֙ טֶ֣רֶם יִכְבֶּ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By the lamp of God, the author means the lamp that the law of Moses commanded the Israelites in Exodus 27:21 to keep burning in the tent of meeting all night long. Alternate translation: [And the sacred lamp in the tent of meeting had not yet gone out]

And the lamp of God had not yet gone out

Quote: וְ⁠נֵ֤ר אֱלֹהִים֙ טֶ֣רֶם יִכְבֶּ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is referring to the lamp still burning by association to mean that it was still night, since this lamp only burned at night. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And it was still night] or [And it was not yet morning]

in the temple of Yahweh

Quote: בְּ⁠הֵיכַ֣ל יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion in the Introduction to Chapter 1 of why the author may use the term temple here and in 1:9, and see how you translated the term in 1:9. Alternate translation: [in the tent of meeting]

where the Box of God was there

Quote: אֲשֶׁר־שָׁ֖ם אֲר֥וֹן אֱלֹהִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that the expression word contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [where the Box of God was]

1 Samuel 3:4

Behold me

Quote: הִנֵּֽ⁠נִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

Samuel is responding to Yahweh with the courteous expression that a person in this culture would use to tell a superior that he had heard a summons and was ready and willing to obey. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation, here and in verses 5, 6, 8, and 16. Alternate translation: [Yes, sir?] or [At your service]

1 Samuel 3:5

Behold me, for you called to me

Quote: הִנְ⁠נִי֙ כִּֽי־קָרָ֣אתָ לִּ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

1 Samuel 3:6

my son

Quote: בְנִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

Eli is referring to Samuel with an affectionate expression. Use a comparable title or expression from your language and culture for addressing someone affectionately. Alternate translation: [young man]

1 Samuel 3:7

Now Samuel did not yet know Yahweh, for the word of Yahweh had not yet been revealed to him

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁמוּאֵ֕ל טֶ֖רֶם יָדַ֣ע אֶת־יְהוָ֑ה וְ⁠טֶ֛רֶם יִגָּלֶ֥ה אֵלָ֖י⁠ו דְּבַר־יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Now Samuel did not yet know Yahweh, for the word of Yahweh had not yet been revealed to him

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁמוּאֵ֕ל טֶ֖רֶם יָדַ֣ע אֶת־יְהוָ֑ה וְ⁠טֶ֛רֶם יִגָּלֶ֥ה אֵלָ֖י⁠ו דְּבַר־יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because the word of Yahweh had not yet been revealed to Samuel, Samuel did not yet know Yahweh]

Now Samuel did not yet know Yahweh

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁמוּאֵ֕ל טֶ֖רֶם יָדַ֣ע אֶת־יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The expression did not … know Yahweh has a different meaning here than it has in 2:12. The UST translation of both verses models one way of showing the difference in meaning.

for the word of Yahweh had not yet been revealed to him

Quote: וְ⁠טֶ֛רֶם יִגָּלֶ֥ה אֵלָ֖י⁠ו דְּבַר־יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [for Yahweh had not yet revealed his word to him]

for the word of Yahweh … not yet

Quote: וְ⁠טֶ֛רֶם & דְּבַר־יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term word by association to mean what Yahweh would have said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for a message from Yahweh]

1 Samuel 3:8

for a third {time

Quote: בַּ⁠שְּׁלִשִׁית֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

The author is using the adjective third as a noun to mean a specific time. The ULT shows this by supplying the word time. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [yet again]

for a third {time

Quote: בַּ⁠שְּׁלִשִׁית֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use a cardinal number here or an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: [for time number three]

1 Samuel 3:9

then you shall say

Quote: וְ⁠אָֽמַרְתָּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tense

See the discussion in the Introduction to 1 Samuel of how the ULT uses the English auxiliary verb “shall” to translate instances where speakers use a statement that seems to describe what a person is going to do in order to give that person an instruction or a command. Alternate translation: [then you are to say]

Speak, Yahweh, for your servant is listening

Quote: דַּבֵּ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה כִּ֥י שֹׁמֵ֖עַ עַבְדֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Speak

Quote: דַּבֵּ֣ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

This is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. It may be helpful to add an expression such as “please” to make this clear. Alternate translation: [Please speak]

for your servant is listening

Quote: כִּ֥י שֹׁמֵ֖עַ עַבְדֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Samuel is speaking about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [for I, your servant, am listening]

for your servant is listening

Quote: כִּ֥י שֹׁמֵ֖עַ עַבְדֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Samuel assumes that Yahweh will understand that by listening, he means he will obey. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [for I will obey]

1 Samuel 3:10

as time upon time

Quote: כְ⁠פַֽעַם־בְּ⁠פַ֖עַם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean that Yahweh spoke this time just as he had the other times. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [just as he had the previous times]

Speak, for your servant is listening

Quote: דַּבֵּ֔ר כִּ֥י שֹׁמֵ֖עַ עַבְדֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

See how you translated the similar expression in 3:9.

1 Samuel 3:11

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֧ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the term Behold in 2:31. Alternate translation: [Pay attention!]

I am doing

Quote: אָנֹכִ֛י עֹשֶׂ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Yahweh is speaking in the present tense of something that he is going to do in the near future. He is using that tense in order to show that he will certainly do this. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: [I am going to do]

that everyone hearing it, the two of his ears will tingle

Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ כָּל־שֹׁ֣מְע֔⁠וֹ תְּצִלֶּ֖ינָה שְׁתֵּ֥י אָזְנָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using a physical sensation that people will have (their ears will tingle) by association to mean the emotion that people will feel when they hear this news. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [that will horrify everyone who learns about it]

1 Samuel 3:12

In that day

Quote: בַּ⁠יּ֤וֹם הַ⁠הוּא֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

I will raise up against Eli

Quote: אָקִ֣ים אֶל־עֵלִ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if what he said he would do were something physical that he could raise up. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I will make happen to Eli]

his house

Quote: בֵּית֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the term house by association to mean a family, since members of a family often live in the same house. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [his family]

beginning and ending

Quote: הָחֵ֖ל וְ⁠כַלֵּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Yahweh is speaking of two things in order to mean them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. It may be helpful to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [I will do everything I said]

1 Samuel 3:13

Now I have declared to him that I am judging his house forever for the iniquity that he knew. For his sons have been cursing themselves, but he has not restrained them

Quote: וְ⁠הִגַּ֣דְתִּי ל֔⁠וֹ כִּֽי־שֹׁפֵ֥ט אֲנִ֛י אֶת־בֵּית֖⁠וֹ עַד־עוֹלָ֑ם בַּ⁠עֲוֺ֣ן אֲשֶׁר־יָדַ֗ע כִּֽי־מְקַֽלְלִ֤ים לָ⁠הֶם֙ בָּנָ֔י⁠ו וְ⁠לֹ֥א כִהָ֖ה בָּֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because Eli’s sons have been cursing themselves and he has not restrained them, I have told him that I am judging his house forever for the iniquity that he knew]

Now I have declared to him

Quote: וְ⁠הִגַּ֣דְתִּי ל֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Yahweh is providing background information to help Samuel understand why he is judging and punishing Eli’s family. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

I am judging

Quote: שֹׁפֵ֥ט אֲנִ֛י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Yahweh is speaking in the present tense of something that he is going to do in the near future. He is using that tense in order to show that he will certainly do it. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: [I am about to judge]

his house

Quote: אֶת־בֵּית֖⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the term house in 3:12. Alternate translation: [his family]

have been cursing themselves

Quote: מְקַֽלְלִ֤ים לָ⁠הֶם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

The sense of the reflexive form here is not that Eli’s sons have actually spoken curses against themselves. Rather, Yahweh means that their actions have been so bad that these sons deserve to be cursed. Alternate translation: [have been making themselves accursed] or [have caused me to curse them]

1 Samuel 3:14

to the house of Eli

Quote: לְ⁠בֵ֣ית עֵלִ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar expression in 3:12. Alternate translation: [to the family of Eli]

If forever the iniquity of the house of Eli will cover itself by sacrifice or by offering

Quote: אִֽם־יִתְכַּפֵּ֞ר עֲוֺ֧ן בֵּית־עֵלִ֛י בְּ⁠זֶ֥בַח וּ⁠בְ⁠מִנְחָ֖ה עַד־עוֹלָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Following the custom of this culture, Yahweh is swearing an oath by stating the first part of a condition (“if”) but not the second part (“then”). The implication is that of the first part of the condition were met, something so bad would happen that it is certain that the first part of the condition will not be met. You could indicate that meaning in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [The iniquity of the house of Eli will never cover itself by sacrifice or by offering]

If forever the iniquity of the house of Eli will cover itself by sacrifice or by offering

Quote: אִֽם־יִתְכַּפֵּ֞ר עֲוֺ֧ן בֵּית־עֵלִ֛י בְּ⁠זֶ֥בַח וּ⁠בְ⁠מִנְחָ֖ה עַד־עוֹלָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Yahweh is speaking as if iniquity were a living thing that could cover itself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Neither sacrifice nor offering will ever cover the iniquity of the house of Eli]

If forever the iniquity of the house of Eli will cover itself by sacrifice or by offering

Quote: אִֽם־יִתְכַּפֵּ֞ר עֲוֺ֧ן בֵּית־עֵלִ֛י בְּ⁠זֶ֥בַח וּ⁠בְ⁠מִנְחָ֖ה עַד־עוֹלָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if iniquity were a physical object that could be covered. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [No one will ever be able to make atonement for the iniquity of the house of Eli]

1 Samuel 3:15

then he opened the doors of the house of Yahweh

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפְתַּ֖ח אֶת־דַּלְת֣וֹת בֵּית־יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one specific action that Samuel performed, opening these doors, to represent all of his regular duties. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [then he went about his duties as usual]

the doors of the house of Yahweh

Quote: אֶת־דַּלְת֣וֹת בֵּית־יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of these doors in the Introduction to this chapter.

But Samuel was afraid of telling the vision to Eli

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁמוּאֵ֣ל יָרֵ֔א מֵ⁠הַגִּ֥יד אֶת־הַ⁠מַּרְאָ֖ה אֶל־עֵלִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that Samuel did not tell Eli about the vision because he was afraid to do so. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [But Samuel was afraid of telling the vision to Eli, so he did not tell him]

the vision

Quote: אֶת־הַ⁠מַּרְאָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By the vision, the author seems to be implying that Yahweh appeared visibly to Samuel when he came and said the things he records in 3:11–14. The author’s statement in 3:10 that Yahweh “came and stationed himself” next to Samuel suggests that this was the case. Alternate translation: [what he had seen and heard]

1 Samuel 3:16

my son

Quote: בְּנִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

See how you translated this affectionate expression in 3:6. Alternate translation: [young man]

1 Samuel 3:17

was} the word

Quote: הַ⁠דָּבָר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Eli is using the term word by association to mean what Yahweh said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [was the message]

Please do not hide {it} from me

Quote: אַל־נָ֥א תְכַחֵ֖ד מִמֶּ֑⁠נִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this negative request as a positive one. Alternate translation: [Please show it to me]

Please do not hide {it} from me

Quote: אַל־נָ֥א תְכַחֵ֖ד מִמֶּ֑⁠נִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Eli is speaking as if information were a physical object that Samuel might hide. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Please do not withhold it from me]

Thus may God do to you, and thus may he add, if you hide from me a word from all of the word that he spoke to you

Quote: כֹּ֣ה יַעֲשֶׂה־לְּ⁠ךָ֤ אֱלֹהִים֙ וְ⁠כֹ֣ה יוֹסִ֔יף אִם־תְּכַחֵ֤ד מִמֶּ֨⁠נִּי֙ דָּבָ֔ר מִ⁠כָּל־הַ⁠דָּבָ֖ר אֲשֶׁר־דִּבֶּ֥ר אֵלֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Eli is swearing an oath. Following the custom of his culture, he is asking God to do to Samuel the things God said he would do to Eli and his family if Samuel does not answer him truthfully. Use a natural way in your language to express an oath.

and thus may he add

Quote: וְ⁠כֹ֣ה יוֹסִ֔יף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Eli is using a common expression of his culture to emphasize that he wants Samuel to tell him everything. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and even more]

a word

Quote: דָּבָ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Eli is making an overstatement for emphasis. By saying that he does not want Samuel to leave out a single word of what Yahweh said, he means that he wants Samuel to tell him all of the content of what Yahweh said. Alternate translation: [anything]

from all of the word

Quote: מִ⁠כָּל־הַ⁠דָּבָ֖ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Eli is using the term word in the second instance in the verse by association to mean what Yahweh said by using words. In your translation, in both instances you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [from the entire message]

1 Samuel 3:18

So Samuel declared to him all of the words, and he did not hide {anything} from him

Quote: וַ⁠יַּגֶּד־ל֤⁠וֹ שְׁמוּאֵל֙ אֶת־כָּל־הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֔ים וְ⁠לֹ֥א כִחֵ֖ד מִמֶּ֑⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [So Samuel openly told Eli everything that Yahweh had said]

all of the words

Quote: אֶת־כָּל־הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 3:17. Alternate translation: [the whole message]

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמַ֕ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Eli. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And Eli said]

It {is} Yahweh

Quote: יְהוָ֣ה ה֔וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

the good

Quote: הַ⁠טּ֥וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Eli is using the adjective good as a noun. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [what is good]

in his eyes

Quote: בְּ⁠עֵינָ֖⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See the discussion in the Introduction to 1 Samuel of this use of the term eyes, and see how you translated the similar expression in 1:18. Alternate translation: [in his judgment]

1 Samuel 3:19

And Samuel grew, and Yahweh was with him, and he did not cause {anything} from all of his words to fall to the ground

Quote: וַ⁠יִּגְדַּ֖ל שְׁמוּאֵ֑ל וַֽ⁠יהוָה֙ הָיָ֣ה עִמּ֔⁠וֹ וְ⁠לֹֽא־הִפִּ֥יל מִ⁠כָּל־דְּבָרָ֖י⁠ו אָֽרְצָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory

Here and in the next two verses, the author is describing what happened at the end of the story of Samuel coming to know Yahweh. Your language may have its own way of presenting such information.

and Yahweh was with him

Quote: וַֽ⁠יהוָה֙ הָיָ֣ה עִמּ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean that Yahweh helped Samuel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation, as in the UST: “and Yahweh helped him]

and he did not cause {anything} from all of his words to fall to the ground

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־הִפִּ֥יל מִ⁠כָּל־דְּבָרָ֖י⁠ו אָֽרְצָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if words were physical objects that could fall to the ground. The suggestion is that Samuel’s words were never lost or ruined as things do that people drop or let fall, in other words, what he said always came true. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and he made sure that everything Samuel said came true]

he did … cause {anything} from all of his words to fall

Quote: הִפִּ֥יל מִ⁠כָּל־דְּבָרָ֖י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to mean what Samuel said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [everything he said]

1 Samuel 3:20

Israel

Quote: יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

from Dan and unto Beersheba

Quote: מִ⁠דָּ֖ן וְ⁠עַד־בְּאֵ֣ר שָׁ֑בַע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

The author is speaking of two cities at the opposite ends of Israel’s territory in order to mean them and all the territory in between them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [across its entire territory]

Samuel was established as a prophet of Yahweh

Quote: נֶאֱמָ֣ן שְׁמוּאֵ֔ל לְ⁠נָבִ֖יא לַ⁠יהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Yahweh had established Samuel as his prophet]

was established

Quote: נֶאֱמָ֣ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion in the Introduction to Chapter 2 of the term that the ULT translates as “faithful” in 2:35. That term could have the same meaning here. Alternate translation: [was faithful]

1 Samuel 3:21

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces an explanation rather than a reason. Alternate translation: [This happened as]

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: בִּ⁠דְבַ֥ר יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

1 Samuel 4

1 Samuel 4 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the first section of the book, chapters 1–7, which describe Samuel as a religious leader of Israel. It begins a story that provides background for how Samuel helped the Israelites genuinely worship Yahweh again. This chapter describes two battles that the Israelites fought against the Philistines. In both battles, Israel was badly defeated, and in the second battle, the Philistines captured the Box of the Covenant.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Why did the Israelites think they would defeat the Philistines if they brought the Box of the Covenant with them into battle?

In 4:3, the elders of Israel conclude that the Philistines were able to defeat them because they did not bring the Box of the Covenant with them into battle. So they decide to bring the Box into the next battle. They may have been remembering that whenever the Israelites moved to a new place while traveling through the wilderness, when the priests would pick up the Box and begin to carry it, Moses would say, “Rise up, Yahweh, and may your enemies be scattered, and may those who hate you flee from your face” (Numbers 10:35). The elders may also have been remembering how Yahweh had told them to carry the Box around the city of Jericho and how the walls of that city had collapsed, allowing the Israelites to conquer it (Joshua 5:6). The elders seem to believe mistakenly that the Box itself had power to help them. They say in 4:3 that “it will save us from the palm of our enemies.” However, in the next battle, the Philistines defeat them again and capture the Box. Samuel tells the people in 7:3 the real reason why Yahweh was allowing the Philistines to defeat them. He says, “If you are going to return to Yahweh with all your heart, remove the gods of the foreigner and the Ashtoreths from your midst. And make firm your heart to Yahweh, and serve him alone, then he will rescue you from the hand of the Philistines.” It was superstition for the Israelites to believe that a physical symbol of Yahweh had the power to help them. What they really needed to do was become wholeheartedly devoted to Yahweh, as Samuel ultimately led them to do.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

Why do the Philistines say that the Egyptians were struck with plagues “in the wilderness” (4:8)?

In 4:8 the Philistines say, in response to the Box of the Covenant arriving in the Israelite military camp, “These are they, the gods who struck the Egyptians with every plague in the wilderness.” This is historically inaccurate, since the ten plagues all happened in the land of Egypt, before the Israelites left and traveled across the wilderness. But the author may wish to show that the Philistines did not have accurate knowledge of the Israelites. By quoting them as saying “gods,” he is showing that they did not know that the Israelites worshiped only the one true God, Yahweh. By quoting them further as saying that the plagues happened “in the wilderness,” he may be showing that the Philistines also did not know the precise details of what Yahweh had done for the Israelites. (They just knew enough to be very afraid of what the Box of the Covenant represented.) So these inaccurate details are part of the author’s characterization of the Philistines, and it would be appropriate to retain them in your translation.

1 Samuel 4:1

And the word of Samuel was to all of Israel

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֥י דְבַר־שְׁמוּאֵ֖ל לְ⁠כָל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory

See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of how you might format this sentence to show that it is part of the author’s conclusion in 3:19–21 of the story of how Samuel became a prophet.

And the word of Samuel was to all of Israel

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֥י דְבַר־שְׁמוּאֵ֖ל לְ⁠כָל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term word to represent what Samuel said by using words. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And Samuel spoke messages to all Israel]

Israel. Now Israel went out

Quote: יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֣א יִשְׂרָאֵל֩ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

1 Samuel 4:2

and Israel was struck to the face of the Philistines

Quote: וַ⁠יִּנָּ֥גֶף יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י פְלִשְׁתִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See the discussion of the term face in the Introduction to 1 Samuel, and see how you translated the similar expression in 1:12. Alternate translation: [and Israel was struck by the Philistines]

and Israel was struck to the face of the Philistines

Quote: וַ⁠יִּנָּ֥גֶף יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י פְלִשְׁתִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The word translated was struck here, meaning “was defeated,” is different from the one translated they struck, meaning “they killed,” in the next sentence. Alternate translation: [and the Philistines struck the Israelites] or [and the Philistines defeated the Israelites]

And they struck

Quote: וַ⁠יַּכּ֤וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun they refers to the Philistine soldiers. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [and the Philistines struck]

And they struck

Quote: וַ⁠יַּכּ֤וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of the term struck in the Introduction to 1 Samuel. Alternate translation: [And they killed]

1 Samuel 4:3

Why did Yahweh strike us today to the face of the Philistines

Quote: לָ֣⁠מָּה נְגָפָ֧⁠נוּ יְהוָ֛ה הַ⁠יּ֖וֹם לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י פְלִשְׁתִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

There is an implicit answer to this question in what the elders decide to do the rest of this verse. They feel as if Yahweh himself has defeated them, and they believe the reason is that they did not bring the Box of the Covenant with them into battle. See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of why they believed this. The UST models one way to supply this implicit information.

from the palm of our enemies

Quote: מִ⁠כַּ֥ף אֹיְבֵֽי⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See the discussion in the Introduction to 1 Samuel of the use of the word “hand” to represent power. The elders are using the word palm here to mean the same thing. Alternate translation: [from the power of our enemies]

1 Samuel 4:4

And … were} there with

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁ֞ם & עִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word there does not refer to Shiloh but to the place to which the Israelites brought the Box of the Covenant. Alternate translation: [were accompanying]

1 Samuel 4:5

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֗י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

See how you translated the phrase “And it happened” in 1:12.

that … shouted a great shout

Quote: וַ⁠יָּרִ֥עוּ & תְּרוּעָ֣ה גְדוֹלָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

1 Samuel 4:6

the sound of the shout

Quote: אֶת־ק֣וֹל הַ⁠תְּרוּעָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that the expression word contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [the shout]

in … of … the Box of Yahweh had come into the camp

Quote: בְּ⁠מַחֲנֵ֣ה & אֲר֣וֹן יְהוָ֔ה בָּ֖א אֶל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The author is speaking of the Box of Yahweh as if it were a living thing that could have come into the camp on its own. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the Israelites had brought the Box of God into their camp]

1 Samuel 4:7

And the Philistines feared, for they said, “A god has come into the camp

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽרְאוּ֙ הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים כִּ֣י אָמְר֔וּ בָּ֥א אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶל־הַֽ⁠מַּחֲנֶ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [And the Philistines said, “A god has come into the camp!” and that thought made them very afraid]

A god has come into the camp

Quote: בָּ֥א אֱלֹהִ֖ים אֶל־הַֽ⁠מַּחֲנֶ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-plural

The word that the ULT translates as god is plural, but the verb has come is singular. This suggests that as the author expresses the meaning of what the Philistines said in their own language, he is using the plural form to indicate greatness. Your language may be able to use a plural subject with a singular verb for this same purpose. If not, you could convey the meaning in another way. Alternate translation: [A great god has come into the camp]

Woe to us

Quote: א֣וֹי לָ֔⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

The Philistines are using a phrase that expresses a strong feeling, fear. There may be an equivalent word or phrase in your language that you can use in your translation to convey this strong feeling. If not, you could say what the Philistines were feeling, or you could say what they were afraid of, here and in the next verse. Alternate translation: [Oh, no!] or [We are in great danger!]

yesterday {or} the third day

Quote: אֶתְמ֥וֹל שִׁלְשֹֽׁם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

In this culture, the current day was considered the first day, the previous day was considered the second day, and the day before that was considered the third day. So this phrase means “yesterday or the day before yesterday.” That was a common expression that referred to the past in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [at any time in the past]

1 Samuel 4:8

Who will deliver us from the hand of these mighty gods

Quote: מִ֣י יַצִּילֵ֔⁠נוּ מִ⁠יַּ֛ד הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֥ים הָ⁠אַדִּירִ֖ים הָ⁠אֵ֑לֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The Philistines are using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [We cannot imagine who could deliver us from the hand of these mighty gods!]

from the hand of

Quote: מִ⁠יַּ֛ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 4:3. Alternate translation: [from the power of]

these mighty gods? … the gods who struck

Quote: הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֥ים הָ⁠אַדִּירִ֖ים הָ⁠אֵ֑לֶּה & הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֗ים הַ⁠מַּכִּ֧ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-plural

The word gods is plural in both instances, and the verb struck is also plural. This suggests that the author is showing that the Philistines were speaking here about multiple gods whom they mistakenly thought the Israelites worshiped. The Philistines apparently thought that one of these gods had come into the Israelite camp when the Box of the Covenant arrived. So it would be appropriate to use plural forms in your translation.

These are they, the gods who struck

Quote: אֵ֧לֶּה הֵ֣ם הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֗ים הַ⁠מַּכִּ֧ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that the expression word contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [These are the same gods who struck]

with every plague

Quote: בְּ⁠כָל־מַכָּ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The Philistines are making an overstatement for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [with many terrible plagues]

in the wilderness

Quote: בַּ⁠מִּדְבָּֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of this phrase in the Introduction to this chapter.

1 Samuel 4:9

Strengthen yourselves and be men, Philistines, lest you serve for the Hebrews, just as they have served for you

Quote: הִֽתְחַזְּק֞וּ וִֽ⁠הְי֤וּ לַֽ⁠אֲנָשִׁים֙ פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים פֶּ֚ן תַּעַבְד֣וּ לָ⁠עִבְרִ֔ים כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר עָבְד֖וּ לָ⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [So that you do not serve for the Hebrews, just as they have served for you, strengthen yourselves and be men, Philistines]

Strengthen yourselves and be men

Quote: הִֽתְחַזְּק֞וּ וִֽ⁠הְי֤וּ לַֽ⁠אֲנָשִׁים֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The Philistines are using the term men by association to mean people who are courageous. The implication is that strong, experienced, full-grown men would be courageous in situations where weaker, inexperienced boys and youths would not. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [Strengthen yourselves and be courageous]

Strengthen yourselves and be men

Quote: הִֽתְחַזְּק֞וּ וִֽ⁠הְי֤וּ לַֽ⁠אֲנָשִׁים֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These two phrases mean similar things. The Philistines are using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [Be very courageous]

So be men and fight

Quote: וִ⁠הְיִיתֶ֥ם לַ⁠אֲנָשִׁ֖ים וְ⁠נִלְחַמְתֶּֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word text tells in what way a person text. Alternate translation: [So fight courageously]

1 Samuel 4:10

And the Philistines fought

Quote: וַ⁠יִּלָּחֲמ֣וּ פְלִשְׁתִּ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will know that by fought, he means that the Philistines fought courageously, as they told themselves they had to do. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [So the Philistines fought courageously]

a man to his tent

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ לְ⁠אֹהָלָ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is speaking of one kind of dwelling, a tent to represent homes of all kinds. (Some Israelites lived in houses.) If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [each person to his own home]

a … striking

Quote: הַ⁠מַּכָּ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word striking here is a form of the same verb that the ULT translates as “struck” in 4:2. See how you translated the verb there. Alternate translation: [slaughter]

for … fell

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפֹּל֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term fell to mean that these soldiers were killed in the battle, by association with the way they fell to the ground when they died. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [died]

1 Samuel 4:11

And the Box of God was taken

Quote: וַ⁠אֲר֥וֹן אֱלֹהִ֖ים נִלְקָ֑ח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And the Philistines took the Box of God]

1 Samuel 4:12

And his clothes were torn, and earth was on his head

Quote: וּ⁠מַדָּ֣י⁠ו קְרֻעִ֔ים וַ⁠אֲדָמָ֖ה עַל־רֹאשֽׁ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Tearing his clothes and putting earth on his head were symbolic actions by which this man demonstrated his great distress over the news he was bringing. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [And he had torn his clothes and put earth on his head to show his great distress]

1 Samuel 4:13

and behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar expression in 2:31. Alternate translation: [and this was the situation]

watching

Quote: מְצַפֶּ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Since the author explains in 4:15 that Eli was blind, he does not mean that Eli was literally watching the road to see whether any messengers were coming. He means that Eli was waiting for news and hoping to recognize a messenger from the sound of his arrival. Alternate translation: [waiting]

his heart {was} afraid

Quote: הָיָ֤ה לִבּ⁠וֹ֙ חָרֵ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of Eli, his heart, to mean all of him in the act of feeling strongly. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [he was greatly afraid]

into the … and all of the city cried out

Quote: בָּ⁠עִ֔יר וַ⁠תִּזְעַ֖ק כָּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term city by association to mean the people of the city. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [all of the people of the city cried out]

into the … and all of the city cried out

Quote: בָּ⁠עִ֔יר וַ⁠תִּזְעַ֖ק כָּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The author is making an overstatement for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [and people throughout the city cried out]

1 Samuel 4:14

the sound of the outcry

Quote: אֶת־ק֣וֹל הַ⁠צְּעָקָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [the outcry]

hurried and came

Quote: מִהַ֔ר וַ⁠יָּבֹ֖א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word hurried tells in what way the messenger came. Alternate translation: [came hurriedly]

1 Samuel 4:15

was} a son of 98 years

Quote: בֶּן־תִּשְׁעִ֥ים וּ⁠שְׁמֹנֶ֖ה שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to state someone’s age. In your translation, express this in the way your culture would state someone’s age. Alternate translation, as in the UST: [was 98 years old]

And his eyes had set, and he was not able to see

Quote: וְ⁠עֵינָ֣י⁠ו קָ֔מָה וְ⁠לֹ֥א יָכ֖וֹל לִ⁠רְאֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author is describing an eye condition that was most likely cataracts. He said of Eli in 3:2 that “his eyes had begun to be dim,” that is, he could see objects only faintly. Now the cataracts had advanced to the point where his eyes no longer moved. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could name this condition explicitly in your translation. Alternate translation: [And he had severe cataracts, so he was not able to see anything]

1 Samuel 4:16

I {am} the one coming from the array, and I myself fled from the array today

Quote: אָֽנֹכִי֙ הַ⁠בָּ֣א מִן־הַ⁠מַּעֲרָכָ֔ה וַ⁠אֲנִ֕י מִן־הַ⁠מַּעֲרָכָ֖ה נַ֣סְתִּי הַ⁠יּ֑וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

The messenger is using poetic language to introduce the solemn news that he must share. Following the conventions of Hebrew poetry, he is saying something and then repeating the idea in different words. It may be helpful in your translation to connect these phrases with a word other than and to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: [I have just come from the battle lines, indeed, I myself fled from them today]

my son

Quote: בְּנִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

Eli is addressing the messenger with a polite and gentle expression. Use a comparable title or expression for addressing someone politely and gently in your language. Alternate translation: [young man]

1 Samuel 4:17

And … answered and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֨עַן & וַ⁠יֹּ֗אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word answered tells for what purpose the messenger said this. Alternate translation: [replied]

and the Box of God has been taken

Quote: וַ⁠אֲר֥וֹן הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֖ים נִלְקָֽחָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and the Philistines have taken the Box of God]

1 Samuel 4:18

in his mentioning of the Box of God, that he fell backward

Quote: כְּ⁠הַזְכִּיר֣⁠וֹ ׀ אֶת־אֲר֣וֹן הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֗ים וַ⁠יִּפֹּ֣ל & אֲחֹ֨רַנִּ֜ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun his refers to the messenger, while the pronoun he refers to Eli. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [when the messenger mentioned the Box of God, that Eli fell backward]

And his neck was broken, and he died, for the man {was} old and heavy

Quote: וַ⁠תִּשָּׁבֵ֤ר מַפְרַקְתּ⁠וֹ֙ וַ⁠יָּמֹ֔ת כִּֽי־זָקֵ֥ן הָ⁠אִ֖ישׁ וְ⁠כָבֵ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

And his neck was broken

Quote: וַ⁠תִּשָּׁבֵ֤ר מַפְרַקְתּ⁠וֹ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And he broke his neck]

And he had judged Israel 40 years

Quote: וְ⁠ה֛וּא שָׁפַ֥ט אֶת־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל אַרְבָּעִ֥ים שָׁנָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory

Here the author is presenting information that concludes the story of the life of Eli. This is the last mention of Eli in the book. Your language may have its own way of presenting such information.

1 Samuel 4:19

Now his daughter-in-law, the wife of Phinehas, {was} pregnant, {about} to give birth

Quote: וְ⁠כַלָּת֣⁠וֹ אֵֽשֶׁת־פִּינְחָס֮ הָרָ֣ה לָ⁠לַת֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

about the Box of God being taken

Quote: אֶל־הִלָּקַח֙ אֲר֣וֹן הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [that the Philistines had taken the Box of God]

and {that} her father-in-law had died and her husband

Quote: וּ⁠מֵ֥ת חָמִ֖י⁠הָ וְ⁠אִישָׁ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural in your language and culture to put the information about her husband before the information about her father-in-law. Alternate translation: [and that her husband and her father-in-law had died]

And she knelt down and gave birth, for her pangs turned themselves upon her

Quote: וַ⁠תִּכְרַ֣ע וַ⁠תֵּ֔לֶד כִּֽי־נֶהֶפְכ֥וּ עָלֶ֖י⁠הָ צִרֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

her pangs turned themselves upon her

Quote: נֶהֶפְכ֥וּ עָלֶ֖י⁠הָ צִרֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to describe childbirth. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [she abruptly went into labor]

1 Samuel 4:20

And about the time of her dying

Quote: וּ⁠כְ⁠עֵ֣ת מוּתָ֗⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that because this childbirth was provoked by great grief and distress, it was very difficult, and it caused the death of the mother. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And unfortunately her delivery was so difficult that it would cause her to die, but as she was dying]

then the ones standing over her said

Quote: וַ⁠תְּדַבֵּ֨רְנָה֙ הַ⁠נִּצָּב֣וֹת עָלֶ֔י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The verbs standing and said are marked as feminine, indicating that this is a reference to women who were helping Phinehas’s wife deliver her baby. If your language does not mark verbs for gender, you may wish to indicate this explicitly in your translation. Alternate translation: [then the women standing over her said]

the ones standing over her

Quote: הַ⁠נִּצָּב֣וֹת עָלֶ֔י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the phrase standing over her by association to refer to the women who were helping Phinehas’s wife deliver her baby. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the women who were helping her deliver her baby]

Do not fear, for you have borne a son

Quote: אַל־תִּֽירְאִ֖י כִּ֣י בֵ֣ן יָלָ֑דְתְּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

But she did not answer, for she did not set her heart

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א עָנְתָ֖ה וְ⁠לֹא־שָׁ֥תָה לִבָּֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here the heart represents the thoughts and feelings. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [But she did not answer, and she paid no attention to this]

But she did not answer, for she did not set her heart

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א עָנְתָ֖ה וְ⁠לֹא־שָׁ֥תָה לִבָּֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [But since she did not set her heart, she did not answer] or [But she paid no attention to this, so she did not answer]

1 Samuel 4:21

Ichabod

Quote: אִֽי־כָבוֹד֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The name Ichabod means “no glory.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain this in a footnote.

saying

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

See the discussion of the term saying in the Introduction to 1 Samuel. It may not be necessary to represent this term explicitly.

about the Box of God being taken

Quote: אֶל־הִלָּקַח֙ אֲר֣וֹן הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [about the Philistines taking of the Box of God]

and about her father-in-law and her husband

Quote: וְ⁠אֶל־חָמִ֖י⁠הָ וְ⁠אִישָֽׁ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and about the deaths of her father-in-law and her husband]

and about her father-in-law and her husband

Quote: וְ⁠אֶל־חָמִ֖י⁠הָ וְ⁠אִישָֽׁ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

See how you translated the similar expression in 4:19. Alternate translation: [and about her husband and her father-in-law]

1 Samuel 4:22

Now she said “the glory has departed from Israel” because the Box of God had been taken

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֕אמֶר גָּלָ֥ה כָב֖וֹד מִ⁠יִּשְׂרָאֵ֑ל כִּ֥י נִלְקַ֖ח אֲר֥וֹן הָ⁠אֱלֹהִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing background information to help readers understand more specifically what has happened in the story. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

Now she said “the glory has departed from Israel” because the Box of God had been taken

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֕אמֶר גָּלָ֥ה כָב֖וֹד מִ⁠יִּשְׂרָאֵ֑ל כִּ֥י נִלְקַ֖ח אֲר֥וֹן הָ⁠אֱלֹהִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

The quotation from Phinehas’s wife may extend to the end of the verse. Alternate translation: [And she said, “The glory has departed from Israel, for the Box of God had been taken!”]

the Box of God had been taken

Quote: נִלְקַ֖ח אֲר֥וֹן הָ⁠אֱלֹהִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

1 Samuel 5

1 Samuel 5 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the first section of the book, chapters 1–7, which describe Samuel as a religious leader of Israel. It continues a story that provides background for how Samuel helped the Israelites genuinely worship Yahweh again. This chapter describes how Yahweh struck the people of Philistine cities with plagues when they put the Box of the Covenant in their idol temples.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

The Box of the Covenant in Philistine cities

The Philistines took the Box of the Covenant to the city of Ashdod and put it in the temple of their idol Dagon. That was a way of claiming that Dagon had enabled them to defeat the Israelites and even that Dagon was stronger than Yahweh. However, the large statue of Dagon in the temple fell down in front of the Box as if it were a slave prostrating himself before his master. That showed that Yahweh was actually much greater and stronger than Dagon. The people of Ashdod also began getting tumors, and swarms of mice began eating up their crops. So the people of Ashdod sent the Box to the city of Gath. But the same bad things happened to the people of Gath. So they sent the Box to the city of Ekron. The people there were so afraid of the Box that they did not want it there, and they asked their rulers to send it back to Israel.

1 Samuel 5:1

Now the Philistines had taken the Box of God and brought it from Ebenezer to Ashdod

Quote: וּ⁠פְלִשְׁתִּים֙ לָֽקְח֔וּ אֵ֖ת אֲר֣וֹן הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֑ים וַ⁠יְבִאֻ֛⁠הוּ מֵ⁠אֶ֥בֶן הָעֵ֖זֶר אַשְׁדּֽוֹדָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

1 Samuel 5:2

the house of Dagon

Quote: בֵּ֣ית דָּג֑וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if Dagon’s temple were a house in which he lived. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the temple of Dagon]

Dagon

Quote: דָּג֑וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Dagon is the name of a false god that the Philistines worshiped.

And they placed it beside Dagon

Quote: וַ⁠יַּצִּ֥יגוּ אֹת֖⁠וֹ אֵ֥צֶל דָּגֽוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Placing the Box of Yahweh beside Dagon in his temple was a symbolic action by which the Philistines were asserting that Dagon had defeated Yahweh and thus his people, the Israelites. They were treating the Box of God as a trophy of victory. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [And they placed it beside Dagon to suggest that Dagon had defeated Yahweh]

Dagon

Quote: דָּג֑וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The assumes that readers will know that by Dagon, he means the large statue of Dagon that was in the temple at Ashdod. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [the large statue of Dagon in the temple]

1 Samuel 5:3

And the Ashdodites arose early … And

Quote: וַ⁠יַּשְׁכִּ֤מוּ אַשְׁדּוֹדִים֙ & אֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here the expression arose early does not necessarily mean that the Ashdodites got up earlier than usual in order to look inside the temple. While the author often does use the expression to mean that people got up earlier than usual in order to do an action he describes, for example, in 1:19 and 15:12, here and in the next verse it introduces what happened when the Ashdodites first got up. The UST models one way to express this meaning.

and behold, Dagon

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֣ה דָג֗וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar expression in 2:31. Alternate translation: [and they found that Dagon]

Dagon was fallen on his face to the ground

Quote: דָג֗וֹן נֹפֵ֤ל לְ⁠פָנָי⁠ו֙ אַ֔רְצָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

In this culture, lying face down on the ground in front of someone was an action that symbolized submission. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [Dagon was submissively lying prostrate]

to the face of

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֖י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:12. Alternate translation: [before]

1 Samuel 5:4

And the head of Dagon and the two of the palms of his hands were cut off

Quote: וְ⁠רֹ֨אשׁ דָּג֜וֹן וּ⁠שְׁתֵּ֣י ׀ כַּפּ֣וֹת יָדָ֗י⁠ו כְּרֻתוֹת֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And it appeared that someone had cut off the head of Dagon and the two of the palms of his hands]

And the head of Dagon and the two of the palms of his hands were cut off

Quote: וְ⁠רֹ֨אשׁ דָּג֜וֹן וּ⁠שְׁתֵּ֣י ׀ כַּפּ֣וֹת יָדָ֗י⁠ו כְּרֻתוֹת֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Cutting off the head and hands of Dagon was a symbolic action that indicated that this false god was not wise enough or strong enough to defend himself. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [And the head of Dagon and the two of the palms of his hands were cut off, demonstrating how helpless he actually was]

and the two of the palms of his hands

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁתֵּ֣י ׀ כַּפּ֣וֹת יָדָ֗י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

The word that the ULT translates as hands could indicate someone’s entire lower arms, so the author is clarifying what specific part of them had been cut off. Your language may be able to refer to his part more simply, and so this expression may seem to contain extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [and his hands]

on the threshold

Quote: אֶל־הַ⁠מִּפְתָּ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

on the threshold

Quote: אֶל־הַ⁠מִּפְתָּ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Leaving the head and hands of Dagon on the threshold, where people coming in and out of the temple would trample on them, was a symbolic action that expressed contempt for these symbols of Dagon’s supposed wisdom and power. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. It may be helpful to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [Someone had left them contemptuously on the threshold]

Only Dagon was left on him

Quote: רַ֥ק דָּג֖וֹן נִשְׁאַ֥ר עָלָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will understand that by Dagon, in this instance he means the part of the statute that looked like a fish. The name Dagon comes from the word for “fish.” Fish symbolized prosperity for the Philistines, who lived by the seacoast. Statues of Dagon had a human head and hands but the body of a fish. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [the only thing left of the statute was the part that looked like a fish]

1 Samuel 5:5

Therefore the priests of Dagon and all of the ones entering the house of Dagon do not tread on the threshold of Dagon in Ashdod, up to this day

Quote: עַל־כֵּ֡ן לֹֽא־יִדְרְכוּ֩ כֹהֲנֵ֨י דָג֜וֹן וְ⁠כָֽל־הַ⁠בָּאִ֧ים בֵּית־דָּג֛וֹן עַל־מִפְתַּ֥ן דָּג֖וֹן בְּ⁠אַשְׁדּ֑וֹד עַ֖ד הַ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing background information to help readers understand how what happened in this story is the source of a cultural practice with which they may be familiar. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

the house of Dagon

Quote: בֵּית־דָּג֛וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar expression in 5:2. Alternate translation: [the temple of Dagon]

the threshold of Dagon

Quote: דָג֜וֹן & מִפְתַּ֥ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

up to this day

Quote: עַ֖ד הַ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of this phrase in the Introduction to 1 Samuel. The author is using this phrase to refer to the time when he was writing. In your translation, make clear that the phrase refers to a time that is now in the past. Avoid giving the impression the phrase means “to the present day.” Alternate translation: [right up to the time of this writing]

1 Samuel 5:6

And the hand of Yahweh was heavy on the Ashdodites

Quote: וַ⁠תִּכְבַּ֧ד יַד־יְהוָ֛ה אֶל־הָ⁠אַשְׁדּוֹדִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See the discussion of the term hand in the Introduction to 1 Samuel, and see how you translated the term in 4:8. Alternate translation: [And Yahweh used his power greatly against the Ashdodites]

and he devastated them

Quote: וַ⁠יְשִׁמֵּ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This seems to be an implicit reference to a plague that devastated the crops in the area. The description of the guilt offering in 6:4 indicates that this was a plague of mice that came in great numbers and devoured the crops. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and he sent a plague of mice that devoured their crops]

and struck them with tumors

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֤ךְ אֹתָ⁠ם֙ ב⁠עפלים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word tumors refers to some kind of skin growth. The author distinguishes in 5:9 and 5:12 between people who were struck with this affliction and people who died, indicating that it was not immediately fatal. It could mean: (1) tumors, as in the ULT. (2) Alternate translation: [hemorrhoids]

Ashdod and its borders

Quote: אֶת־אַשְׁדּ֖וֹד וְ⁠אֶת־גְּבוּלֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the name Ashdod by association to mean the people who lived in that city, and he is using the term borders by association to mean “territories,” since territories may be defined by their borders. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the people of Ashdod and the surrounding territories]

1 Samuel 5:7

And the men of Ashdod saw

Quote: וַ⁠יִּרְא֥וּ אַנְשֵֽׁי־אַשְׁדּ֖וֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here the masculine term men has a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use language in your translation that is clearly inclusive of both men and women. Alternate translation: [And the people of Ashdod]

The Box of the God of Israel should not stay with us, for his hand is severe against us and against Dagon our god

Quote: לֹֽא־יֵשֵׁ֞ב אֲר֨וֹן אֱלֹהֵ֤י יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ עִמָּ֔⁠נוּ כִּֽי־קָשְׁתָ֤ה יָד⁠וֹ֙ עָלֵ֔י⁠נוּ וְ⁠עַ֖ל דָּג֥וֹן אֱלֹהֵֽי⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since the hand is severe against us and against Dagon our god, his Box should not stay with us]

for his hand is severe

Quote: כִּֽי־קָשְׁתָ֤ה יָד⁠וֹ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 5:6. Alternate translation: [for he is using his power greatly]

1 Samuel 5:8

Let the Box of the God of Israel go around {to} Gath

Quote: גַּ֣ת יִסֹּ֔ב אֲר֖וֹן אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The people of Ashdod are speaking of the Box of the God of Israel as if it were a living thing that could go around to Gath by itself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Have someone bring the Box of the God of Israel over to Gath]

So they brought around the Box of the God of Israel

Quote: וַ⁠יַּסֵּ֕בּוּ אֶת־אֲר֖וֹן אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that the expression brought around contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [So they brought the Box of the God of Israel]

So they brought around the Box of the God of Israel

Quote: וַ⁠יַּסֵּ֕בּוּ אֶת־אֲר֖וֹן אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [So they brought the Box of the God of Israel to Gath]

1 Samuel 5:9

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֞י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

See how you translated this phrase in 1:12.

that the hand of Yahweh was on the city

Quote: וַ⁠תְּהִ֨י יַד־יְהוָ֤ה ׀ בָּ⁠עִיר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 5:6. Alternate translation: [that Yahweh also used his power against that city]

a very great tumult

Quote: מְהוּמָה֙ גְּדוֹלָ֣ה מְאֹ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

And he struck

Quote: וַ⁠יַּךְ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of the term struck in the Introduction to 1 Samuel, and see how you translated the term in 4:2. Alternate translation: [And he killed]

the men of the city

Quote: אֶת־אַנְשֵׁ֣י הָ⁠עִ֔יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here the masculine term term has a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use language in your translation that is clearly inclusive of both men and women. Alternate translation: [the people of the city]

from small and unto great

Quote: מִ⁠קָּטֹ֖ן וְ⁠עַד־גָּד֑וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

The author is speaking of two things in order to mean them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Here the words small and great could mean either “young” and “old] or [weak” and “powerful,” but the meaning would be basically the same either way. Alternate translation: [regardless of their social condition]

1 Samuel 5:10

So they sent

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְשַׁלְּח֛וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun they refers to the people of Gath. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [So the people of Gath sent]

saying

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֗ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

See whether you chose to represent the term saying in 4:21, and if so, how you translated it.

They have brought around to me the Box of the God of Israel to kill me and my people

Quote: הֵסַ֤בּוּ אֵלַ⁠י֙ אֶת־אֲרוֹן֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל לַ⁠הֲמִיתֵ֖⁠נִי וְ⁠אֶת־עַמִּֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

The author is describing what each one of the Ekronites said. But since he is referring to a group of people and ascribes this quotation to a plural subject, it may be more natural in your language to use plural pronouns within the quotation. Alternate translation: [They have brought around to us the Box of the God of Israel to kill all of us]

They have brought around to me the Box of the God of Israel

Quote: הֵסַ֤בּוּ אֵלַ⁠י֙ אֶת־אֲרוֹן֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here the people of Ekron are not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [The Box of the God of Israel has been brought around to me] or [The Box of the God of Israel has been brought around to us]

and my people

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־עַמִּֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By people, the Ekronites mean their families. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and my family] or [and our families]

1 Samuel 5:11

and they said, “Send away the Box of the God of Israel that it may return to its place, and it will not kill me and my people!” For there was a tumult of death in all of the city

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּֽאמְרוּ֙ שַׁלְּח֞וּ אֶת־אֲר֨וֹן אֱלֹהֵ֤י יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ וְ⁠יָשֹׁ֣ב לִ⁠מְקֹמ֔⁠וֹ וְ⁠לֹֽא־יָמִ֥ית אֹתִ֖⁠י וְ⁠אֶת־עַמִּ֑⁠י כִּֽי־הָיְתָ֤ה מְהֽוּמַת־מָ֨וֶת֙ בְּ⁠כָל־הָ⁠עִ֔יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [And because there was a tumult of death in all of the city, they said, “Send away the Box of the God of Israel that it may return to its place, and it will not kill me and my people!”]

me and my people

Quote: אֹתִ֖⁠י וְ⁠אֶת־עַמִּ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/ grammar-collectivenouns

See how you translated the similar expression in the previous verse. Alternate translation: [me and my family] or [us and our families] or [all of us]

The hand of God {was} very heavy there

Quote: כָּבְדָ֥ה מְאֹ֛ד יַ֥ד הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֖ים שָֽׁם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 5:9. Alternate translation: [God was using his power greatly there]

1 Samuel 5:12

And the men

Quote: וְ⁠הָֽ⁠אֲנָשִׁים֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

with tumors

Quote: ב⁠עפלים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the term tumors in 5:6.

the city

Quote: הָ⁠עִ֖יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term city by association to mean the people who lived in the city. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the people of the city]

And … went up to the heavens

Quote: וַ⁠תַּ֛עַל & הַ⁠שָּׁמָֽיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The author is making an overstatement for emphasis. He is suggesting that this cry was so loud that it could be heard all the way up in the sky. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [was so loud that it could be heard at a great distance]

1 Samuel 6

1 Samuel 6 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the first section of the book, chapters 1–7, which describe Samuel as a religious leader of Israel. It concludes a story that provides background for how Samuel helped the Israelites genuinely worship Yahweh again. This chapter describes how the Philistines returned the Box of the Covenant to the Israelites in a way that confirmed that Yahweh had struck them with plagues to punish them for taking it.

The list of cities in 6:17

The list of cities in 1 Samuel 6:17 is similar to the list of kings in Joshua 12:9–24. If you have already translated the book of Joshua, see how you formatted that list. You may wish to format the list here similarly.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Why did the Philistines send the Box back to Israel on a cart drawn by cows?

The Philistine leaders asked their priests what they should do with the Box. The priests said to send it back with an offering that showed they were sorry for taking it. The Philistines put the Box on a cart. They had two cows pull the cart, and they let them go wherever they wanted. Even though the cows had just given birth and were nursing their calves, they left their calves behind and walked straight to Israel, to the town of Beth Shemesh. This convinced the Philistines that Yahweh had indeed been punishing them with plagues for taking his Box. The people of Beth Shemesh sacrificed the cows as an offering to thank Yahweh that the Box was back in Israel.

Why did Yahweh kill many Israelites in the town of Beth Shemesh?

Yahweh killed many people in the town of Beth Shemesh because they looked into the Box of the Covenant. Those people had violated the sacred boundary around holy things that the law of Moses commanded the Israelites to observe.

1 Samuel 6:1

in the field of the Philistines

Quote: בִּ⁠שְׂדֵ֥ה פְלִשְׁתִּ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term field by association to mean the territory of the Philistines. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in the territory of the Philistines]

1 Samuel 6:2

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: the priests and the diviners (0)

These were pagan priests and diviners who worshiped Dagon.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

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

empty

Quote: רֵיקָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The priests and diviners assume that their listeners will know that by empty, they do not mean that the Philistines should put something inside the Box. They mean that the Philistines should send an offering along with the Box. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [without an accompanying offering]

returning, return

Quote: הָשֵׁ֥ב תָּשִׁ֛יבוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

The priests and diviners are repeating forms of the verb return in order to intensify their expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [be careful to return]

Then you will be healed, and it will be known to you why his hand has not turned from you

Quote: אָ֤ז תֵּרָֽפְאוּ֙ וְ⁠נוֹדַ֣ע לָ⁠כֶ֔ם לָ֛⁠מָּה לֹא־תָס֥וּר יָד֖⁠וֹ מִ⁠כֶּֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

While it sounds as if the priests and diviners are describing what will happen if the Philistines return the Box, they are actually stating a condition in which a second event will only take place if a first event takes place. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [If you are then healed, then it will be known to you why his hand has not turned from you]

you will be healed, and it will be known to you

Quote: תֵּרָֽפְאוּ֙ וְ⁠נוֹדַ֣ע לָ⁠כֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use these passive forms, you could express the ideas in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [you will become healthy, and you will know]

his hand has not turned from you

Quote: לֹא־תָס֥וּר יָד֖⁠וֹ מִ⁠כֶּֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See the discussion of the term hand in the Introduction to 1 Samuel, and see how you translated the several occurrences of the term in the previous chapter. Alternate translation: [he has not stopped using his power against you]

his hand has not turned from you

Quote: לֹא־תָס֥וּר יָד֖⁠וֹ מִ⁠כֶּֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Since the priests and diviners are stating what the result would be if healing followed the return of the Box, they mean that the Philistines would know why Yahweh’s had continued to make them suffer before they returned it. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [his hand has not turned from you before this] or [he has continued to use his power against you until now]

his hand has not turned from you

Quote: לֹא־תָס֥וּר יָד֖⁠וֹ מִ⁠כֶּֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The priests and diviners are speaking of Yahweh’s hand as if it were a living thing that could have turned away from the Philistines by itself. If you decide to retain the term “hand” in your translation, if it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [he has not turned his hand from you] or [he has not withdrawn his hand from you]

1 Samuel 6:4

From the number of the lords of the Philistines, five tumors of gold and five mice of gold, for one plague was to all of them and to your lords

Quote: מִסְפַּר֙ סַרְנֵ֣י פְלִשְׁתִּ֔ים חֲמִשָּׁה֙ עפלי זָהָ֔ב וַ⁠חֲמִשָּׁ֖ה עַכְבְּרֵ֣י זָהָ֑ב כִּֽי־מַגֵּפָ֥ה אַחַ֛ת לְ⁠כֻלָּ֖⁠ם וּ⁠לְ⁠סַרְנֵי⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since one plague was to all of them and to your lords, from the number of the lords of the Philistines, five tumors of gold and five mice of gold]

five tumors of gold and five mice of gold

Quote: חֲמִשָּׁה֙ עפלי זָהָ֔ב וַ⁠חֲמִשָּׁ֖ה עַכְבְּרֵ֣י זָהָ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The priests and diviners are leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [the offering should be five tumors of gold and five mice of gold]

was to all of them

Quote: לְ⁠כֻלָּ֖⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

The priests and diviners are using the word them to mean the people of Philistia. Since they are addressing those people directly, it may be more natural in your language to use a second-person pronoun rather than a third-person pronoun. Alternate translation: [to all of you]

1 Samuel 6:5

the ones destroying the land

Quote: הַ⁠מַּשְׁחִיתִם֙ אֶת־הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The priests and diviners are using the term land by association to mean the crops that the land has produced. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the ones devouring your crops]

and you shall give glory to the God of Israel

Quote: וּ⁠נְתַתֶּ֛ם לֵ⁠אלֹהֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל כָּב֑וֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The expression give glory to the God of Israel means that by sending these gifts, the Philistines will vindicate the justice of Yahweh by acknowledging that it was wrong for them to take his Box and that he was justified in punishing them with these plagues for doing that. See the similar use of this phrase in Joshua 7:19. Alternate translation: [and in that way you will be admitting to the God of Israel that you did wrong and that he was justified in punishing you with these plagues]

he will lighten his hand from upon you and from upon your gods and from upon your land

Quote: יָקֵ֤ל אֶת־יָד⁠וֹ֙ מֵֽ⁠עֲלֵי⁠כֶ֔ם וּ⁠מֵ⁠עַ֥ל אֱלֹהֵי⁠כֶ֖ם וּ⁠מֵ⁠עַ֥ל אַרְצְ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The priests and diviners are using the term hand by association to mean power. Alternate translation: [he will stop using his power so severely to punish you and your gods and your land]

1 Samuel 6:6

And why do you make your heart heavy, just as the Egyptians and Pharaoh made their heart heavy? When he dealt severely with them, did they not send them away, and they went

Quote: וְ⁠לָ֤⁠מָּה תְכַבְּדוּ֙ אֶת־לְבַבְ⁠כֶ֔ם כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֧ר כִּבְּד֛וּ מִצְרַ֥יִם וּ⁠פַרְעֹ֖ה אֶת־לִבָּ֑⁠ם הֲ⁠לוֹא֙ כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֣ר הִתְעַלֵּ֣ל בָּ⁠הֶ֔ם וַֽ⁠יְשַׁלְּח֖וּ⁠ם וַ⁠יֵּלֵֽכוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The priests and diviners are using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [So you should not make your heart heavy, just as the Egyptians and Pharaoh made their heart heavy! When he dealt severely with them, they certainly sent them away, and they went!]

your heart … their heart

Quote: אֶת־לְבַבְ⁠כֶ֔ם & אֶת־לִבָּ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since the priests and diviners are referring to groups of people, the Philistines whom they are addressing and the Egyptians whom they are describing it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form of heart in both instances. Alternate translation: [your hearts … their hearts]

And why do you make your heart heavy, just as the Egyptians and Pharaoh made their heart heavy

Quote: וְ⁠לָ֤⁠מָּה תְכַבְּדוּ֙ אֶת־לְבַבְ⁠כֶ֔ם כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֧ר כִּבְּד֛וּ מִצְרַ֥יִם וּ⁠פַרְעֹ֖ה אֶת־לִבָּ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The priests and diviners are speaking as if a person could actually make his heart more heavy. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And why are you being stubborn, just as the Egyptians and Pharaoh were stubborn?] or [So you should not be stubborn, in the way that the Egyptians and Pharaoh were stubborn!]

When he dealt severely with them, did they not send them away, and they went

Quote: הֲ⁠לוֹא֙ כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֣ר הִתְעַלֵּ֣ל בָּ⁠הֶ֔ם וַֽ⁠יְשַׁלְּח֖וּ⁠ם וַ⁠יֵּלֵֽכוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Yahweh, the first instances of them and they refer to the Egyptians, and the second instances of them and they refer to the Israelites. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [When Yahweh dealt severely with the Egyptians, did the Egyptians not send the Israelites away, and the Israelites went?]

1 Samuel 6:7

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

And now was a common expression that speakers in this culture used to introduce their main topic. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. The UST models one way to do that.

take and make a new cart, and two nursing cows upon which a yoke has not gone up

Quote: קְח֨וּ וַ⁠עֲשׂ֜וּ עֲגָלָ֤ה חֲדָשָׁה֙ אֶחָ֔ת וּ⁠שְׁתֵּ֤י פָרוֹת֙ עָל֔וֹת אֲשֶׁ֛ר לֹא־עָלָ֥ה עֲלֵי⁠הֶ֖ם עֹ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Putting the sacred Box on a cart that had never been used for any other purpose, and having cows pull the cart that had never done pulling work before, were symbolic actions that treated the Box with special reverence. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of these actions. Alternate translation: [in order to treat the Box of the God of Israel with special reference, take and make one new cart, and two nursing cows upon which a yoke has not gone up]

take and make

Quote: קְח֨וּ וַ⁠עֲשׂ֜וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word take tells in what way the priests and diviners wanted the Philistines to make this cart. They do not mean that they want the Philistines to take it somewhere before making it. Rather, the word take has the sense of “undertake,” of taking measures to accomplish something. Alternate translation: [carefully make] or [prepare]

and two nursing cows

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁתֵּ֤י פָרוֹת֙ עָל֔וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

upon which a yoke has not gone up

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֛ר לֹא־עָלָ֥ה עֲלֵי⁠הֶ֖ם עֹ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The priests and diviners are using a common expression of their culture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [that have never been yoked] or [that have never pulled a plow]

to the house

Quote: הַ⁠בָּֽיְתָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

While in this culture people sometimes did keep animals in a lower area of the house in which they lived, in this context, the term house probably refers to a stall or pen. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [to their stalls]

1 Samuel 6:8

And you shall send it away, that it may go

Quote: וְ⁠שִׁלַּחְתֶּ֥ם אֹת֖⁠וֹ וְ⁠הָלָֽךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun it refers in both instances to the cart. But since the cart would not be able to go anywhere by itself, the priests and diviners mean that the Philistines are to let the cows pulling the cart go in any direction they wish. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a plural pronoun instead that would refer back to the cows described in the previous verse. Alternate translation: [And you shall send them away, that they may go]

1 Samuel 6:9

if it goes up the way of its border

Quote: אִם־דֶּ֨רֶךְ גְּבוּל֤⁠וֹ יַֽעֲלֶה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

As in the previous verse, the pronoun it refers to the cart that the cows will be pulling, while the pronoun its refers to the Box of Yahweh. If you used plural pronouns in the previous verse to refer to the cows rather than the cart, you can do the same thing here. Alternate translation: [if they go up the way of its border] or [if the cows pull the cart back up to the place where the Box belongs]

if it goes up

Quote: אִם & יַֽעֲלֶה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

As the author reports in his own language what the Philistine priests and diviners said, he characteristically marks this travel description for change in elevation by saying up. See the discussion of this in the Introduction to 1 Samuel, and see how you translated the comparable expression in 1:3. Alternate translation: [if it goes] or [if they go]

its border

Quote: גְּבוּל֤⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The priests and diviners are using the term border by association to mean “territory,” since a territory is enclosed by borders. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [its territory]

But if not

Quote: וְ⁠אִם־לֹ֗א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The priests and diviners are leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [But if it does not go up the way of its border] or [But if the cows do not pull the cart back into the territory where the Box belongs]

his hand has not touched us

Quote: לֹ֤א יָד⁠וֹ֙ נָ֣גְעָה בָּ֔⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The term hand has the same meaning here as in 6:3. See how you translated it there. Alternate translation: [he has not been using his power against us]

1 Samuel 6:10

for they took two nursing cows, and they harnessed them to the cart

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְח֗וּ שְׁתֵּ֤י פָרוֹת֙ עָל֔וֹת וַ⁠יַּאַסְר֖וּ⁠ם בָּ⁠עֲגָלָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author is leaving some information implicit that he assumes readers will understand. You could state this information explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [for they made a new cart, and they took two nursing cows, and they harnessed them to the cart]

in the house

Quote: בַ⁠בָּֽיִת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the term house in 6:7. Alternate translation: [in their stalls]

1 Samuel 6:11

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: mice (0)

Translated this as in 1 Samuel 6:4.

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: castings of their tumors (0)

Alternate translation: “models of their tumors”

[GL Quote Not Found!]

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

and lowing

Quote: וְ⁠גָע֔וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that the cows were lowing because they were upset about being separated from their calves. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. The UST models one way to do that.

to} the right or {to} the left

Quote: יָמִ֣ין וּ⁠שְׂמֹ֑אול (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

1 Samuel 6:13

Now Beth Shemesh was harvesting the harvest of wheat in the valley

Quote: וּ⁠בֵ֣ית שֶׁ֔מֶשׁ קֹצְרִ֥ים קְצִיר־חִטִּ֖ים בָּ⁠עֵ֑מֶק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Now Beth Shemesh was harvesting the harvest of wheat

Quote: וּ⁠בֵ֣ית שֶׁ֔מֶשׁ קֹצְרִ֥ים קְצִיר־חִטִּ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [Now Beth Shemesh was harvesting wheat]

Now Beth Shemesh was harvesting

Quote: וּ⁠בֵ֣ית שֶׁ֔מֶשׁ קֹצְרִ֥ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

As the plural pronouns in the next sentence shows, the author is using the name Beth Shemesh by association to mean the people who lived in that town. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation, as in the UST: [Now the people of Beth Shemesh were harvesting]

And they lifted up their eyes

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׂא֣וּ אֶת־עֵינֵי⁠הֶ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean that the people of Beth Shemesh looked off into the distance. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And they looked off into the distance]

And they lifted up their eyes

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׂא֣וּ אֶת־עֵינֵי⁠הֶ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author means that the people did this when they heard the cows mooing loudly as they pulled the cart down the road toward them. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And they heard cows mooing loudly as they pulled a cart, so they looked off into the distance to see what was happening]

1 Samuel 6:14

Joshua the Bethshemite

Quote: יְהוֹשֻׁ֤עַ בֵּֽית־הַשִּׁמְשִׁי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Bethshemite describes a person from the town of Beth Shemesh. Your language may have its own way of forming descriptive words from place names that you could use in your translation. You could also use plain language. The UST models one way to do that.

Now a great stone was there

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁ֖ם אֶ֣בֶן גְּדוֹלָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

1 Samuel 6:15

Now the Levites had taken down the Box of Yahweh and the box that {was} with it, in which were the objects of gold, and they had set {them} on the great stone

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠לְוִיִּ֞ם הוֹרִ֣ידוּ ׀ אֶת־אֲר֣וֹן יְהוָ֗ה וְ⁠אֶת־הָ⁠אַרְגַּ֤ז אֲשֶׁר־אִתּ⁠וֹ֙ אֲשֶׁר־בּ֣⁠וֹ כְלֵֽי־זָהָ֔ב וַ⁠יָּשִׂ֖מוּ אֶל־הָ⁠אֶ֣בֶן הַ⁠גְּדוֹלָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge

After making a summary statement in the last sentence of the previous verse, in this verse the author describes the same events in more detail in order to specify that the people of Beth Shemesh did not break up the cart with the Box of God still in it. In effect, he is describing one event before describing another event that preceded it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they happened. You could do that by creating a verse bridge. The UST models one way to do that.

and they had set {them} on the great stone

Quote: וַ⁠יָּשִׂ֖מוּ אֶל־הָ⁠אֶ֣בֶן הַ⁠גְּדוֹלָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Setting the Box of Yahweh and the golden guilt offerings on this great stone, where they were presumably high above the people, was a symbolic action that showed honor to Yahweh. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [and they had set them on top of the great stone in order to lift them up high as a way of honoring Yahweh]

and sacrificed sacrifices

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּזְבְּח֧וּ זְבָחִ֛ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this phrase contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [and offered sacrifices]

1 Samuel 6:16

saw

Quote: רָא֑וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

and they returned {to} Ekron on that day

Quote: וַ⁠יָּשֻׁ֥בוּ עֶקְר֖וֹן בַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author seems to mean that the lords of the Philistines had seen all they needed to see in order to be convinced that Yahweh had struck them with the plagues of mice and tumors for taking his sacred Box, and that was why they went back to their country on that day. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and having seen all they needed to see to be convinced that Yahweh had caused the plagues, they returned to Ekron without staying in Israel any longer]

1 Samuel 6:17

And these {are} the tumors of gold that the Philistines returned {as} a guilt offering to Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֨לֶּה֙ טְחֹרֵ֣י הַ⁠זָּהָ֔ב אֲשֶׁ֨ר הֵשִׁ֧יבוּ פְלִשְׁתִּ֛ים אָשָׁ֖ם לַֽ⁠יהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory

In this verse and the next one, the author is providing a concluding summary of the story of how the Philistines captured and then returned the Box of Yahweh. Your language may have its own way of presenting such information.

for Ashdod, one; for Gaza, one; for Ashkelon, one; for Gath, one; for Ekron, one

Quote: לְ⁠אַשְׁדּ֨וֹד אֶחָ֜ד לְ⁠עַזָּ֤ה אֶחָד֙ לְ⁠אַשְׁקְל֣וֹן אֶחָ֔ד לְ⁠גַ֥ת אֶחָ֖ד לְ⁠עֶקְר֥וֹן אֶחָֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

Repeating the word one after the name of each of these cities might seem like extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can state the word only once. Alternate translation: [one each for Ashdod, Gaza, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron]

1 Samuel 6:18

from the city of fortification and to the village of the countryside

Quote: מֵ⁠עִ֣יר מִבְצָ֔ר וְ⁠עַ֖ד כֹּ֣פֶר הַ⁠פְּרָזִ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The author is not referring to a specific city or village. He means the Philistine cities and villages in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. Alternate translation: [from the cities of fortification and to the villages of the countryside]

from the city of fortification

Quote: מֵ⁠עִ֣יר מִבְצָ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of fortification, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [from the fortified cities]

and to the great Abel

Quote: וְ⁠עַ֣ד ׀ אָבֵ֣ל הַ⁠גְּדוֹלָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that the “great stone” he first mentioned in 6:14 was later given the name Abel, which means “mourning.” The stone probably got that name because of the events that the author describes in the next verse, because of which, he says, the people “mourned.” You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and as far as the great stone that came to be called Abel]

and to the great Abel

Quote: וְ⁠עַ֣ד ׀ אָבֵ֣ל הַ⁠גְּדוֹלָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The context suggests that this stone marked the boundary between the territories of the Philistines and the Israelites. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and as far as their border with Israel at the great stone that came to be called Abel]

on which they rested

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר הִנִּ֤יחוּ עָלֶ֨י⁠הָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun they refers to the Levites whom the author describes in 6:15. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [on which the Levites rested]

up to this day

Quote: עַ֚ד הַ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 5:5.. Alternate translation: [right up to the time of this writing]

1 Samuel 6:19

But he struck among the men of Beth Shemesh because they looked into the Box of Yahweh

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֞ךְ בְּ⁠אַנְשֵׁ֣י בֵֽית־שֶׁ֗מֶשׁ כִּ֤י רָאוּ֙ בַּ⁠אֲר֣וֹן יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

But he struck among the men of Beth Shemesh … And he struck among the people 70 men, 50,000 men. … the people

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֞ךְ בְּ⁠אַנְשֵׁ֣י בֵֽית־שֶׁ֗מֶשׁ & וַ⁠יַּ֤ךְ בָּ⁠עָם֙ שִׁבְעִ֣ים אִ֔ישׁ חֲמִשִּׁ֥ים אֶ֖לֶף אִ֑ישׁ & הָ⁠עָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the term struck in 4:2. Alternate translation: [But he killed some of the men of Beth Shemesh … And he killed 70 men, 50,000 men, among the people]

70 men, 50,000 men

Quote: שִׁבְעִ֣ים אִ֔ישׁ חֲמִשִּׁ֥ים אֶ֖לֶף אִ֑ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

Most Hebrew manuscripts, including the most ancient ones, have the reading that the ULT follows here. A few manuscripts read simply “70 men,” and some modern versions follow that reading, since it seems to fit the Hebrew grammar better. It also suits the historical context better, since Beth Shemesh was only a town. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.

among … And the people mourned because Yahweh had struck a great striking among the people

Quote: בָּ⁠עָם֙ & וַ⁠יִּֽתְאַבְּל֣וּ & כִּֽי־הִכָּ֧ה יְהוָ֛ה בָּ⁠עָ֖ם מַכָּ֥ה גְדוֹלָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

among … the people … had struck a great striking among the people

Quote: בָּ⁠עָם֙ & הִכָּ֧ה & בָּ⁠עָ֖ם מַכָּ֥ה גְדוֹלָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

1 Samuel 6:20

Who is able to stand to the face of Yahweh, this holy God? And to whom will he go up from upon us

Quote: מִ֚י יוּכַ֣ל לַ⁠עֲמֹ֔ד לִ⁠פְנֵ֨י יְהוָ֧ה הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֛ים הַ⁠קָּד֖וֹשׁ הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה וְ⁠אֶל־מִ֖י יַעֲלֶ֥ה מֵ⁠עָלֵֽי⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The people of Beth Shemesh are using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use that form for that purpose, you could translate these questions as statements or as exclamations. Alternate translation: [No one is able to stand to the face of Yahweh, this holy God! He must go up from us to someone else!]

Who is able to stand to the face of Yahweh

Quote: מִ֚י יוּכַ֣ל לַ⁠עֲמֹ֔ד לִ⁠פְנֵ֨י יְהוָ֧ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:12. Alternate translation: [Who is able to stand in the presence of Yahweh]

to stand

Quote: לַ⁠עֲמֹ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The context shows that here the term stand means “remain alive.” You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [to remain alive]

And to whom will he go up from upon us

Quote: וְ⁠אֶל־מִ֖י יַעֲלֶ֥ה מֵ⁠עָלֵֽי⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The people of Beth Shemesh are using the pronoun he, meaning Yahweh, by association to mean the Box of Yahweh, in which they recognize him to be present in a special way. From their perspective, if they send the Box away, that will be like Yahweh leaving them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And to whom can we send Yahweh’s Box from here]

1 Samuel 7

1 Samuel 7 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter concludes the section of the book that is dedicated primarily to describing Samuel as a leader of Israel. It has three main parts.

The first part continues a story that begins in 6:19. It includes 7:1–2. It tells the story of how the Box of Yahweh was moved from Beth Shemesh to Kiriath Jearim. (There is a chapter break in the middle of the story. However, the chapter divisions were added to the Bible many centuries after it was written, and they do not always correspond to the natural literary structure of its books. Be sure that it is clear in your translation that 6:19–7:2 is a single story.)

The second part, 7:3–14, then tells the story of how Samuel led the Israelites to rededicate themselves to Yahweh so that they could defeat the Philistines and recover territory that the Philistines had captured from them.

The third part, 7:15–17, then concludes the story of Samuel as the leader of Israel by giving a general summary of his activities.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Pouring out water on the ground

In 7:6, the Israelites draw water from a well and pour it onto the ground in the presence of Yahweh. This was a symbolic action, but its significance is not entirely clear, since this action occurs nowhere else in the Bible. It may have been symbolic of the Israelites pouring out their hearts to Yahweh in repentance. It may also have been a way in which the Israelites acknowledged their own weakness and powerlessness, portraying themselves as like “water spilled upon the ground, which cannot be gathered” up again (as the Bible says in 2 Samuel 14:14). Since the meaning is not clear, it would probably best not to suggest the significance of the action in the text of your translation. However, if it would be helpful to your readers, you could describe these possibilities in a footnote.

Sacrificing a young lamb

In 7:9, Samuel sacrifices a very young lamb as a whole burnt offering as he is praying and asking Yahweh to help the Israelites defeat the Philistines. The choice of this animal for a sacrifice seems to have been symbolic. Some interpreters have suggested that it represented the nation of Israel as if it were new-born as a result of its rededication to Yahweh. Other interpreters have suggested that a very young animal could represent a pure and innocent sacrifice. In this case as well, since the meaning is not clear, it would probably best not to suggest the significance of the action in the text of your translation. But if it would be helpful to your readers, you could describe these possibilities in a footnote.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

The significance of the name Beth Kar

In 7:11, the author says that the Israelites pursued and killed the fleeing Philistines “unto below Beth Kar.” This suggests that suggests that Beth Kar was the name of a settlement that was built on a hill. The fleeing Philistine soldiers were apparently able to find safety on this height, and so the Israelites soldiers ended their pursuit there. The word “Kar” means “lamb” in Hebrew, and one possibility is that the Israelites gave the name Beth Kar, “House of the Lamb,” to this place after the battle, alluding to the lamb that Samuel had sacrificed while asking Yahweh to help the Israelites defeat the Philistines. You could reflect this possibility in your translation by saying something like “as far as the bottom of the hill that the Israelites later called Beth Kar” and explaining the meaning of the name in a footnote. However, it is significant that while the author explains the meaning of the name Ebenezer in the next verse, he does not explain the meaning of the name Beth Kar here. Accordingly, you may wish simply to express the name Beth Kar in your translation, spelling it the way it sounds in your language, and not say anything about when the place got this name or what it means.

1 Samuel 7:1

to the house of Abinadab on the hill

Quote: אֶל־בֵּ֥ית אֲבִינָדָ֖ב בַּ⁠גִּבְעָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

The men of Kiriath Jearim probably took the Box to this house on a hill in order to show honor and respect to Yahweh through the symbolic action of placing his Box in a high and secure location. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [respectfully to the house of Abinadab on the hill, where it was high and secure]

on the hill

Quote: בַּ⁠גִּבְעָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that by on the hill, he means a certain hill within the city of Kiriath Jearim. Since modern readers would not recognize the identity of this hill, it may be clearer to speak of it in more general terms. Alternate translation: [which was on a hill]

1 Samuel 7:2

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֗י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is using this phrase to introduce a new event in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method in your language that is natural for introducing a new event.

that the days were many, and they were 20 years

Quote: וַ⁠יִּרְבּוּ֙ הַ⁠יָּמִ֔ים וַ⁠יִּֽהְי֖וּ עֶשְׂרִ֣ים שָׁנָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term days by association to mean time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [that a long time passed, 20 years in fact]

all of the house of Israel

Quote: כָּל־בֵּ֥ית יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, house means all the people descended from a particular person. It envisions them as if they were one household living together. So the house of Israel figuratively means all the people descended from the patriarch Jacob, who was also known as Israel. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [all of the Israelites]

all of the house of Israel

Quote: כָּל־בֵּ֥ית יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The author is making an overstatement for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [people throughout Israel]

1 Samuel 7:3

And Samuel spoke

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר שְׁמוּאֵ֗ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that Samuel spoke these things as he traveled around the country, as 7:16 describes. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And as Samuel traveled around the country, he spoke]

all of the house of Israel

Quote: כָּל־בֵּ֣ית יִשְׂרָאֵל֮ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the same expression in 7:2. Alternate translation: [all of the Israelites] or [people throughout Israel]

with all of your heart … your heart

Quote: בְּ⁠כָל־לְבַבְ⁠כֶ֗ם & לְבַבְ⁠כֶ֤ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Samuel is referring to a group of people, it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form of heart. Alternate translation: [with all of your hearts … your hearts]

with all of your heart you are returning to Yahweh

Quote: בְּ⁠כָל־לְבַבְ⁠כֶ֗ם אַתֶּ֤ם שָׁבִים֙ אֶל־יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if returning to Yahweh were traveling to a physical location. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [you are sincerely recommitting yourselves to worshiping and obeying Yahweh]

the gods of the foreigner

Quote: אֶת־אֱלֹהֵ֧י הַ⁠נֵּכָ֛ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Samuel is not referring to a specific foreigner. He means foreigners in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the gods of foreigners] or [the gods that foreigners worship]

and direct your heart toward Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠הָכִ֨ינוּ לְבַבְ⁠כֶ֤ם אֶל־יְהוָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if the heart of a person were something that he could direct toward something. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and commit yourselves to worshiping and obeying Yahweh]

from the hand of the Philistines

Quote: מִ⁠יַּ֥ד פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term hand by association to mean power. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [from the power of the Philistines]

1 Samuel 7:4

the sons of Israel

Quote: בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar expression in 2:28. Alternate translation: [the Israelites]

1 Samuel 7:5

And Samuel said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר שְׁמוּאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that Samuel likely said this to Israelite leaders, since they would have the authority to Gather the people together. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And Samuel told the Israelite leaders]

1 Samuel 7:6

and they drew water and poured {it} to the face of Yahweh

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽשְׁאֲבוּ־מַ֜יִם וַֽ⁠יִּשְׁפְּכ֣וּ ׀ לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of the possible significance of this action.

to the face of Yahweh

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:12. Alternate translation: [in the presence of Yahweh]

And they fasted

Quote: וַ⁠יָּצ֨וּמוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This was a symbolic action that showed the Israelites were humble and repentant before Yahweh. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [And they showed their sorrow for their sins by not eating any food that day]

and they said there, “We have sinned against Yahweh

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמְרוּ שָׁ֔ם חָטָ֖אנוּ לַ⁠יהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

It may be more natural in your language to have an indirect quotation here. Alternate translation: [and they confessed there that they had sinned against Yahweh]

1 Samuel 7:7

and … went up against Israel

Quote: וַ⁠יַּעֲל֥וּ & אֶל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

and they feared from the face of the Philistines

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽרְא֖וּ מִ⁠פְּנֵ֥י פְלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

In this context, the author, speaking of the Philistines collectively, seems to be using one part of a person, his face, to mean the entire person in the act of approaching. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and they were afraid of the Philistines, who were approaching]

1 Samuel 7:8

Do not cease from crying out for us to Yahweh our God

Quote: אַל־תַּחֲרֵ֣שׁ מִמֶּ֔⁠נּוּ מִ⁠זְּעֹ֖ק אֶל־יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהֵ֑י⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegative

If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a positive expression to translate this double negative that consists of the negative particle not and the verb cease, which is negative in this context. Alternate translation: [Keep crying out for us to Yahweh our God]

from the hand of the Philistines

Quote: מִ⁠יַּ֥ד פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

1 Samuel 7:9

a lamb of milk

Quote: טְלֵ֤ה חָלָב֙ אֶחָ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term milk by association to mean a lamb that was still young enough to be nursing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [a nursing lamb]

a lamb of milk

Quote: טְלֵ֤ה חָלָב֙ אֶחָ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of the possible significance of Samuel’s choice of such a young lamb as a sacrifice.

1 Samuel 7:10

And Samuel was offering the burnt offering, and the Philistines approached for battle with Israel

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֤י שְׁמוּאֵל֙ מַעֲלֶ֣ה הָ⁠עוֹלָ֔ה וּ⁠פְלִשְׁתִּ֣ים נִגְּשׁ֔וּ לַ⁠מִּלְחָמָ֖ה בְּ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

The author is using the words And … and to indicate that the Philistines approached for battle at the same time as when Samuel was offering the burnt offering. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could describe the time relationship more explicitly. Alternate translation: [While Samuel was offering the burnt offering, the Philistines approached to attack Israel]

and they were beaten to the face of Israel

Quote: וַ⁠יִּנָּגְפ֖וּ לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of a person, his face, to mean the entire person in the act of fighting. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and they were beaten by the Israelite soldiers]

and they were beaten to the face of Israel

Quote: וַ⁠יִּנָּגְפ֖וּ לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and the Israelites defeated them]

1 Samuel 7:11

and they struck them

Quote: וַ⁠יַּכּ֕וּ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of the term struck in the Introduction to 1 Samuel, and see how you translated the term in 4:2. Alternate translation: [and they killed them]

1 Samuel 7:12

And Samuel took a stone and set {it} up

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּ֨ח שְׁמוּאֵ֜ל אֶ֣בֶן אַחַ֗ת וַ⁠יָּ֤שֶׂם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This was a symbolic action that created a memorial to help people remember what Yahweh had done in this place. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [And Samuel took a stone and set it up as a memorial]

Shen

Quote: הַ⁠שֵּׁ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Shen means “crag” in Hebrew, and this could be a reference to a geographic feature rather than to a named settlement. Alternate translation: [the crag near the city]

And he called its name Ebenezer, for he said, “Unto here has Yahweh helped us

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֥א אֶת־שְׁמָ֖⁠הּ אֶ֣בֶן הָעָ֑זֶר וַ⁠יֹּאמַ֕ר עַד־הֵ֖נָּה עֲזָרָ֥⁠נוּ יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. You may find it helpful to make the quotation indirect. Alternate translation: [In acknowledgment of how Yahweh had helped the Israelites up to that point, Samuel called the stone Ebenezer]

And he called its name

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֥א אֶת־שְׁמָ֖⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that the expression called its name contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [And he called it]

Ebenezer

Quote: אֶ֣בֶן הָעָ֑זֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The name Ebenezer means “stone of help.” You could explain that in a footnote if it would be helpful to your readers.

1 Samuel 7:13

So the Philistines were subdued, and they did not resume again to enter into the border of Israel

Quote: וַ⁠יִּכָּֽנְעוּ֙ הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים וְ⁠לֹא־יָסְפ֣וּ ע֔וֹד לָ⁠ב֖וֹא בִּ⁠גְב֣וּל יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory

Here the author is saying what happened at the end of the story of how Yahweh helped the Israelites defeat the Philistines. Your language may have its own way of presenting such information.

So the Philistines were subdued

Quote: וַ⁠יִּכָּֽנְעוּ֙ הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [So Yahweh subdued the Philistines]

into the border of Israel

Quote: בִּ⁠גְב֣וּל יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term border by association to mean the territory of Israel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [into Israelite territory]

And the hand of Yahweh was against the Philistines

Quote: וַ⁠תְּהִ֤י יַד־יְהוָה֙ בַּ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

all of the days of Samuel

Quote: כֹּ֖ל יְמֵ֥י שְׁמוּאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term days by association to refer to a specific time, the lifetime of Samuel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [throughout Samuel’s lifetime]

1 Samuel 7:14

And the cities that the Philistines had taken from Israel returned to Israel

Quote: וַ⁠תָּשֹׁ֣בְנָה הֶ⁠עָרִ֡ים אֲשֶׁ֣ר לָֽקְחוּ־פְלִשְׁתִּים֩ מֵ⁠אֵ֨ת יִשְׂרָאֵ֤ל ׀ לְ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The author is speaking of cities as if they were living things that could return to their owner. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And the Israelites regained control of the cities that the Philistines had captured]

their border

Quote: גְּבוּלָ֔⁠ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since the author is referring to multiple areas around different cities, it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form of border. Alternate translation: [their borders]

from the hand of

Quote: מִ⁠יַּ֣ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term hand by association to mean control. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [from the control of]

And peace was between Israel and between the Amorite

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֣י שָׁל֔וֹם בֵּ֥ין יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל וּ⁠בֵ֥ין הָ⁠אֱמֹרִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [And the Israelites and Amorites lived peacefully with each other]

the Amorite

Quote: הָ⁠אֱמֹרִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The author is not referring to a specific Amorite. He means Amorites in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Amorites]

1 Samuel 7:16

according to year by year

Quote: מִ⁠דֵּ֤י שָׁנָה֙ בְּ⁠שָׁנָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean that Samuel did this each year. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [annually]

1 Samuel 7:17

And his return was to Ramah, for his house was there

Quote: וּ⁠תְשֻׁבָת֤⁠וֹ הָ⁠רָמָ֨תָ⁠ה֙ כִּֽי־שָׁ֣ם בֵּית֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

1 Samuel 8

1 Samuel 8 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter begins a new part of the story. The focus of the book shifts from Samuel, who led Israel as a prophet and judge, to Saul, who led Israel as its first king. This section includes chapters 8–15. Chapter 8 describes how the people of Israel asked Samuel to appoint a king for them and Yahweh told him to agree. But Yahweh also told Samuel that the people’s request showed a lack of trust in him and that he should warn the people about how the king would exploit them.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

The kingship in Israel

The law of Moses provided for Israel to have a king. Deuteronomy 17:14–20 described what kind of person this king needed to be and how he had to behave. But in these circumstances, the people had asked for a king for reasons other than the ones for which the law provided for one. 1 Samuel 12:12 shows that the Israelites were afraid because the army of the Ammonite king Nahash was trying to conquer their territories. They asked Samuel for a king who would “go out … and fight our battles.” They wanted a king who was physically powerful and aggressive. Samuel warned them that a king of that kind would oppress them. But the people still wanted a king to lead their armies. They no longer trusted God to deliver them from their enemies, as he had done repeatedly during the time of Joshua and the judges. So while the kingship was not wrong in itself, the people’s motives for asking for this kind of king in these circumstances were wrong.

1 Samuel 8:1

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֕י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

See how you translated this phrase in 1:12.

1 Samuel 8:2

and the name of his second, Abijah, judges in Beersheba

Quote: וְ⁠שֵׁ֥ם מִשְׁנֵ֖⁠הוּ אֲבִיָּ֑ה שֹׁפְטִ֖ים בִּ⁠בְאֵ֥ר שָֽׁבַע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and the name of his second son was Abijah, and they both served as judges in Beersheba]

his second

Quote: מִשְׁנֵ֖⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use a cardinal number here or an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: [Samuel’s son number two]

1 Samuel 8:3

But his sons did not walk in his ways

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־הָלְכ֤וּ בָנָי⁠ו֙ בִּדְרָכָ֔יו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if ways were paths that Samuel’s sons could walk on. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [But his sons did not live the way he had lived]

for they turned aside after dishonest gain

Quote: וַ⁠יִּטּ֖וּ אַחֲרֵ֣י הַ⁠בָּ֑צַע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if Samuel’s sons were walking on a path but turned off it in order to go in the direction where dishonest gain was. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [instead, they tried to get money dishonestly]

a bribe

Quote: שֹׁ֔חַד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The author is not referring to a specific bribe. He means bribes in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [bribes]

and they turned aside justice

Quote: וַ⁠יַּטּ֖וּ מִשְׁפָּֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if justice were something that Samuel’s sons could have caused to leave a path that it was walking on. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and they did not judge cases fairly]

1 Samuel 8:5

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this term in 2:31.

and your sons do not walk in your ways

Quote: וּ⁠בָנֶ֕י⁠ךָ לֹ֥א הָלְכ֖וּ בִּ⁠דְרָכֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar expression in 8:3. Alternate translation: [and your sons do not live the way you have lived]

to judge us

Quote: לְ⁠שָׁפְטֵ֖⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

By us, the Israelite elders mean themselves but perhaps not Samuel, since they are speaking of what they want the situation to be for themselves after he dies. So it may be appropriate to use the exclusive form of “us” in your translation if your language marks that distinction.

1 Samuel 8:6

And the thing was bad in the eyes of Samuel

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֤רַע הַ⁠דָּבָר֙ בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֣י שְׁמוּאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:18. Alternate translation: [And Samuel considered this request to be wrong]

1 Samuel 8:7

Listen to the voice of the people

Quote: שְׁמַע֙ בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל הָ⁠עָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of the term “listen” in the Introduction to 1 Samuel, and see how you translated the similar expression in 2:25. Alternate translation: [Obey the voice of the people]

Listen to the voice of the people

Quote: שְׁמַע֙ בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל הָ⁠עָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term voice by association to mean what the people asked for by using their collective voice. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [Do what the people have asked for]

For

Quote: כִּ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces not a reason but a further observation. Alternate translation: [In fact]

1 Samuel 8:8

from the day … day

Quote: מִ⁠יּוֹם֩ & הַ⁠יּ֣וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

1 Samuel 8:9

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the expression “And now” in 6:7. Alternate translation: [So this is what I want you to do]

listen to their voice

Quote: שְׁמַ֣ע בְּ⁠קוֹלָ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar expression in 8:7. Alternate translation: [do what they are asking for]

warning, you shall warn them

Quote: הָעֵ֤ד תָּעִיד֙ בָּ⁠הֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Yahweh is repeating forms of the verb warn in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [you must warn them very strongly]

1 Samuel 8:10

all of the words of Yahweh

Quote: אֵ֖ת כָּל־דִּבְרֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to what Yahweh said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [everything that Yahweh had told him]

1 Samuel 8:11

over you. … your sons

Quote: עֲלֵי⁠כֶ֑ם אֶת־בְּנֵי⁠כֶ֣ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The words you and your are plural here and through verse 18 because Samuel is addressing the Israelite elders, so use plural forms in your translation if your language marks that distinction.

in his chariot

Quote: בְּ⁠מֶרְכַּבְתּ֣⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Samuel is not referring to a specific chariot. He means chariots in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [to drive his chariots]

and they will run to the face of his chariot

Quote: וְ⁠רָצ֖וּ לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י מֶרְכַּבְתּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This was a symbolic action that showed the king’s power and authority by having servants run ahead of his chariot to clear the way and announce his coming. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [and they will run ahead of his chariot to show everyone how important he is]

to the face of his chariot

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י מֶרְכַּבְתּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See the discussion of the phrase “to the face” in the Introduction to 1 Samuel, and see how you translated the phrase in 1:12. Alternate translation: [ahead of his chariot]

1 Samuel 8:12

and to plow his plowing, and to harvest his harvest, and to make the implements of his war and the implements of his chariot

Quote: וְ⁠לַ⁠חֲרֹ֤שׁ חֲרִישׁ⁠וֹ֙ וְ⁠לִ⁠קְצֹ֣ר קְצִיר֔⁠וֹ וְ⁠לַ⁠עֲשׂ֥וֹת כְּלֵֽי־מִלְחַמְתּ֖⁠וֹ וּ⁠כְלֵ֥י רִכְבּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and he will force some of them to plow his fields and harvest his crops, and he will force others to make weapons for his army and equipment for his chariots]

and to plow his plowing, and to harvest his harvest

Quote: וְ⁠לַ⁠חֲרֹ֤שׁ חֲרִישׁ⁠וֹ֙ וְ⁠לִ⁠קְצֹ֣ר קְצִיר֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

For emphasis, Samuel is using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, your language may have another way of showing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [and to do all his plowing and all his harvesting]

his chariot

Quote: רִכְבּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

1 Samuel 8:13

for perfumers

Quote: לְ⁠רַקָּח֥וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A perfumer is someone who makes substances such as oils that give off pleasant smells. If your readers would not be familiar with what a perfumer is, in your translation you could use the name of a similar occupation that your readers would recognize, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [for people who make sweet-smelling oils]

1 Samuel 8:14

And your fields and your vineyards and your olive trees, the best {ones}, he will take and give to his servants

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־שְׂ֠דֽוֹתֵי⁠כֶם וְ⁠אֶת־כַּרְמֵי⁠כֶ֧ם וְ⁠זֵיתֵי⁠כֶ֛ם הַ⁠טּוֹבִ֖ים יִקָּ֑ח וְ⁠נָתַ֖ן לַ⁠עֲבָדָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural in your language to put the word best, which provides information about what kind of fields, vineyards, and olive trees the king will take, at the start of the verse with the information that he will take them. Alternate translation: [And he will take your best fields and vineyards and olive trees and give them to his servants]

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

And your male servants and your female servants and your young men, the best {ones}, and your donkeys, he will take and use for his work

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־עַבְדֵי⁠כֶם֩ וְֽ⁠אֶת־שִׁפְח֨וֹתֵי⁠כֶ֜ם וְ⁠אֶת־בַּחוּרֵי⁠כֶ֧ם הַ⁠טּוֹבִ֛ים וְ⁠אֶת־חֲמוֹרֵי⁠כֶ֖ם יִקָּ֑ח וְ⁠עָשָׂ֖ה לִ⁠מְלַאכְתּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural in your language to put the word best, which provides information about what kind of servants, young men, and donkeys the king will take, at the start of the verse with the information that he will take them. Alternate translation: [And he will take your best male servants and female servants and young men and donkeys and use them for his work]

and your young men

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־בַּחוּרֵי⁠כֶ֧ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

Here the ULT follows the reading of the traditional Hebrew text. However, some ancient versions read “and your cattle,” suggesting that this could have been the original reading. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of ULT.

1 Samuel 8:17

and you yourselves will be to him for servants

Quote: וְ⁠אַתֶּ֖ם תִּֽהְיוּ־ל֥⁠וֹ לַ⁠עֲבָדִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if the Israelites would literally become slaves to the king. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and in the end, it will be as if you are his slaves]

1 Samuel 8:18

on that day … on that day

Quote: בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠ה֔וּא & בַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term day by association to mean a specific time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [at that time … at that time]

from to the face of your king

Quote: מִ⁠לִּ⁠פְנֵ֣י מַלְכְּ⁠כֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term face by association to mean the presence of the king, which, as he has described, will be highly intrusive and oppressive. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for relief from the oppression of your king]

but Yahweh will not answer you

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־יַעֲנֶ֧ה יְהוָ֛ה אֶתְ⁠כֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of the term “answer” in the Introduction to 1 Samuel, and see how you translated the similar expression “listen to” in 8:7. Alternate translation: [but Yahweh will not do what you ask]

1 Samuel 8:19

to the voice of Samuel

Quote: בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל שְׁמוּאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term voice by association to mean what Samuel said by using his voice. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [to what Samuel told them]

1 Samuel 8:20

and go out to our face and fight our battles

Quote: וְ⁠יָצָ֣א לְ⁠פָנֵ֔י⁠נוּ וְ⁠נִלְחַ֖ם אֶת־מִלְחֲמֹתֵֽ⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term face by association to mean the front of the army in battle. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and go out ahead of us and fight our battles] or [and lead us into battle]

and go out to our face and fight our battles

Quote: וְ⁠יָצָ֣א לְ⁠פָנֵ֔י⁠נוּ וְ⁠נִלְחַ֖ם אֶת־מִלְחֲמֹתֵֽ⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The elders are speaking of one person who would fight their battles, the king, to represent the whole army that would do this. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and go out ahead of our army as it fights its battles]

1 Samuel 8:21

all of the words of the people

Quote: אֵ֖ת כָּל־דִּבְרֵ֣י הָ⁠עָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to mean what the people said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [everything that the people had said]

in the ears of Yahweh

Quote: בְּ⁠אָזְנֵ֥י יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term ears by association to mean hearing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for Yahweh to hear]

1 Samuel 8:22

Listen to their voice

Quote: שְׁמַ֣ע בְּ⁠קוֹלָ֔⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar expression in 8:7. Alternate translation: [Do what they are asking for]

the men of Israel

Quote: אַנְשֵׁ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that by the men of Israel, he means the elders who had come to speak with Samuel. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [the elders of Israel]

And Samuel said to the men of Israel, “Go, a man to his city

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר שְׁמוּאֵל֙ אֶל־אַנְשֵׁ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל לְכ֖וּ אִ֥ישׁ לְ⁠עִירֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

It may be more natural in your language to have an indirect quotation here. Alternate translation: [And Samuel told the men of Israel to return to their cities]

Go, a man to his city

Quote: לְכ֖וּ אִ֥ישׁ לְ⁠עִירֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that Samuel is dismissing the elders because he has agreed to do what they are asking. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [You can all go home now, because I will do what you are asking]

Go

Quote: לְכ֖וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The implied “you” in the imperative Go is plural because Samuel is addressing the group of elders, so use the plural form in your translation if your language marks that distinction.

a man to his city

Quote: אִ֥ישׁ לְ⁠עִירֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Samuel is not referring to a specific man. He means all of the men he is addressing. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [all of to your own cities]

1 Samuel 9

1 Samuel 9 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the section of the book about Saul. It describes how Yahweh led Saul to come to the city where Samuel lived so that Samuel could tell him that Yahweh had chosen him to be the king of Israel.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

The locations of Shalishah and Shaalim

Saul came to Samuel’s city because he had looking for some donkeys that belonged to his father and had wandered away. In 9:4, the author describes Saul passing through “the land of Shalishah” and “the land of Shaalim” as he searches for these donkeys. The locations of these places are no longer certain. We recommend that you simply use these names in your translation, spelling them the way they sound in your language, without suggesting any further identifying information about these places.

1 Samuel 9:1

Now {there} was a man from Benjamin

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי־אִ֣ישׁ מִבִּנְיָמִ֗ין (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

The author is using this phrase to introduce Saul as a new participant in the story, beginning in this verse by providing information about his father Kish and his ancestry. Your language may have its own way of introducing new participants that you can use in your translation.

a man, a Benjaminite

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ יְמִינִ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This expression could mean the same thing as a man from Benjamin earlier in the verse. In that case, the author would be repeating this information for emphasis. However, this expression could also mean that Kish was not only a member of the tribe of Benjamin by descent but that he was also still living within the territory of that tribe. The UST models one way to express that meaning.

mighty of valor

Quote: גִּבּ֖וֹר חָֽיִל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

While in many biblical contexts this expression describes a soldier who can fight powerfully and effectively, the terms can also describe a great man of wealth, and many interpreters consider that to be the implicit meaning in this context. The UST models one way to express this meaning.

1 Samuel 9:2

a youth and good

Quote: בָּח֣וּר וָ⁠ט֔וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word good tells what kind of youth Saul was. Alternate translation: [a good-looking young man]

and no man from the sons of Israel {was} better than him

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֥ין אִ֛ישׁ מִ⁠בְּנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל ט֣וֹב מִמֶּ֑⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The author is making an overstatement for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. It may be helpful to begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: [In fact, he was exceptionally handsome among the Israelite men]

From his shoulder and upward {he was} taller than all of the people

Quote: מִ⁠שִּׁכְמ֣⁠וֹ וָ⁠מַ֔עְלָ⁠ה גָּבֹ֖הַּ מִ⁠כָּל־הָ⁠עָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean that Saul was significantly taller than other Israelite men. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [He was a head taller than anyone else] or [He was significantly taller than other Israelite men]

1 Samuel 9:3

Now the female donkeys of Kish, the father of Saul, became lost

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּאבַ֨דְנָה֙ הָ⁠אֲתֹנ֔וֹת לְ⁠קִ֖ישׁ אֲבִ֣י שָׁא֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

the father of Saul

Quote: אֲבִ֣י שָׁא֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information about Kish that would not be natural to express in your language, since the author reminds readers that Saul was his son in the next sentence. If so, you do not need to reflect this expression in your translation.

and arise

Quote: וְ⁠ק֣וּם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the term “arose” in 1:9. The verb has a similar meaning here. Alternate translation: [and take action]

1 Samuel 9:4

And he passed through … and he passed through … And he passed through

Quote: וַ⁠יַּעֲבֹ֧ר & וַ⁠יַּעֲבֹ֥ר & וַ⁠יַּעֲבֹ֥ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using Saul alone to represent both himself and his servant in the action of traveling. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And Saul and the servant passed through … and they passed through … And they passed through]

but nothing

Quote: וָ⁠אַ֔יִן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

the Benjaminite

Quote: יְמִינִ֖י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The author is not referring to a specific Benjaminite. He means the Benjaminites in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Benjaminites]

1 Samuel 9:5

into the land of Zuph

Quote: בְּ⁠אֶ֣רֶץ צ֔וּף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The land of Zuph was southwest of Benjamin. Presuming that the donkeys had not crossed the Jordan River or gone up into the mountains, Saul and his servant had made a circuit to look in the areas northwest, west, and southwest of their home. So the implication is that Zuph was the final place where they could have hoped to find the donkeys. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state this explicitly in your translation. Alternate translation: [into the land of Zuph, which was the final place where they could hope to find the donkeys]

cease from the female donkeys

Quote: יֶחְדַּ֥ל & מִן־הָ⁠אֲתֹנ֖וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [cease from being concerned about the female donkeys]

1 Samuel 9:6

And he said to him

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר ל֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to the servant, and the pronoun him refers to Saul. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And the servant said to Saul]

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this term in 2:31.

is} in this city

Quote: בָּ⁠עִ֣יר הַ⁠זֹּ֔את (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The implication from the narrative is that this city means Ramah, the home of Samuel. The author says in 7:17 that Samuel stayed there except when he was making his annual circuit as a judge, and the author indicates in 1:1 that this Ramah was in the region of Zuph. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [lives here in the city of Ramah]

and the man is honored

Quote: וְ⁠הָ⁠אִ֣ישׁ נִכְבָּ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and people honor the man]

All that he speaks, coming, it comes

Quote: כֹּ֥ל אֲשֶׁר־יְדַבֵּ֖ר בּ֣וֹא יָב֑וֹא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

The servant is repeating forms of the verb “come” in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [Everything that he says is going to happen actually does happen]

our way on which we have gone

Quote: אֶת־דַּרְכֵּ֖⁠נוּ אֲשֶׁר־הָלַ֥כְנוּ עָלֶֽי⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The servant is speaking of the way on which he and Saul have gone by association to mean the purpose for which the two of them have been traveling. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [how we can successfully achieve the purpose of our trip]

1 Samuel 9:7

but what shall we bring to the man

Quote: וּ⁠מַה־נָּבִ֣יא לָ⁠אִישׁ֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Bringing something to Samuel was a symbolic action that showed respect for him as a man of God before consulting him. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [but what can we bring as a gift to show respect for this man of God]

the bread

Quote: הַ⁠לֶּ֨חֶם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Saul is using one kind of food, bread, to represent food in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [all of the food]

1 Samuel 9:8

one fourth of a shekel of silver has been found in my hand

Quote: נִמְצָ֣א בְ⁠יָדִ֔⁠י רֶ֖בַע שֶׁ֣קֶל כָּ֑סֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [I have found one fourth of a shekel of silver in my hand]

one fourth of a shekel of silver has been found in my hand

Quote: נִמְצָ֣א בְ⁠יָדִ֔⁠י רֶ֖בַע שֶׁ֣קֶל כָּ֑סֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The servant is using the term found in a way characteristic of his language and culture to mean that this piece of silver could be found, that is, that it was there. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I have one fourth of a shekel of silver in my hand]

one fourth of a shekel of silver has been found in my hand

Quote: נִמְצָ֣א בְ⁠יָדִ֔⁠י רֶ֖בַע שֶׁ֣קֶל כָּ֑סֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The servant is speaking of his hand by association to indicate his possession of the silver. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [I have one fourth of a shekel of silver in my possession]

And I will give {it} to the man of God, and he will declare to us our way

Quote: וְ⁠נָֽתַתִּי֙ לְ⁠אִ֣ישׁ הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֔ים וְ⁠הִגִּ֥יד לָ֖⁠נוּ אֶת־דַּרְכֵּֽ⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Be sure that it is clear in your translation that the silver was a courteous gift that showed respect to Samuel as a prophet of God. It was not simply a fee. It would not be appropriate to suggest that this was a payment in exchange for which Samuel provided a service. Alternate translation: [And I will give it to him to honor him as a man of God, which we should do if we want to consult him, and he will declare to us our way]

1 Samuel 9:9

Previously in Israel, a man said thus in his going to seek God: “Come, and let us go to the seer.” For the prophet today was called the seer previously

Quote: לְ⁠פָנִ֣ים ׀ בְּ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל כֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר הָ⁠אִישׁ֙ בְּ⁠לֶכְתּ⁠וֹ֙ לִ⁠דְר֣וֹשׁ אֱלֹהִ֔ים לְכ֥וּ וְ⁠נֵלְכָ֖ה עַד־הָ⁠רֹאֶ֑ה כִּ֤י לַ⁠נָּבִיא֙ הַ⁠יּ֔וֹם יִקָּרֵ֥א לְ⁠פָנִ֖ים הָ⁠רֹאֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge

Since the background information that the author provides in this verse relates to what happens in verse 11, if it would be helpful to your readers, you could create a verse bridge for verses 9–11 and put the content of verse 9 at the end of it. The UST models one way to do that.

For the prophet today was called the seer previously

Quote: כִּ֤י לַ⁠נָּבִיא֙ הַ⁠יּ֔וֹם יִקָּרֵ֥א לְ⁠פָנִ֖ים הָ⁠רֹאֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [For people previously called someone a seer whom they call a prophet today]

today

Quote: הַ⁠יּ֔וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

In keeping with the conventions of his language and culture, the author is using the term today to mean “at the present time.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [currently]

1 Samuel 9:10

Your word is good

Quote: ט֥וֹב דְּבָרְ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is speaking of the servant’s word by association to mean what the servant said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [What you are suggesting is good]

where the man of God was there

Quote: אֲשֶׁר־שָׁ֖ם אִ֥ישׁ הָ⁠אֱלֹהִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [where the man of God was]

1 Samuel 9:11

and they found

Quote: וְ⁠הֵ֨מָּה֙ מָצְא֣וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author does not mean that Saul and the servant were looking for young women whom they could ask about Samuel and that they found some. He means that they met or encountered them. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and they met]

1 Samuel 9:12

to your face

Quote: לְ⁠פָנֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The young women are speaking of Saul’s face by association to mean what is in front of him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [he is just ahead of you]

Hurry now, for he has come to the city today because the sacrifice of the day {is} to the people at the high place

Quote: מַהֵ֣ר ׀ עַתָּ֗ה כִּ֤י הַ⁠יּוֹם֙ בָּ֣א לָ⁠עִ֔יר כִּ֣י זֶ֧בַח הַ⁠יּ֛וֹם לָ⁠עָ֖ם בַּ⁠בָּמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since the sacrifice of the day is to the people at the high place, he has come to the city today, so you should hurry now]

the sacrifice of the day {is} to the people

Quote: זֶ֧בַח הַ⁠יּ֛וֹם לָ⁠עָ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

The young women are using this possessive form not to describe a daily sacrifice but to describe a special sacrifice that Samuel was going to offer on that day. Alternate translation: [there is going to be a special sacrifice today for the people]

1 Samuel 9:13

In your entering the city, thus you will find him, before he goes up to the high place to eat. For the people will not eat until he comes, for he himself will bless the sacrifice

Quote: כְּ⁠בֹאֲ⁠כֶ֣ם הָ⁠עִ֣יר כֵּ֣ן תִּמְצְא֣וּ⁠ן אֹת֡⁠וֹ בְּ⁠טֶרֶם֩ יַעֲלֶ֨ה הַ⁠בָּמָ֜תָ⁠ה לֶ⁠אֱכֹ֗ל & לֹֽא־יֹאכַ֤ל הָ⁠עָם֙ עַד־בֹּא֔⁠וֹ כִּֽי־הוּא֙ יְבָרֵ֣ךְ הַ⁠זֶּ֔בַח & כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since he himself will bless the sacrifice, the people will not eat until he comes, so in your entering the city, thus you will find him, before he goes up to the high place to eat]

before he goes up to the high place to eat. For the people will not eat until he comes, for he himself will bless the sacrifice

Quote: בְּ⁠טֶרֶם֩ יַעֲלֶ֨ה הַ⁠בָּמָ֜תָ⁠ה לֶ⁠אֱכֹ֗ל & לֹֽא־יֹאכַ֤ל הָ⁠עָם֙ עַד־בֹּא֔⁠וֹ כִּֽי־הוּא֙ יְבָרֵ֣ךְ הַ⁠זֶּ֔בַח & כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The fact that the people will not eat before Samuel comes is not in itself a logical reason why Samuel will still be at the entrance to the city. There is a further step in the logic. The young women mean that the people are still preparing the feast so that Samuel can bless it and that is why he has not gone up to the festival yet. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [because he has not yet gone up to the high place to eat, since the people are still preparing the feast so that he can bless it. For the people will not eat until he comes and does that]

the invited {ones

Quote: הַ⁠קְּרֻאִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [those whom someone has invited]

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Speakers in this culture used the expression And now to introduce their main point. See how you translated it in 6:7. Alternate translation: [So this is what you should do]

for him, according to today you will find him

Quote: כִּ֠י & אֹת֥⁠וֹ כְ⁠הַ⁠יּ֖וֹם תִּמְצְא֥וּ⁠ן אֹתֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

The women are repeating the pronoun him for emphasis. If your language can repeat pronouns for emphasis, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [for you will find the very man you are looking for according to today]

according to today

Quote: כְ⁠הַ⁠יּ֖וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The young women are using a common expression of their culture to refer to the present moment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [right away] or [just at this time]

1 Samuel 9:14

Samuel was coming out to meet them to go up {to} the high place

Quote: שְׁמוּאֵל֙ יֹצֵ֣א לִ⁠קְרָאתָ֔⁠ם לַ⁠עֲל֖וֹת הַ⁠בָּמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

The author is using the phrase to meet them not to describe the purpose for which Samuel was coming out of the city but to describe the result of him doing that. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [Samuel was coming out to go up to the high place in such a way that he met them]

1 Samuel 9:15

Now Yahweh had uncovered the ear of Samuel one day before the coming of Saul, saying

Quote: וַֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה גָּלָ֖ה אֶת־אֹ֣זֶן שְׁמוּאֵ֑ל י֣וֹם אֶחָ֔ד לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י בֽוֹא־שָׁא֖וּל לֵ⁠אמֹֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

had uncovered the ear of Samuel

Quote: גָּלָ֖ה אֶת־אֹ֣זֶן שְׁמוּאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of this culture to mean that Yahweh had revealed something to Samuel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [had revealed something to Samuel]

1 Samuel 9:16

I will send to you a man from the land of Benjamin

Quote: אֶשְׁלַח֩ אֵלֶ֨י⁠ךָ אִ֜ישׁ מֵ⁠אֶ֣רֶץ בִּנְיָמִ֗ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Yahweh means that he will cause this man to arrive from the land of Benjamin. He does not mean that he will actively send Saul to Samuel by commanding Saul to go. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [I will cause a man to come to you from the land of Benjamin]

About {this} time tomorrow … For I have seen my people, for its cry has come to me

Quote: כָּ⁠עֵ֣ת ׀ מָחָ֡ר & עַמִּ֣⁠י & כִּ֤י רָאִ֨יתִי֙ & כִּ֛י בָּ֥אָה צַעֲקָת֖⁠וֹ אֵלָֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of the last two phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Since the two phrases together give the reason for what Yahweh says in the preceding part of the verse, you could then move them to the beginning of the verse. Alternate translation: [The cry of my people has come to me, and so I have considered their situation, and as a result, about this time tomorrow]

from the hand of the Philistines

Quote: מִ⁠יַּ֣ד פְּלִשְׁתִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is speaking of the hand of the Philistines by association to mean their power. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [from the power of the Philistines]

I have seen my people

Quote: עַמִּ֣⁠י & רָאִ֨יתִי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is saying that he has seen his people to mean by association that he has noticed with concern the situation of his people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [I have noticed with concern how my people have been suffering]

its cry has come to me

Quote: בָּ֥אָה צַעֲקָת֖⁠וֹ אֵלָֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Yahweh is speaking of the cry of his people as if it were a living thing that could travel to him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I have heard them crying out to me for help]

1 Samuel 9:17

and Yahweh answered him

Quote: וַ⁠יהוָ֣ה עָנָ֔⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author does not mean that Samuel asked a question that Yahweh then answered. He means that Yahweh spoke the words he quotes in response to Samuel seeing Saul. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and Yahweh said in response]

Behold the man {about} whom I spoke to you

Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה הָ⁠אִישׁ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אָמַ֣רְתִּי אֵלֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this instance, the expression Behold does not primarily call attention to what a speaker is about to say. Yahweh is using the term more literally to indicate that Samuel can see before him the man about whom he spoke. Alternate translation: [You can see before you the man about whom I spoke to you] or [The man about whom I spoke to you is standing right in front of you]

1 Samuel 9:18

where {is} this, the house of the seer

Quote: אֵי־זֶ֖ה בֵּ֥ית הָ⁠רֹאֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [where is the house of the seer]

1 Samuel 9:19

And Samuel answered Saul and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֨עַן שְׁמוּאֵ֜ל אֶת־שָׁא֗וּל וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word said tells how Samuel answered. Alternate translation: [And Samuel replied to Saul]

Go up … and you shall eat … And I will send you away … to you … is} in your heart

Quote: עֲלֵ֤ה & וַ⁠אֲכַלְתֶּ֥ם & וְ⁠שִׁלַּחְתִּ֣י⁠ךָ & בִּֽ⁠לְבָבְ⁠ךָ֖ & לָֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The implied “you” in the imperative Go, the second and third instances of the pronoun you, and the pronoun your are singular because Samuel is addressing Saul. However, the first instance of the pronoun you is plural because Samuel is inviting both Saul and the servant to the feast. So use the corresponding forms in your translation if your language marks this distinction.

And I will send you away in the morning, and I will declare to you all that {is} in your heart

Quote: וְ⁠שִׁלַּחְתִּ֣י⁠ךָ בַ⁠בֹּ֔קֶר וְ⁠כֹ֛ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר בִּֽ⁠לְבָבְ⁠ךָ֖ אַגִּ֥יד לָֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

The author is describing one event before describing another event that preceded it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they would happen. Alternate translation: [And I will declare to you all that is in your heart, and then I will send you away in the morning]

1 Samuel 9:20

today, three days

Quote: הַ⁠יּוֹם֙ שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת הַ⁠יָּמִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Samuel is expressing this time reference in the characteristic terms of his culture, which considered today to be the first day, yesterday the second day, and the day before yesterday the third day. Express this time reference in the terms that your own culture would use. Alternate translation: [the day before yesterday]

do not set your heart to them, for they have been found

Quote: אַל־תָּ֧שֶׂם אֶֽת־לִבְּ⁠ךָ֛ לָ⁠הֶ֖ם כִּ֣י נִמְצָ֑אוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

do not set your heart to them

Quote: אַל־תָּ֧שֶׂם אֶֽת־לִבְּ⁠ךָ֛ לָ⁠הֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Samuel is using a common expression of his culture to mean that Saul should not be concerned about the donkeys. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [do not be concerned about them]

they have been found

Quote: נִמְצָ֑אוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [someone has found them]

Now to whom is all of the desire of Israel? {Is it} not to you and to all of the house of your father

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠מִי֙ כָּל־חֶמְדַּ֣ת יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל הֲ⁠ל֣וֹא לְ⁠ךָ֔ וּ⁠לְ⁠כֹ֖ל בֵּ֥ית אָבִֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Samuel is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate these questions as statements or exclamations. Alternate translation: [Consider to whom is all of the desire of Israel. It is to you and to all of the house of your father!]

and to all of the house of your father

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠כֹ֖ל בֵּ֥ית אָבִֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

Your language may have its own term or expression for this relationship. Alternate translation: [and to your entire extended family]

1 Samuel 9:21

And Saul answered and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֨עַן שָׁא֜וּל וַ⁠יֹּ֗אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word said tells how Saul answered. Alternate translation: [And Saul replied]

Am} I not a Benjamite, from the smallest of the tribes of Israel, and {is not} my clan the least of all of the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? So why have you spoken to me according to this word

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֨וֹא בֶן־יְמִינִ֤י אָ֨נֹכִי֙ מִ⁠קַּטַנֵּי֙ שִׁבְטֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל וּ⁠מִשְׁפַּחְתִּ⁠י֙ הַ⁠צְּעִרָ֔ה מִ⁠כָּֽל־מִשְׁפְּח֖וֹת שִׁבְטֵ֣י בִנְיָמִ֑ן וְ⁠לָ֨⁠מָּה֙ דִּבַּ֣רְתָּ אֵלַ֔⁠י כַּ⁠דָּבָ֖ר הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Saul is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [I am only a Benjamite, from the smallest of the tribes of Israel, and my clan is the least of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin. So you should not have spoken to me according to this word.]

So why have you spoken to me according to this word

Quote: וְ⁠לָ֨⁠מָּה֙ דִּבַּ֣רְתָּ אֵלַ֔⁠י כַּ⁠דָּבָ֖ר הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Saul assumes that Samuel will understand that he feels the king of Israel should come from a great clan within a large tribe. That is why Saul is questioning what Samuel is telling him. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers, using a statement form instead of a question form. Alternate translation: [So you should not have spoken to me according to this word, since I do not have the standing to become king of Israel]

according to this word

Quote: כַּ⁠דָּבָ֖ר הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the term word by association to mean what Samuel has said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and said these things]

1 Samuel 9:22

And he gave to them a place at the head of the invited {ones

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתֵּ֨ן לָ⁠הֶ֤ם מָקוֹם֙ בְּ⁠רֹ֣אשׁ הַ⁠קְּרוּאִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-symaction

Seating Saul and his servant in this place was a symbolic action by which Samuel was honoring them as his special guests. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [And he honored them by giving them a place at the head of the invited {ones}]

a place at the head of the invited {ones

Quote: מָקוֹם֙ בְּ⁠רֹ֣אשׁ הַ⁠קְּרוּאִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean the most important place at the feast. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the most important place among the guests]

Now they {were} about 30 men

Quote: וְ⁠הֵ֖מָּה כִּ⁠שְׁלֹשִׁ֥ים אִֽישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing background information to help readers understand that Samuel was honoring Saul in front of many important people. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

1 Samuel 9:23

Give the portion that I gave to you

Quote: תְּנָ⁠ה֙ אֶת־הַ⁠מָּנָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֥ר נָתַ֖תִּי לָ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Giving Saul a special portion of meat that Samuel had saved for him was a symbolic action by which Samuel was showing Saul further honor. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [Honor him by giving him the portion that I gave to you]

1 Samuel 9:24

and the {thing} on it

Quote: וְ⁠הֶ⁠עָלֶ֜י⁠הָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) some further meat that was attached to the thigh. Alternate translation: [and the meat that was attached to it] (2) some sauce, broth, or seasoning that the cook had put on the thigh. Alternate translation: [and the sauce he had put on it]

to the face of Saul

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י & שָׁא֛וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term face by association to mean what was in front of Saul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in front of Saul] or [at Saul’s place at the table]

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Samuel. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And Samuel said]

the reserved {thing} is set to your face

Quote: הַ⁠נִּשְׁאָר֙ שִׂים־לְ⁠פָנֶ֣י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use these passive forms, you could express the ideas with active forms or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [we have set in front of you the thing that we reserved]

Eat, for {it has been} kept for you for the appointed time, saying, ‘I have invited the people

Quote: אֱכֹ֔ל כִּ֧י לַ⁠מּוֹעֵ֛ד שָֽׁמוּר־לְ⁠ךָ֥ לֵ⁠אמֹ֖ר הָ⁠עָ֣ם ׀ קָרָ֑אתִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [This has been kept for you since I called the people to come at this appointed time, so eat]

it has been} kept

Quote: שָֽׁמוּר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [we have kept it]

I have invited the people

Quote: הָ⁠עָ֣ם ׀ קָרָ֑אתִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning with an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: [ever since I told the cook that I had invited these people]

1 Samuel 9:25

And they came down … And he spoke

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּרְד֥וּ & וַ⁠יְדַבֵּ֥ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun they refers primarily to Samuel and Saul, although it may also apply to the other guests. The pronoun he refers to Samuel. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And Samuel and Saul came down … And Samuel spoke]

And he spoke with Saul on the roof

Quote: וַ⁠יְדַבֵּ֥ר עִם־שָׁא֖וּל עַל־הַ⁠גָּֽג (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will understand that Samuel brought Saul up onto the roof of his house to speak with him so that he could do that privately. (Flat roofs were common in this culture and people could sit and talk on them.) You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And he spoke with Saul privately on the roof]

1 Samuel 9:26

And they arose early

Quote: וַ⁠יַּשְׁכִּ֗מוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will understand that Samuel and Saul arose early so that they could speak further privately before too many other people were up and around. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And they arose early so that they could speak further privately]

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֞י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

See how you translated this phrase in 1:12. The author is using it here to introduce a new development that begins in this verse and continues through to the end of the next chapter.

as the dawn came up

Quote: כַּ⁠עֲל֤וֹת הַ⁠שַּׁ֨חַר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term dawn by association to mean the sun. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [as the sun came up] or [at sunrise]

saying

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

See whether you chose to represent the term saying in 4:21, and if so, how you translated it.

Arise, and I will send you away

Quote: ק֖וּמָ⁠ה וַ⁠אֲשַׁלְּחֶ֑⁠ךָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

The second clause explains the purpose for the action that the first phrase describes. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use a connecting word or phrase that more specifically shows the relationship between these clauses. Alternate translation: [Arise so that I can send you away]

1 Samuel 9:27

and Samuel said to Saul, “Speak to the servant, that he may pass on to our face” (and he passed on

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁמוּאֵ֞ל אָמַ֣ר אֶל־שָׁא֗וּל אֱמֹ֥ר לַ⁠נַּ֛עַר וְ⁠יַעֲבֹ֥ר לְ⁠פָנֵ֖י⁠נוּ וַֽ⁠יַּעֲבֹ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning with an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: [and Samuel told Saul to tell the servant to walk some distance in front of them. So the servant went ahead, and then Samuel told Saul,]

according to today

Quote: כַּ⁠יּ֔וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Samuel is using a common expression of his culture to refer to the present moment. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [right away] or [just at this time]

the word of God

Quote: אֶת־דְּבַ֥ר אֱלֹהִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term word by association to mean what God would have him say to Saul on his behalf by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [what God has to say to you]

1 Samuel 10

1 Samuel 10 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the section of the book about Saul. It describes how Samuel told Saul in advance several things that would happen to him. Samuel did that to show Saul that Yahweh genuinely had instructed him to appoint Saul as king. The chapter also describes how Samuel gathered all of the Israelites together at the city of Mizpah to demonstrate, through the casting of lots, that Yahweh had chosen Saul as king.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

Gibeah of God

In 10:5, the author refers to a city called Gibeah of God. The word “gibeah” means “hill,” so this could be a general reference to a “hill of God,” that is, to some high place on which people worshiped God. However, the context suggests that Gibeah of God is the name of the same city that the author calls “Gibeah of Saul” in 11:4 and 15:34. This was Saul’s home city, and people gave it that name later when he became famous as king. But at this point people distinguished this city from others by the same name by referring to the high place near it. That is why Samuel calls it Gibeah of God. We recommend that you use that name here in your translation.

1 Samuel 10:1

And Samuel took a flask of oil and poured {it} on his head

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּ֨ח שְׁמוּאֵ֜ל אֶת־פַּ֥ךְ הַ⁠שֶּׁ֛מֶן וַ⁠יִּצֹ֥ק עַל־רֹאשׁ֖⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Pouring oil on Saul’s head was a symbolic action by which Samuel indicated that God was appointing Saul as king. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [Samuel took a flask of oil and poured it on Saul’s head to show that God had chosen him to be king]

on his head

Quote: עַל־רֹאשׁ֖⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun his refers to Saul. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [on Saul’s head]

and he kissed him

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשָּׁקֵ֑⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This was a symbolic action that showed Samuel’s respect and loyalty to Saul as the new king. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. If your readers would find it embarrassing if your translation said that one man kissed another man, you could translate the expression in a more general way. Alternate translation: [and Samuel kissed Saul to show his loyalty and respect for him as king] or [and Samuel gave Saul a sign of respect that showed his loyalty to him as king]

Is it} not that Yahweh has anointed you as ruler over his inheritance

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֗וֹא כִּֽי־מְשָׁחֲ⁠ךָ֧ יְהוָ֛ה עַל־נַחֲלָת֖⁠וֹ לְ⁠נָגִֽיד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Samuel is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [Know for certain that Yahweh has anointed you as ruler over his inheritance!]

his inheritance

Quote: נַחֲלָת֖⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if the people of Israel were something that Yahweh had inherited as a lasting possession. He means that the Israelites belong to Yahweh perpetually. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [his chosen people]

1 Samuel 10:2

in the border of Benjamin

Quote: בִּ⁠גְב֥וּל בִּנְיָמִ֖ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term border by association to mean the territory of the tribe of Benjamin. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in the territory of Benjamin]

And they will say to you, ‘The female donkeys that you went to seek have been found. And behold, your father has abandoned the matters of the female donkeys and has become concerned about you, saying, “What shall I do about my son

Quote: וְ⁠אָמְר֣וּ אֵלֶ֗י⁠ךָ נִמְצְא֤וּ הָ⁠אֲתֹנוֹת֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר הָלַ֣כְתָּ לְ⁠בַקֵּ֔שׁ וְ⁠הִנֵּ֨ה נָטַ֤שׁ אָבִ֨י⁠ךָ֙ אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֣י הָ⁠אֲתֹנ֔וֹת וְ⁠דָאַ֤ג לָ⁠כֶם֙ לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר מָ֥ה אֶעֱשֶׂ֖ה לִ⁠בְנִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [And they will tell you that the female donkeys that you went to seek have been found, but now your father has abandoned the matters of the female donkeys and has become concerned about you and is asking what he shall do about you]

The female donkeys … the matters of the female donkeys

Quote: הָ⁠אֲתֹנוֹת֙ & אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֣י הָ⁠אֲתֹנ֔וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-plural

The people speaking to Saul will be using the plural form matters because they are referring to several donkeys. Your language may use plural forms in the same way. If not, you could use a singular form here. Alternate translation: [the matter of the female donkeys]

The female donkeys that you went to seek have been found. … the female donkeys

Quote: נִמְצְא֤וּ הָ⁠אֲתֹנוֹת֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר הָלַ֣כְתָּ לְ⁠בַקֵּ֔שׁ & הָ⁠אֲתֹנ֔וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [someone has found the female donkeys that you went to look for]

And behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֨ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar expression in 2:31.

saying

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

See whether you chose to represent the term saying in 4:21, and if so, how you translated it.

What shall I do about my son

Quote: מָ֥ה אֶעֱשֶׂ֖ה לִ⁠בְנִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that by this question, Kish is asking how he can find his son. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [How can I find my son]

1 Samuel 10:3

from there and farther

Quote: מִ⁠שָּׁ֜ם וָ⁠הָ֗לְאָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word farther tells in what way Saul would go from there. Alternate translation: [farther from there]

And three men going up to God {at} Bethel will find you there

Quote: וּ⁠מְצָא֤וּ⁠ךָ שָּׁם֙ שְׁלֹשָׁ֣ה אֲנָשִׁ֔ים עֹלִ֥ים אֶל־הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֖ים בֵּֽית־אֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the word found in 9:11. Alternate translation: [And three men going up to God at Bethel will meet you there] or [And there you will meet three men going up to God at Bethel]

going up to God {at} Bethel

Quote: עֹלִ֥ים אֶל־הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֖ים בֵּֽית־אֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

carrying three young goats

Quote: נֹשֵׂ֣א ׀ שְׁלֹשָׁ֣ה גְדָיִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The verb that the ULT translates as carrying here does not necessarily mean that this man had lifted these goats off the ground and was holding them in his arms as he walked. That is the meaning in the case of the loaves of bread, but in the case of these goats, the verb probably means that the man was leading them along. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [leading three young goats]

1 Samuel 10:4

And they will ask about you regarding peace

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁאֲל֥וּ לְ⁠ךָ֖ לְ⁠שָׁל֑וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea in another way. Here the word peace indicates the idea of “welfare.” Alternate translation: [And they will ask you if you are doing well and inquire whether there is anything they can do to help you]

from their hand

Quote: מִ⁠יָּדָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Samuel is using one part of these men, their hand, to mean all of them in the act of giving. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [from them]

from their hand

Quote: מִ⁠יָּדָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Samuel is referring to a group of people, if you retain this expression in your translation, it may be more natural in your language to use the plural form of hand. Alternate translation: [from their hands]

1 Samuel 10:5

to} Gibeah of God

Quote: גִּבְעַ֣ת הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-names

See the discussion of the name of this city in the Introduction to this chapter.

where the garrisons of the Philistines {are} there

Quote: אֲשֶׁר־שָׁ֖ם נְצִבֵ֣י פְלִשְׁתִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [where the garrisons of the Philistines are]

And to their face {will be} a harp and a tambourine and a flute and a lyre

Quote: וְ⁠לִ⁠פְנֵי⁠הֶ֞ם נֵ֤בֶל וְ⁠תֹף֙ וְ⁠חָלִ֣יל וְ⁠כִנּ֔וֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the expression to their face by association to mean at the front of the group. He is also using the names of musical instruments to mean people playing those instruments. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express these meanings plainly. Alternate translation: [And at the front of the group will be people playing harps and tambourines and flutes and lyres]

1 Samuel 10:6

And you will be changed into another man

Quote: וְ⁠נֶהְפַּכְתָּ֖ לְ⁠אִ֥ישׁ אַחֵֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if the Spirit of Yahweh would actually turn Saul into another man. He means that the Spirit will transform Saul’s character. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And you will become a different kind of person]

1 Samuel 10:7

when these signs come to you

Quote: כִּ֥י תבאינה הָ⁠אֹת֥וֹת הָ⁠אֵ֖לֶּה לָ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Samuel is speaking of these signs as if they were living things that could come to a person on their own. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [when these things happen to you]

do for yourself what your hand finds, for God is with you

Quote: עֲשֵׂ֤ה לְ⁠ךָ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר תִּמְצָ֣א יָדֶ֔⁠ךָ כִּ֥י הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֖ים עִמָּֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

do for yourself what your hand finds

Quote: עֲשֵׂ֤ה לְ⁠ךָ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר תִּמְצָ֣א יָדֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Samuel is using a common expression of his culture that means to do whatever seems best in a situation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [do whatever you believe is best to do]

1 Samuel 10:8

to my face

Quote: לְ⁠פָנַ⁠י֮ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term face by association to mean what is in front of him, and in this instance he is referring to what is ahead of him in time. He is telling Saul to go to Gilgal before he arrives there. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [ahead of me]

to sacrifice sacrifices of peace offerings

Quote: לִ⁠זְבֹּ֖חַ זִבְחֵ֣י שְׁלָמִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [and to sacrifice peace offerings]

1 Samuel 10:9

as he turned his shoulder

Quote: כְּ⁠הַפְנֹת֤⁠וֹ שִׁכְמ⁠וֹ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using the term shoulder by association to mean Saul’s whole body in the action of turning around. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [as he turned around]

that God changed to him another heart

Quote: וַ⁠יַּהֲפָךְ־ל֥⁠וֹ אֱלֹהִ֖ים לֵ֣ב אַחֵ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [that God changed him and gave him another heart]

that God changed to him another heart

Quote: וַ⁠יַּהֲפָךְ־ל֥⁠וֹ אֱלֹהִ֖ים לֵ֣ב אַחֵ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if God had actually replaced Saul’s physical heart. He means that God transformed Saul’s attitudes, desires, and character. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [that God profoundly changed the way Saul thought and felt]

And all of these signs came

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֛אוּ כָּל־הָ⁠אֹת֥וֹת הָ⁠אֵ֖לֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The author is speaking of these signs as if they were living things that came on their own. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And all of these things happened]

1 Samuel 10:10

And they came there to Gibeah

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֤אוּ שָׁם֙ הַ⁠גִּבְעָ֔תָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [And they came to Gibeah]

And they came … met him

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֤אוּ & לִ⁠קְרָאת֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun they refers to Saul and his servant, while the pronoun him refers to Saul alone. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And Saul and his servant came … met Saul]

1 Samuel 10:11

from yesterday and the third day

Quote: מֵ⁠אִתְּמ֣וֹל שִׁלְשׁ֔וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture. See how you translated this it 4:7. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [previously] or [in the past]

and behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this context, the word behold both calls attention to what the author is about to describe and indicates that what the people saw was surprising to them. Alternate translation: [much to their surprise]

a man to his neighbor

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ אֶל־רֵעֵ֗⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture that describes individuals speaking to one another. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to one another]

Is} Saul also among the prophets

Quote: הֲ⁠גַ֥ם שָׁא֖וּל בַּ⁠נְּבִיאִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The people are using the question form to express surprise and amazement. If speakers of your language would not use a question for this purpose, you could translate this as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [It is hard to believe that Saul has become one of the prophets!]

1 Samuel 10:12

And … answered and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֨עַן & וַ⁠יֹּ֖אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word answered tells for what purpose the man said this. Alternate translation: [responded]

And who {is} their father

Quote: וּ⁠מִ֣י אֲבִי⁠הֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The man is using the question form to get his listeners to reflect. He does not want them to tell him who the fathers of these prophets are. If speakers of your language would not use a question for this purpose, you could translate this as a statement, expressing the understanding that the man hopes his listeners will reach upon reflection. Alternate translation: [It is God who makes a person a prophet, not his father]

Therefore it became a proverb, “Is Saul also among the prophets

Quote: עַל־כֵּן֙ הָיְתָ֣ה לְ⁠מָשָׁ֔ל הֲ⁠גַ֥ם שָׁא֖וּל בַּ⁠נְּבִאִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-proverbs

The author is describing the origin of a short popular saying of this culture that expressed a great deal of meaning in a few words. He is indicating that people applied this saying to comparable situations in which a person did something that was surprising in light of his upbringing or family of origin. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. The UST models one way to do that.

1 Samuel 10:13

and he came

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֖א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

In this context, your language might say “went” instead of came. Alternate translation: [and he went]

1 Samuel 10:14

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Saul. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And Saul said]

And we saw that {they were} not

Quote: וַ⁠נִּרְאֶ֣ה כִי־אַ֔יִן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And we saw that they were not in any of the places where we looked]

so we came to Samuel

Quote: וַ⁠נָּב֖וֹא אֶל־שְׁמוּאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

In this context, your language might say “went” instead of came. Alternate translation: [so we went to Samuel]

1 Samuel 10:16

Declaring, he declared to us

Quote: הַגֵּ֤ד הִגִּיד֙ לָ֔⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Saul is repeating forms of the verb “declare” in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [He told us definitely]

the female donkeys had been found

Quote: נִמְצְא֖וּ הָ⁠אֲתֹנ֑וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [someone had found the female donkeys]

the word of the kingship that Samuel had said

Quote: דְּבַ֤ר הַ⁠מְּלוּכָה֙ & אֲשֶׁ֖ר אָמַ֥ר שְׁמוּאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term word by association to mean what Samuel had said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [what Samuel had said to him about the kingship]

1 Samuel 10:17

to Yahweh

Quote: אֶל־יְהוָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that when he says that Samuel summoned the people to Yahweh, he means that Samuel called them to gather in Yahweh’s presence so that Yahweh could speak to them. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [to meet together in the presence of Yahweh so that Yahweh could speak to them]

1 Samuel 10:18

the sons of Israel

Quote: בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar expression in 2:28. Alternate translation: [the Israelites]

Thus says Yahweh, the God of Israel: ‘I myself brought up Israel from Egypt. And I delivered you from the hand of the Egyptians and from the hand of all of the kingdoms oppressing you

Quote: כֹּֽה־אָמַ֤ר יְהוָה֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל אָנֹכִ֛י הֶעֱלֵ֥יתִי אֶת־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל מִ⁠מִּצְרָ֑יִם וָ⁠אַצִּ֤יל אֶתְ⁠כֶם֙ מִ⁠יַּ֣ד מִצְרַ֔יִם וּ⁠מִ⁠יַּד֙ כָּל־הַ⁠מַּמְלָכ֔וֹת הַ⁠לֹּחֲצִ֖ים אֶתְ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [Yahweh, the God of Israel, says that he himself brought you Israelites up from Egypt and that he delivered you from the hand of the Egyptians and from the hand of all the kingdoms oppressing you]

I myself brought up Israel from Egypt. And I delivered you from the hand of the Egyptians and from the hand of all of the kingdoms oppressing you

Quote: אָנֹכִ֛י הֶעֱלֵ֥יתִי אֶת־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל מִ⁠מִּצְרָ֑יִם וָ⁠אַצִּ֤יל אֶתְ⁠כֶם֙ מִ⁠יַּ֣ד מִצְרַ֔יִם וּ⁠מִ⁠יַּד֙ כָּל־הַ⁠מַּמְלָכ֔וֹת הַ⁠לֹּחֲצִ֖ים אֶתְ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will understand that Yahweh is giving a reason why the Israelites should have remained loyal to him as their ruler. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [I myself brought up Israel from Egypt. And I delivered you from the hand of the Egyptians and from the hand of all of the kingdoms oppressing you. So you ought to have remained loyal to me as your ruler]

Israel

Quote: יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Yahweh is speaking about the Israelites in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [you Israelites]

you … you

Quote: אֶתְ⁠כֶם֙ & אֶתְ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The word you is plural here because Yahweh is addressing all of the assembled Israelites. So use plural forms in your translation if your language marks that distinction, here and in the next verse.

from the hand of … and from the hand of

Quote: מִ⁠יַּ֣ד & וּ⁠מִ⁠יַּד֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term hand by association to mean power and control. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [from the power of … and from the power of]

1 Samuel 10:19

from all of your calamities and your distresses

Quote: מִ⁠כָּל־רָעוֹתֵי⁠כֶ֣ם וְ⁠צָרֹֽתֵי⁠כֶם֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The terms calamities and distresses mean similar things. The author is using them together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [every kind of trouble that you encounter]

And you have said to him that ‘you shall set a king over us

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֣אמְרוּ ל֔⁠וֹ כִּי־מֶ֖לֶךְ תָּשִׂ֣ים עָלֵ֑י⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

It may be more natural in your language to express this as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: [And you have told him that he should set a king over you]

to the face of Yahweh

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:12. Alternate translation: [in the presence of Yahweh]

and according to your thousands

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠אַלְפֵי⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers

The author is probably using the term thousands as a customary way of referring to clans. Alternate translation: [and according to your clans]

1 Samuel 10:20

all of the tribes of Israel

Quote: אֵ֖ת כָּל־שִׁבְטֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is speaking of tribes as a whole to represent one part of them, their leaders. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [leaders from all of the tribes of Israel]

and the tribe of Benjamin was taken

Quote: וַ⁠יִּלָּכֵ֖ד שֵׁ֥בֶט בִּנְיָמִֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will understand that this was done by casting lots to determine Yahweh’s choice. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and the tribe of Benjamin was chosen by lot]

and the tribe of Benjamin was taken

Quote: וַ⁠יִּלָּכֵ֖ד שֵׁ֥בֶט בִּנְיָמִֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and Yahweh indicated through the lot that he had chosen the tribe of Benjamin]

1 Samuel 10:21

and the clan of the Matrite was taken. And Saul the son of Kish was taken

Quote: וַ⁠תִּלָּכֵ֖ד מִשְׁפַּ֣חַת הַ⁠מַּטְרִ֑י וַ⁠יִּלָּכֵד֙ שָׁא֣וּל בֶּן־קִ֔ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use these passive forms, you could express the ideas in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. See how you translated similar expressions in 10:20. Alternate translation: [and Yahweh indicated through the lot that he had chosen the clan of the Matrites, and then that he had chosen Saul son of Kish]

the Matrite

Quote: הַ⁠מַּטְרִ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The author is not referring to a specific word. He means the Matrites in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Matrites]

but he was not found

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א נִמְצָֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [but they could not find him]

1 Samuel 10:22

among the bags

Quote: אֶל־הַ⁠כֵּלִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that these were the bags in which the people had brought supplies with them to this gathering, which they had apparently put in one location and piled up high enough for Saul to hide among them. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [among the bags of supplies you have piled up over there]

1 Samuel 10:23

And he was taller than any of the people from his shoulder and upward

Quote: וַ⁠יִּגְבַּהּ֙ מִ⁠כָּל־הָ⁠עָ֔ם מִ⁠שִּׁכְמ֖⁠וֹ וָ⁠מָֽעְלָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 9:2. Alternate translation: [And he was a head taller than anyone else] or [And he was significantly taller than other Israelite men]

1 Samuel 10:24

Do you see upon whom Yahweh has chosen

Quote: הַ⁠רְּאִיתֶם֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר בָּֽחַר־בּ֣⁠וֹ יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Samuel is using the question form to draw attention to Saul as Yahweh’s choice. If speakers of your language would not use a question for this purpose, you could translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: [Look at the man whom Yahweh has chosen!]

For {there is} no one like him among all of the people

Quote: כִּ֛י אֵ֥ין כָּמֹ֖⁠הוּ בְּ⁠כָל־הָ⁠עָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces an explanation of why the people should recognize Saul as Yahweh’s choice. It does not introduce the reason why Yahweh chose Saul. Alternate translation: [After all, there is no one else among all the people who is as tall and impressive as he is]

And all of the people shouted and said

Quote: וַ⁠יָּרִ֧עוּ כָל־הָ⁠עָ֛ם וַ⁠יֹּאמְר֖וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word shouted tells in what way the people said this. Alternate translation: [And all the people said loudly]

May the king live

Quote: יְחִ֥י הַ⁠מֶּֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The people are using a common expression of their culture to show their acceptance of and loyalty to their new king. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [Long live the king!] or [We want our king to live a long time and rule over us well!]

1 Samuel 10:25

and he made {it} rest

Quote: וַ⁠יַּנַּ֖ח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The author is speaking of the book as if it were a living thing that could be made to rest. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and he deposited it]

to the face of Yahweh

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the expression to the face of by association to mean some place where the Israelites considered Yahweh to be present. The author probably means either Kiriath Jearim, where the ark was at this time, or Shiloh, where the sacred tent was at this time. Alternate translation: [in a place where Yahweh was present]

a man to his house

Quote: אִ֥ישׁ לְ⁠בֵיתֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is speaking of one kind of dwelling, a house to represent homes of all kinds. (Some Israelites continued to live in tents.) If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. See how you translated the similar expression in 4:10. Alternate translation: [each one to his own home]

1 Samuel 10:26

the mighty

Quote: הַ⁠חַ֕יִל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

The author is using the adjective mighty as a noun to mean men who were powerful soldiers. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [some powerful soldiers]

whom God had touched upon their hearts

Quote: אֲשֶׁר־נָגַ֥ע אֱלֹהִ֖ים בְּ⁠לִבָּֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean God had influenced these men to be loyal to Saul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [whom God had influenced to be loyal to Saul]

1 Samuel 10:27

But some sons of wickedness

Quote: וּ⁠בְנֵ֧י בְלִיַּ֣עַל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture that refers to people who characteristically do what is wrong. See how you translated this expression in 2:12. Alternate translation: [But some very wicked men]

How shall this {one} save us

Quote: מַה־יֹּשִׁעֵ֨⁠נוּ֙ זֶ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

These men are using the question form to express their contempt for Saul. If speakers of your language would not use a question for this purpose, you could translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: [This man will not able to save us!]

and they did not bring a gift to him

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־הֵבִ֥יאוּ ל֖⁠וֹ מִנְחָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Not bringing a gift to Saul was a symbolic action that showed these men did not accept him as their king. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [and to show that they rejected his authority, they refused to bring him the customary gifts that subjects bring to their king]

But he was like one being silent

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֖י כְּ⁠מַחֲרִֽישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The point of this comparison is that just as one being silent, meaning in this context a deaf person, would not have heard this insult and so would not have responded, so Saul did not respond. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this point explicitly. Alternate translation: [But Saul did not respond to their insults, just as if he had not heard them]

1 Samuel 11

1 Samuel 11 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the story of King Saul by telling how Yahweh inspired him to lead the Israelites to a first victory in war.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Why did Nahash agree to let the people of Jabesh Gilead send out messengers?

In 11:3, the people of the city of Jabesh Gilead, which the Ammonite king Nahash has surrounded with his army, ask him to give them a week to send for help. Nahash agrees. A military commander would not ordinarily allow messengers to leave a besieged city in order to seek help. But as far as Nahash knows, the Israelites are still a loose confederation of tribes, and since the city is on the opposite side of the Jordan from where most of them live, he believes that no one will come to help Jabesh Gilead. He expects that he will therefore be able to put out the right eyes of its citizens “as a disgrace against all of Israel.” He does not realize that Israel now has a king whom Yahweh will motivate to lead an army that will rescue the city.

Where was Bezek?

The author says in 11:8 that Saul gathered his army near the city of Bezek. This city was within the territory of the tribe of Issachar. It was in the plain of Jezreel, which was a large open area in which the great army that responded to Saul’s summons to war could gather and organize. As the narrative shows, the army was able to march to Jabesh Gilead in less than a day from there. They marched all night and made a surprise attack on the Ammonite camp before dawn.

Why does the author give a separate total of the soldiers who came from the tribe of Judah?

In 11:8, the author lists separately how many soldiers joined Saul’s army from the tribe of Judah and from all the other Israelite tribes. While interpreters have different ideas about why he does this, one likely explanation is that he is describing the main army, which came from the other tribes, and its vanguard, the soldiers who led the army into battle and attacked first. Judges 1:2 and 20:18 show that the soldiers of Judah customarily were the vanguard of the Israelite army. The author may also list the soldiers from Judah separately in order to show that while the people of this tribe needed to maintain a constant defense against the Philistines, whose territory they bordered, they nevertheless sent a significant number of their soldiers to help rescue the people of Jabesh Gilead, in loyalty to Yahweh and his anointed king. The author may be emphasizing that while the people of Judah acclaimed David as their king after Saul died, rather than Saul’s son and heir, they had been loyal to Saul at the start.

Why did the people of Jabesh Gilead tell Nahash that they were going to surrender?

In 11:10, after learning that the other Israelites would come and rescue them the next day, the people of Jabesh Gilead tell Nahash that they will surrender to him that next day. This seems to be an instance of the use of deception in warfare. Thinking that the people were surrendering because they had learned that no one was going to come and help them, Nahash and his soldiers would have been complacent and off their guard when the Israelite army did come and attack them.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

“Cut a covenant”

In 11:1, the people of Jabesh Gilead say to the Ammonite king Nahash, “Cut a covenant with us, and we will serve you.” The phrase “cut a covenant” means “make a covenant.” The word “cut” is used because in some covenant ceremonies, the participants would cut up animals and then walk between the pieces. This was to indicate, “If I break this covenant, may I be destroyed in this same way.” It is not necessary to understand this background to covenant ceremonies in order to understand the action in this chapter, so you do not have to use the term “cut” in your translation. You could simply say “make,” or you could use an expression from your own language and culture.

1 Samuel 11:1

Now Nahash the Ammonite came up and camped against Jabesh Gilead

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֗עַל נָחָשׁ֙ הָֽ⁠עַמּוֹנִ֔י וַ⁠יִּ֖חַן עַל־יָבֵ֣שׁ גִּלְעָ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Now Nahash the Ammonite came up and camped

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֗עַל נָחָשׁ֙ הָֽ⁠עַמּוֹנִ֔י וַ⁠יִּ֖חַן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one person who was involved in this military campaign, Nahash, the king and commander of the Ammonite army, to mean everyone who was involved. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Now Nahash the Ammonite came up with his army and they camped]

Now Nahash the Ammonite came up

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֗עַל נָחָשׁ֙ הָֽ⁠עַמּוֹנִ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

And all of the men of Jabesh said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמְר֜וּ כָּל־אַנְשֵׁ֤י יָבֵישׁ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is the whole population of Jabesh, all of the men of the city, to represent one part of the population, the city’s leaders, who conducted these negotiations with Nahash. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And the leaders of Jabesh went to Nahash and said]

the men of Jabesh

Quote: אַנְשֵׁ֤י יָבֵישׁ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Cut a covenant for us

Quote: כְּרָת־לָ֥⁠נוּ בְרִ֖ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See the discussion of this phrase in the Introduction to this chapter. Alternate translation: [Make a covenant with us]

1 Samuel 11:2

I will cut for you

Quote: אֶכְרֹ֣ת לָ⁠כֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Nahash is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [I will cut a covenant for you]

in the gouging of every right eye of you

Quote: בִּ⁠נְק֥וֹר לָ⁠כֶ֖ם כָּל־עֵ֣ין יָמִ֑ין (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Gouging out the right eye was, for one thing, a military measure that would make the men of Jabesh Gilead less effective warriors, since they would have difficulty seeing to aim weapons. However, as Nahash himself explains, it would also be a symbolic action that would show other nations that the Israelites had not been able to defend their own people. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [in the disgraceful and disabling gouging of every right eye of you]

And I will set it {as} a disgrace against all of Israel

Quote: וְ⁠שַׂמְתִּ֥י⁠הָ חֶרְפָּ֖ה עַל־כָּל־יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Nahash assumes that the elders of Jabesh Gilead will understand that by gouging out the eyes of the people of one Israelite city, Nahash would humiliate the entire nation. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And this will show all other nations how powerless the Israelites are]

1 Samuel 11:3

the border of Israel

Quote: גְּב֣וּל יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The elders of Jabesh Gilead are using the term border by association to mean the territory that this border encloses. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the territory of Israel]

then we will go out to you

Quote: וְ⁠יָצָ֥אנוּ אֵלֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

In this context, your language might say “come” instead of go. Alternate translation: [then we will come out to you]

1 Samuel 11:4

to} Gibeah of Saul

Quote: גִּבְעַ֣ת שָׁא֔וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See the discussion of the name of this city in the note to 10:5. Alternate translation: [to the city named Gibeah where Saul lived]

and they spoke the words in the ears of the people

Quote: וַ⁠יְדַבְּר֥וּ הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֖ים בְּ⁠אָזְנֵ֣י הָ⁠עָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to mean what the messengers said by using words, and he is using the ears of the people to represent them hearing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and they had the people listen to their message]

And all of the people lifted up their voice and wept

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׂא֧וּ כָל־הָ⁠עָ֛ם אֶת־קוֹלָ֖⁠ם וַ⁠יִּבְכּֽוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since the author is referring to a group of people, it might be more natural in your language to use the plural form of voice. Alternate translation: [And all of the people lifted up their voices and wept]

And all of the people lifted up their voice and wept

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׂא֧וּ כָל־הָ⁠עָ֛ם אֶת־קוֹלָ֖⁠ם וַ⁠יִּבְכּֽוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if a voice were an object that the people could have lifted up. He means that the people increased the volume of their voices. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And all of the people increased the volume of their voices and wept]

And all of the people lifted up their voice and wept

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׂא֧וּ כָל־הָ⁠עָ֛ם אֶת־קוֹלָ֖⁠ם וַ⁠יִּבְכּֽוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The expression lifted up their voice tells in what way the people wept. Alternate translation: [And all of the people wept loudly]

1 Samuel 11:5

And behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is using this phrase to introduce a new development in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method in your language that is natural for introducing a new development.

And they recounted to him

Quote: וַ⁠יְסַ֨פְּרוּ־ל֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here the author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And someone recounted to him] or [And he was told]

the words of the men of Jabesh

Quote: אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֖י אַנְשֵׁ֥י יָבֵֽישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to mean the message that the messengers from Jabesh Gilead communicated by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [what the messengers from Jabesh Gilead had said]

1 Samuel 11:6

these words

Quote: אֶת־הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֣ים הָ⁠אֵ֑לֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

And his nose burned greatly

Quote: וַ⁠יִּ֥חַר אַפּ֖⁠וֹ מְאֹֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is describing Saul becoming extremely angry by association with the way a person’s nose may become hot and red when he is angry. Your culture may also associate anger with heat or with a particular part of the body, and if so, you could use its characteristic expression in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [And he became steaming mad] or [And he became extremely angry]

1 Samuel 11:7

and cut it into pieces

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְנַתְּחֵ֗⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since the author is referring to a pair of cattle, it might be more natural in your language to use a dual or plural pronoun here. Alternate translation: [and cut them into pieces]

and he sent through all of the border of Israel by the hand of the messengers

Quote: וַ⁠יְשַׁלַּ֞ח בְּ⁠כָל־גְּב֣וּל יִשְׂרָאֵל֮ בְּ⁠יַ֣ד הַ⁠מַּלְאָכִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of the messengers, their hand, to represent all of them in the act of carrying these pieces throughout Israel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and he had the messengers carry these pieces throughout all the territory of Israel]

and he sent

Quote: וַ⁠יְשַׁלַּ֞ח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

the border of Israel

Quote: גְּב֣וּל יִשְׂרָאֵל֮ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term border by association to mean the territory that this border encloses. See how you translated this term in 11:3. Alternate translation: [the territory of Israel]

Whoever is not going out behind Saul and behind Samuel

Quote: אֲשֶׁר֩ אֵינֶ֨⁠נּוּ יֹצֵ֜א אַחֲרֵ֤י שָׁאוּל֙ וְ⁠אַחַ֣ר שְׁמוּאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the expression going out behind by association to mean going into battle under the command of him and Samuel. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [Whoever does not go into battle under the command of Saul and Samuel]

behind Saul

Quote: אַחֲרֵ֤י שָׁאוּל֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Saul is speaking about himself in the third person in order to make an official pronouncement. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [behind me]

And the fear of Yahweh fell on the people

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפֹּ֤ל פַּֽחַד־יְהוָה֙ עַל־הָ⁠עָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if fear had been an object that fell on people. He means that the people were motivated by respect for Yahweh, recognizing that his anointed king was summoning them urgently into battle and that Yahweh expected them to obey. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And great respect for Yahweh motivated the people]

as one man

Quote: כְּ⁠אִ֥ישׁ אֶחָֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean that the people acted together with entire unity of purpose. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly or use an idiom from your own culture. Alternate translation: [united in purpose] or [all together]

1 Samuel 11:8

And the sons of Israel were … were

Quote: וַ⁠יִּהְי֤וּ בְנֵֽי־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See the discussion of the phrase the sons of Israel in the Introduction to 1 Samuel. In this context, the phrase describes not the Israelites generally but Israelite men who served as soldiers. Alternate translation: [And the soldiers who came from the other tribes of Israel]

And … were … and the men of Judah {were} 30,000

Quote: וַ⁠יִּהְי֤וּ & וְ⁠אִ֥ישׁ יְהוּדָ֖ה שְׁלֹשִׁ֥ים אָֽלֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of why the author gives a separate total of the soldiers who came from the tribe of Judah.

1 Samuel 11:9

And they said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּאמְר֞וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun they refers to Saul and Samuel. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And Saul and Samuel said]

Thus you shall say to the men of Jabesh Gilead, ‘Tomorrow deliverance will be for you, at the heat of the sun

Quote: כֹּ֤ה תֹֽאמְרוּ⁠ן֙ לְ⁠אִישׁ֙ יָבֵ֣ישׁ גִּלְעָ֔ד מָחָ֛ר תִּהְיֶֽה־לָ⁠כֶ֥ם תְּשׁוּעָ֖ה ב⁠חם\n הַ⁠שָּׁ֑מֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [Tell the men of Jabesh Gilead that deliverance will be for them tomorrow at the heat of the sun]

deliverance will be for you

Quote: תִּהְיֶֽה־לָ⁠כֶ֥ם תְּשׁוּעָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstract

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of deliverance, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [we will deliver you]

at the heat of the sun

Quote: ב⁠חם הַ⁠שָּׁ֑מֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term heat of the sun by association to mean the time of day by which the sun has become hot. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [by mid-morning]

1 Samuel 11:10

And the men of Jabesh said

Quote: וַֽ⁠יֹּאמְרוּ֙ אַנְשֵׁ֣י יָבֵ֔ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

And the men of Jabesh said

Quote: וַֽ⁠יֹּאמְרוּ֙ אַנְשֵׁ֣י יָבֵ֔ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using the whole population of Jabesh, the men of that city, to represent one part of the population, the leaders who were conducting these negotiations. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And the leaders of Jabesh said]

we will go out to you

Quote: נֵצֵ֣א אֲלֵי⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

In this context, your language might say “come” instead of go. See how you translated this in 11:3. Alternate translation: [we will come out to you]

according to all of the good in your eyes

Quote: כְּ⁠כָל־הַ⁠טּ֖וֹב בְּ⁠עֵינֵי⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:18. Alternate translation: [as you see fit]

1 Samuel 11:11

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is using this phrase to introduce a new development in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method in your language that is natural for introducing a new development.

during the watch of the morning

Quote: בְּ⁠אַשְׁמֹ֣רֶת הַ⁠בֹּ֔קֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The watch of the morning was the last of three periods into which the Israelites divided the night. It lasted from about 2:00 to 6:00 a.m. The significant thing in this context is that this watch ended at sunrise. If your readers would not be familiar with this time reference, you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [before sunrise]

and they struck Ammon

Quote: וַ⁠יַּכּ֥וּ אֶת־עַמּ֖וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the term struck in 4:2. Alternate translation: [and they killed many of the Ammonite soldiers]

until the heat of the day

Quote: עַד־חֹ֣ם הַ⁠יּ֑וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term heat of the day by association to mean the time when the sun becomes hot. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [well into that day]

that the {ones} being left scattered, and two among them were not left together

Quote: הַ⁠נִּשְׁאָרִים֙ וַ⁠יָּפֻ֔צוּ וְ⁠לֹ֥א נִשְׁאֲרוּ־בָ֖⁠ם שְׁנַ֥יִם יָֽחַד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use these passive forms, you could express the ideas in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [the survivors scattered, and two among them did not remain together]

and two among them were not left together

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א נִשְׁאֲרוּ־בָ֖⁠ם שְׁנַ֥יִם יָֽחַד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The author is making an overstatement to emphasize how completely the Israelites defeated the Ammonites. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [and the surviving Ammonite soldiers fled in complete disarray]

1 Samuel 11:12

Who {are} the {ones} having said, ‘Shall Saul reign over us

Quote: מִ֣י הָ⁠אֹמֵ֔ר שָׁא֖וּל יִמְלֹ֣ךְ עָלֵ֑י⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [Who are the ones who said that Saul should not reign over us]

Shall Saul reign over us

Quote: שָׁא֖וּל יִמְלֹ֣ךְ עָלֵ֑י⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

These people had used the question form to express their opposition to Saul becoming king. If speakers of your language would not use a question for this purpose, you could translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: [Saul should not reign over us!]

1 Samuel 11:13

A man shall not be made to die on this day. For today Yahweh has done deliverance in Israel

Quote: לֹֽא־יוּמַ֥ת אִ֖ישׁ בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה כִּ֥י הַ⁠יּ֛וֹם עָשָֽׂה־יְהוָ֥ה תְּשׁוּעָ֖ה בְּ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because Yahweh has done deliverance in Israel today, a man shall not be made to die on this day]

A man shall not be made to die

Quote: לֹֽא־יוּמַ֥ת אִ֖ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [We shall not make a man die] or [We are not going to kill anyone]

Yahweh has done deliverance in Israel

Quote: עָשָֽׂה־יְהוָ֥ה תְּשׁוּעָ֖ה בְּ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstract

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of deliverance, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [Yahweh has delivered Israel]

1 Samuel 11:14

and let us renew the kingship there

Quote: וּ⁠נְחַדֵּ֥שׁ שָׁ֖ם הַ⁠מְּלוּכָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstract

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of kingship, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [and let us formally recognize Saul as king once again]

1 Samuel 11:15

and there they caused Saul to reign to the face of Yahweh at Gilgal

Quote: וַ⁠יַּמְלִכוּ֩ שָׁ֨ם אֶת־שָׁא֜וּל & יְהוָה֙ בַּ⁠גִּלְגָּ֔ל & לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this statement contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [and they caused Saul to reign to the face of Yahweh at Gilgal] or [and there they caused Saul to reign to the face of Yahweh]

to the face of Yahweh

Quote: יְהוָה֙ & לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:12. Alternate translation: [in the presence of Yahweh]

And there they sacrificed sacrifices, peace offerings

Quote: וַ⁠יִּזְבְּחוּ & זְבָחִ֥ים שְׁלָמִ֖ים & שָׁ֥ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [And there they sacrificed peace offerings]

peace offerings

Quote: שְׁלָמִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

In this context, the term peace offerings describes sacrifices that the Israelites offered to Yahweh to acknowledge that he was the one who had enabled them to defeat the Ammonites. Sacrificing animals that provided the meat for a feast, and burning up some of the animals as Yahweh’s share, was therefore a symbolic action. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [peace offerings to express their gratitude to Yahweh]

unto abundance

Quote: עַד־מְאֹֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean that people celebrated very extensively. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly or use an idiom from your own culture. Alternate translation: [with great enthusiasm] or [to their hearts’ content]

1 Samuel 12

1 Samuel 12 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the story of King Saul by telling how Samuel addressed the assembled Israelites at Gilgal to talk about the kingship with them. Samuel told them that even though they should not have asked for a king for the reasons they did, Yahweh had nevertheless given them a king, and Yahweh would bless them and their king if they were devoted and obedient to him.

This chapter serves as a type of farewell address. In this culture, leaders gave instructions to their followers before they left or died. Joshua does something similar in Joshua 23 and 24, using similar language. If you have already translated the book of Joshua, see how you translated his farewell address, and translate Samuel’s address here similarly.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Yahweh’s “name”

In 12:22, Samuel tells the assembled Israelites, “Yahweh will not forsake his people, because of his great name.” By “name,” he means Yahweh’s reputation. He is explaining that Yahweh wants everyone on earth to know what a faithful God he is. He means that Yahweh has a well-deserved reputation for being a faithful God, and they can be sure he will live up to it by not abandoning them. Be sure it is clear in your translation that Samuel is not saying that Yahweh is motivated by what people think of him and that he tries to do what makes a good impression on people.

“For Yahweh was pleased to make you into a people for himself”

In 12:22, Samuel then gives this as a further reason why Yahweh will not forsake the Israelites. The expression “Yahweh was pleased” uses Yahweh’s pleasure to mean what he found it fit or appropriate to do. Samuel is reminding the Israelites that Yahweh made a sovereign decision to choose them to fulfill a special purpose within his plan of redemption for the world. So they should be faithful and devoted to Yahweh not out of fear that he will abandon them if they are not, but in response to Yahweh honoring them with this role.

1 Samuel 12:1

I have listened to your voice according to all of what you said to me, and I have made a king reign over you

Quote: שָׁמַ֣עְתִּי בְ⁠קֹֽלְ⁠כֶ֔ם לְ⁠כֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר־אֲמַרְתֶּ֖ם לִ֑⁠י וָ⁠אַמְלִ֥יךְ עֲלֵי⁠כֶ֖ם מֶֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. Hebrew poetry was based on this kind of repetition, and it would be good to show this to your readers by including both phrases in your translation rather than combining them. It may be clearer in your language to connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the idea in the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: [I have listened to your voice according to all of what you said to me, indeed, I have made a king reign over you]

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this term in 2:31. Alternate translation: [Now listen]

I have listened to your voice according to all of what you said to me

Quote: שָׁמַ֣עְתִּי בְ⁠קֹֽלְ⁠כֶ֔ם לְ⁠כֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר־אֲמַרְתֶּ֖ם לִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [I have listened to everything you said to me]

I have listened to your voice according to all of what you said to me

Quote: שָׁמַ֣עְתִּי בְ⁠קֹֽלְ⁠כֶ֔ם לְ⁠כֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר־אֲמַרְתֶּ֖ם לִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of the term “listen” in the Introduction to 1 Samuel, and see how you translated the similar expression in 2:25. Alternate translation: [I have done everything you asked me to do]

1 Samuel 12:2

the king is walking to your faces. … Now I myself have walked to your faces

Quote: הַ⁠מֶּ֣לֶךְ ׀ מִתְהַלֵּ֣ךְ לִ⁠פְנֵי⁠כֶ֗ם & וַ⁠אֲנִי֙ הִתְהַלַּ֣כְתִּי לִ⁠פְנֵי⁠כֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See the discussion of the term “face” in the Introduction to 1 Samuel, and see how you translated the similar expression in 1:12. Alternate translation: [the king is walking ahead of you … Now I myself have walked ahead of you]

the king is walking to your faces. … Now I myself have walked to your faces

Samuel is speaking as if the Israelites were actually traveling on a path and the king was walking ahead of them, and as if he had walked ahead of them himself. He is using this image to represent leadership. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the king is leading you … Now I have been leading you]

Now I myself have aged and have become gray-headed

Quote: וַ⁠אֲנִי֙ זָקַ֣נְתִּי וָ⁠שַׂ֔בְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The first phrase makes a general statement, and the second phrase gives a specific example that confirms it. It may be clearer in your language to connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the idea in the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: [Now I myself have aged, indeed, I have become gray-headed]

from my youth up to this day

Quote: מִ⁠נְּעֻרַ֖⁠י עַד־הַ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Samuel is speaking of two things in order to mean them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for my entire life]

1 Samuel 12:3

Behold me

Quote: הִנְ⁠נִ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

See how you translated this same expression in 3:4. This was a courteous expression that a person in this culture would use to indicate his availability for a task. In this case, Samuel is indicating that he is available to answer any charges against his conduct as a judge. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [I am making myself available]

his anointed

Quote: מְשִׁיח֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Samuel is using the adjective anointed as a noun to mean a certain kind of person. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [his anointed king]

or from the hand of whom have I taken a bribe

Quote: וּ⁠מִ⁠יַּד־מִי֙ לָקַ֣חְתִּי כֹ֔פֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Samuel is using one part of a person, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of giving a bribe. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [or from whom have I taken a bribe]

and I veiled my eyes with it

Quote: וְ⁠אַעְלִ֥ים עֵינַ֖⁠י בּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if a bribe were something with which he could have veiled his eyes. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and I ignored wrongdoing as a result]

And I will restore {it} to you

Quote: וְ⁠אָשִׁ֖יב לָ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

1 Samuel 12:4

anything

Quote: מְאֽוּמָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Israelites mean that Samuel has not taken any bribes. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [any bribes]

from the hand of a man

Quote: מִ⁠יַּד־אִ֖ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The Israelites are using one part of a person, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of offering a bribe. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [from anyone]

1 Samuel 12:5

and his anointed {is} a witness

Quote: וְ⁠עֵ֤ד מְשִׁיח⁠וֹ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

See how you translated the similar expression in 12:3. Alternate translation: [and his anointed king]

in my hand

Quote: בְּ⁠יָדִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the word hand to represent possession. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [in my possession]

in my hand

Quote: בְּ⁠יָדִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Samuel assumes that his listeners will know that he is referring to things that do not belong to him. He does not mean that he has no possessions of his own. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [in my possession that belongs to someone else]

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since the author is referring to a group of people collectively, it might be more natural in your language to use a plural form here. Alternate translation: [And they said]

Witness

Quote: עֵֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The Israelites are leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [We agree that Yahweh is a witness and that the king is a witness]

1 Samuel 12:6

made Moses and Aaron

Quote: עָשָׂה֙ אֶת־מֹשֶׁ֣ה וְ⁠אֶֽת־אַהֲרֹ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

your fathers

Quote: אֶת־אֲבֹתֵי⁠כֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking of the people he is describing as if they had been the actual fathers of the Israelites he is addressing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [your ancestors]

your fathers

Quote: אֶת־אֲבֹתֵי⁠כֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Samuel is speaking in the second person of people who were his ancestors as well. It may be natural in your language to use a first-person plural pronoun here that would also include him. Alternate translation: [our fathers]

1 Samuel 12:7

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Speakers in this culture used the expression And now to introduce their main point. See how you translated this expression in 6:7. Alternate translation: [Now this is the main thing I want us to do today:]

and let me be judged with you

Quote: וְ⁠אִשָּׁפְטָ֥ה אִתְּ⁠כֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and let us judge which of us was right]

and let me be judged with you

Quote: וְ⁠אִשָּׁפְטָ֥ה אִתְּ⁠כֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Samuel assumes that these Israelites will know that he is referring to their request for a king. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and let us judge whether you were right to ask for a king or I was right to say that you should not have asked]

to the face of Yahweh

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term face by association to mean the presence of a person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. See how you translated a similar expression in 1:12. Alternate translation: [here in the presence of Yahweh]

with all of the righteousness of Yahweh that he has done with you and with your fathers

Quote: אֵ֚ת כָּל־צִדְק֣וֹת יְהוָ֔ה אֲשֶׁר־עָשָׂ֥ה אִתְּ⁠כֶ֖ם וְ⁠אֶת־אֲבוֹתֵי⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of righteousness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [in light of all of the righteous deeds of Yahweh that he has done with you and with your fathers]

with all of the righteousness of Yahweh that he has done with you and with your fathers

Quote: אֵ֚ת כָּל־צִדְק֣וֹת יְהוָ֔ה אֲשֶׁר־עָשָׂ֥ה אִתְּ⁠כֶ֖ם וְ⁠אֶת־אֲבוֹתֵי⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Samuel assumes that his listeners will know that by righteousness, he means specifically how Yahweh delivered them and their ancestors from their enemies and oppressors. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [in light of all the things that Yahweh has done to deliver you and your fathers]

with your fathers

Quote: אֲבוֹתֵי⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this expression in 12:6. Alternate translation: [your ancestors] or [our ancestors]

1 Samuel 12:8

When Jacob had entered Egypt

Quote: כַּֽ⁠אֲשֶׁר־בָּ֥א יַעֲקֹ֖ב מִצְרָ֑יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

your fathers

Quote: אֲבֽוֹתֵי⁠כֶם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this expression in 12:6. Alternate translation: [your ancestors] or [our ancestors]

1 Samuel 12:9

But they forgot Yahweh their God

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּשְׁכְּח֖וּ אֶת־יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהֵי⁠הֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if the ancestors of these Israelites actually forgot about Yahweh. He is using this image to mean that they stopped worshiping him. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [But they stopped worshiping Yahweh as their God]

So he sold them into the hand of Sisera, the commander of the army of Hazor, and into the hand of the Philistines, and into the hand of the king of Moab

Quote: וַ⁠יִּמְכֹּ֣ר אֹתָ֡⁠ם בְּ⁠יַ֣ד סִֽיסְרָא֩ שַׂר־צְבָ֨א חָצ֜וֹר וּ⁠בְ⁠יַד־פְּלִשְׁתִּ֗ים וּ⁠בְ⁠יַד֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ מוֹאָ֔ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if Yahweh had literally sold the Israelites as slaves. He is using this image to mean that Yahweh allowed these enemies to oppress them. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [So he allowed foreigners to oppress them as if they had been their slaves, including Sisera, the commander of the army of Hazor; the Philistines; and the king of Moab]

And they fought with them

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽלָּחֲמ֖וּ בָּֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun they refers to the foreign enemies, and the pronoun them refers to the Israelites. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And these foreigners all attacked the Israelites with their armies]

1 Samuel 12:10

and said, ‘We have sinned, for we have forsaken Yahweh and have served the Baals and the Ashtoreths. And now, deliver us from the hand of our enemies, and we will serve you

Quote: וַיֹּאמְר֣וּ\n חָטָ֔אנוּ כִּ֤י עָזַ֨בְנוּ֙ אֶת־יְהוָ֔ה וַ⁠נַּעֲבֹ֥ד אֶת־הַ⁠בְּעָלִ֖ים וְ⁠אֶת־הָ⁠עַשְׁתָּר֑וֹת וְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה הַצִּילֵ֛⁠נוּ מִ⁠יַּ֥ד אֹיְבֵ֖י⁠נוּ וְ⁠נַעַבְדֶֽ⁠ךָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [and admitted that they had sinned by forsaking him and serving the Baals and the Ashtoreths, and they told him that if he would deliver them from the hand of their enemies, they would serve him]

Yahweh

Quote: יְהוָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

The Israelites are speaking directly to Yahweh, but they are referring to him in the third person. If it would be more natural in your language, you could translate this in the second person. Alternate translation: [you]

from the hand of

Quote: מִ⁠יַּ֥ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term hand by association to mean power or control. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [from the power of] or [from the domination of]

1 Samuel 12:11

Bedan

Quote: בְּדָ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

The traditional Hebrew text reads Bedan. The ULT follows that reading. Some ancient versions read “Barak,” suggesting that this may have been the original reading. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.

and Samuel

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־שְׁמוּאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Samuel is speaking about himself in the third person. If it would be more natural in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [and me]

from the hand of

Quote: מִ⁠יַּ֤ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term hand by association to mean power or control. See how you translated this expression in 12:10. Alternate translation: [from the power of]

in security

Quote: בֶּֽטַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of security, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [securely]

1 Samuel 12:12

the sons of Ammon

Quote: בְּנֵֽי־עַמּוֹן֮ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar expression in 2:28. Alternate translation: [the Ammonites]

and you said to me, ‘No, but a king shall reign over us,’ though Yahweh your God {was} your king

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֣אמְרוּ לִ֔⁠י לֹ֕א כִּי־מֶ֖לֶךְ יִמְלֹ֣ךְ עָלֵ֑י⁠נוּ וַ⁠יהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵי⁠כֶ֖ם מַלְכְּ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural in your language to put the information about Yahweh being their king before the information about their request for a human king. Alternate translation: [and even though Yahweh your God was your king, you said to me, ‘No, but a king shall reign over us’]

and you said to me, ‘No, but a king shall reign over us

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֣אמְרוּ לִ֔⁠י לֹ֕א כִּי־מֶ֖לֶךְ יִמְלֹ֣ךְ עָלֵ֑י⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [and you told me that you wanted a king to reign over you instead]

over us

Quote: עָלֵ֑י⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

If your language marks a distinction between exclusive and inclusive forms of “us,” see which form you decided to use in the comparable expression in 8:5, to which Samuel is referring here.

1 Samuel 12:13

But now, behold the king whom you have chosen, whom you have requested. And behold, Yahweh has given a king over you

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה הִנֵּ֥ה הַ⁠מֶּ֛לֶךְ אֲשֶׁ֥ר בְּחַרְתֶּ֖ם אֲשֶׁ֣ר שְׁאֶלְתֶּ֑ם וְ⁠הִנֵּ֨ה נָתַ֧ן יְהוָ֛ה עֲלֵי⁠כֶ֖ם מֶֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

Samuel is describing one event (the people seeing their king) before describing another event that preceded it (Yahweh giving them a king). In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they happened. Alternate translation: [And behold, Yahweh has given a king over you. So now, behold the king whom you have chosen, whom you have requested]

And behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֨ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In the earlier instance of the term in this verse, Samuel actually does want the people to behold or look at their king. But in this second instance, Samuel is using the term behold to call attention to and emphasize what he is about to say. Alternate translation: [And in fact]

1 Samuel 12:14

listen to his voice and do not rebel against the mouth of Yahweh

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁמַעְתֶּ֣ם בְּ⁠קֹל֔⁠וֹ וְ⁠לֹ֥א תַמְר֖וּ אֶת־פִּ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The first phrase states the idea positively, and the second phrase restates it negatively. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: [and obey what Yahweh commands]

listen to his voice

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁמַעְתֶּ֣ם בְּ⁠קֹל֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term voice by association to mean what Yahweh says. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and listen to what he says]

listen to his voice

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁמַעְתֶּ֣ם בְּ⁠קֹל֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Samuel assumes that his listeners will understand that by listen, he means “obey.” You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and obey what he tells you]

the mouth of Yahweh

Quote: פִּ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term mouth by association to mean the commands that Yahweh will speak with his mouth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the commands of Yahweh]

then you will be, both you and the king who reigns over you, after Yahweh your God

Quote: וִ⁠הְיִתֶ֣ם גַּם־אַתֶּ֗ם וְ⁠גַם־הַ⁠מֶּ֨לֶךְ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר מָלַ֣ךְ עֲלֵי⁠כֶ֔ם אַחַ֖ר יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֵי⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if the Israelites and their king would actually be walking after or behind Yahweh. He is using this image to mean that Yahweh would lead and protect them. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [then Yahweh will go ahead of you and the king who reigns over you] or [then Yahweh will deliver you and the king who reigns over you]

1 Samuel 12:15

But if you do not listen to the voice of Yahweh and you rebel against the mouth of Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠אִם־לֹ֤א תִשְׁמְעוּ֙ בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל יְהוָ֔ה וּ⁠מְרִיתֶ֖ם אֶת־פִּ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

See how you translated the similar expression in 12:14. Alternate translation: [But if you do not obey what Yahweh commands]

then the hand of Yahweh will be

Quote: וְ⁠הָיְתָ֧ה יַד־יְהוָ֛ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term hand by association to mean power. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [then Yahweh will use his power]

and against your fathers

Quote: וּ⁠בַ⁠אֲבֹתֵי⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word and introduces a comparison, not something additional. Alternate translation: [as it was against your fathers]

and against your fathers

Quote: וּ⁠בַ⁠אֲבֹתֵי⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

See how you translated this expression in 12:6. Alternate translation: [our ancestors]

and against your fathers

Quote: וּ⁠בַ⁠אֲבֹתֵי⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

The traditional Hebrew text reads “and against your fathers.” The ULT follows that reading. Some ancient versions read “and against your king,” suggesting that this may have been the original reading. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.

1 Samuel 12:16

before your eyes

Quote: לְ⁠עֵינֵי⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Samuel is using one part of the Israelites, their eyes, to mean all of them in the act of seeing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [before you] or [for you to see]

1 Samuel 12:17

Is it} not the harvest of wheat today

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֤וֹא קְצִיר־חִטִּים֙ הַ⁠יּ֔וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term today by association to refer to the time when people harvest wheat. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [Is this not the time of the wheat harvest]

Is it} not the harvest of wheat today

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֤וֹא קְצִיר־חִטִּים֙ הַ⁠יּ֔וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Samuel is using the question form for emphasis to remind the people that this is the dry season when it does not normally rain. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You know that this is the time of the wheat harvest]

Is it} not the harvest of wheat today

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֤וֹא קְצִיר־חִטִּים֙ הַ⁠יּ֔וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Samuel means that since it is the time of the wheat harvest, it would not ordinarily rain. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [You know that at this time of the wheat harvest, it does not ordinarily rain]

thunder and rain

Quote: קֹל֖וֹת וּ⁠מָטָ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word thunder tells what kind of rain event this will be. Alternate translation: [a thunderstorm]

And know and see

Quote: וּ⁠דְע֣וּ וּ⁠רְא֗וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

Samuel is describing one event (knowing) before describing another event (seeing) that would precede it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they would happen. Alternate translation: [And see and know]

your evil that you have done

Quote: רָעַתְ⁠כֶ֤ם & אֲשֶׁ֤ר עֲשִׂיתֶם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [the evil that you have done]

in the eyes of Yahweh

Quote: בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:18. Alternate translation: [in Yahweh’s judgment]

to request a king for yourselves

Quote: לִ⁠שְׁא֥וֹל לָ⁠כֶ֖ם מֶֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Samuel assumes that his listeners will understand that he means they have gone too far by asking for a king. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [to have gone so far as to have requested a king for yourselves]

1 Samuel 12:19

Pray for your servants to Yahweh your God, that we may not die. For we have added evil onto all of our sins by the requesting of a king for ourselves

Quote: הִתְפַּלֵּ֧ל בְּעַד־עֲבָדֶ֛י⁠ךָ אֶל־יְהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֶ֖י⁠ךָ וְ⁠אַל־נָמ֑וּת כִּֽי־יָסַ֤פְנוּ עַל־כָּל־חַטֹּאתֵ֨י⁠נוּ֙ רָעָ֔ה לִ⁠שְׁאֹ֥ל לָ֖⁠נוּ מֶֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the request that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [We have added evil onto all of our sins by requesting a king for ourselves. So pray for your servants to Yahweh your God, so that we may not die]

your servants

Quote: עֲבָדֶ֛י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

The Israelites are speaking of themselves in the third person as a sign of humility. If it would be more natural in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [us, your servants]

we have added evil onto all of our sins

Quote: יָסַ֤פְנוּ עַל־כָּל־חַטֹּאתֵ֨י⁠נוּ֙ רָעָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The Israelites are speaking as if evil were an object that could be added onto something. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [we have committed this evil act in addition to all of our other sins]

evil

Quote: רָעָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of evil, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [this evil act]

1 Samuel 12:20

You yourselves have done all of this evil

Quote: אַתֶּ֣ם עֲשִׂיתֶ֔ם אֵ֥ת כָּל־הָ⁠רָעָ֖ה הַ⁠זֹּ֑את (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Samuel is using the word all to express certainty rather than entirety. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [You yourselves have certainly done this evil]

You yourselves have done

Quote: אַתֶּ֣ם עֲשִׂיתֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

For emphasis, Samuel is stating the pronoun you, whose meaning is already present in the verb translated done. If your language can state implied pronouns explicitly for emphasis, you may want to use that construction here in your translation. Other languages may have other ways of bringing out this emphasis. The ULT does so by using the intensive pronoun yourselves. Alternate translation: [You have indeed done]

but do not turn aside from after Yahweh

Quote: אַ֗ךְ אַל־תָּס֨וּרוּ֙ מֵ⁠אַחֲרֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if the Israelites were walking on a path behind Yahweh but might leave that path. He is using this image to mean that they should not stop being devoted to Yahweh. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [but do not stop being devoted to Yahweh]

with all of your heart

Quote: בְּ⁠כָל־לְבַבְ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking using the heart to represent feeling and commitment. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [with complete devotion] or [in complete sincerity]

1 Samuel 12:21

And do not turn aside, the nothingness

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֖א תָּס֑וּרוּ & הַ⁠תֹּ֗הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And do not turn aside from Yahweh, for that would be to go after the nothingness]

And do not turn aside, the nothingness

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֖א תָּס֑וּרוּ & הַ⁠תֹּ֗הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if the Israelites might leave a path to follow after something that has no substance. He is using this image to mean they might stop worshiping Yahweh and worship idols instead. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And do not worship idols instead of Yahweh, for that would be giving your devotion to something that has no substance]

And do not turn aside, the nothingness does not profit and does not deliver, are} nothingness

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֖א תָּס֑וּרוּ & הַ⁠תֹּ֗הוּ & לֹֽא־יוֹעִ֛ילוּ וְ⁠לֹ֥א יַצִּ֖ילוּ & תֹ֥הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the command that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [And since that would be giving your devotion to something that has no substance, do not worship idols instead of Yahweh,]

the nothingness does not profit and does not deliver

Quote: הַ⁠תֹּ֗הוּ & לֹֽא־יוֹעִ֛ילוּ וְ⁠לֹ֥א יַצִּ֖ילוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Samuel assumes that his listeners will understand that by nothingness, he means idols that represent non-existent gods. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [idols that represent non-existent gods, which do not profit and cannot deliver]

1 Samuel 12:22

For

Quote: כִּ֠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

The word For introduces a reason why the Israelites should do what Samuel told them in the previous verse. Alternate translation: [You should not turn aside, because]

Yahweh will not forsake his people, because of his great name. For Yahweh was pleased to make you into a people for himself

Quote: לֹֽא־יִטֹּ֤שׁ יְהוָה֙ אֶת־עַמּ֔⁠וֹ בַּ⁠עֲב֖וּר שְׁמ֣⁠וֹ הַ⁠גָּד֑וֹל כִּ֚י הוֹאִ֣יל יְהוָ֔ה לַ⁠עֲשׂ֥וֹת אֶתְ⁠כֶ֛ם ל֖⁠וֹ לְ⁠עָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the action that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since Yahweh was pleased to make you into a people for himself, because of his great name, Yahweh will not forsake his people]

his great name

Quote: שְׁמ֣⁠וֹ הַ⁠גָּד֑וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term name by association to mean Yahweh’s reputation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [his great reputation]

For Yahweh was pleased to make you into a people for himself

Quote: כִּ֚י הוֹאִ֣יל יְהוָ֔ה לַ⁠עֲשׂ֥וֹת אֶתְ⁠כֶ֛ם ל֖⁠וֹ לְ⁠עָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of the meaning of this statement in the Introduction to this chapter.

1 Samuel 12:23

profane to me from sinning against Yahweh by ceasing to pray for you

Quote: חָלִ֤ילָ⁠ה לִּ⁠י֙ מֵ⁠חֲטֹ֣א לַֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה מֵ⁠חֲדֹ֖ל לְ⁠הִתְפַּלֵּ֣ל בַּעַדְ⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Samuel is using a common expression of his culture, profane to me, to express his horror at the idea of not praying for the people as Yahweh wants him to. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. See how you translated the similar expression in 2:30. Alternate translation: [God forbid that I should sin against Yahweh by ceasing to pray for you]

in the good and straight way

Quote: בְּ⁠דֶ֥רֶךְ הַ⁠טּוֹבָ֖ה וְ⁠הַ⁠יְשָׁרָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if he were going to indicate to the Israelites a road that they could walk on that was well-maintained (good) and led directly to their destination (straight). If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [about how to live properly]

1 Samuel 12:24

fear Yahweh and serve him in faithfulness with all of your heart. For see what he has made great with you

Quote: יְר֣אוּ אֶת־יְהוָ֗ה וַ⁠עֲבַדְתֶּ֥ם אֹת֛⁠וֹ בֶּ⁠אֱמֶ֖ת בְּ⁠כָל־לְבַבְ⁠כֶ֑ם כִּ֣י רְא֔וּ אֵ֥ת אֲשֶׁר־הִגְדִּ֖ל עִמָּ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the command that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [see what Yahweh has made great with you, and as a result, serve him in faithfulness with all of your heart]

in faithfulness

Quote: בֶּ⁠אֱמֶ֖ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of faithfulness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [faithfully]

with all of your heart

Quote: בְּ⁠כָל־לְבַבְ⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking using the heart to represent feeling and commitment. See how you translated this expression in 12:20. Alternate translation: [with complete devotion] or [in complete sincerity]

see

Quote: רְא֔וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if the people could visually observe past events. He is using this image to mean they should think about these things. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [consider]

what he has made great with you

Quote: אֵ֥ת אֲשֶׁר־הִגְדִּ֖ל עִמָּ⁠כֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Samuel is using a common expression of his culture to describe significant actions. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [what great things he has done for you]

1 Samuel 12:25

But if doing wickedly, you do wickedly

Quote: וְ⁠אִם־הָרֵ֖עַ תָּרֵ֑עוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Samuel is repeating forms of the verb do evil in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [But if you indeed do wickedly]

both you and your king will be swept away

Quote: גַּם־אַתֶּ֥ם גַּֽם־מַלְכְּ⁠כֶ֖ם תִּסָּפֽוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Yahweh will sweep away both you and your king]

both you and your king will be swept away

Quote: גַּם־אַתֶּ֥ם גַּֽם־מַלְכְּ⁠כֶ֖ם תִּסָּפֽוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if the people and their king would be swept away as even large objects and structures are by floodwaters. He is using this image to mean that Yahweh would judge and powerfully punish them. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [both you and your king will be destroyed] or [Yahweh will destroy both you and your king]

1 Samuel 13

1 Samuel 13 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the story of King Saul by telling how, when he felt threatened by an invading Philistine army, he disobeyed a direct command from Yahweh. Samuel told him that as a consequence, Yahweh would not allow him to have a dynasty. That is, none of his descendants would succeed him as king. Instead, Yahweh would choose “a man according to his heart” to become the next king. So this chapter looks forward to the transition that the book later makes from King Saul to King David. But more immediately, it also begins an account that continues through the next chapter of a war between the Israelites and Philistines.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

The name “Hebrews”

Verses such as 4:9, 13:19, and 14:11 show that the name “Hebrews” was a term of contempt that the Philistines used for the Israelites. So it seems strange that Saul would use it to describe his own people in 13:3 and that the author would use it for the Israelites in 13:7. It may be that when Saul says in 13:3 “Let the Hebrews hear!” in order to announce a preliminary victory against the Philistines, he is appropriating the term in order to give it a different significance. It is as if he is saying, “So we are ‘Hebrews,” are we? Well then, look what we can do!” In 13:7, when the author describes how some of the Israelite soldiers fled from the Philistine army, he says, “And Hebrews crossed the Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead.” He may be using the term there to suggest that soldiers who fled in this way deserved to be called by a contemptuous name. Whatever the explanation, since “Hebrews” is the actual term that a character and the author use in the biblical text, you should use that same term in your translation.

How many chariots did the Philistines have?

The traditional Hebrew text says in 13:5 that the Philistines invaded Israel with 30,000 chariots and 6,000 horsemen. This statement is problematic because ancient armies always had more horsemen than chariots and because no armies in the ancient world, even those of great empires, are attested to have had nearly that many chariots. One plausible explanation for the reading is that during the process of transmission, the singular word “three” was copied in the plural, which meant “thirty” in Hebrew. Some ancient versions do read “3,000” here, suggesting that this was the original reading. An army of 3,000 chariots and 6,000 horsemen would suit the cultural context. Many modern versions adopt that reading, and you may wish to do so in your own translation.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

A standard way of describing a king’s reign

The statement in 13:1, “Saul {was} a son of a year in his becoming king, and he reigned over Israel two years,” is the first instance of a standard description that occurs repeatedly in this history of Israel that extends through 1–2 Samuel and 1–2 Kings. At the start of the account of each king's reign, the history tells how old that man was when he became king and for how long he reigned. (There are problems with the numbers in 13:1; see the two discussions just below.) In your translation, be sure to translate this description consistently in each of its occurrences (here and in 2 Samuel 2:10, 2 Samuel 5:4, etc.) so that your readers will recognize how the history is using it.

How old was Saul when he became king?

A number appears to have dropped out of 13:1 during the process of the transmission of the traditional Hebrew text, since that verse says that Saul was one year old when he became king. In ancient manuscripts, scribes did not write out numbers. They used letters to represent them. There are other examples where it seems evident that a letter has dropped out of the traditional text, and since 13:1 does not make sense in its present form, that seems to be what has happened. While, as a result, we probably cannot be certain how old Saul was when he became king, some ancient versions say that he was 30 years old, and you may find that to be a reasonable number to use in your translation.

How long did Saul reign?

The traditional Hebrew text says in 13:1 that Saul “reigned over Israel two years.” However, the narrative in 1 Samuel describes extensive events of his reign, suggesting that it lasted much longer than that. There are further indications of this in Scripture. Paul says in Acts 13:21 that Saul reigned for 40 years. (This could be a round number, meaning about 40 years.) 2 Samuel 2:10 records that Saul’s son Ishbosheth was 40 years old when he began to reign. Since he is not listed in 1 Samuel 14:49 as one of the sons whom Saul had when he became king, many interpreters believe that he was born after the beginning of Saul’s reign, suggesting that his reign was at least 40 years long. All things considered, it seems probable that a number written as a single letter has dropped out from this verse and that it originally said that Saul reigned over Israel for 42 years. You may wish to use that number in your translation.

1 Samuel 13:1

Saul {was} a son of a year in his becoming king, and he reigned over Israel two years

Quote: בֶּן־שָׁנָ֖ה שָׁא֣וּל בְּ⁠מָלְכ֑⁠וֹ וּ⁠שְׁתֵּ֣י שָׁנִ֔ים מָלַ֖ךְ עַל־יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

The author is using this statement to re-introduce Saul as a participant in the story, now as Israel’s king. Your language may have its own way of reintroducing participants that you can use in your translation. See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of the form of this statement, which marks the reigns of kings throughout the books of 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 and 2 Kings.

Saul {was} a son of a year in his becoming king

Quote: בֶּן־שָׁנָ֖ה שָׁא֣וּל בְּ⁠מָלְכ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase {was} a son of was a common expression in this culture that described a person’s age. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this in the way your culture describes someone’s age. (But see the discussion of this statement in the Introduction to this chapter.) Alternate translation: [Saul was one year old when he became king]

Saul {was} a son of a year in his becoming king

Quote: בֶּן־שָׁנָ֖ה שָׁא֣וּל בְּ⁠מָלְכ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

The traditional Hebrew text reads Saul was a son of a year. The ULT reflects this reading. Some ancient versions say instead that “Saul was thirty years old,” suggesting that this may have been the original reading. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT, but it may be helpful to include a footnote offering some explanation for a statement that would otherwise not make sense. The discussion of this statement in the Introduction to this chapter may provide some helpful information that you can use.

and he reigned over Israel two years

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁתֵּ֣י שָׁנִ֔ים מָלַ֖ךְ עַל־יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

See the discussion of this statement in the Introduction to this chapter. Alternate translation: [and he reigned over Israel 42 years]

1 Samuel 13:2

And Saul chose for himself 3,000 from Israel

Quote: וַ⁠יִּבְחַר־ל֨⁠וֹ שָׁא֜וּל שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת אֲלָפִים֮ מִ⁠יִּשְׂרָאֵל֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is using this phrase to introduce a new event in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method in your language that is natural for introducing a new event.

3,000 … And 2,000 were … and 1,000

Quote: שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת אֲלָפִים֮ & וַ⁠יִּהְי֨וּ & אַלְפַּ֗יִם & וְ⁠אֶ֗לֶף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some words that in many languages a sentence would need to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [3,000 soldiers … And 2,000 of these soldiers … and 1,000 of these soldiers]

Jonathan

Quote: י֣וֹנָתָ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

The author is using this phrase to introduce Jonathan as a new participant in the story. He introduces him more fully as “Saul’s son” in 13:16. Your language may have its own way of introducing new participants that you can use here in your translation.

the people

Quote: הָ⁠עָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will recognize that in this context, the term people refers to the men of Israel who were able to fight as soldiers. That is also the meaning in the frequent occurrences of this term in the rest of the chapter(except for in 13:4). Alternate translation: [the soldiers]

a man to his tent

Quote: אִ֥ישׁ לְ⁠אֹהָלָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one kind of home, a tent, to represent homes of all kinds. (Some Israelites lived in houses.) See how you translated a similar expression in 4:10. Alternate translation: [each one to his own home]

1 Samuel 13:3

And Jonathan struck

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣ךְ יוֹנָתָ֗ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of the term “struck” in the Introduction to 1 Samuel, and see how you translated the term in 4:2. Since the author describes in 13:16 how Saul and Jonathan soon occupied this strategic position in Geba themselves, it should be understood that Jonathan destroyed the Philistine garrison there. Alternate translation: [And Jonathan destroyed]

And Jonathan struck

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣ךְ יוֹנָתָ֗ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using Jonathan to represent him and the soldiers under his command. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And Jonathan and his soldiers destroyed]

and the Philistines heard

Quote: פְּלִשְׁתִּים֙ & וַֽ⁠יִּשְׁמְע֖וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and the Philistines heard about this attack]

And Saul blew upon a shofar in all of the land, saying, “Let the Hebrews hear

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁאוּל֩ תָּקַ֨ע בַּ⁠שּׁוֹפָ֤ר בְּ⁠כָל־הָ⁠אָ֨רֶץ֙ לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר יִשְׁמְע֖וּ הָ⁠עִבְרִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

And Saul blew upon a shofar

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁאוּל֩ תָּקַ֨ע בַּ⁠שּׁוֹפָ֤ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using Saul’s name to represent him and the messengers he sent to bring news to the other Israelites. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And Saul had messengers blow shofars]

And Saul blew upon a shofar

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁאוּל֩ תָּקַ֨ע בַּ⁠שּׁוֹפָ֤ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This was a symbolic action that indicated that the messengers were bringing important and urgent news that the Israelites should listen and respond to. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [And Saul had messengers blow shofars to indicate that they had urgent news]

saying

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

See whether you chose to represent the term saying in 4:21, and if so, how you translated it.

the Hebrews

Quote: הָ⁠עִבְרִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See the discussion of this name in the Introduction to this chapter.

1 Samuel 13:4

And all of Israel heard, saying

Quote: וְ⁠כָל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֞ל שָׁמְע֣וּ לֵ⁠אמֹ֗ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

The term saying introduces a direct quotation, but it is a quotation of what Saul’s messengers were saying, not what the Israelites were saying in response. You may wish to indicate this in your translation, using a natural way of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: [And all of Israel heard the messengers saying]

Saul has struck

Quote: הִכָּ֤ה שָׁאוּל֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using Saul’s name to represent his army. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Saul’s army has struck]

Saul has struck

Quote: הִכָּ֤ה שָׁאוּל֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in 13:3. Alternate translation: [Saul’s army has destroyed]

Israel has made itself stink among the Philistines

Quote: נִבְאַשׁ יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל בַּ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if the Israelites had actually made themselves smell so bad that they were offensive to the Philistines. He is using this image to mean that Israel had provoked the Philistines. Your language may have a comparable image that you could use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [Israel has now incensed the Philistines] or [Israel has now provoked the Philistines]

And the people were summoned after Saul {to} Gilgal

Quote: וַ⁠יִּצָּעֲק֥וּ הָ⁠עָ֛ם אַחֲרֵ֥י שָׁא֖וּל הַ⁠גִּלְגָּֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And Saul summoned the people after him to Gilgal]

And the people were summoned after Saul {to} Gilgal

Quote: וַ⁠יִּצָּעֲק֥וּ הָ⁠עָ֛ם אַחֲרֵ֥י שָׁא֖וּל הַ⁠גִּלְגָּֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if Saul were walking somewhere and he wanted these Israelite solders to walk after or behind him. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And Saul summoned the other Israelite soldiers to come to Gilgal and serve under his command]

1 Samuel 13:5

30,000 chariots

Quote: שְׁלֹשִׁ֨ים אֶ֤לֶף רֶ֨כֶב֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

30,000 chariots

Quote: שְׁלֹשִׁ֨ים אֶ֤לֶף רֶ֨כֶב֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

The traditional Hebrew text reads 30,000 chariots. Some ancient versions read “3,000 chariots,” suggesting that this may have been the original reading. See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.

and people like the sand that is on the shore of the sea for abundance

Quote: וְ⁠עָ֕ם כַּ⁠ח֛וֹל אֲשֶׁ֥ר עַל־שְׂפַֽת־הַ⁠יָּ֖ם לָ⁠רֹ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The point of this comparison is that just as there is a seemingly countless number of grains of sand on a seashore, so it seemed that there were too many Philistine soldiers to count. You could make this point explicitly in plain language. Alternate translation: [and a seemingly countless number of soldiers]

And they went up

Quote: וַֽ⁠יַּעֲלוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

And they went up

Quote: וַֽ⁠יַּעֲלוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

In a context such as this, your language might say “came” instead of went. Alternate translation: [And they came]

1 Samuel 13:6

And a man of Israel saw that it was narrow to him, for the people were distressed

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֨ישׁ יִשְׂרָאֵ֤ל רָאוּ֙ כִּ֣י צַר־ל֔⁠וֹ כִּ֥י נִגַּ֖שׂ הָ⁠עָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

it was narrow to him

Quote: צַר־ל֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if each Israelite soldier saw that he was in a physically confined space. He is using this image to mean that each soldier recognized that he was in a dangerous and difficult situation. Your language may have a comparable image that you could use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [he was in a tight situation] or [he was in very difficult circumstances]

the people were distressed

Quote: נִגַּ֖שׂ הָ⁠עָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [the Philistines were distressing the people] or [the Philistines had taken up in a position from which they were dangerously threatening the Israelite soldiers]

1 Samuel 13:7

And Hebrews

Quote: וְ⁠עִבְרִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of why the author may use the name Hebrews here.

and all of the people trembled after him

Quote: וְ⁠כָל־הָ⁠עָ֖ם חָרְד֥וּ אַחֲרָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if the people were physically walking behind Saul and shaking with fear as they did so. He is using this image to mean they were still under his command but were very afraid. See how you translated the term “after” in 13:4. Alternate translation: [and all of the people still following him trembled] or [and all of the soldiers who remained there under his command trembled]

trembled

Quote: חָרְד֥וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that he means the people were trembling from fear. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [trembled with fear]

1 Samuel 13:8

that Samuel

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר שְׁמוּאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here some words are missing that in many languages a sentence would need to be complete. Ancient versions contain these words, so it appears that they dropped out of the Hebrew text in the process of transmission. That is, the author did not leave them out intentionally for brevity or stylistic effect. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [that Samuel had set]

1 Samuel 13:9

Bring the burnt offering and the peace offerings to me

Quote: הַגִּ֣שׁוּ אֵלַ֔⁠י הָ⁠עֹלָ֖ה וְ⁠הַ⁠שְּׁלָמִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that Saul intended to offer these sacrifices himself, even though Samuel had told him to wait for him to come and offer them himself. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Bring the burnt offering and the peace offerings to me, and I will sacrifice them myself]

1 Samuel 13:10

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֗י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this phrase in 1:12.

that, behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this term in 2:31.

to bless him

Quote: לְ⁠בָרֲכֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that by bless, he means that Saul intended to greet or welcome Samuel. While this may have involved Saul wishing publicly that Yahweh would bless Samuel (that is, do good things for him), as in 15:13, the focus is on Saul greeting or welcoming Samuel. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [so that he could welcome him] or [so that he could welcome him]

1 Samuel 13:11

What have you done

Quote: מֶ֣ה עָשִׂ֑יתָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Samuel is using the question form for emphasis to express his strong disapproval of what Saul has done. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You should not have done this!]

and you yourself had not come

Quote: וְ⁠אַתָּה֙ לֹא־בָ֨אתָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

For emphasis, Saul is stating the pronoun you, whose meaning is already present in the verb translated come. If your language can state implied pronouns explicitly for emphasis, you may want to use that construction here in your translation. Other languages may have other ways of bringing out this emphasis. The ULT does so by using the intensive pronoun yourself.

1 Samuel 13:12

then I said, ‘Now the Philistines will come down against me {at} Gilgal, but I have not entreated the face of Yahweh

Quote: וָ⁠אֹמַ֗ר עַ֠תָּה יֵרְד֨וּ פְלִשְׁתִּ֤ים אֵלַ⁠י֙ הַ⁠גִּלְגָּ֔ל וּ⁠פְנֵ֥י יְהוָ֖ה לֹ֣א חִלִּ֑יתִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [then I told myself that the Philistines would soon come down against me at Gilgal and that I had not entreated the face of Yahweh]

against me

Quote: אֵלַ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Saul is using himself to represent all of the Israelite soldiers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [against us]

but … the face of Yahweh

Quote: וּ⁠פְנֵ֥י יְהוָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of Yahweh, his face, to represent all of him in the act of being entreated. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Yahweh]

1 Samuel 13:13

You have acted foolishly! You have not kept the command of Yahweh your God that he commanded you. For now Yahweh would have established your kingdom over Israel forever

Quote: נִסְכָּ֑לְתָּ לֹ֣א שָׁמַ֗רְתָּ אֶת־מִצְוַ֞ת יְהוָ֤ה אֱלֹהֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר צִוָּ֔⁠ךְ כִּ֣י עַתָּ֗ה הֵכִ֨ין יְהוָ֧ה אֶת־מַֽמְלַכְתְּ⁠ךָ֛ אֶל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל עַד־עוֹלָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for Samuel’s assessment that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because Yahweh would now have established your reign over Israel forever, but you have not kept the command of Yahweh your God that he commanded you, you have acted foolishly!]

You have not kept the command of Yahweh your God that he commanded you

Quote: לֹ֣א שָׁמַ֗רְתָּ אֶת־מִצְוַ֞ת יְהוָ֤ה אֱלֹהֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר צִוָּ֔⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [You have not kept the command of Yahweh your God] or [You have not done what Yahweh your God commanded you]

You have not kept the command of Yahweh your God that he commanded you

Quote: לֹ֣א שָׁמַ֗רְתָּ אֶת־מִצְוַ֞ת יְהוָ֤ה אֱלֹהֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר צִוָּ֔⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Samuel is using one person involved in giving Saul this command, himself, to represent everyone involved, which also included Yahweh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [You have not kept the command that Yahweh your God commanded you through me]

now Yahweh would have established your kingdom over Israel forever

Quote: עַתָּ֗ה הֵכִ֨ין יְהוָ֧ה אֶת־מַֽמְלַכְתְּ⁠ךָ֛ אֶל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל עַד־עוֹלָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Samuel assumes that his readers will understand that this would have happened if Saul had obeyed. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Yahweh would have established your kingdom over Israel forever at this time if you had obeyed]

1 Samuel 13:14

your kingdom will not stand

Quote: מַמְלַכְתְּ⁠ךָ֣ לֹא־תָק֑וּם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Samuel is speaking of Saul’s kingdom as if it were a living thing that could stand on its own. He is using this image to mean that Saul’s dynasty would not continue. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [your descendants will not rule after you]

Yahweh has sought

Quote: בִּקֵּשׁ֩ יְהוָ֨ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Samuel is using one part of the process of finding something, seeking it, to represent that entire process. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Yahweh has found]

according to his heart

Quote: כִּ⁠לְבָב֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is using Yahweh’s heart to represent his desires and values. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [who shares his values] or [who wants what he wants]

and Yahweh has commanded him to {be} ruler over his people, for you have not kept what Yahweh commanded you

Quote: וַ⁠יְצַוֵּ֨⁠הוּ יְהוָ֤ה לְ⁠נָגִיד֙ עַל־עַמּ֔⁠וֹ כִּ֚י לֹ֣א שָׁמַ֔רְתָּ אֵ֥ת אֲשֶֽׁר־צִוְּ⁠ךָ֖ יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the action that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [and since you have not kept what Yahweh commanded you, Yahweh has commanded him to be ruler over his people]

1 Samuel 13:15

And Samuel arose

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֣קָם שְׁמוּאֵ֗ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here the term arose means that Samuel took action. It does not mean merely that he stood up from a sitting or reclining position. See how you translated the similar expression in 1:9. Alternate translation: [And Samuel resolutely left]

the people being found with him

Quote: אֶת־הָ⁠עָם֙ הַ⁠נִּמְצְאִ֣ים עִמּ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [the people whom he found with him]

the people being found with him

Quote: אֶת־הָ⁠עָם֙ הַ⁠נִּמְצְאִ֣ים עִמּ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The term found in this context means “present] or [available.” See how you translated this term in 9:8. Alternate translation: [the soldiers who were still with him]

about 600 men

Quote: כְּ⁠שֵׁ֥שׁ מֵא֖וֹת אִֽישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

1 Samuel 13:16

Now Saul and Jonathan his son and the people being found with them were staying in Geba of Benjamin, and the Philistines camped at Michmash

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁא֞וּל וְ⁠יוֹנָתָ֣ן בְּנ֗⁠וֹ וְ⁠הָ⁠עָם֙ הַ⁠נִּמְצָ֣א עִמָּ֔⁠ם יֹשְׁבִ֖ים בְּ⁠גֶ֣בַע בִּנְיָמִ֑ן וּ⁠פְלִשְׁתִּ֖ים חָנ֥וּ בְ⁠מִכְמָֽשׂ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing background information about the locations of the opposing forces to help readers understand what happens next in the story. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

and Jonathan his son

Quote: וְ⁠יוֹנָתָ֣ן בְּנ֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

The author is reintroducing Jonathan as a participant here, having introduced him initially in 13:2. He identifies him more fully here as Saul’s son. Your language may have a way that you can use in your translation of providing further information to reintroduce participants.

and the people being found with them

Quote: וְ⁠הָ⁠עָם֙ הַ⁠נִּמְצָ֣א עִמָּ֔⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. See how you translated this expression in 13:15. Alternate translation: [and the soldiers who were still with them]

1 Samuel 13:17

And the destroyer went out from the camp of the Philistines, three companies

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֧א הַ⁠מַּשְׁחִ֛ית מִ⁠מַּחֲנֵ֥ה פְלִשְׁתִּ֖ים שְׁלֹשָׁ֣ה רָאשִׁ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural in your language to put the information about the number of companies with the statement that these companies went out. Alternate translation: [And three companies of destroyers went out from the camp of the Philistines]

And the destroyer went out

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֧א הַ⁠מַּשְׁחִ֛ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since the author is referring to groups of soldiers, it might be more natural in your language to use a plural form. Alternate translation: [And destroyers went out] or [And ravaging bands of soldiers went out]

1 Samuel 13:18

the border looking down upon the Valley of Zeboyim

Quote: הַ⁠גְּב֔וּל הַ⁠נִּשְׁקָ֛ף עַל־גֵּ֥י הַצְּבֹעִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The author is speaking of this border as if it were a living thing that could look down from a height. He is using this image to mean that this border was on higher ground than the valley below. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the border above the valley of Zeboyim]

the border looking down upon the Valley of Zeboyim

Quote: הַ⁠גְּב֔וּל הַ⁠נִּשְׁקָ֛ף עַל־גֵּ֥י הַצְּבֹעִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the word border could mean: (1) “territory,” by association. Alternate translation: [the territory above the valley of Zeboyim] (2) some specific border, most likely the one between the territories of Judah and Benjamin. Alternate translation: [the border between Judah and Benjamin, which runs along the crest of the valley of Zeboyim]

1 Samuel 13:19

Now a blacksmith was not found in all of the land of Israel. For the Philistines had said, “Lest the Hebrews make a sword or a spear

Quote: וְ⁠חָרָשׁ֙ לֹ֣א יִמָּצֵ֔א בְּ⁠כֹ֖ל אֶ֣רֶץ יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל כִּֽי־אָמְר֣וּ פְלִשְׁתִּ֔ים פֶּ֚ן יַעֲשׂ֣וּ הָ⁠עִבְרִ֔ים חֶ֖רֶב א֥וֹ חֲנִֽית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Now since the Philistines had said, ‘Lest the Hebrews make a sword or a spear,’ a blacksmith was not found in all of the land of Israel]

Now a blacksmith was not found in all of the land of Israel

Quote: וְ⁠חָרָשׁ֙ לֹ֣א יִמָּצֵ֔א בְּ⁠כֹ֖ל אֶ֣רֶץ יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing further background information to help readers understand what will happen next in the story. In the next chapter, he will describe a remarkable victory despite starting with basically no weapons. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

Now a blacksmith was not found

Quote: וְ⁠חָרָשׁ֙ לֹ֣א יִמָּצֵ֔א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the term found in 13:15. Alternate translation: [Now there were no blacksmiths]

the Philistines had said, “Lest the Hebrews make a sword or a spear

Quote: אָמְר֣וּ פְלִשְׁתִּ֔ים פֶּ֚ן יַעֲשׂ֣וּ הָ⁠עִבְרִ֔ים חֶ֖רֶב א֥וֹ חֲנִֽית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

The author is summarizing, in the form of a direct quotation, the reason why the Philistines decided not to allow Israelites to be blacksmiths. The Philistines may not have spoken these actual words to one another, so you could translate this as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: [the Philistines had decided that they did not want the Hebrews to be able to make swords or spears]

a sword or a spear

Quote: חֶ֖רֶב א֥וֹ חֲנִֽית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The Philistines are not referring to a specific sword or spear. They mean such weapons in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. Alternate translation: [swords or spears]

1 Samuel 13:20

a man

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The author is not referring to a specific man. He means each Israelite who needed to have someone sharpen his tools. Alternate translation: [each man]

to sharpen

Quote: לִ֠⁠לְטוֹשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using an Israelite man by association to represent the Philistines who would sharpen his tools. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to have them sharpen]

and his pick … and his sickle

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־אֵת⁠וֹ֙ & וְ⁠אֵ֖ת מַחֲרֵשָׁתֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A pick was a pointed tool that people in this culture used to break up hard ground. A sickle was a curved blade attached to a handle, which people in this culture used to cut grain stalks during harvest. If your readers would not be familiar with what these tools were, in your translation you could use the names of similar tools that your readers would recognize, or you could use general expressions. Alternate translation: [and his digging tool … and his harvesting blade]

1 Samuel 13:21

a pim

Quote: פִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight

A pim was a weight of silver equivalent to about eight grams or about a quarter of an ounce. You could try to express this in terms of modern money values, but if you did, that could cause your Bible translation to become outdated and inaccurate, since those values can change over time. Instead, you could either give the equivalent weight or use the biblical term in the text and explain the weight in a note.

and for a three-fork

Quote: וְ⁠לִ⁠שְׁלֹ֥שׁ קִלְּשׁ֖וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A three-fork was a tool with three pointed prongs, similar to what the author calls “a fork with three prongs” in 2:13. See how you translated the name of this tool there. Here the author is using a compound noun form. You may be able to describe this tool with a similar form in your language. Alternate translation: [and for a trident] or [and for a three-pronged fork]

the goad

Quote: הַ⁠דָּרְבָֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The author is not referring to a specific goad (a pointed stick used to guide cattle). He means such tools in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [goads]

1 Samuel 13:22

on the day of battle that

Quote: בְּ⁠י֣וֹם מִלְחֶ֔מֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term day by association to mean a specific time, the time of this conflict. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [at the time of this conflict]

a sword or spear {was} not found … but one was found for Saul and for his son Jonathan

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֨א נִמְצָ֜א חֶ֤רֶב וַ⁠חֲנִית֙ & וַ⁠תִּמָּצֵ֣א לְ⁠שָׁא֔וּל וּ⁠לְ⁠יוֹנָתָ֖ן בְּנֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the term found in 13:15 and 13:19. Alternate translation: [that there was no sword or spear … but Saul and his son Jonathan did have one]

a sword or spear {was} not found … but one was found for Saul and for his son Jonathan

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֨א נִמְצָ֜א חֶ֤רֶב וַ⁠חֲנִית֙ & וַ⁠תִּמָּצֵ֣א לְ⁠שָׁא֔וּל וּ⁠לְ⁠יוֹנָתָ֖ן בְּנֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since the author is referring to weapons in general, it might be more natural in your language to use plural forms. Alternate translation: [that there were no swords or spears … but Saul and his son Jonathan did have them]

in the hand of

Quote: בְּ⁠יַ֣ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term hand by association to mean possession or ownership. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in the possession of]

1 Samuel 13:23

Now a garrison of the Philistines went out to the pass of Michmash

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵא֙ מַצַּ֣ב פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים אֶֽל־מַעֲבַ֖ר מִכְמָֽשׂ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Now a garrison of the Philistines went out to the pass of Michmash

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵא֙ מַצַּ֣ב פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים אֶֽל־מַעֲבַ֖ר מִכְמָֽשׂ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that the Philistines sent this garrison out to guard this strategic location. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And the Philistines sent out a garrison to guard the pass of Michmash]

1 Samuel 14

1 Samuel 14 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the story of Saul by describing how the Israelites under his command, particularly through the exploits of his son Jonathan, won a great victory over the Philistines.

14:1–15 Jonathan and his armor bearer defeat a Philistine garrison, causing panic among the entire Philistine army. 14:16–23 All of the Israelites mobilize and defeat the Philistines. 14:24–46 Saul causes trouble for the Israelites by cursing any one of them who eats on the day of the battle. 14:47–52 A summary of Saul’s lineage, family, and activities as king.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

The name “Hebrews”

As the Introduction to chapter 13 discusses, the name “Hebrews” was a term of contempt that the Philistines used for the Israelites. That is why the Philistines use it in 14:11 as they speak disparagingly of the Israelites “coming out from the holes where they hid themselves.” In 14:21, the author uses the term “Hebrews” for Israelite solders who had defected to the Philistines. As in 13:7, where the author refers to Israelite soldiers who fled across the Jordan from the Philistine army, he may be using the term in 14:21 to suggest that these deserters also deserved to be called by a contemptuous name. Whatever the explanation, since “Hebrews” is the actual term that these characters and the author use in the biblical text, you should use that same term in your translation.

Did Jonathan pass between the cliffs of Bozez and Seneh, or did he climb up and over them?

In 14:4–5, the author describes and names two cliffs or rock faces that were either in or beside the route that Jonathan envisioned taking from Geba over to the Philistine garrison near Michmash. Many versions of the Bible suggest or state in verse 4 that these cliffs were on either side of Jonathan’s route, so that he passed between them. However, since the author explains in verse 5 that one cliff was on the north side of the valley that Jonathan was crossing and the other cliff was on the south side, and since Michmash was on the north side of the valley and Geba was on the south side, it does not appear that Jonathan passed between these cliffs. Rather, he had to climb over them in order to reach the Philistines. They had apparently blocked all of the other, more accessible routes through the valley. So the author is relating a feat of strength that Jonathan and his armor bearer performed, in addition to their feat of daring in attacking the Philistine garrison. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region that says that Jonathan passed between these cliffs, you will have to consider whether to follow its reading, but we recommend that you indicate in your translation that he climbed up and over them.

Why did Saul make the soldiers not eat anything on the day of the battle?

The author describes in 14:24 how Saul put a curse on any soldier who ate anything during the day when the Israelite army was fighting the Philistines. As the rest of the story shows, that led to the soldiers becoming weak from hunger and thus less effective fighters. It ultimately led to them desperately slaughtering and eating meat from animals they had plundered from the Philistines without draining the blood first, which was a violation of the law of Moses. So forbidding eating was not a good thing for Saul to do. Why, then, did he do it? It may be that, in practical terms, he did not want the soldiers to spend time away from fighting in order to prepare and eat meals. Since going without food was also a sign of devotion to God, Saul may also have had religious reasons for giving this command. He may have wanted the soldiers to demonstrate their devotion to Yahweh in this way, perhaps to seek Yahweh’s favor and help in the battle. Whatever the reasons, as Jonathan said when he heard about this, Saul’s curse caused trouble for the Israelites.

1 Samuel 14:1

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is using this phrase to introduce a new event in the story. See how you translated it in 1:12.

the young man carrying his equipment

Quote: הַ⁠נַּ֨עַר֙ נֹשֵׂ֣א כֵלָ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

This expression refers to a soldier who, in ancient warfare, carried the weapons and armor of a superior soldier and who fought alongside that soldier. If your readers would not be familiar with this role, in your translation you could use the name of a similar role that your readers would recognize, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [the young man who was his armor-bearer]

and let us cross over to the garrison of the Philistines that {is} across from here

Quote: וְ⁠נַעְבְּרָה֙ אֶל־מַצַּ֣ב פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֖ר מֵ⁠עֵ֣בֶר הַלָּ֑ז (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Based on the author’s statements in 13:16 that the Israelites were occupying a position in Geba and in 13:23 that the Philistines had sent a detachment to guard the pass of Michmash, he expects readers to understand that Jonathan is suggesting that he and his armor-bearer cross the valley from Geba to the top of the cliff where the Philistine garrison was. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and let us cross over from here in Geba to attack the Philistine detachment that is on top of the cliff opposite us]

1 Samuel 14:2

Now Saul was staying at the edge of Gibeah

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁא֗וּל יוֹשֵׁב֙ בִּ⁠קְצֵ֣ה הַ⁠גִּבְעָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing background information to help readers understand what happens in the story. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

under the pomegranate tree

Quote: תַּ֥חַת הָ⁠רִמּ֖וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Sitting under this tree was a symbolic action that showed Saul was acting as judge and military leader. There is a similar example in 22:6 of Saul sitting under a tree for this same purpose. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [sitting regally under the pomegranate tree]

And the people

Quote: וְ⁠הָ⁠עָם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that by people here and throughout this chapter, he means men of Israel who were able to fight as soldiers, as in the previous chapter. See how you translated the term there. Alternate translation: [And the soldiers]

1 Samuel 14:3

and Ahijah, the son of Ahitub, the brother of Ichabod, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eli, the priest of Yahweh at Shiloh, wearing an ephod

Quote: וַ⁠אֲחִיָּ֣ה בֶן־אֲחִט֡וּב אֲחִ֡י אִיכָב֣וֹד ׀ בֶּן־פִּינְחָ֨ס בֶּן־עֵלִ֜י כֹּהֵ֧ן ׀ יְהוָ֛ה בְּ⁠שִׁל֖וֹ נֹשֵׂ֣א אֵפ֑וֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

The author means that Ahijah was the son of Ahitub, that Ahitub was the brother of Ichabod, that Ichabod (and Ahitub) were sons of Phinehas, that Phinehas was the son of Eli, that Eli had been the priest of Yahweh at Shiloh, and that Ahijah was wearing an ephod. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers, using the kinship terms of your language and culture. The UST models one way to do that. (Since the author indicates in 4:19–22 that Phinehas and his wife died on the same day, the day she gave birth to Ichabod, it is clear that Ahitub was the older brother of Ichabod. Your language may mark that distinction.)

1 Samuel 14:4

the passes

Quote: הַֽ⁠מַּעְבְּר֗וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-plural

The context suggests that Jonathan was planning to cross the valley by a single route that went down into the valley and back up the other side. The author seems to be using the plural form, in keeping with the conventions of his language and culture, because this was the way both from Geba to Michmash and from Michmash to Geba. It may be more natural in your language to use a singular form. Alternate translation: [the passageway]

were} the tooth of a rock … and the tooth of a rock

Quote: שֵׁן־הַ⁠סֶּ֤לַע & וְ⁠שֵׁן־הַ⁠סֶּ֥לַע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

The author is using this possessive form to mean a rock that had the appearance of a tooth, similar to how some languages might say “a giant of a man” to mean “a giant man.” If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the meaning using a different form. Alternate translation: [were a rock that looked like a large tooth … and another rock that looked like a large tooth] or [were a tall rock … and a tall rock]

on the side from that … on the side from this

Quote: מֵ⁠הָ⁠עֵ֨בֶר֙ מִ⁠זֶּ֔ה & מֵ⁠הָ⁠עֵ֖בֶר מִ⁠זֶּ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is describing the location of one place relative to another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. The further explanation in the next verse helps to clarify the meaning here. In your translation, express this in the way your culture describes the relative location of places. Alternate translation: [on the other side of the valley … on his side of the valley]

1 Samuel 14:5

The tooth of the one {was} a pillar from the north before Michmash, and the {other} one {was} from the south before Geba

Quote: הַ⁠שֵּׁ֧ן הָ⁠אֶחָ֛ד מָצ֥וּק מִ⁠צָּפ֖וֹן מ֣וּל מִכְמָ֑שׂ וְ⁠הָ⁠אֶחָ֥ד מִ⁠נֶּ֖גֶב מ֥וּל גָּֽבַע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

was} a pillar

Quote: מָצ֥וּק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking of each rocks as if they were a pillar, that is, a tall supporting column in a buildings. He is using this image to mean that they were tall and straight. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [was a vertical face] or [was tall and straight]

1 Samuel 14:6

And Jonathan said to the young man carrying his equipment, “Come, and let us cross over

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר יְהוֹנָתָ֜ן אֶל־הַ⁠נַּ֣עַר ׀ נֹשֵׂ֣א כֵלָ֗י⁠ו לְכָ⁠ה֙ וְ⁠נַעְבְּרָ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is resuming the story of Jonathan after providing extensive background information in verses 2–5. He is repeating what Jonathan said to his armor-bearer, which he first reported in verse 1. Use a word, phrase, or other method in your language that is natural for resuming a story after providing background information.

these uncircumcised {ones

Quote: הָ⁠עֲרֵלִ֣ים הָ⁠אֵ֔לֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Jonathan is using the adjective uncircumcised as a noun to mean people who do not worship Yahweh. He is using this as a term of derision, suggesting that since the Philistines do not worship Yahweh and obey his laws, they will not be formidable opponents. Your language may have a comparable term of derision that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [these uncircumcised Philistines] or [these heathen]

for

Quote: כִּ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word for introduces not a reason but an explanation. Alternate translation: [after all]

there is} no hindrance to Yahweh to save by many or by few

Quote: אֵ֤ין לַֽ⁠יהוָה֙ מַעְצ֔וֹר לְ⁠הוֹשִׁ֥יעַ בְּ⁠רַ֖ב א֥וֹ בִ⁠מְעָֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a positive expression to translate this double negative that consists of the negative particle no and the negative noun hindrance. Alternate translation: [Yahweh is perfectly able to save by many or by few]

by many or by few

Quote: בְּ⁠רַ֖ב א֥וֹ בִ⁠מְעָֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Jonathan is using the adjectives many and few as nouns to mean groups of soldiers. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate these adjectives with equivalent phrases. Alternate translation: [by many soldiers or by few soldiers]

1 Samuel 14:7

is} in your heart. … according to your heart

Quote: בִּ⁠לְבָבֶ֑⁠ךָ & כִּ⁠לְבָבֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The armor-bearer is speaking of Jonathan’s heart as if it were a container for his thoughts and desires. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [what you want to do … in whatever you want to do]

Turn yourself; … with you

Quote: נְטֵ֣ה לָ֔⁠ךְ & עִמְּ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Turn yourself; … with you

Quote: נְטֵ֣ה לָ֔⁠ךְ & עִמְּ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The armor-bearer is using two common expressions of his culture. The expression turn yourself describes whatever course of action a person considers best. For with you, see how you translated the similar expression in 3:19. Your language may have comparable expressions that you could use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [Take whatever course of action you consider best … I will help you]

behold me

Quote: הִנְ⁠נִ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

The armor-bearer is using a polite expression to express his willingness to serve. See how you translated similar expressions in 3:4 and 12:3. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [I am at your service] or [I am making myself available]

1 Samuel 14:8

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֛ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the term Behold in 2:31, and consider how you would translate it in this context. Alternate translation: [All right]

the men

Quote: הָ⁠אֲנָשִׁ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that by the men Jonathan means the Philistine soldiers in the detachment opposite them. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [those Philistine soldiers]

1 Samuel 14:9

If thus they say to us, ‘Wait until we reach you

Quote: אִם־כֹּ֤ה יֹֽאמְרוּ֙ אֵלֵ֔י⁠נוּ דֹּ֕מּוּ עַד־הַגִּיעֵ֖⁠נוּ אֲלֵי⁠כֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [If they tell us to wait until they reach us]

then we will stand under us

Quote: וְ⁠עָמַ֣דְנוּ תַחְתֵּ֔י⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Jonathan is using a common expression of his culture that indicates “we will stand on the ground that is under us.” Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [then we will stay in place] or [then we will stay right here]

1 Samuel 14:10

But if thus they say, ‘Come up to us

Quote: וְ⁠אִם־כֹּ֨ה יֹאמְר֜וּ עֲל֤וּ עָלֵ֨י⁠נוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [But if they tell us to come up to them]

then we will go up, for Yahweh has given them into our hand, and this {will be} the sign for us

Quote: וְ⁠עָלִ֔ינוּ כִּֽי־נְתָנָ֥⁠ם יְהוָ֖ה בְּ⁠יָדֵ֑⁠נוּ וְ⁠זֶה־לָּ֖⁠נוּ הָ⁠אֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [then that will be a sign for us that Yahweh has given them into our hand, so we will go up]

Yahweh has given them into our hand

Quote: נְתָנָ֥⁠ם יְהוָ֖ה בְּ⁠יָדֵ֑⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Jonathan is using the past tense to describe something that he believes would certainly happen in the future. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: [Yahweh will give them into our hand]

into our hand

Quote: בְּ⁠יָדֵ֑⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Jonathan is using the term hand by association to mean power or control. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [into our power]

1 Samuel 14:11

where they have hidden themselves there

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר הִתְחַבְּאוּ־שָֽׁם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [where they have hidden themselves]

1 Samuel 14:12

And … answered Jonathan and the carrier of his equipment and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּעֲנוּ֩ & אֶת־יוֹנָתָ֣ן ׀ וְ⁠אֶת־נֹשֵׂ֣א כֵלָ֗י⁠ו וַ⁠יֹּֽאמְרוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with “and.” The word answered tells in what regard they said what they did. (The Philistine soldiers were responding not to something that Jonathan said but to his approach.) Alternate translation: [responded when they saw Jonathan and the carrier of his equipment]

and let us make you know a thing

Quote: וְ⁠נוֹדִ֥יעָה אֶתְ⁠כֶ֖ם דָּבָ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The Philistines are using a common expression of their culture that asserts that they are more knowledgeable or competent in some regard and they will demonstrate this. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [and we will teach you a lesson]

Israel

Quote: יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Jonathan is using the name Israel by association to mean Israelite soldiers, and specifically himself and his armor-bearer. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [us Israelite soldiers]

1 Samuel 14:13

And Jonathan went up on his hands and on his feet

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣עַל יוֹנָתָ֗ן עַל־יָדָי⁠ו֙ וְ⁠עַל־רַגְלָ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that Jonathan had to climb this way because the cliff was extremely steep. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [The cliff was so steep that Jonathan had to go up it on his hands and on his feet]

And … went up on his hands and on his feet

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣עַל & עַל־יָדָי⁠ו֙ וְ⁠עַל־רַגְלָ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to describe a way of climbing. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [went up on all fours] or [climbed up using his hands as well as his feet]

And they fell

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּפְּלוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun they refers to the Philistine soldiers who were defending this position. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And the Philistine soldiers fell]

And they fell to the face of Jonathan

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּפְּלוּ֙ לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יוֹנָתָ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term fell by association to mean that these soldiers died in battle, as in 4:10. He is using the term face by association to mean that these soldiers were in front of Jonathan, as in 1:12. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use equivalent expressions or plain language. Alternate translation: [And they died as Jonathan attacked the soldiers who were in front of him]

1 Samuel 14:14

And the first striking that Jonathan and the carrier of his equipment struck was

Quote: וַ⁠תְּהִ֞י הַ⁠מַּכָּ֣ה הָ⁠רִאשֹׁנָ֗ה אֲשֶׁ֨ר הִכָּ֧ה יוֹנָתָ֛ן וְ⁠נֹשֵׂ֥א כֵלָ֖י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

For emphasis, the author is using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language. If not, your language may have another way of showing emphasis. See how you translated the term striking in 4:10. Alternate translation: [And the first slaughter that Jonathan and his armor-bearer made was] or [And so Jonathan and his armor-bearer made a great slaughter, it was]

in} about half of a furrow {of} a yoke of a field

Quote: כְּ⁠בַ⁠חֲצִ֥י מַעֲנָ֖ה צֶ֥מֶד שָׂדֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The author is expressing a distance in terms of his culture. A yoke of a field means a field that a pair of oxen could plow in a day (about an acre or 0.4 hectares). This furrow would be one side of that (about 210 feet or 65 meters), so half a furrow would mean about 100 feet or 30 meters. Jonathan and his armor-bearer penetrated this far into the Philistine camp, killing any soldiers who tried to stop them. Alternate translation: [over a distance of about 30 meters] or [over a distance of about 100 feet]

1 Samuel 14:15

in the camp in the field and among all of the people

Quote: בַ⁠מַּחֲנֶ֤ה בַ⁠שָּׂדֶה֙ וּ⁠בְ⁠כָל־הָ⁠עָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that the camp in the field means the Philistine outpost that Jonathan attacked, while all of the people means the soldiers of the main Philistine army at Michmash. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [not only in the detachment that was guarding the pass but also among all of the soldiers in the main Philistine army at Michmash]

The garrison and the destroyer

Quote: הַ⁠מַּצָּב֙ וְ⁠הַ⁠מַּשְׁחִ֔ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since the author says that even these groups trembled in addition to the detachment and the main army, he is likely referring to other garrisons the Philistines had set up and to the raiding bands he described in 13:17. Since he is referring to multiple groups in each case, it may be more natural in your language to use plural forms. Alternate translation: [The garrisons and the destroyers] or [The soldiers in the other outposts that the Philistines had set up and in the raiding bands that they were sending out]

a trembling of God

Quote: לְ⁠חֶרְדַּ֥ת אֱלֹהִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The expression a trembling of God could be: (1) a common expression of his culture that the author is using that described something as very great by saying it belonging to God. Alternate translation: [a very great trembling] (2) an indication that God caused this trembling. Alternate translation: [a trembling caused by God]

1 Samuel 14:16

the multitude was being melted

Quote: הֶ⁠הָמ֛וֹן נָמ֖וֹג (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking of this multitude, meaning the Philistine army, as if it were a solid substance that was becoming liquid and flowing away. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the Philistine army was breaking up in confusion]

and went, even here

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֥לֶךְ וַ⁠הֲלֹֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean that people were going in many different directions. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [and was going here and there] or [and was scattering in many directions]

1 Samuel 14:18

the Box of God.” For the Box of God was with the sons of Israel on that day

Quote: אֲר֣וֹן הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֑ים כִּֽי־הָיָ֞ה אֲר֧וֹן הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֛ים בַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠ה֖וּא וּ⁠בְנֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

The ULT follows the reading of the traditional Hebrew text. One ancient version reads instead “the ephod” and “For he wore the ephod in those days before the sons of Israel.” This suits the context, since the author mentions in 14:3 that Ahijah was present and wearing an ephod, while the narrative indicates in 7:2 that the Box stayed in Kiriath Jearim for many years. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.

Bring near the Box of God

Quote: הַגִּ֖ישָׁ⁠ה אֲר֣וֹן הָ⁠אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that Saul wanted Ahijah to bring the Box so that he could use it to consult Yahweh about what to do in this situation. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Bring near the Box of God so that I can use it to consult Yahweh about what to do about this situation]

on that day

Quote: בַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠ה֖וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

1 Samuel 14:19

that going, it went and became great

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֥לֶךְ הָל֖וֹךְ וָ⁠רָ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

The author is repeating forms of the verb “go” to intensify his expression of the idea it expresses. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [that it surely went and became great]

that going, it went and became great

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֥לֶךְ הָל֖וֹךְ וָ⁠רָ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two verbal phrases connected with “and.” The phrase going, it went tells in what way the tumult became great. Alternate translation: [that it surely became great continually] or [that it surely kept increasing]

Withdraw your hand

Quote: אֱסֹ֥ף יָדֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the term hand by association to mean the activity that Ahijah was performing with his hands. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [Cease your activity]

1 Samuel 14:20

And Saul and all of the people who {were} with him were called together

Quote: וַ⁠יִּזָּעֵ֣ק שָׁא֗וּל וְ⁠כָל־הָ⁠עָם֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר אִתּ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And Saul called together all of the people who were with him]

the sword of a man was against his fellow

Quote: הָיְתָ֜ה חֶ֤רֶב אִישׁ֙ בְּ⁠רֵעֵ֔⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The author is speaking of a sword as if it were living things that could act on its own. He means that the Philistine soldiers were using their swords to attack one another. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the Philistine soldiers were attacking one another with their swords]

a very great tumult

Quote: מְהוּמָ֖ה גְּדוֹלָ֥ה מְאֹֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

1 Samuel 14:21

Now some Hebrews

Quote: וְ⁠הָ⁠עִבְרִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that by Hebrews, he means Israelites who had previously deserted to the Philistines. See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of why the author may use this term here.

were to the Philistines according to yesterday and the third day

Quote: הָי֤וּ לַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּים֙ כְּ⁠אֶתְמ֣וֹל שִׁלְשׁ֔וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the expression yesterday and the third day in 4:7. Alternate translation: [had previously deserted to the Philistines]

became} to be with

Quote: לִֽ⁠הְיוֹת֙ עִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [went back over to] or [changed sides and rejoined]

Israel who {was} with

Quote: יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר עִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the name Israel by association to mean Israelite soldiers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the Israelite soldiers who were with]

1 Samuel 14:22

and they pursued after them, they too

Quote: וַֽ⁠יַּדְבְּק֥וּ גַם־הֵ֛מָּה אַחֲרֵי⁠הֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

The author is repeating the pronoun they for emphasis. Your language might more naturally express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: [and even they pursued after them]

and they pursued after them, they too

Quote: וַֽ⁠יַּדְבְּק֥וּ גַם־הֵ֛מָּה אַחֲרֵי⁠הֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun they refers to the Israelites who had been hiding, and the pronoun them refers to the fleeing Philistine soldiers. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [and even these Israelites who had been hiding joined in pursuing the Philistines]

1 Samuel 14:23

And the battle passed over Beth Aven

Quote: וְ⁠הַ֨⁠מִּלְחָמָ֔ה עָבְרָ֖ה אֶת־בֵּ֥ית אָֽוֶן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The author is speaking of the battle as if it were a living thing that could move from one place to another on its own. He means that the pursued and fought the Philistines all the way to the city of Beth Aven and beyond it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And the Israelites continued pursuing and fighting the Philistines as far as Beth Aven and beyond]

1 Samuel 14:24

But the men of Israel were distressed on that day, for Saul had adjured the people

Quote: וְ⁠אִֽישׁ־יִשְׂרָאֵ֥ל נִגַּ֖שׂ בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠ה֑וּא וַ⁠יֹּאֶל֩ שָׁא֨וּל אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֜ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

But the men of Israel were distressed … Cursed {is} the man

Quote: וְ⁠אִֽישׁ־יִשְׂרָאֵ֥ל נִגַּ֖שׂ & אָר֣וּר הָ֠⁠אִישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use these passive forms, you could express the ideas in active form. Alternate translation: [But Saul had distressed the men of Israel… May Yahweh curse the man]

saying

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֗ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

See whether you chose to represent the term saying in 4:21, and if so, how you translated it.

bread

Quote: לֶ֜חֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Saul is using one kind of food, bread, to represent food in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [food]

Cursed {is} the man

Quote: אָר֣וּר הָ֠⁠אִישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Saul is speaking about the people he is addressing in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the second person. Alternate translation: [Cursed is any one of you]

until the evening and I have taken vengeance on my enemies

Quote: עַד־הָ⁠עֶ֗רֶב וְ⁠נִקַּמְתִּי֙ מֵ⁠אֹ֣יְבַ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

The word that the ULT translates as and indicates that the evening would be the time by when Saul would have taken vengeance on his enemies. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could describe the time relationship more explicitly. Alternate translation: [until the evening, when I will have taken vengeance on my enemies]

1 Samuel 14:25

And the whole land

Quote: וְ⁠כָל־הָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term land by association to mean the people who lived in it, specifically the Israelite men who were serving as soldiers, many of whom were coming from other parts of the land, as 14:22 describes. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And all the Israelite soldiers]

the face of the ground

Quote: פְּנֵ֥י הַ⁠שָּׂדֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The author is speaking of the ground as if it were a person who had a face. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the surface of the ground]

1 Samuel 14:26

and behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

In this instance, the expression behold does not primarily call attention to what follows. Rather, the author is using the term more literally to introduce what the people saw. Alternate translation: [and what they saw was]

But no one was reaching his hand to his mouth

Quote: וְ⁠אֵין־מַשִּׂ֤יג יָד⁠וֹ֙ אֶל־פִּ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the action of bringing food to the mouth by association to mean eating. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [But no one ate any of it]

1 Samuel 14:27

the staff

Quote: הַ⁠מַּטֶּה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By staff, the author may be referring to a spear that Jonathan was carrying, as he describes in 13:22. The term he uses can have that meaning, and the focus here may be on the wooden shaft of the spear, which Jonathan would have used to reach for this honey, rather than on the metal point. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [the spear]

and he dipped it into a comb of honey

Quote: וַ⁠יִּטְבֹּ֥ל אוֹתָ֖⁠הּ בְּ⁠יַעְרַ֣ת הַ⁠דְּבָ֑שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author seems to mean that Jonathan reached up into a tree to get honey from a honeycomb, since Jonathan could simply have picked up honey off the ground with his hands. Alternate translation: [and he reached up into a tree and used it to scoop some honey out of one of the honeycombs]

And he returned his hand to his mouth

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֤שֶׁב יָד⁠וֹ֙ אֶל־פִּ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author seems to mean that Jonathan used his hand to bring the end of his staff back to his mouth so that he could eat the honey it had collected, as Jonathan himself says in 14:43. To eat the honey, Jonathan would have held the staff with his hand near the honey-covered end of it, so in that sense he was returning his hand to his mouth. Alternate translation: [And he pulled the staff back and ate some honey off the end of it”

and his eyes brightened

Quote: וַתָּאֹ֖רְנָה עֵינָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the brightening of Jonathan’s eyes by association to mean that eating the honey restored his strength. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and this restored some of his strength]

1 Samuel 14:28

And … answered and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּעַן֩ & וַ⁠יֹּ֗אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with “and.” The word answered tells for what purpose the man said this. He was not answering a question that Jonathan had asked. He was responding to the situation. Alternate translation: [told him in response]

Adjuring, your father adjured

Quote: הַשְׁבֵּעַ֩ הִשְׁבִּ֨יעַ אָבִ֤י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

The man is repeating forms of the verb “adjure” to intensify his communication of the fact that Saul had made the people agree with his oath. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [Your father certainly adjured]

bread

Quote: לֶ֖חֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The man is using the term bread to represent food in general, as Saul did in his oath. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [food]

1 Samuel 14:29

the land

Quote: אֶת־הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this same expression in 14:25. Alternate translation: [us Israelite soldiers]

my eyes have brightened because I have tasted a little of this honey

Quote: אֹ֣רוּ עֵינַ֔⁠י כִּ֣י טָעַ֔מְתִּי מְעַ֖ט דְּבַ֥שׁ הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

my eyes have brightened because I have tasted a little of this honey

Quote: אֹ֣רוּ עֵינַ֔⁠י כִּ֣י טָעַ֔מְתִּי מְעַ֖ט דְּבַ֥שׁ הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jonathan assumes that this soldier will understand that he means that the brightening of his eyes shows that eating the honey has restored some of his strength. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [my eyes have brightened, showing that eating the honey has restored some of my strength]

1 Samuel 14:30

How much more that if eating, the people had eaten today from the plunder of

Quote: אַ֗ף כִּ֡י לוּא֩ אָכֹ֨ל אָכַ֤ל הַ⁠יּוֹם֙ הָ⁠עָ֔ם מִ⁠שְּׁלַ֥ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Jonathan is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [How much more would all of us have remained strong if eating, the people had eaten today from the plunder]

eating, the people had eaten

Quote: אָכֹ֨ל אָכַ֤ל & הָ⁠עָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Jonathan is repeating forms of the verb “eat” to intensify the expression of his wish that the people had eaten. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [the people had surely eaten]

For

Quote: כִּ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

Jonathan is using the word translated For to indicate a contrast between what could have happened and what actually happened. Alternate translation: [But instead] or [By contrast]

the striking against the Philistines

Quote: מַכָּ֖ה בַּ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the term striking in 4:10. Alternate translation: [the slaughter among 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

And the people swooped down upon the plunder

Quote: וַיַּ֤עַט הָ⁠עָם֙ אֶל־הַשָּׁלָ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking of the people as if they had been birds of prey diving for food. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And the people rushed desperately to take some of the plunder]

and sons of cattle

Quote: וּ⁠בְנֵ֥י בָקָ֖ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture that means young cattle. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation. Alternate translation: [and calves]

on the ground

Quote: אָ֑רְצָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that by slaughtering animals on the ground, the people were not hanging them up to let the blood drain out, as the law of Moses required. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [on the ground, rather than hanging them up so that the blood would drain out]

with the blood

Quote: עַל־הַ⁠דָּֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

1 Samuel 14:33

Then they declared to Saul

Quote: וַ⁠יַּגִּ֤ידוּ לְ⁠שָׁאוּל֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here the author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Then someone declared to Saul] or [Then Saul was told]

by eating with the blood

Quote: לֶ⁠אֱכֹ֣ל עַל־הַ⁠דָּ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The Israelite soldiers are leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [by eating meat with the blood still in it]

You have acted unfaithfully

Quote: בְּגַדְתֶּ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Saul means that the people have not been faithful to their covenant with Yahweh, which forbade eating meat with blood still in it. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [You have not been faithful to our covenant with Yahweh, which forbids us to eat meat with blood still in it]

Roll a great stone to me today

Quote: גֹּֽלּוּ־אֵלַ֥⁠י הַ⁠יּ֖וֹם אֶ֥בֶן גְּדוֹלָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Since the story indicates in the next verse the purpose for which Saul wanted this great stone, in your translation, you do not need to indicate that purpose here.

today

Quote: הַ⁠יּ֖וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the term today in in 9:13. Alternate translation: [right away]

1 Samuel 14:34

Disperse among the people and say to them, ‘Bring to me, a man his ox and a man his sheep, and slaughter {them} here and eat. But you shall not sin against Yahweh by eating with the blood

Quote: פֻּ֣צוּ בָ⁠עָ֡ם וַ⁠אֲמַרְתֶּ֣ם לָ⁠הֶ֡ם הַגִּ֣ישׁוּ אֵלַ⁠י֩ אִ֨ישׁ שׁוֹר֜⁠וֹ וְ⁠אִ֣ישׁ שְׂיֵ֗⁠הוּ וּ⁠שְׁחַטְתֶּ֤ם בָּ⁠זֶה֙ וַ⁠אֲכַלְתֶּ֔ם וְ⁠לֹֽא־תֶחֶטְא֥וּ לַֽ⁠יהוָ֖ה לֶ⁠אֱכֹ֣ל אֶל־הַ⁠דָּ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [Disperse among the people and tell them that each person must bring his ox or sheep to me and slaughter it here and eat it, but they must not sin against Yahweh by eating meat with blood still in it]

Bring to me, a man his ox and a man his sheep

Quote: הַגִּ֣ישׁוּ אֵלַ⁠י֩ אִ֨ישׁ שׁוֹר֜⁠וֹ וְ⁠אִ֣ישׁ שְׂיֵ֗⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Saul is using a common expression of his culture that means each person should bring his own animal. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation. Alternate translation: [Let each person bring to me the ox or sheep that he wants to eat]

with the blood

Quote: אֶל־הַ⁠דָּ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Saul is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [meat with the blood still in it]

his ox

Quote: שׁוֹר֜⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one kind of animal to mean any animal that the soldiers had seized as plunder to mean all kinds of these animals. The author states in 14:32 that the people also seized sheep and calves. If it would be helpful in your language, you could indicate that he means all of these animals. Alternate translation: [his ox or sheep or calf]

by his hand

Quote: בְ⁠יָד֛⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of a person, his hand, to mean the entire person in the act of personally leading an animal to be slaughtered. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [in person]

there

Quote: שָֽׁם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that by there, he means on the great stone that Saul had ordered to be brought, where blood from slaughtered animals would drain out properly. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [on the great stone, so that the blood would drain out]

1 Samuel 14:35

And Saul built an altar to Yahweh

Quote: וַ⁠יִּ֧בֶן שָׁא֛וּל מִזְבֵּ֖חַ לַֽ⁠יהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This was a symbolic action by which Saul was thanking and honoring Yahweh for enabling the Israelites to win this victory over the Philistines. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [And Saul built an altar to Yahweh to thank and honor him for enabling the Israelites to win this victory over the Philistines]

He began to build it, an altar to Yahweh

Quote: אֹת֣⁠וֹ הֵחֵ֔ל לִ⁠בְנ֥וֹת מִזְבֵּ֖חַ לַֽ⁠יהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean this was the first time Saul had done this. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [This was the first altar he built to Yahweh]

1 Samuel 14:36

Let us go down

Quote: נֵרְדָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the expression go down in 10:8. Alternate translation: [Let us go]

Do all of the good in your eyes

Quote: כָּל־הַ⁠טּ֥וֹב בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֖י⁠ךָ עֲשֵׂ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 1:18. Alternate translation: [Do what you think is best]

Let us draw near to God

Quote: נִקְרְבָ֥ה & אֶל־הָ⁠אֱלֹהִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The priest is speaking of consulting God as if it were physically approaching him. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Let us consult God]

here

Quote: הֲלֹ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The priest means that they should consult God before taking any further action. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [before we do anything else] or [before we decide to pursue the Philistines]

1 Samuel 14:37

But he did not answer him

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א עָנָ֖⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Yahweh, and the pronoun him refers to Saul. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [But Yahweh did not answer Saul]

on that day

Quote: בַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term day by association to mean this specific time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [at that time]

1 Samuel 14:38

all of the cornerstones of the people

Quote: כֹּ֖ל פִּנּ֣וֹת הָ⁠עָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Saul is speaking of the leaders of the people as if the people of Israel were a building and they were its cornerstones. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [all the leaders of the people]

all of the cornerstones of the people

Quote: כֹּ֖ל פִּנּ֣וֹת הָ⁠עָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Saul is speaking about the people he is addressing in the third person. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this in the second person. Alternate translation: [all you leaders of the people]

And know and see

Quote: וּ⁠דְע֣וּ וּ⁠רְא֔וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The terms know and see mean similar things. Saul is using them together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [And make sure to find out]

today

Quote: הַ⁠יּֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the term today in in 14:33. Alternate translation: [at this time]

1 Samuel 14:39

For

Quote: כִּ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Saul is using the word For not to introduce a reason but to introduce further information about his intentions. Alternate translation: [I can assure you that]

the life of Yahweh, the one having saved Israel

Quote: חַי־יְהוָ֗ה הַ⁠מּוֹשִׁ֨יעַ֙ אֶת־יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Following the conventions of his culture, Saul is swearing an oath. He is asserting that Yahweh is alive and aware of human activity and will judge and punish the person who has violated his ban on eating that day. Alternate translation: [as Yahweh, the one having saved Israel, is alive to judge us all]

dying, he shall die

Quote: מ֣וֹת יָמ֑וּת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Saul is repeating forms of the verb die to intensify his expression of how certainly he will execute the guilty person. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [he shall surely die]

1 Samuel 14:40

to … You will be to one side, and I and Jonathan my son will be to one side

Quote: אֶל & אַתֶּם֙ תִּֽהְיוּ֙ לְ⁠עֵ֣בֶר אֶחָ֔ד וַֽ⁠אֲנִי֙ וְ⁠יוֹנָתָ֣ן בְּנִ֔⁠י נִהְיֶ֖ה לְ⁠עֵ֣בֶר אֶחָ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Saul means that they will cast lots to determine who has sinned. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [We will cast lots to determine who has sinned. You will stand on one side, and Jonathan and I will stand on the other side]

Do the good in your eyes

Quote: הַ⁠טּ֥וֹב בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֖י⁠ךָ עֲשֵֽׂה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 14:36. Alternate translation: [Do what you think is best]

1 Samuel 14:41

Then Saul said to Yahweh, the God of Israel, “Give a perfect {one

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר שָׁא֗וּל אֶל־יְהוָ֛ה אֱלֹהֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל הָ֣בָ⁠ה תָמִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

The ULT follows the reading of the traditional Hebrew text. One ancient version read instead, “Then Saul said, ‘Yahweh, God of Israel, why have you not answered your servant this day? If this guilt is in me or in Jonathan my son, Yahweh, God of Israel, give Urim, but if this guilt is in thy people Israel, give Thummim.’“ The ephod that Ahijah was wearing, as 14:3 describes, contained two stones called Urim and Thummim that were used in decision-making. (See Exodus 28:30.) If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If not, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.

Give a perfect {one

Quote: הָ֣בָ⁠ה תָמִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

This is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. Alternate translation: [Please give a perfect one]

Give a perfect {one

Quote: הָ֣בָ⁠ה תָמִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Saul is using the adjective perfect as a noun to describe a particular type of object, a thrown lot of perfect accuracy. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [Please make this lot accurately indicate the guilty person]

And Jonathan and Saul were taken

Quote: וַ⁠יִּלָּכֵ֧ד יוֹנָתָ֛ן וְ⁠שָׁא֖וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: [And the lot indicated Jonathan and Saul]

but the people went out

Quote: וְ⁠הָ⁠עָ֥ם יָצָֽאוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture that means the lot did not indicate the people. Alternate translation: [but the lot did not indicate any the other soldiers]

1 Samuel 14:42

Cause it to fall between me and between Jonathan my son

Quote: הַפִּ֕ילוּ בֵּינִ֕⁠י וּ⁠בֵ֖ין יוֹנָתָ֣ן בְּנִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Saul is using a common expression of his culture that means to use a lot to make a choice. Alternate translation: [Use the lot to choose between me and Jonathan my son]

And Jonathan was taken

Quote: וַ⁠יִּלָּכֵ֖ד יוֹנָתָֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: [And the lot indicated Jonathan]

1 Samuel 14:43

And Jonathan declared to him and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּגֶּד־ל֣⁠וֹ יוֹנָתָ֗ן וַ⁠יֹּאמֶר֩ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with “and.” The word declared tells the purpose for which Jonathan said this. Alternate translation: [And Jonathan explained to him]

Tasting, I tasted

Quote: טָעֹ֨ם טָעַ֜מְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Jonathan is repeating forms of the verb “taste” to acknowledge emphatically that he did eat some honey. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [I did indeed taste]

Behold me

Quote: הִנְ⁠נִ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

See how you translated this expression in 12:3. Alternate translation: [I surrender myself]

1 Samuel 14:44

May God do thus, and may he add thus

Quote: כֹּֽה־יַעֲשֶׂ֥ה אֱלֹהִ֖ים וְ⁠כֹ֣ה יוֹסִ֑ף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Following a common practice of his culture, Saul is swearing an oath by stating only one part of a condition. In this case, he is stating the second part (“then”) but not the first part (“if”). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explicitly state the first part of this condition. Alternate translation: [If I do not execute you, may God kill me, and may God do even worse than that to me]

dying, you shall die

Quote: מ֥וֹת תָּמ֖וּת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Saul is repeating forms of the verb die to his commitment to this assertion. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [you shall certainly die]

1 Samuel 14:45

Shall Jonathan die, who has done this great salvation in Israel

Quote: הֲֽ⁠יוֹנָתָ֤ן ׀ יָמוּת֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָ֠שָׂה הַ⁠יְשׁוּעָ֨ה הַ⁠גְּדוֹלָ֣ה הַ⁠זֹּאת֮ בְּ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵל֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The people are using the question form for emphasis to express their strong opposition to executing Jonathan. If speakers of your language would not use a question for this purpose, you could translate this as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [Jonathan, who has brought this great victory to Israel, shall not die!]

Shall Jonathan die, who has done this great salvation in Israel

Quote: הֲֽ⁠יוֹנָתָ֤ן ׀ יָמוּת֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָ֠שָׂה הַ⁠יְשׁוּעָ֨ה הַ⁠גְּדוֹלָ֣ה הַ⁠זֹּאת֮ בְּ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵל֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

The people are not distinguishing this man named Jonathan from another man by the same name who has not done this great salvation. They are reminding Saul what this man has done. Be sure that this is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: [Jonathan has done this great salvation in Israel. Shall he die?] or [Jonathan has done this great salvation in Israel. He shall not die!]

Profane

Quote: חָלִ֗ילָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The people are leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need to be complete. See how you translated the similar expressions in 2:30 and 12:23. Alternate translation: [Profane to us] or [Far be it from us to let that happen]

The life of Yahweh

Quote: חַי־יְהוָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

See how you translated this same expression in 14:39. Alternate translation: [as Yahweh is alive to judge us all]

if a hair of his head shall fall to the ground

Quote: אִם־יִפֹּ֞ל מִ⁠שַּׂעֲרַ֤ת רֹאשׁ⁠וֹ֙ אַ֔רְצָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The people are using one small part of Jonathan, a single hair, to emphasize that they will not allow any harm to come to him at all. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [no one shall harm him in the slightest way]

he has done with God

Quote: עִם־אֱלֹהִ֥ים עָשָׂ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The people are using a common expression of their culture that means God helped Jonathan accomplish something. Alternate translation: [God has helped him as he acted]

So the people redeemed Jonathan

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפְדּ֥וּ הָ⁠עָ֛ם אֶת־יוֹנָתָ֖ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if the other soldiers had paid a price to buy Jonathan out of slavery or captivity. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [So the people rescued Jonathan]

1 Samuel 14:46

Then Saul went up from after the Philistines. And the Philistines went to their place

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣עַל שָׁא֔וּל מֵ⁠אַחֲרֵ֖י פְּלִשְׁתִּ֑ים וּ⁠פְלִשְׁתִּ֖ים הָלְכ֥וּ לִ⁠מְקוֹמָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory

Here the author is concluding the story of this battle with the Philistines. Your language may have its own way of ending an episode of a story.

Then Saul went up from after the Philistines

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣עַל שָׁא֔וּל מֵ⁠אַחֲרֵ֖י פְּלִשְׁתִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that Saul returned to his home city of Gibeah. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Then Saul went up to Gibeah from after the Philistines] or [Then Saul stopped pursuing the Philistines and returned home to Gibeah]

Then Saul went up from after the Philistines

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣עַל שָׁא֔וּל מֵ⁠אַחֲרֵ֖י פְּלִשְׁתִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

1 Samuel 14:47

Now Saul had taken the kingship over Israel

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁא֛וּל לָכַ֥ד הַ⁠מְּלוּכָ֖ה עַל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Starting in this verse and continuing through to the end of the chapter, the author is providing background information, apart from the main story line, about Saul’s lineage, family, and activities as king. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your language.

and with the sons of Ammon

Quote: וּ⁠בִ⁠בְנֵי־עַמּ֨וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 2:28. Alternate translation: [and with the Ammonites]

he inflicted punishment

Quote: יַרְשִֽׁיעַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that readers will understand that Saul was retaliating against these nations for attacking and oppressing the Israelites. (In the process, by fighting against them and defeating them, he was limiting their capacity to attack Israel again.) You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [he inflicted punishment on them for having attacked and oppressed the Israelites] or [he fought against and defeated them for having attacked and oppressed the Israelites, and he thereby limited them from doing that again]

1 Samuel 14:48

And he did valor

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣עַשׂ חַ֔יִל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of valor, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [And he did valiantly]

Amalek

Quote: אֶת־עֲמָלֵ֑ק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is referring to the Amalekite people by association, using the name of their ancestor. Alternate translation: [the Amalekites]

from the hand of

Quote: מִ⁠יַּ֥ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term hand by association to mean power and control. Alternate translation: [from the control of]

1 Samuel 14:49

And the names of the two of his daughters {were}: the name of the firstborn, Merab, and the name of the younger, Michal

Quote: וְ⁠שֵׁם֙ שְׁתֵּ֣י בְנֹתָ֔י⁠ו שֵׁ֤ם הַ⁠בְּכִירָה֙ מֵרַ֔ב וְ⁠שֵׁ֥ם הַ⁠קְּטַנָּ֖ה מִיכַֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [And he had two daughters, the firstborn named Merab and the younger named Michal]

the firstborn, … the younger

Quote: הַ⁠בְּכִירָה֙ & הַ⁠קְּטַנָּ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

Express these kinship relationships in terms that would be natural in your culture. The UST models one way to do that.

1 Samuel 14:50

Ahimaaz

Quote: אֲחִימָ֑עַץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Ahimaaz is the name of a man, the father of Saul’s wife Ahinoam.

the son of Ner, the uncle of Saul

Quote: בֶּן־נֵ֖ר דּ֥וֹד שָׁאֽוּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

The author means that Abner was the son of Ner and that Ner was the uncle of Saul. Express these kinship relationships in your culture’s own terms for them. The UST models one way to do that.

1 Samuel 14:51

were} the son of Abiel

Quote: בֶּן־אֲבִיאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since the author is referring to two men, Kish and Ner, it may be more natural in your language to use the plural form. Alternate translation: [were the sons of Abiel]

Abiel

Quote: אֲבִיאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Abiel is the name of a man, the father of both Kish and Ner.

1 Samuel 14:52

And the battle was strong against

Quote: וַ⁠תְּהִ֤י הַ⁠מִּלְחָמָה֙ חֲזָקָ֣ה עַל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The author is speaking of battle as if it were a living thing that could be strong. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And there was intense warfare with]

all of the days of Saul

Quote: כֹּ֖ל יְמֵ֣י שָׁא֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term days by association to mean a specific time, the entire time when Saul was king. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [throughout Saul’s reign]

any man, a warrior

Quote: כָּל־אִ֤ישׁ גִּבּוֹר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common construction of his language to mean a man who was a warrior. Express this in the way that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [any great warrior]

or any son of strength

Quote: וְ⁠כָל־בֶּן־חַ֔יִל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

In certain contexts, the biblical text uses the expression son of to indicate that a person shares the qualities of something. In this case, the author is referring to a person who was characterized by strength. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [or any strong man]

1 Samuel 15

1 Samuel 15 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter concludes the section of the book that describes how Saul became king (8–15). It relates how Saul disobeyed a direct command from Yahweh for a second time and so forfeited the kingship itself.

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 poetry in 15:22–23 and 15:33.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Why did Samuel become angry when Yahweh said he was sorry he had made Saul king?

While the author does not say specifically why Samuel became angry when Yahweh said he was sorry he had made Saul king (15:11), this seems to have been because Samuel had anointed Saul and still believed that he could be a good king. However, this was before Samuel went to Gilgal and discovered how badly Saul had disobeyed Yahweh. The author is not suggesting that there was anything sinful about Samuel feeling this emotion. It reflected Samuel’s accurate understanding of what a good king Saul could have been if he had obeyed Yahweh (as he suggested in 12:20–25).

When Saul repented of his sin, why did Samuel at first refuse to go with him to worship?

In 15:14–23, Samuel chastises Saul for disobeying Yahweh and plundering the best of the Amalekites’ animals rather than destroying all of them. At first Saul makes excuses, but in 15:24–25 he finally admits that he has sinned and asks for forgiveness. Even so, Samuel at first refuses to go back with him to where the other Israelite soldiers are and worship Yahweh. In general, the Bible promises that if people admit that they have sinned and ask forgiveness, God will forgive their sin and restore them to a condition in which they can freely worship him again. However, in this context, it appears that Saul wanted Samuel to preside at the sacrifice of the animals the soldiers had kept from the Amalekite plunder. If Samuel had done that, for one thing, he would have been implicitly approving the act of keeping those animals. Beyond that, since Yahweh had rejected Saul as king, Samuel apparently did not want to endorse his kingship any longer. So he refused to return with Saul. However, after Saul pleaded with him, “please honor me before the elders of my people and before Israel,” Samuel agreed. It appears that Samuel recognized that the Israelite people still needed to honor and respect the king they had until Yahweh appointed another one. So he did return with Saul. However, while 15:31 says that then “Saul worshiped Yahweh,” it does not say that Samuel offered any sacrifices using the animals that the Israelite soldiers had disobediently plundered.

“devote”

In this chapter, Yahweh (in 15:3) and the author (in 15:8) use a term that the ULT translates as “devote” and “devoted.” This was a specialized term that described the cultural practice of giving something over to Yahweh so that humans would no longer be able to use it. Depending on the context, this term could indicate either “destroy” or “preserve but set apart.” The context must determine the meaning, and in the context of this chapter, the term describes total destruction.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

“to the mouth of the sword”

Biblical authors often use the expression “to the mouth of the sword” in connection with the term “devoted.” That was a common expression of this culture that referred to destroying something completely. When it appears, it helps clarify what the term “devoted” means in a specific context.

“the Glory of Israel”

In 15:29, Samuel refers to Yahweh as the “Glory of Israel.” Interpreters are not entirely sure what this phrase means. The term that the ULT translates as “Glory” refers to a bright object in the distance that provides an orientation point towards which someone travels constantly. The focus could therefore be either on the brightness or on the constancy. Some versions translate this as the “Glory of Israel” or the “Splendor of Israel,” while other versions translate it with phrases such as “the Enduring One of Israel.” In context, this could be a reference either to Yahweh as glorious and divine, and therefore someone whom Saul should not have disobeyed, or to Yahweh as constant and unchanging, which is a theme in the rest of the verse. If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to follow the interpretation that it does. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to follow the interpretation of the ULT.

1 Samuel 15:1

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 6:7. Alternate translation: [So now]

listen to the voice of

Quote: שְׁמַ֔ע לְ⁠ק֖וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the expression listen to the voice in 2:25. Alternate translation: [obey]

the words of Yahweh

Quote: דִּבְרֵ֥י יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term words by association to mean the message that Yahweh wants him to communicate to Saul by using words. Alternate translation: [this message from Yahweh]

1 Samuel 15:2

Thus says Yahweh of Armies, ‘I observed

Quote: כֹּ֤ה אָמַר֙ יְהוָ֣ה צְבָא֔וֹת פָּקַ֕דְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [Yahweh of Armies says that he observed]

he set against him in the way

Quote: שָׂ֥ם ל⁠וֹ֙ בַּ⁠דֶּ֔רֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [waylaid him] or [blocked his way]

1 Samuel 15:3

Now go … and do not have compassion … but kill

Quote: עַתָּה֩ לֵ֨ךְ & וְ⁠לֹ֥א תַחְמֹ֖ל & וְ⁠הֵמַתָּ֞ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [He wants you to go … and not to have compassion … but to kill]

and strike

Quote: וְ⁠הִכִּֽיתָ֜ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar term “striking” in 4:10. Alternate translation: [and slaughter]

Amalek … is} to him, … on him

Quote: אֶת־עֲמָלֵ֗ק & ל֔⁠וֹ & עָלָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The author is speaking of the Amalekite people group as if it were a single person, their ancestor Amalek. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the Amalekites … is to them … on them]

and devote

Quote: וְ⁠הַֽחֲרַמְתֶּם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of the term devote in the Introduction to this chapter. Alternate translation: [and get rid of them and everything they own]

and do not have compassion on him

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א תַחְמֹ֖ל עָלָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the expression have compassion by association to mean “spare,” as someone would do who actually had compassion. Alternate translation: [and do not spare him]

from man to woman, from child and to infant

Quote: מֵ⁠אִ֣ישׁ עַד־אִשָּׁ֗ה מֵֽ⁠עֹלֵל֙ וְ⁠עַד־יוֹנֵ֔ק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Yahweh is speaking of two basic types of people and of one extreme of age in order to mean all people. Alternate translation: [all of the people, regardless of their age or sex]

from ox and to sheep, from camel and to donkey

Quote: מִ⁠שּׁ֣וֹר וְ⁠עַד־שֶׂ֔ה מִ⁠גָּמָ֖ל וְ⁠עַד־חֲמֽוֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

The author is speaking of two basic types of animals in order to mean all the animals that the Amalekites owned. Alternate translation: [and kill all of their herd animals and beasts of burden] or [and kill all of the animals they own]

1 Samuel 15:4

And Saul made the people hear

Quote: וַ⁠יְשַׁמַּ֤ע שָׁאוּל֙ אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term hear by association to mean that Saul summoned and gathered the people. Alternate translation: [And Saul gathered the people]

at Telaim

Quote: בַּ⁠טְּלָאִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Telaim could be: (1) the name of a city within the territory of Judah that is called by the similar name Telem in Joshua 15:24. (2) a description of an open area where shepherds collected their lambs from the surrounding pastures at the end of the grazing season. (The word “telaim” means “lambs” in Hebrew.) Alternate translation: [in a large open area]

the people

Quote: אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the term “people” in 13:2 and in its frequent occurrences in chapters 13 and 14. The author assumes that readers will understand that in this, the term means the fighting men of Israel. It has this same meaning throughout this chapter, except in verses 8 and 30. Alternate translation: [the fighting men of Israel]

and 10,000 men of Judah

Quote: וַ⁠עֲשֶׂ֥רֶת אֲלָפִ֖ים אֶת־אִ֥ישׁ יְהוּדָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion in the Introduction to Chapter 11 of why the author gives a separate total of the soldiers who came from the tribe of Judah.

1 Samuel 15:5

Saul … and he lay in ambush

Quote: שָׁא֖וּל & וַ⁠יָּ֖רֶב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using Saul name to represent him and his entire army. Alternate translation: [Saul and the Israelite army … they lay in ambush]

the city of Amalek

Quote: עִ֣יר עֲמָלֵ֑ק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Since the author describes in 15:8 how the Israelites captured the king of Amalek, he seems to mean here that this was the royal city or capital city of the Amalekites. Alternate translation: [the royal city of the Amalekites]

1 Samuel 15:6

Go, depart, go down from the midst of the Amalekite, lest I remove you with him. For you yourself did kindness with all of the sons of Israel in their coming up from Egypt

Quote: לְכוּ֩ סֻּ֨רוּ רְד֜וּ מִ⁠תּ֣וֹךְ עֲמָלֵקִ֗י פֶּן־אֹֽסִפְ⁠ךָ֙ עִמּ֔⁠וֹ וְ⁠אַתָּ֞ה עָשִׂ֤יתָה חֶ֨סֶד֙ עִם־כָּל־בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל בַּ⁠עֲלוֹתָ֖⁠ם מִ⁠מִּצְרָ֑יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since you yourself did kindness with all of the sons of Israel in their coming up from Egypt, go, depart, go down from the midst of the Amalekite, lest I remove you with him]

to the Kenite, “… the Amalekite, … with him. … And the Kenite departed

Quote: אֶֽל־הַ⁠קֵּינִ֡י & עֲמָלֵקִ֗י & עִמּ֔⁠וֹ & וַ⁠יָּ֥סַר קֵינִ֖י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The author is not referring to a specific Kenite or Amalekite. He means the members of these people groups in general. It may be more natural in your language to use plural forms. Alternate translation: [to the Kenites … the Amalekites … with them … And the Kenites]

I remove you … For you yourself did kindness

Quote: אֹֽסִפְ⁠ךָ֙ & וְ⁠אַתָּ֞ה עָשִׂ֤יתָה חֶ֨סֶד֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

Since the author is describing Saul addressing a generic Kenite, the pronouns you and yourself are singular. However, since Saul is actually addressing a group of people, the implied “you” in the imperatives Go, depart, and go down is plural. If you decide to translate the singular names of people groups in this verse as plurals, it may be natural in your language to use plural second-person pronouns here, if your language marks that distinction.

Go, depart, go down from the midst of

Quote: לְכוּ֩ סֻּ֨רוּ רְד֜וּ מִ⁠תּ֣וֹךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

These three expressions mean similar things. (A doublet can consist of more than two terms.) Saul is using these expressions together to convey emphasis and urgency. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the meaning with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [Be sure that you immediately get entirely away from]

go down

Quote: רְד֜וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the expression go down in 10:8. Alternate translation: [go]

For you yourself did kindness with all of the sons of Israel

Quote: וְ⁠אַתָּ֞ה עָשִׂ֤יתָה חֶ֨סֶד֙ עִם־כָּל־בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of kindness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [For you yourself treated all of the sons of Israel kindly]

For you yourself did kindness

Quote: וְ⁠אַתָּ֞ה עָשִׂ֤יתָה חֶ֨סֶד֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

For emphasis, Saul is stating the pronoun you, whose meaning is already present in the verb translated did kindness. If your language can state implied pronouns explicitly for emphasis, you may want to use that construction here in your translation. Other languages may have other ways of bringing out this emphasis. The ULT does so by using the intensive pronoun yourself. Alternate translation: [For you, for your part, did kindness]

the sons of Israel

Quote: בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 2:28. Alternate translation: [the Israelites]

1 Samuel 15:7

to} your coming

Quote: בּוֹאֲ⁠ךָ֣ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

Since the author is addressing an individual reader, the pronoun your is singular. So use the singular form in your translation if your language marks that distinction. Some languages may find it more natural to use a different pronoun. Alternate translation: [to where one comes]

the face of Egypt

Quote: פְּנֵ֥י מִצְרָֽיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The term face has a similar sense here as in 14:25. Alternate translation: [the border of Egypt]

1 Samuel 15:8

Now he seized Agag, the king of Amalek, alive

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתְפֹּ֛שׂ אֶת־אֲגַ֥ג מֶֽלֶךְ־עֲמָלֵ֖ק חָ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

Now he seized … but he devoted

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתְפֹּ֛שׂ & וְ⁠אֶת & הֶחֱרִ֥ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using Saul to represent him and his entire army. Alternate translation: [Now Saul and his army seized … but they devoted]

but he devoted

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת & הֶחֱרִ֥ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

To translate the term devoted here and in the rest of this chapter, see how you decided to translate it in 15:3.

to the mouth of the sword

Quote: לְ⁠פִי־חָֽרֶב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See the discussion of this phrase in the Introduction to this chapter. Alternate translation: [by destroying them completely]

1 Samuel 15:9

But … had compassion on Agag and on the best of … and on the lambs and on all of the good

Quote: וַ⁠יַּחְמֹל֩ & עַל־אֲגָ֗ג וְ⁠עַל־מֵיטַ֣ב & וְ⁠עַל־הַ⁠כָּרִים֙ וְ⁠עַל־כָּל־הַ⁠טּ֔וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the expression “have compassion on” in 15:3. Alternate translation: [spared Agag and the best of … and the lambs … and all of the good]

and the second ones

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠מִּשְׁנִ֤ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) second-born animals, which people in this culture considered to be superior. Alternate translation: [and the second-born animals] or [and the superior animals] (2) fattened animals. Alternate translation: [and the fatlings]

and on the lambs

Quote: הַ⁠כָּרִים֙ וְ⁠עַל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The term translated as lambs here refers specifically to lambs that have grazed in pastures and whose meat would therefore be particularly flavorful. Your language may have an expression that you could use in your translation to convey this meaning. Alternate translation: [and on the free-range lambs] or [and on the pasture-fed lambs]

[GL Quote Not Found!]

Quote: וְ⁠עַל & כָּל־הַ⁠טּ֔וֹב (2)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

The author is using the adjective good as a noun to mean a certain kind of thing. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [and on everything else that was good]

But all of the despised and weakened property

Quote: וְ⁠כָל־הַ⁠מְּלָאכָ֛ה נְמִבְזָ֥ה וְ⁠נָמֵ֖ס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this context, the term property refers to animals that people domesticate and raise. Alternate translation: [But all of the despised and weakened livestock]

But all of the despised and weakened property

Quote: וְ⁠כָל־הַ⁠מְּלָאכָ֛ה נְמִבְזָ֥ה וְ⁠נָמֵ֖ס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: [But all of the livestock that people despised and that was weak]

But all of the despised and weakened property

Quote: וְ⁠כָל־הַ⁠מְּלָאכָ֛ה נְמִבְזָ֥ה וְ⁠נָמֵ֖ס (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word weakened tells why this property was despised. Alternate translation: [But all of the despicably weak livestock] or [But all of the livestock that people despised because it was weak]

1 Samuel 15:10

And the word of Yahweh was to Samuel

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי֙ דְּבַר־יְהוָ֔ה אֶל־שְׁמוּאֵ֖ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term word by association to mean a message that Yahweh communicated by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And a message from Yahweh came to Samuel]

And the word of Yahweh was to Samuel

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי֙ דְּבַר־יְהוָ֔ה אֶל־שְׁמוּאֵ֖ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The author is speaking of word as if it were a living thing that could have come to Samuel by itself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And Yahweh spoke a message to Samuel]

saying

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

See whether you chose to represent the term saying in 4:21 and, if so, how you translated it.

1 Samuel 15:11

I regret that I have made Saul reign as king, for he has turned from after me and has not raised up my words

Quote: נִחַ֗מְתִּי כִּֽי־הִמְלַ֤כְתִּי אֶת־שָׁאוּל֙ לְ⁠מֶ֔לֶךְ כִּֽי־שָׁב֙ מֵ⁠אַֽחֲרַ֔⁠י וְ⁠אֶת־דְּבָרַ֖⁠י לֹ֣א הֵקִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because Saul has turned from after me and has not raised up my words, I regret that I have made him king]

he has turned from after me and has not raised up my words

Quote: שָׁב֙ מֵ⁠אַֽחֲרַ֔⁠י וְ⁠אֶת־דְּבָרַ֖⁠י לֹ֣א הֵקִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The first expresses the idea positively and the second expresses it negatively. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [he has completely stopped obeying me]

he has turned from after me

Quote: שָׁב֙ מֵ⁠אַֽחֲרַ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if Saul had been physically following him but had turned away. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [he has stopped obeying me]

and has not raised up my words

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־דְּבָרַ֖⁠י לֹ֣א הֵקִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if his words were objects that Saul could have raised up. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and has not accomplished what I told him to do]

And it was hot to Samuel

Quote: וַ⁠יִּ֨חַר֙ לִ⁠שְׁמוּאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture that describes a person becoming extremely angry. Your culture may also associate anger with heat or with some other phenomenon, and if so, you could use its characteristic expression in your translation. You could also use plain language. See how you translated the similar expression in 11:6. Alternate translation: [And Samuel became very angry]

1 Samuel 15:12

And it was declared to Samuel

Quote: וַ⁠יֻּגַּ֨ד לִ⁠שְׁמוּאֵ֜ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And someone declared to Samuel]

a hand

Quote: יָ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The person speaking to Samuel is using the term hand by association to mean a monument. He may be doing this because: (1) ancient monuments may have had an image of a hand engraved or sculpted on them as a symbol of power and strength. (2) monuments called attention to an achievement, as a gesturing hand would do. Alternate translation: [a monument]

1 Samuel 15:13

May} you {be} blessed by Yahweh

Quote: בָּר֤וּךְ אַתָּה֙ לַֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [May Yahweh bless you]

May} you {be} blessed by Yahweh

Quote: בָּר֤וּךְ אַתָּה֙ לַֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

Saul is greeting Samuel with a customary, courteous expression of good wishes. In your translation, you can use a comparable expression from your language and culture.

I have raised up the word of Yahweh

Quote: הֲקִימֹ֖תִי אֶת־דְּבַ֥ר יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Saul is speaking as if Yahweh’s word were an object that he could have raised up. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. See how you translated the similar expression in 15:11. Alternate translation: [I have done what Yahweh commanded]

1 Samuel 15:14

Then what {is} this sound of a flock in my ears? And the sound of cattle that I am hearing

Quote: וּ⁠מֶ֛ה קֽוֹל־הַ⁠צֹּ֥אן הַ⁠זֶּ֖ה בְּ⁠אָזְנָ֑⁠י וְ⁠ק֣וֹל הַ⁠בָּקָ֔ר אֲשֶׁ֥ר אָנֹכִ֖י שֹׁמֵֽעַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Samuel is using the question form for emphasis, in order to challenge what Saul has just said. If speakers of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: [That cannot be true, because I hear the sound of a flock and the sound of cattle]

in my ears

Quote: בְּ⁠אָזְנָ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term ears by association to mean hearing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [that I am hearing]

1 Samuel 15:15

They have brought them from the Amalekite. For the people had compassion on the best of the flock and the cattle, to sacrifice {them} to Yahweh your God

Quote: מֵ⁠עֲמָלֵקִ֣י הֱבִיא֗וּ⁠ם אֲשֶׁ֨ר חָמַ֤ל הָ⁠עָם֙ עַל־מֵיטַ֤ב הַ⁠צֹּאן֙ וְ⁠הַ⁠בָּקָ֔ר לְמַ֥עַן זְבֹ֖חַ לַ⁠יהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because the people had compassion on the best of the flock and cattle, to sacrifice them to Yahweh your God, they have brought them from the Amalekite]

from the Amalekite

Quote: מֵ⁠עֲמָלֵקִ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Saul is not referring to a specific Amalekite. He means the Amalekite people in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [from the Amalekites]

had compassion on

Quote: חָמַ֤ל & עַל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 15:3. Alternate translation: [spared]

the best of

Quote: מֵיטַ֤ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Saul is using the adjective best as a noun to mean a certain kind of animal. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [the best animals among]

your God

Quote: אֱלֹהֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Saul may be using the pronoun your in order to acknowledge Samuel as a man of God. However, since he is referring to Yahweh, the God of all the Israelites, it may be more natural in your language to use a plural first-person pronoun. Alternate translation: [our God]

1 Samuel 15:16

And he said to him

Quote: וַיֹּ֥אמֶר ל֖⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Saul, while the pronoun him refers to Samuel. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And Saul said to Samuel]

1 Samuel 15:17

Is it} not, if you {were} small in your eyes, you {are} the head of the tribes of Israel

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֗וֹא אִם־קָטֹ֤ן אַתָּה֙ בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֔י⁠ךָ רֹ֛אשׁ שִׁבְטֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל אָ֑תָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Samuel is using the question form for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: [You must acknowledge that even though you were small in your eyes, you are the head of the tribes of Israel]

Is it} not

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֗וֹא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Samuel is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [Is it not the case that]

if you {were} small

Quote: אִם־קָטֹ֤ן אַתָּה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Samuel is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, then you could translate this as a confident statement. Alternate translation: [though you were small]

in your eyes

Quote: בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:18. (Samuel is referring here to Saul’s protest in 9:21 that he was from the smallest clan of the smallest tribe.) Alternate translation: [in your own regard]

you {are} the head of the tribes of Israel? For Yahweh has anointed you as king over Israel

Quote: רֹ֛אשׁ שִׁבְטֵ֥י יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל אָ֑תָּה וַ⁠יִּמְשָׁחֲ⁠ךָ֧ יְהוָ֛ה לְ⁠מֶ֖לֶךְ עַל־יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [since Yahweh has anointed you as king over Israel, you are the head of the tribes of Israel]

are} the head of

Quote: רֹ֛אשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term head by association to mean leadership. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the leader of]

1 Samuel 15:18

And Yahweh sent you on your way, and he said, ‘Go, and you shall devote the sinners, Amalek. And you shall fight with him until the finishing of them

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁלָחֲ⁠ךָ֥ יְהוָ֖ה בְּ⁠דָ֑רֶךְ וַ⁠יֹּ֗אמֶר לֵ֣ךְ וְ⁠הַחֲרַמְתָּ֞ה אֶת־הַֽ⁠חַטָּאִים֙ אֶת־עֲמָלֵ֔ק וְ⁠נִלְחַמְתָּ֣ ב֔⁠וֹ עַ֥ד כַּלּוֹתָ֖⁠ם אֹתָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

Samuel is describing one event before describing another event that preceded it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they happened. Alternate translation: [And Yahweh said, ‘Go, and you shall devote the sinners, Amalek, and you shall fight with him until the finishing of them,’ and he sent you on your way]

and he said, ‘Go, and you shall devote the sinners, Amalek. And you shall fight with him until the finishing of them

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֗אמֶר לֵ֣ךְ וְ⁠הַחֲרַמְתָּ֞ה אֶת־הַֽ⁠חַטָּאִים֙ אֶת־עֲמָלֵ֔ק וְ⁠נִלְחַמְתָּ֣ ב֔⁠וֹ עַ֥ד כַּלּוֹתָ֖⁠ם אֹתָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [and he told you to go and devote the sinners, Amalek, and to fight with him until you had finished them]

on your way

Quote: בְּ⁠דָ֑רֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if Saul’s task were a physical path he could follow. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to do a specific task]

Amalek. … with him

Quote: אֶת־עֲמָלֵ֔ק & ב֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the name of the ancestor of this people group by association to mean the people group itself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the Amalekites … with them]

1 Samuel 15:19

So why did you not listen to the voice of Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠לָ֥⁠מָּה לֹא־שָׁמַ֖עְתָּ בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Samuel is using the question form for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [So you ought to have listened to the voice of Yahweh!]

So why did you not listen to the voice of Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠לָ֥⁠מָּה לֹא־שָׁמַ֖עְתָּ בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the expression listen to the voice in 15:1. Alternate translation: [So why did you not obey Yahweh]

But you swooped down on the plunder

Quote: וַ⁠תַּ֨עַט֙ אֶל־הַ⁠שָּׁלָ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if Saul and his men were birds of prey that had swooped down on their victims. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. See how you translated the similar expression in 14:32. Alternate translation: [But you rushed desperately to seize plunder for yourself]

evil

Quote: הָ⁠רַ֖ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Samuel is using the adjective evil as a noun to mean a certain kind of action. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [an evil thing]

in the eyes of Yahweh

Quote: בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֥י יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term eyes by association to mean judgment or evaluation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in Yahweh’s regard]

1 Samuel 15:20

I have listened to the voice of Yahweh, and I have gone on the way that Yahweh sent me

Quote: שָׁמַ֨עְתִּי֙ בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל יְהוָ֔ה וָ⁠אֵלֵ֕ךְ בַּ⁠דֶּ֖רֶךְ אֲשֶׁר־שְׁלָחַ֣⁠נִי יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [I have obeyed Yahweh by carrying out the task he gave me]

And I have brought Agag, the king of Amalek, and I have devoted Amalek

Quote: וָ⁠אָבִ֗יא אֶת־אֲגַג֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ עֲמָלֵ֔ק וְ⁠אֶת־עֲמָלֵ֖ק הֶחֱרַֽמְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

Saul is using the words that the ULT translates as And … and to indicate that while his first statement is true, at the same time, his second statement is equally true. Alternate translation: [While I have brought Agag, the king of Amalek, I have also devoted Amalek]

Amalek

Quote: עֲמָלֵ֔ק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the name of the ancestor of this people group by association to mean the people group itself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the Amalekites] or [the rest of the Amalekites]

1 Samuel 15:21

the first of

Quote: רֵאשִׁ֣ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this context, the term first does not refer to animals that the Israelite soldiers encountered before encountering other animals. It means first in terms of quality. Alternate translation: [the best of]

the devoted thing

Quote: הַ⁠חֵ֑רֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Saul is referring to a group of animals, it may be more natural in your language to use the plural form. Alternate translation: [the devoted things]

your God

Quote: אֱלֹהֶ֖י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

See how you translated the same expression in 15:15. Alternate translation: [our God]

1 Samuel 15:22

Is} the delight of Yahweh in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in listening to the voice of Yahweh

Quote: הַ⁠חֵ֤פֶץ לַֽ⁠יהוָה֙ בְּ⁠עֹל֣וֹת וּ⁠זְבָחִ֔ים כִּ⁠שְׁמֹ֖עַ בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Is} the delight of Yahweh in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in listening to the voice of Yahweh

Quote: הַ⁠חֵ֤פֶץ לַֽ⁠יהוָה֙ בְּ⁠עֹל֣וֹת וּ⁠זְבָחִ֔ים כִּ⁠שְׁמֹ֖עַ בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Samuel is using the question form for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [Yahweh does not delight so much in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in listening to the voice of Yahweh!]

as in listening to the voice of Yahweh

Quote: לַֽ⁠יהוָה֙ & כִּ⁠שְׁמֹ֖עַ בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the expression listen to the voice in 15:1. Alternate translation: [as in people obeying him]

listening {is} better than sacrifice, to pay attention than the fat of rams

Quote: שְׁמֹ֨עַ֙ מִ⁠זֶּ֣בַח ט֔וֹב לְ⁠הַקְשִׁ֖יב מֵ⁠חֵ֥לֶב אֵילִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The second emphasizes the meaning of the first by repeating the same idea with different words. Samuel is speaking poetically here, and Hebrew poetry was based on this kind of repetition. It would be good to show this to your readers by including both phrases in your translation rather than combining them. It may be clearer in your language to connect the phrases with a word other than and in order to show that the second phrase is repeating the first one, not saying something additional. Alternate translation: [listening is better than sacrifice, indeed, to pay attention is better than the fat of rams]

to pay attention

Quote: לְ⁠הַקְשִׁ֖יב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term pay attention by association to mean obedience. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [to comply]

than the fat of rams

Quote: מֵ⁠חֵ֥לֶב אֵילִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

1 Samuel 15:23

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For provides not a reason but a further explanation. Alternate translation: [After all]

rebellion {is} the sin of divination, and to insist {is} iniquity and teraphim

Quote: חַטַּאת־קֶ֨סֶם֙ מֶ֔רִי וְ⁠אָ֥וֶן וּ⁠תְרָפִ֖ים הַפְצַ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if rebellion and stubborn insistence were actually the same things as divination and teraphim. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [rebellion is like the sin of divination, and to insist is like iniquity and teraphim] or [rebellion is as bad as the sin of divination, and to insist is as bad as iniquity and teraphim]

and to insist {is} iniquity

Quote: וְ⁠אָ֥וֶן & הַפְצַ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

and … is} iniquity and teraphim

Quote: וְ⁠אָ֥וֶן וּ⁠תְרָפִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The term teraphim describes idols that people in this culture kept in their homes. If your readers would not be familiar with what these were, in your translation you could use the name of a similar thing that your readers would recognize, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [is iniquity and household idols]

and … is} iniquity and teraphim

Quote: וְ⁠אָ֥וֶן וּ⁠תְרָפִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word teraphim tells what kind of iniquity this is. Alternate translation: [is the iniquity of worshiping idols] or [is the sin of idolatry]

the word of Yahweh

Quote: אֶת־דְּבַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term word by association to mean what Yahweh commanded by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the command of Yahweh]

1 Samuel 15:24

I have sinned. For I have crossed over the mouth of Yahweh and your words, because I feared the people and listened to their voice

Quote: חָטָ֔אתִי כִּֽי־עָבַ֥רְתִּי אֶת־פִּֽי־יְהוָ֖ה וְ⁠אֶת־דְּבָרֶ֑י⁠ךָ כִּ֤י יָרֵ֨אתִי֙ אֶת־הָ⁠עָ֔ם וָ⁠אֶשְׁמַ֖ע בְּ⁠קוֹלָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because I feared the people and listened to their voice, I have crossed over the mouth of Yahweh and your words, and so I have sinned]

I have crossed over

Quote: עָבַ֥רְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Saul is speaking as if Yahweh’s commands were a boundary that he had physically crossed. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [I have gone beyond] or [I have disobeyed]

the mouth of Yahweh and your words

Quote: אֶת־פִּֽי־יְהוָ֖ה וְ⁠אֶת־דְּבָרֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the terms mouth and words by association to mean what Yahweh commanded by using his mouth, which Samuel relayed by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [what Yahweh told me to do and what you said I should do]

and listened to their voice

Quote: וָ⁠אֶשְׁמַ֖ע בְּ⁠קוֹלָֽ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 15:1. Alternate translation: [and did what they urged me to do]

1 Samuel 15:25

take away my sin

Quote: שָׂ֥א & אֶת־חַטָּאתִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Saul is speaking as if sin were an object that could be physically removed. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [pardon my sin] or [ask Yahweh to forgive my sin]

and return with me so I may worship Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠שׁ֣וּב עִמִּ֔⁠י וְ⁠אֶֽשְׁתַּחֲוֶ֖ה לַֽ⁠יהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Saul seems to be asking Samuel to sacrifice some of the plundered animals himself in order to lead him and his soldiers in worship. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. The UST models one way to do that.

1 Samuel 15:26

I will not return with you. For you have rejected the word of Yahweh, so Yahweh has rejected you from {being} king over Israel

Quote: לֹ֥א אָשׁ֖וּב עִמָּ֑⁠ךְ כִּ֤י מָאַ֨סְתָּה֙ אֶת־דְּבַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה וַ⁠יִּמְאָסְ⁠ךָ֣ יְהוָ֔ה מִ⁠הְי֥וֹת מֶ֖לֶךְ עַל־יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because you have rejected the word of Yahweh, Yahweh has rejected you from being king over Israel, so I will not return with you]

the word of Yahweh

Quote: אֶת־דְּבַ֣ר יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 15:23. Alternate translation: [the command of Yahweh]

1 Samuel 15:27

but he seized the edge of his robe

Quote: וַ⁠יַּחֲזֵ֥ק בִּ⁠כְנַף־מְעִיל֖⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Saul, while the pronoun his refers to Samuel. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [but Saul seized the edge of Samuel’s robe]

and it was torn

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקָּרַֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and the robe tore] or [and Saul tore it]

1 Samuel 15:28

Yahweh has torn the kingdom of Israel from upon you today, and he has given it to your fellow

Quote: קָרַ֨ע יְהוָ֜ה אֶֽת־מַמְלְכ֧וּת יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל מֵ⁠עָלֶ֖י⁠ךָ הַ⁠יּ֑וֹם וּ⁠נְתָנָ֕⁠הּ לְ⁠רֵעֲ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Samuel is using the past tense to describe something that is going to happen in the future in order to show that the event will certainly happen. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: [Yahweh has decided today to tear the kingdom of Israel from upon you, and he is going to give it to your fellow]

Yahweh has torn the kingdom of Israel from upon you

Quote: קָרַ֨ע יְהוָ֜ה אֶֽת־מַמְלְכ֧וּת יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל מֵ⁠עָלֶ֖י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if the kingdom were a garment that could be torn away from Saul. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [Yahweh has taken the kingdom of Israel away from you]

1 Samuel 15:29

the Glory of Israel

Quote: נֵ֣צַח יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term that the ULT translates as Glory by association to mean God. See the discussion of this term in the Introduction to this chapter. Alternate translation: [the glorious God of Israel] or [the unchanging God of Israel]

For indeed

Quote: וְ⁠גַם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For provides not a reason but a further explanation. Alternate translation: [After all]

1 Samuel 15:30

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Saul. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And Saul said]

honor me before the elders of my people and before Israel, and return with me so I may worship Yahweh your God

Quote: כַּבְּדֵ֥⁠נִי & נֶ֥גֶד זִקְנֵֽי־עַמִּ֖⁠י וְ⁠נֶ֣גֶד יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל וְ⁠שׁ֣וּב עִמִּ֔⁠י וְ⁠הִֽשְׁתַּחֲוֵ֖יתִי לַֽ⁠יהוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Saul is describing something in the second clause that will have the result he describes in the first clause. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this in your translation. Alternate translation: [honor me before the elders of my people and before Israel by returning with me so I may worship Yahweh your God]

Israel

Quote: יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the name of the ancestor of his people group by association to mean the people group itself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the other Israelites]

1 Samuel 15:31

[GL Quote Not Found!]

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

And Agag went

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֣לֶךְ & אֲגַ֖ג (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

In this context, your language might say “came” instead of went. Alternate translation: [And Agag came]

in} bonds

Quote: מַעֲדַנֹּ֑ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The term that the ULT translates as {in} bonds could describe: (1) how the Israelites had bound Agag as a prisoner. Alternate translation: [tied up] (2) the attitude of Agag, which interpreters understand in various ways. Alternate translation: [cheerfully] or [confidently] or [hesitantly] or [trembling]

the bitterness of death

Quote: מַר־הַ⁠מָּֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Agag is using this possessive form to describe death as something that has bitterness associated with it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this with a different expression that does not use a possessive form. Alternate translation: [the bitter experience that is death]

has turned aside

Quote: סָ֥ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Agag is speaking as if death were a traveler who had turned aside from his path. Your language may have a comparable expression that you could use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [is no longer something I need to be concerned about]

1 Samuel 15:33

your sword has made women childless

Quote: שִׁכְּלָ֤ה נָשִׁים֙ חַרְבֶּ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Samuel is speaking of Agag’s sword as if it were a living thing that could have made women childless by itself. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [you have killed the children of many women with your sword]

your sword has made women childless

Quote: שִׁכְּלָ֤ה נָשִׁים֙ חַרְבֶּ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Samuel is using the sword of one of the Amalekites, their king and commander Agag, to represent all of them in the act of killing people with their swords. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [with your swords, you and the Amalekites you have commanded have made women childless]

to the face of Yahweh

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י יְהוָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term face by association to mean presence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in the presence of Yahweh]

1 Samuel 16

1 Samuel 16 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter begins the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). Several years passed between the time when Samuel anointed David, as this chapter describes, and the time when David finally became king. In the meantime, Saul continued to reign. So this part of the book also continues to describe what Saul did as king.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Did Yahweh tell Samuel to lie?

In 16:1, Yahweh tells Samuel to go to Bethlehem and anoint one of Jesse’s sons to be the next king. Samuel replies in 16:2 that if Saul hears about this, he will kill him. Yahweh tells Samuel in 16:3 that he should tell the people of Bethlehem, “I have come to sacrifice to Yahweh.” Was Yahweh telling Samuel to lie by saying that he had come for one reason when he had really come for a different reason?

Yahweh is actually telling Samuel not to say anything more than he needs to. As the author explains in 7:16, Samuel would regularly go about the Israelite cities and towns in his role as a judge. As 9:13 shows, Samuel would also offer sacrifices and invite people to join him in eating the meat of those animals as a feast in order to thank and honor Yahweh and to enjoy fellowship together. So Samuel could have gone to Bethlehem anyway as part of his regular duties, and his trip there actually did involve holding a feast for the elders of the town. But it also included a private visit with Jesse’s family, during which he anointed David. So Yahweh was not telling him to lie, he was advising him, for his own safety, to keep the private part of his visit private.

Why did the elders of Bethlehem tremble with fear when Samuel arrived?

The author says in 16:4 that when Samuel arrived in Bethlehem, “the elders of the city trembled to meet him.” The author does not state specifically why the elders were afraid. One possibility is that they thought that someone in their town, or the whole town collectively, had done something wrong and that Samuel had come to denounce them and declare that Yahweh was going to punish them. Another possibility is that the elders of Bethlehem knew that Samuel had had a bitter dispute with Saul and was no longer seeing him in person, as 15:35 states. They may have been very leery about potentially being drawn into this dispute between their longtime judge and the man who was now their king. However, since the author does not say specifically why the elders were afraid, we recommend that you do not suggest a reason in the text of your translation. In this case, say no more than the biblical text does.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

Did Yahweh send a “bad” spirit or an “evil” spirit to Saul?

The author relates in 16:13–14 that when Samuel anointed David, the Spirit of Yahweh rushed upon David, but the Spirit of Yahweh turned away from Saul and instead a “bad” spirit from Yahweh terrified him. Some versions of the Bible translate this as an “evil” spirit. The Hebrew term can have either meaning, depending on the context. The term should be understood to mean “bad” in this context. The Bible as a whole makes clear that God does not use evil means to accomplish his purposes. Moreover, the term “bad” may describe the effects of this spirit rather than its character. The spirit made Saul feel bad, and this may be because it made him mindful of how he had willfully disobeyed Yahweh and forfeited the kingship. Saul may have been terrified of how Yahweh would fulfill the judgment that Samuel had pronounced against him: “Yahweh has torn the kingdom of Israel from upon you today, and he has given it to your fellow, one better than you.”

1 Samuel 16:1

Until when will you be mourning for Saul, since I myself have rejected him from {being} king over Israel

Quote: עַד־מָתַי֙ אַתָּה֙ מִתְאַבֵּ֣ל אֶל־שָׁא֔וּל וַ⁠אֲנִ֣י מְאַסְתִּ֔י⁠ו מִ⁠מְּלֹ֖ךְ עַל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Yahweh is using the question form for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: [You should not continue to mourn for Saul, since I myself have rejected him from being king over Israel]

Until when will you be mourning for Saul, since I myself have rejected him from {being} king over Israel

Quote: עַד־מָתַי֙ אַתָּה֙ מִתְאַבֵּ֣ל אֶל־שָׁא֔וּל וַ⁠אֲנִ֣י מְאַסְתִּ֔י⁠ו מִ⁠מְּלֹ֖ךְ עַל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since I myself have rejected Saul from being king over Israel, you should not continue to mourn for him]

Fill your horn {with} oil

Quote: מַלֵּ֨א קַרְנְ⁠ךָ֜ שֶׁ֗מֶן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Yahweh assumes that Samuel will know that he is to use this oil to anoint a new king. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Fill your horn with oil so that you can anoint a new king]

I am sending you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have seen among his sons a king for me

Quote: אֶֽשְׁלָחֲ⁠ךָ֙ אֶל־יִשַׁ֣י בֵּֽית־הַלַּחְמִ֔י כִּֽי־רָאִ֧יתִי בְּ⁠בָנָ֛י⁠ו לִ֖⁠י מֶֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because I have seen among the sons of Jesse the Bethlehemite a king for me, I am sending you to him]

1 Samuel 16:2

How shall I go

Quote: אֵ֣יךְ אֵלֵ֔ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

If Saul hears

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁמַ֥ע שָׁא֖וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Samuel is not stating his full meaning explicitly, but it is clear from the context. You could indicate it explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [If Saul hears that I have gone to anoint a different king]

in your hand

Quote: בְּ⁠יָדֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Yahweh is using one part of Samuel, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of bringing something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [with you]

and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠אָ֣מַרְתָּ֔ לִ⁠זְבֹּ֥חַ לַֽ⁠יהוָ֖ה בָּֽאתִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [and say that you have come to sacrifice to Yahweh]

1 Samuel 16:4

And the elders of the city trembled

Quote: וַ⁠יֶּחֶרְד֞וּ זִקְנֵ֤י הָ⁠עִיר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author means that the elders of Bethlehem trembled with fear when they saw Samuel coming. See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of why they may have done so. Alternate translation: [And the elders of the city trembled with fear]

Is} your coming {in} peace

Quote: שָׁלֹ֥ם בּוֹאֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of coming, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [Have you come here peaceably] or [Is this a friendly visit]

1 Samuel 16:5

In} peace

Quote: שָׁל֗וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

And he consecrated Jesse and his sons, and he invited them to the sacrifice

Quote: וַ⁠יְקַדֵּ֤שׁ אֶת־יִשַׁי֙ וְ⁠אֶת־בָּנָ֔י⁠ו וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֥א לָ⁠הֶ֖ם לַ⁠זָּֽבַח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

1 Samuel 16:6

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

See how you translated this phrase in 1:12. Here the author is using it to introduce a new development in this episode. Use a word, phrase, or other method in your language that is natural for introducing a new development.

in their coming, that he saw

Quote: בְּ⁠בוֹאָ֔⁠ם וַ⁠יַּ֖רְא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun their refers to Jesse and his sons, while the pronoun he refers to Samuel. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [when Jesse and his sons arrived, that Samuel saw]

his anointed one

Quote: מְשִׁיחֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Samuel is using the past tense to describe something that is going to happen in the future. He is doing this because he believes that the event will certainly happen. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use the future tense. Alternate translation: [the one I will anoint for him]

is} before Yahweh

Quote: נֶ֥גֶד יְהוָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the expression before Yahweh by association to mean in his presence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [is here in Yahweh’s presence]

1 Samuel 16:7

Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, for I have rejected him

Quote: אַל־תַּבֵּ֧ט אֶל־מַרְאֵ֛⁠הוּ וְ⁠אֶל־גְּבֹ֥הַּ קוֹמָת֖⁠וֹ כִּ֣י מְאַסְתִּ֑י⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

or on the height of his stature

Quote: וְ⁠אֶל־גְּבֹ֥הַּ קוֹמָת֖⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that the expression the height of his stature contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [or on his great height]

I have rejected him

Quote: מְאַסְתִּ֑י⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Yahweh tells Samuel in 16:1 that he has seen one of Jesse’s sons who will make a good king, that is, that he has made a positive choice of David. So Yahweh does not seem to mean here that he has previously considered Eliab and rejected him. Instead, he seems to mean that he has not chosen Eliab, as he says about the other sons in 16:8–10. You could indicate that in your translation if it would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [I have not chosen him]

not what man sees

Quote: לֹ֗א אֲשֶׁ֤ר יִרְאֶה֙ הָ⁠אָדָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Yahweh is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [I do not see what man sees] or [I do not look at things the way humans do]

for man looks

Quote: כִּ֤י הָֽ⁠אָדָם֙ יִרְאֶ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word for provides not a reason but an explanation. Alternate translation: [Specifically, man looks]

at the eyes

Quote: לַ⁠עֵינַ֔יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Yahweh is using the term eyes by association to mean what eyes can see. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [at what the eyes can see] or [at the outward appearance]

at the heart

Quote: לַ⁠לֵּבָֽב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Yahweh is speaking as if a person’s character were their physical heart. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [at a person’s character]

1 Samuel 16:8

to the face of Samuel

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י שְׁמוּאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the term face in 2:11. Alternate translation: [in front of Samuel]

but he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Samuel. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [but Samuel said]

1 Samuel 16:9

Then Jesse made Shammah pass over

Quote: וַ⁠יַּעֲבֵ֥ר יִשַׁ֖י שַׁמָּ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [Then Jesse called for his next son, Shammah, and made him pass over in front of Samuel]

1 Samuel 16:10

seven of his sons

Quote: שִׁבְעַ֥ת בָּנָ֖י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author means that this was a total of seven sons. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [a total of seven of his sons]

1 Samuel 16:11

but behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the term behold in 2:31. Alternate translation: [but this is the situation]

Send and get him, for we will not go around until he comes here

Quote: שִׁלְחָ֣⁠ה וְ⁠קָחֶ֔⁠נּוּ כִּ֥י לֹא־נָסֹ֖ב עַד־בֹּא֥⁠וֹ פֹֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

we will not go around

Quote: לֹא־נָסֹ֖ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Samuel means that they will not go around the table to sit down to eat. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [we will not go around the table] or [we will not sit down to eat]

1 Samuel 16:12

So he sent and brought him

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁלַ֤ח וַ⁠יְבִיאֵ֨⁠הוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The first pronoun he refers to Jesse, while the second pronoun him refers to David. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [So Jesse sent and brought David] or [So Jesse sent someone to bring David]

Now he {was} ruddy

Quote: וְ⁠ה֣וּא אַדְמוֹנִ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author is referring to the ruddy or reddish appearance of David’s face to mean that David was evidently healthy. His face was swarthy from exposure to the outdoors, and he had good circulation because of his vigorous lifestyle. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [Now he had a healthy glow about him]

Arise, anoint him, for this {is} he

Quote: ק֥וּם מְשָׁחֵ֖⁠הוּ כִּֽי־זֶ֥ה הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Arise

Quote: ק֥וּם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here Yahweh is using the term Arise to mean that he wants Samuel to take action. He does not mean merely that he wants Samuel to stand up from a sitting or reclining position. See how you translated the similar expressions in 1:9 and 13:15. Alternate translation: [Take action]

1 Samuel 16:13

his brothers

Quote: אֶחָי⁠ו֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

Jesse makes clear in 16:11 that David is his youngest son, so these were David’s older brothers. If your language marks that distinction, you may have an appropriate kinship term that you can use here in your translation.

from that day and onward

Quote: מֵ⁠הַ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠ה֖וּא וָ⁠מָ֑עְלָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

1 Samuel 16:14

Now the Spirit of Yahweh turned from with Saul, and a bad spirit from with Yahweh terrified him

Quote: וְ⁠ר֧וּחַ יְהוָ֛ה סָ֖רָה מֵ⁠עִ֣ם שָׁא֑וּל וּ⁠בִֽעֲתַ֥תּ⁠וּ רֽוּחַ־רָעָ֖ה מֵ⁠אֵ֥ת יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is introducing a new development in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method here that is natural in your language for introducing a new development.

Now the Spirit of Yahweh turned from with Saul

Quote: וְ⁠ר֧וּחַ יְהוָ֛ה סָ֖רָה מֵ⁠עִ֣ם שָׁא֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if the Spirit of Yahweh had physically turned away from Saul. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Now the Spirit of Yahweh stopped helping Saul]

and a bad spirit from with Yahweh terrified him

Quote: וּ⁠בִֽעֲתַ֥תּ⁠וּ רֽוּחַ־רָעָ֖ה מֵ⁠אֵ֥ת יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of this phrase in the Introduction to this chapter.

and … terrified him

Quote: וּ⁠בִֽעֲתַ֥תּ⁠וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author means that this bad spirit came and terrified Saul. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [came and terrified him]

1 Samuel 16:16

May our master please say to your servants to your face

Quote: יֹאמַר־נָ֤א אֲדֹנֵ֨⁠נוּ֙ עֲבָדֶ֣י⁠ךָ לְ⁠פָנֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

The servants are humbly addressing Saul in the third person and also humbly speaking about themselves in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this using the second person for Saul and the first person for the servants. Alternate translation: [May you, our master, please say to us, who are your servants to your face]

to your face, ‘Seek a man knowing playing upon the lyre

Quote: לְ⁠פָנֶ֔י⁠ךָ יְבַקְשׁ֕וּ אִ֕ישׁ יֹדֵ֖עַ מְנַגֵּ֣ן בַּ⁠כִּנּ֑וֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [to your face that we should seek a man who knows how to play the lyre]

when … is upon you

Quote: בִּֽ⁠הְי֨וֹת עָלֶ֤י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The servants are speaking as if the spirit were physically on top of Saul. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [is troubling you] or [is making you afraid]

that he will play by his hand

Quote: וְ⁠נִגֵּ֥ן בְּ⁠יָד֖⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that the expression by his hand contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [that he will strum]

and it will be good for you

Quote: וְ⁠ט֥וֹב לָֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The servants are using a common expression of their culture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and this will make you feel better]

1 Samuel 16:18

And … answered and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּעַן֩ & וַ⁠יֹּ֗אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word answered tells for what purpose the young man said this. Alternate translation: [responded] or [replied]

and mighty of valor and a man of war … and a man

Quote: וְ⁠גִבּ֨וֹר חַ֜יִל וְ⁠אִ֧ישׁ מִלְחָמָ֛ה & וְ⁠אִ֣ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

The young man is using these possessive forms to mean that David is very strong and a good soldier. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this using different expressions that does not use possessive forms. Alternate translation: [and very strong and a good soldier]

and discerning of word

Quote: וּ⁠נְב֥וֹן דָּבָ֖ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The young man is using the term word by association to mean what David says by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and discerning in what he says]

and a man of … and a man of appearance

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֧ישׁ & וְ⁠אִ֣ישׁ תֹּ֑אַר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The young man means that David has a handsome appearance. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and a man of handsome appearance]

And Yahweh {is} with him

Quote: וַ⁠יהוָ֖ה עִמּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 3:19. Alternate translation: [And Yahweh helps him]

1 Samuel 16:19

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one person who was involved in communicating this message to Jesse, Saul, who sent the messengers, to represent everyone who was involved. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this in your translation. Alternate translation: [And he said through them] or [And they conveyed this message on his behalf]

Send to me David your son, who {is} with the flock

Quote: שִׁלְחָ֥⁠ה אֵלַ֛⁠י אֶת־דָּוִ֥ד בִּנְ⁠ךָ֖ אֲשֶׁ֥ר בַּ⁠צֹּֽאן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish

Saul is not distinguishing one of Jesse’s sons named David from another of his sons by the same name who is not with the flock. He is acknowledging David’s responsibilities at home but nevertheless requesting his presence at the royal court. Be sure that this is clear in your translation. Alternate translation: [Your son David is with the flock, but send him to me]

who {is} with the flock

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר בַּ⁠צֹּֽאן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

It is not clear how Saul knew that David was tending his father’s flock at this time. The servant who spoke in 16:18 did not provide that information. The narrative suggests that Saul made some further inquiries before sending for David. You could indicate this in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. The UST models one way to do that.

1 Samuel 16:20

and one kid of goats

Quote: וּ⁠גְדִ֥י עִזִּ֖ים אֶחָ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean a young goat. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and a young goat]

and he sent {them

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁלַ֛ח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Sending the bread, wine, and goat to Saul was a symbolic action by which Jesse showed his respect for him as Israel’s king. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [and he sent them respectfully as a gift]

by the hand of David

Quote: בְּ⁠יַד־דָּוִ֥ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of David, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of bringing something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [with David]

1 Samuel 16:21

and he stood to his face

Quote: וַֽ⁠יַּעֲמֹ֖ד לְ⁠פָנָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and he became one of his servants]

And he loved him

Quote: וַ⁠יֶּאֱהָבֵ֣⁠הֽוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Saul, while the pronoun him refers to David. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And Saul loved David]

and he became to him a carrier of equipment

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי־ל֖⁠וֹ נֹשֵׂ֥א כֵלִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

See how you translated the expression carrier of equipment in 14:1 and throughout chapter 14. Alternate translation: [and he became his armor-bearer]

1 Samuel 16:22

And Saul sent

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁלַ֣ח שָׁא֔וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out a word that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And Saul sent messengers]

Please let David stand to my face, for he has found favor in my eyes

Quote: יַעֲמָד־נָ֤א דָוִד֙ לְ⁠פָנַ֔⁠י כִּֽי־מָ֥צָא חֵ֖ן בְּ⁠עֵינָֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

let … stand to my face

Quote: יַעֲמָד & לְ⁠פָנַ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean that someone became a servant. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [become one of my servants]

let … stand to my face

Quote: יַעֲמָד & לְ⁠פָנַ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Saul means that he wants David to become one of his regular servants. The implication is that David came initially on a temporary or provisional basis. You could indicate Saul’s meaning more explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [continue to be one of my servants] or [become one of my regular servants]

he has found favor in my eyes

Quote: מָ֥צָא חֵ֖ן בְּ⁠עֵינָֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the term eyes by association to mean his judgment or evaluation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [I view him favorably]

1 Samuel 16:23

and played {it} by his hand

Quote: וְ⁠נִגֵּ֣ן בְּ⁠יָד֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [and strummed it]

And it breathed to Saul, and it was good for him, and the bad spirit turned away from upon him

Quote: וְ⁠רָוַ֤ח לְ⁠שָׁאוּל֙ וְ⁠ט֣וֹב ל֔⁠וֹ וְ⁠סָ֥רָה מֵ⁠עָלָ֖י⁠ו ר֥וּחַ הָ⁠רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

The author is describing one event before describing another event that preceded it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they happened. Alternate translation: [And the bad spirit would turn away from Saul, and it breathed to him, and it was good for him] or [And the bad spirit would stop troubling Saul, and he would get relief, and he would feel better]

And it breathed to Saul

Quote: וְ⁠רָוַ֤ח לְ⁠שָׁאוּל֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture. He means that Saul breathed more deeply and slowly after the spirit left him, indicating that he felt relief. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [And Saul breathed easy] or [And Saul felt relief]

and the bad spirit turned away from upon him

Quote: וְ⁠סָ֥רָה מֵ⁠עָלָ֖י⁠ו ר֥וּחַ הָ⁠רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if the spirit were physically on top of Saul and could turn away from him. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and the bad spirit stopped troubling him]

1 Samuel 17

1 Samuel 17 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). It describes how he fought and killed a Philistine giant named Goliath. This shows that even as a young man, David had strong faith in God and great courage. David was motivated by a desire for the glory of God. He said that when he killed Goliath, “all of the earth will know that there is a God to Israel,” in other words, that the God of Israel is the only true God.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Single combat

In this chapter, Goliath, a great Philistine warrior, challenges any Israelite to fight him in single combat in order to determine the outcome of the war between the two peoples. Single combat between warrior champions like this was a significant practice in ancient warfare. It served both practical and symbolic purposes. Rather than risk heavy casualties in a full battle, armies would sometimes agree to let individual warriors fight as representatives of their armies. The outcome of this combat would often determine the larger conflict, with the losing side agreeing to surrender or accept terms. This practice helped reduce overall casualties while still establishing military dominance. Champions who participated in single combat were typically the most skilled and physically imposing warriors, chosen to represent their army’s strength. The practice also had important cultural and religious significance, as the outcome was often seen as indicating which army’s god was greater and stronger. So David's confrontation with Goliath was not just military combat, it was also a spiritual contest between the God of Israel and the gods of the Philistines, which Yahweh, the God of Israel, won decisively.

Why does Goliath refer to the Israelites as “servants of Saul”?

In 17:8, Goliath challenges the army of Israel to send a champion down into the Valley of Elah to fight with him in single combat. He says, “Am I not the Philistine, and you, servants of Saul? Choose for yourselves a man, and let him come down to me.” It is likely that by calling himself “the Philistine,” he is identifying himself as the designated warrior champion of the Philistines. The implications of what he is saying is that Saul ought to come and fight with him as the Israelite champion. Saul was much taller than other Israelites (although not nearly as tall as Goliath), and the Israelites had wanted someone like him as their king specifically so that he would lead them into battle. So we would expect Goliath to have said something like, “Am I not the Philistine, and is not Saul the Israelite? Choose him as a man for yourselves” (that is, as your champion) “and let him come down to me.” However, by saying something slightly different, Goliath may be implicitly suggesting that Saul would be afraid to fight him, and so he is willing to fight any other Israelite. In ancient single combat, warrior champions would usually only fight opposing warriors of equal rank and status. Some interpreters infer from the context that Goliath was a prince among the Philistines; some suggest that he could have been the king of the city of Gath. In any event, he was a great warrior of high standing. But by addressing the Israelites as “servants of Saul,” he is indicating that if Saul will not come down and fight him (as he tauntingly suggests he will not), he will fight any Israelite, even a mere “servant.” His words might be understood to mean, “Even though I am the Philistine champion, and you are only servants of Saul, nevertheless, choose for yourselves a man, and let him come down to me, and I will fight with him in single combat, no matter what his rank or status.” Goliath would be boasting that he could defeat any soldier in the Israelite army. But since this meaning is already discernible in the narrative, and since this interpretation is probable but not certain, it may be best to represent Goliath’s actual words in your translation and not interpret them by using an expression such as “even though … nevertheless.”

What was the “evil” that Eliab believed was in David’s “heart”

In 17:28, David’s eldest brother Eliab tells him that he knows “the evil” of David’s “heart.” Eliab is at least accusing David of abandoning his family responsibilities in order to have the thrill of watching a battle (“for you have come down in order to see the battle”). However, his reference to the “evil” in David’s “heart” may suggest something further. Some interpreters believe that Eliab thinks David has been going around asking about the reward for killing Goliath in order to get some soldier or another to take up Goliath’s challenge in the hopes of getting the reward. If that happened, then David would be able to “see” a ”battle” between two warrior champions.

Why did David choose smooth stones?

David chose five smooth stones from a nearby brook because that type of stone would fly freely, directly, and forcefully when he slung it. It turned out that he only needed to use one stone to knock Goliath unconscious so that he could run over to him and cut off his head with his own sword.

1 Samuel 17:1

Now the Philistines gathered their camps for battle

Quote: וַ⁠יַּאַסְפ֨וּ פְלִשְׁתִּ֤ים אֶת־מַֽחֲנֵי⁠הֶם֙ לַ⁠מִּלְחָמָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is introducing a new development in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method here that is natural in your language for introducing a new development.

their camps

Quote: אֶת־מַֽחֲנֵי⁠הֶם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term camps by association to mean the soldiers who were in these camps. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [their forces] or [their troops]

and they were gathered

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּאָ֣סְפ֔וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and they gathered them]

1 Samuel 17:2

And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁא֤וּל וְ⁠אִֽישׁ־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ נֶאֶסְפ֔וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And Saul and the men of Israel gathered themselves] or [And Saul gathered the men of Israel]

1 Samuel 17:3

the mountain from this, … on the mountain from that

Quote: הָ⁠הָר֙ מִ⁠זֶּ֔ה & אֶל־הָ⁠הָ֖ר מִ⁠זֶּ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [a mountain on one side of the valley … a mountain on the other side of the valley]

and Israel

Quote: וְ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the name of the nation by association to mean its army. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and the Israelites]

1 Samuel 17:4

And a man of the betweens came out

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֤א אִֽישׁ־הַ⁠בֵּנַ֨יִם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture. He is using the dual form betweens to mean the space that was between the Philistines and Israelites and also between the Israelites and the Philistines. (Compare the similar usage in 14:4.) A man of the betweens was a warrior champion who would come into this space in order to fight in single combat against an enemy champion. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And a warrior champion]

was} six cubits and a span

Quote: שֵׁ֥שׁ אַמּ֖וֹת וָ⁠זָֽרֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance

These cubits were an ancient unit of measurement corresponding to the distance between an average person’s elbow and middle fingertip, or about 46 centimeters or 18 inches. A span, sometimes called a “hand’s breadth,” was an ancient unit of measurement corresponding to the distance between the tip of the thumb and the tip of the little finger of an average person’s spread hand, or about 23 centimeters or 9 inches. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express Goliath’s height in modern measurements, either in the text or in a footnote. Alternate translation: [was three meters] or [was nine feet and nine inches]

1 Samuel 17:5

and he was clothed {with} a coat of scales

Quote: וְ⁠שִׁרְי֥וֹן קַשְׂקַשִּׂ֖ים ה֣וּא לָב֑וּשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and he was wearing a coat of scales]

with} a coat of scales

Quote: וְ⁠שִׁרְי֥וֹן קַשְׂקַשִּׂ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A coat of scales was a type of armor made of overlapping metal plates sewn onto a leather garment. If your readers would not be familiar with what this is, in your translation you could use the name of a similar thing that your readers would recognize, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [with armor made of metal plates]

And the weight of the coat {was} 5,000 shekels of bronze

Quote: וּ⁠מִשְׁקַל֙ הַ⁠שִּׁרְי֔וֹן חֲמֵשֶׁת־אֲלָפִ֥ים שְׁקָלִ֖ים נְחֹֽשֶֽׁת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight

These shekels each weighed about 11 grams or about a third of an ounce. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or in a footnote. Alternate translation: [And the coat was made of bronze, and it weighed over 50 kilograms] or [And the coat was made of bronze, and it weighed 125 pounds]

1 Samuel 17:6

And greaves of bronze

Quote: וּ⁠מִצְחַ֥ת נְחֹ֖שֶׁת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

These greaves were pieces of armor that protected the lower legs. If your readers would not be familiar with greaves, in your translation you could use the name of a similar thing that your readers would recognize, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [And he wore bronze armor on his legs]

and a curved sword of

Quote: וְ⁠כִיד֥וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The term that the ULT translates as curved sword could also be describing a small spear. Alternate translation: [and a javelin]

1 Samuel 17:7

And the wood of his spear

Quote: וְעֵ֣ץ חֲנִית֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term wood by association to mean the part of the spear that was made of wood. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And the shaft of his spear]

was} like a beam of weavers

Quote: כִּ⁠מְנוֹר֙ אֹֽרְגִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A beam of weavers was the thick, strong beam on which weavers hung their fabric. If your readers would not be familiar with this, in your translation you could use the name of a similar thing that your readers would recognize, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [was like the thick, strong beam on which weavers hang their fabric]

was} like a beam of weavers

Quote: כִּ⁠מְנוֹר֙ אֹֽרְגִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The point of this comparison is that just as a weaver’s beam was very thick and strong, so was the shaft of Goliath’s spear. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this point explicitly. Alternate translation: [was as thick and strong as a weaver’s beam]

and the flame of his spear

Quote: וְ⁠לַהֶ֣בֶת חֲנִית֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term flame by association to mean the pointed metal tip of the spear, which flashed in the sunlight. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and the head of his spear]

was} 600 iron shekels

Quote: שֵׁשׁ־מֵא֥וֹת שְׁקָלִ֖ים בַּרְזֶ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight

See how you translated the term shekel in 17:5. Alternate translation: [weighed seven kilograms] or [weighed 15 pounds]

to his face

Quote: לְ⁠פָנָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the term face in 2:11. Alternate translation: [in front of him]

1 Samuel 17:8

And he stood

Quote: וַֽ⁠יַּעֲמֹ֗ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

As the phrase “a man of the betweens” in 17:4 suggests, and as the phrase come down in this verse indicates, Goliath was standing in the space between the Philistine and Israelite battle lines, that is, in the Valley of Elah. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And he stood in the Valley of Elah] or [And he stood between the two battle lines]

Why have you come out to array for battle? {Am} I not the Philistine, and you, servants of Saul

Quote: לָ֥⁠מָּה תֵצְא֖וּ לַ⁠עֲרֹ֣ךְ מִלְחָמָ֑ה הֲ⁠ל֧וֹא אָנֹכִ֣י הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֗י וְ⁠אַתֶּם֙ עֲבָדִ֣ים לְ⁠שָׁא֔וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Goliath is using these questions for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use questions for that purpose, you could translate these as statements or exclamations. Alternate translation: [You did not have to come out to array for battle! After all, I am the Philistine, and you, servants of Saul!]

the Philistine

Quote: הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֗י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Goliath could mean either: (1) that he is the Philistine warrior champion, and in that role, as he says in the next verse, he is prepared to do single combat with an Israelite champion. Alternate translation: [the Philistine warrior champion] (2) that he is a great Philistine warrior with whose exploits and reputation the Israelite soldiers are familiar. The term translated as the can have this sense. This would also be a claim that he is a suitable champion to represent all of the Philistines in single combat. Alternate translation: [the great Philistine warrior of whom you have all heard]

and you, servants of Saul

Quote: וְ⁠אַתֶּם֙ עֲבָדִ֣ים לְ⁠שָׁא֔וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Goliath is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and are you not servants of Saul]

1 Samuel 17:9

and he strikes me, … and I strike him

Quote: וְ⁠הִכָּ֔⁠נִי & וְ⁠הִכִּיתִ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar term “struck” in 4:2. Alternate translation: [and he kills me … and I kill him]

But if I am able against him

Quote: וְ⁠אִם־אֲנִ֤י אֽוּכַל־ל⁠וֹ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

then you will become servants to us, and you will serve us

Quote: וִ⁠הְיִ֤יתֶם לָ֨⁠נוּ֙ לַ⁠עֲבָדִ֔ים וַ⁠עֲבַדְתֶּ֖ם אֹתָֽ⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [then you will become our servants]

1 Samuel 17:10

And the Philistine said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר֙ הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the term the Philistine in 17:8. Alternate translation: [And the Philistine champion said]

the arrays of Israel

Quote: אֶת־מַעַרְכ֥וֹת יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Goliath is using the term arrays by association to mean the soldiers who were in these battle lines. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [all of you Israelite soldiers]

and let us fight

Quote: וְ⁠נִֽלָּחֲמָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

By us, Goliath means himself and any Israelite soldier who will answer his challenge. If a soldier does answer his challenge, then this pronoun would not include the rest of the soldiers. However, until someone does answer the challenge, it potentially includes all of them. If your language marks a distinction between exclusive and inclusive forms of “us,” decide which one would be appropriate here.

1 Samuel 17:11

these words of the Philistine

Quote: אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֥י הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖י הָ⁠אֵ֑לֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to mean what Goliath said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the Philistine saying these things]

and they were dismayed

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּחַ֥תּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and this dismayed them]

1 Samuel 17:12

Now David {was} the son of this Ephrathite man from Bethlehem {in} Judah, and his name {was} Jesse

Quote: וְ⁠דָוִד֩ בֶּן־אִ֨ישׁ אֶפְרָתִ֜י הַ⁠זֶּ֗ה מִ⁠בֵּ֥ית לֶ֨חֶם֙ יְהוּדָ֔ה וּ⁠שְׁמ֣⁠וֹ יִשַׁ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

The author is reintroducing David as a participant in the story. Your language may have its own way of reintroducing participants that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [Now there was a young man named David who was the son of a certain Ephrathite man named Jesse who lived in Bethlehem in Judah]

And in the days of Saul the man

Quote: וְ⁠הָ⁠אִישׁ֙ בִּ⁠ימֵ֣י שָׁא֔וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term days by association to mean a certain time period. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And by the time Saul had become king]

having come

Quote: בָּ֥א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author seems to be using a shorter form of a common expression that people in this culture used to describe a person who was very old. Compare the fuller form in Joshua 13:1, for example, “Now Joshua had aged, he had come into days.” You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [having come into days] or [having lived a long time]

1 Samuel 17:13

And the oldest three of the sons of Jesse went, they went … the three of

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֨לְכ֜וּ שְׁלֹ֤שֶׁת בְּנֵֽי־יִשַׁי֙ הַ⁠גְּדֹלִ֔ים הָלְכ֥וּ & שְׁלֹ֣שֶׁת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tense

Following the conventions of his language, the author is repeating the verb went to indicate that this action preceded the action he has just described, that of Goliath challenging the Israelites. Express this using the appropriate verbal form in your language. Alternate translation: [And the oldest three of the sons of Jesse had gone]

1 Samuel 17:14

went after Saul

Quote: הָלְכ֖וּ אַחֲרֵ֥י שָׁאֽוּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author means that Jesse’s three oldest sons stayed with Saul’s army. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [stayed with Saul’s army]

1 Samuel 17:16

when} it was early and {when} it was getting dark

Quote: הַשְׁכֵּ֣ם וְ⁠הַעֲרֵ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is speaking of when it was early and when it was getting dark by association to mean the times of day when these things were happening. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in the morning and in the evening] or [at the start and end of each day]

1 Samuel 17:17

an ephah of

Quote: אֵיפַ֤ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume

See how you chose to represent the quantity ephah in 1:24. This ephah was equivalent to 22 liters or nearly six gallons. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or in a footnote.

to your brothers

Quote: לְ⁠אַחֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

See how you translated this relationship in 16:13. Alternate translation: [to your older brothers]

1 Samuel 17:18

And bring these ten cuts of cheese

Quote: וְ֠⁠אֵת עֲשֶׂ֜רֶת חֲרִצֵ֤י הֶֽ⁠חָלָב֙ הָ⁠אֵ֔לֶּה תָּבִ֖יא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

See what you said in the similar instance in 16:20. Alternate translation: [And bring these ten cuts of cheese respectfully as a gift]

cuts of cheese

Quote: חֲרִצֵ֤י הֶֽ⁠חָלָב֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

Jesse is referring to hunks of cheese that have been cut from a large round. Your language may naturally refer to these more simply. Alternate translation: [cheeses]

about peace

Quote: לְ⁠שָׁל֔וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jesse is using the term peace to mean that he wants David to inquire about his brothers’ well-being. That was one thing the term could mean. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [with regard to their well-being] or [to see how they are doing]

and take their pledge

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־עֲרֻבָּתָ֖⁠ם תִּקָּֽח (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) that Jesse wants David to bring back some token from each of his brothers to show that they are alive and well. In this culture, this might have been, for example, a lock of hair. Alternate translation: [and bring something back from each of them to show that they are alive and well] (2) that Jesse wants David to settle any debts his brothers might have incurred, such as by giving a garment in pledge in exchange for food. Alternate translation: [and settle any debts they may have incurred]

1 Samuel 17:19

Now Saul and they and all of the men of Israel {are} in the Valley of Elah, fighting with the Philistines

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁא֤וּל וְ⁠הֵ֨מָּה֙ וְ⁠כָל־אִ֣ישׁ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל בְּ⁠עֵ֖מֶק הָֽאֵלָ֑ה נִלְחָמִ֖ים עִם־פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

It is possible that this sentence is not part of Jesse’s instructions to David, telling him where to find his brothers, but instead a statement by the author that resumes the action at the scene of the battle. If you follow that interpretation in your translation, end the direct quotation at the end of the previous verse and say “were” instead of are here.

1 Samuel 17:20

And he carried

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשָּׂ֣א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And he carried the grain, bread, and cheese]

to} the wagon-track

Quote: הַ⁠מַּעְגָּ֔לָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term wagon-track by association to mean the defensive circle of supply wagons that the Israelites had created around their camp. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [to the defensive circle of supply wagons around the camp]

1 Samuel 17:22

in the hand of

Quote: עַל־יַד֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term hand by association to mean custody or care. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in the custody of]

about peace

Quote: לְ⁠שָׁלֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in 17:18. Alternate translation: [how they were doing] or [if they were well]

1 Samuel 17:23

And he was speaking with them, and behold, the man of the betweens was coming up

Quote: וְ⁠ה֣וּא ׀ מְדַבֵּ֣ר עִמָּ֗⁠ם וְ⁠הִנֵּ֣ה אִ֣ישׁ הַ⁠בֵּנַ֡יִם עוֹלֶ֞ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

The words that the ULT translates as And … and indicate that these events happened at the same time. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could describe the time relationship more explicitly. Alternate translation: [And while he was speaking with them, behold, the man of the betweens came up]

and behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the term behold in 2:31. The author is using this term to focus his listeners’ attention on what he is about to say.

the man of the betweens

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ הַ⁠בֵּנַ֡יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 17:4. Alternate translation: [a warrior champion]

was coming up

Quote: עוֹלֶ֞ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

The author may mean that Goliath had come down from the Philistine camp on the opposite hill down into the valley and was now coming up the slope of the hill toward the Israelite camp, symbolically demonstrating that he was not afraid of any of the Israelite soldiers. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [was tauntingly coming up the slope toward the Israelite camp]

Goliath the Philistine

Quote: גָּלְיָת֩ הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֨י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated this name in 17:8. Alternate translation: [Goliath the Philistine Champion]

like these words

Quote: כַּ⁠דְּבָרִ֣ים הָ⁠אֵ֑לֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [as he had before]

1 Samuel 17:24

then they fled from his face and feared greatly

Quote: וַ⁠יָּנֻ֨סוּ֙ מִ⁠פָּנָ֔י⁠ו וַ⁠יִּֽירְא֖וּ מְאֹֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

1 Samuel 17:25

Have you seen this man coming up

Quote: הַ⁠רְּאִיתֶם֙ הָ⁠אִ֤ישׁ הָֽ⁠עֹלֶה֙ הַ⁠זֶּ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The soldiers are using the question form for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use questions for this purpose, you could translate this as a statement or exclamation. Alternate translation: [Look at this man who is coming up!]

will make him wealthy {with} great wealth

Quote: יַעְשְׁרֶ֥⁠נּוּ & עֹ֣שֶׁר גָּד֗וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

For emphasis, the soldiers are using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, your language may have another way of showing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [will make him fabulously wealthy]

and he will give his daughter to him

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־בִּתּ⁠וֹ֙ יִתֶּן־ל֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The soldiers mean that Saul would give his daughter in marriage. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and he will give his daughter to him in marriage] or [and he will give his daughter to him as a wife]

and he will make the house of his father free

Quote: וְ⁠אֵת֙ בֵּ֣ית אָבִ֔י⁠ו יַעֲשֶׂ֥ה חָפְשִׁ֖י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The soldiers are using a common expression of their culture to mean that someone’s family would be exempt from taxes and service. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and he will exempt him and the members of his family from paying taxes and doing obligatory service]

1 Samuel 17:26

What will be done

Quote: מַה־יֵּעָשֶׂ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [What will the king do]

and turns away the disgrace from upon Israel

Quote: וְ⁠הֵסִ֥יר חֶרְפָּ֖ה מֵ⁠עַ֣ל יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking as if disgrace were a physical object that someone could turn away from the Israelites. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [so that we Israelites are not disgraced any more]

For

Quote: כִּ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces a further consideration. Alternate translation: [After all]

who {is} this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should taunt the arrays of the living God

Quote: מִ֗י הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֤י הֶֽ⁠עָרֵל֙ הַ⁠זֶּ֔ה כִּ֣י חֵרֵ֔ף מַעַרְכ֖וֹת אֱלֹהִ֥ים חַיִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

David is using the question form for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use questions for this purpose, you could translate this as a statement or exclamation. Alternate translation: [this uncircumcised Philistine cannot rightfully taunt the arrays of the living God!]

is} this uncircumcised Philistine

Quote: הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֤י הֶֽ⁠עָרֵל֙ הַ⁠זֶּ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in 14:6. Alternate translation: [this heathen Philistine]

1 Samuel 17:27

the people

Quote: הָ⁠עָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the term “people” in 13:2 and in its frequent occurrences in chapters 13, 14, and 15. Alternate translation: [the soldiers]

like this word

Quote: כַּ⁠דָּבָ֥ר הַ⁠זֶּ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 17:23. Alternate translation: [as the others had]

it will be done

Quote: יֵעָשֶׂ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [the king will do]

1 Samuel 17:28

And the nose of Eliab burned against David

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽחַר־אַף֩ אֱלִיאָ֨ב בְּ⁠דָוִ֜ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 11:6. Alternate translation: [And Eliab became very angry with David]

Why {is} this, you have come down? And with whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness

Quote: לָ⁠מָּה־זֶּ֣ה יָרַ֗דְתָּ וְ⁠עַל־מִ֨י נָטַ֜שְׁתָּ מְעַ֨ט הַ⁠צֹּ֤אן הָ⁠הֵ֨נָּה֙ בַּ⁠מִּדְבָּ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Eliab is using these questions for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use questions for this purpose, you could translate these as statements or exclamations. Alternate translation: [You have no good reason for coming here! And it was irresponsible of you to leave those few sheep alone in the wilderness!]

those few sheep

Quote: מְעַ֨ט הַ⁠צֹּ֤אן הָ⁠הֵ֨נָּה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

In order to make David look and feel insignificant, Eliab is deliberately exaggerating how few sheep their father Jesse has. (The fact that Jesse has been able to spare ten cheeses as a gift to Eliab’s commander suggests that he actually has a substantial flock of sheep.) If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [Your responsibilities caring for our father’s sheep are not significant, but you should still not have left his sheep alone in the wilderness]

your presumption

Quote: אֶת־זְדֹנְ⁠ךָ֗ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of presumption, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [how you presume that you can go to places where you really have no right to be]

and the evil of your heart

Quote: וְ⁠אֵת֙ רֹ֣עַ לְבָבֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Eliab is speaking using David’s heart to represent his intentions. The context suggests that Eliab is not accusing David of planning an outright crime but of meddling with bad motives. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and how naughty your intentions are]

for

Quote: כִּ֗י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word for introduces a further consideration. Alternate translation: [after all]

you have come down in order to see the battle

Quote: לְמַ֛עַן רְא֥וֹת הַ⁠מִּלְחָמָ֖ה יָרָֽדְתָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of this statement in the Introduction to this chapter.

1 Samuel 17:29

What have I done now? {Was} it not a word

Quote: מֶ֥ה עָשִׂ֖יתִי עָ֑תָּה הֲ⁠ל֖וֹא דָּבָ֥ר הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

David is using these questions for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use questions for that purpose, you could translate these as statements. Alternate translation: [I did not do anything wrong just now. It was only a word.]

a word

Quote: דָּבָ֥ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term word by association to mean what he said to the other soldiers by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [a question]

1 Samuel 17:30

And he turned from beside him

Quote: וַ⁠יִּסֹּ֤ב מֵֽ⁠אֶצְל⁠וֹ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to David, while the pronoun him refers to Eliab. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And David turned from beside Eliab] or [And David turned away from Eliab]

toward the front of another

Quote: אֶל־מ֣וּל אַחֵ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean to face someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to face another soldier]

and he spoke like this word. And the people returned to him a word like the first word

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֖אמֶר כַּ⁠דָּבָ֣ר הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה וַ⁠יְשִׁבֻ֤⁠הוּ הָ⁠עָם֙ דָּבָ֔ר כַּ⁠דָּבָ֖ר הָ⁠רִאשֽׁוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 17:23. Alternate translation: [and he asked him the same question that he had asked others. And that man and the soldiers around him answered David the same way the other soldiers had]

1 Samuel 17:31

And they heard

Quote: וַ⁠יְּשָּֽׁמְעוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here the author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people, although the context shows that it refers to people who had access to Saul. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And people heard] or [And some officers heard]

the words that David spoke

Quote: הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֔ים אֲשֶׁ֖ר דִּבֶּ֣ר דָּוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to mean the question David was asking by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the question that David was asking]

And they declared to the face of Saul

Quote: וַ⁠יַּגִּ֥דוּ לִ⁠פְנֵֽי־שָׁא֖וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of Saul, his face, to mean all of him in the act of receiving this report personally. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And they told Saul personally]

and he got him

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקָּחֵֽ⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Saul, while the pronoun him refers to David. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [and Saul got David] or [and Saul sent someone to get David]

1 Samuel 17:32

Do not let the heart of a man fall because of him

Quote: אַל־יִפֹּ֥ל לֵב־אָדָ֖ם עָלָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking as if a person’s heart could physically fall. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [No one should lose heart because of him]

Your servant

Quote: עַבְדְּ⁠ךָ֣ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

David is speaking humbly about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [I, your servant,]

1 Samuel 17:33

You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him. For you {are} a youth, but he, a man of war from his youth

Quote: לֹ֤א תוּכַל֙ לָ⁠לֶ֨כֶת֙ אֶל־הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֣י הַ⁠זֶּ֔ה לְ⁠הִלָּחֵ֖ם עִמּ֑⁠וֹ כִּֽי־נַ֣עַר אַ֔תָּה וְ⁠ה֛וּא אִ֥ישׁ מִלְחָמָ֖ה מִ⁠נְּעֻרָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because you are a youth and he has been a man of war from his youth, you are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him]

but he, a man of war from his youth

Quote: וְ⁠ה֛וּא אִ֥ישׁ מִלְחָמָ֖ה מִ⁠נְּעֻרָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [but he has been a man of war from his youth]

1 Samuel 17:34

Your servant has been tending the flock for his father

Quote: רֹעֶ֨ה הָיָ֧ה עַבְדְּ⁠ךָ֛ לְ⁠אָבִ֖י⁠ו בַּ⁠צֹּ֑אן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

David is speaking about himself humbly in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [I, your servant, have been tending the flock for my father]

1 Samuel 17:35

and delivered from its mouth

Quote: וְ⁠הִצַּ֣לְתִּי מִ⁠פִּ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term mouth by association to mean that the lion or bear wanted to devour the sheep that it carried away. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and delivered the sheep that it wanted to devour]

its beard

Quote: בִּ⁠זְקָנ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term beard by association to mean the lower jaw where the beard grows. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [its lower jaw]

and struck it … and strike it

Quote: וְ⁠הִכִּתִ֖י⁠ו & וְ⁠הִכִּתִ֖י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The context shows that here the terms struck and strike refer to hitting a lion or bear, at first to get it to release a sheep, and then, if necessary, repeatedly in order to kill it. David probably means that he hit these animals with his shepherd’s staff; 17:40 suggests that he was used to using this staff as a weapon. Alternate translation: [and hit it with my staff … and hit it repeatedly]

1 Samuel 17:36

Your servant has struck

Quote: הִכָּ֣ה עַבְדֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

has struck

Quote: הִכָּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here the context shows that the term struck means “killed,” as it often does elsewhere in the book. Alternate translation: [has killed]

both the lion and the bear

Quote: גַּ֧ם אֶֽת־הָ⁠אֲרִ֛י גַּם־הַ⁠דּ֖וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

David is not referring to specific animals. He means such animals in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. Alternate translation: [both lions and bears]

and this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, for he has taunted the arrays of the living God

Quote: וְֽ֠⁠הָיָה הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֨י הֶ⁠עָרֵ֤ל הַ⁠זֶּה֙ כְּ⁠אַחַ֣ד מֵ⁠הֶ֔ם כִּ֣י חֵרֵ֔ף מַעַרְכֹ֖ת אֱלֹהִ֥ים חַיִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [and since this uncircumcised Philistine has taunted the armies of the living God, he will be like one of them]

this uncircumcised Philistine

Quote: הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֨י הֶ⁠עָרֵ֤ל הַ⁠זֶּה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in 14:6. Alternate translation: [this heathen Philistine]

1 Samuel 17:37

from the hand of the lion and from the hand of the bear, … from the hand of this Philistine

Quote: מִ⁠יַּ֤ד הָֽ⁠אֲרִי֙ וּ⁠מִ⁠יַּ֣ד הַ⁠דֹּ֔ב & מִ⁠יַּ֥ד הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖י הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term hand by association to mean power. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [from the power of the lion and from the power of the bear … from the power of this Philistine]

and may Yahweh be with you

Quote: וַֽ⁠יהוָ֖ה יִהְיֶ֥ה עִמָּֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 3:19. Alternate translation: [and may Yahweh help you]

1 Samuel 17:38

with} his garments

Quote: מַדָּ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that by garments, he means clothing that was designed for soldiers to wear under armor. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [with his military tunic]

with} a coat

Quote: שִׁרְיֽוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in 17:5, where the author uses the fuller expression “a coat of scales.” Alternate translation: [with armor made of metal plates]

1 Samuel 17:39

his sword over his garments

Quote: אֶת־חַ֠רְבּ⁠וֹ מֵ⁠עַ֨ל לְ⁠מַדָּ֜י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The first pronoun his refers to Saul, while the second his refers to David. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [Saul’s sword over the garments he was wearing]

and he tried to walk, for he had not tested {them}. … I am not able to walk with these, for I have not tested {them

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אֶל לָ⁠לֶכֶת֮ כִּ֣י לֹֽא־נִסָּה֒ & לֹ֥א אוּכַ֛ל לָ⁠לֶ֥כֶת בָּ⁠אֵ֖לֶּה כִּ֣י לֹ֣א נִסִּ֑יתִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [and because he had not tested them, he tried to walk … because I have not tested them, I am not able to walk with these]

1 Samuel 17:40

in the bag of shepherds that {was} to him, even in the pouch

Quote: בִּ⁠כְלִ֨י הָ⁠רֹעִ֧ים אֲשֶׁר־ל֛⁠וֹ וּ⁠בַ⁠יַּלְק֖וּט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Recognizing that his readers might not be familiar with the kind of bag that shepherds carried, the author explains this with a term that he feels they are likely to recognize, pouch. That term describes a small leather bag that people in this culture would use to carry provisions and personal belongings when they went on a journey. To help your own readers understand what a bag of shepherds was, you could indicate how the author is defining it here. Alternate translation: [in his shepherd’s bag, which was a small leather pouch]

1 Samuel 17:41

And the Philistine came, coming and near to David

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֨לֶךְ֙ הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔י הֹלֵ֥ךְ וְ⁠קָרֵ֖ב אֶל־דָּוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-tense

Following the conventions of his language, the author is repeating forms of the verb “came” to indicate progressive action. Express this using the appropriate verbal form in your language. Alternate translation: [And the Philistine kept coming nearer to David]

And the Philistine came, coming and near to David

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֨לֶךְ֙ הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔י הֹלֵ֥ךְ וְ⁠קָרֵ֖ב אֶל־דָּוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

There could be a suggestion here that Goliath had to walk slowly and deliberately because of the heavy armor he was wearing, in contrast to the way David “ran … to meet him” in 17:48. Alternate translation: [And the Philistine lumbered slowly toward David]

coming and near

Quote: הֹלֵ֥ךְ וְ⁠קָרֵ֖ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word near tells for what purpose Goliath was coming. Alternate translation: [coming near] or [approaching]

was} to his face

Quote: לְ⁠פָנָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 17:7. Alternate translation: [was in front of him]

1 Samuel 17:42

And the Philistine looked and saw David

Quote: וַ⁠יַּבֵּ֧ט הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֛י וַ⁠יִּרְאֶ֥ה אֶת־דָּוִ֖ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The terms looked and saw mean similar things. The author is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [And the Philistine looked David over]

and he despised him, for he was a youth, and ruddy with a beautiful appearance

Quote: וַ⁠יִּבְזֵ֑⁠הוּ כִּֽי־הָיָ֣ה נַ֔עַר וְ⁠אַדְמֹנִ֖י עִם־יְפֵ֥ה מַרְאֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

1 Samuel 17:43

Am} I a dog, that you are coming to me with sticks

Quote: הֲ⁠כֶ֣לֶב אָנֹ֔כִי כִּֽי־אַתָּ֥ה בָֽא־אֵלַ֖⁠י בַּ⁠מַּקְל֑וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Goliath is using the question form for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use questions for this purpose, you could translate this as a statement or exclamation. Alternate translation: [You seem to think that you can defeat me with just a stick, as if I were a dog!]

1 Samuel 17:44

your flesh

Quote: אֶת־בְּשָׂ֣רְ⁠ךָ֔ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Goliath is using one part of David, his flesh, to mean all of him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [your body]

your flesh

Quote: אֶת־בְּשָׂ֣רְ⁠ךָ֔ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Goliath means that he will give David’s flesh as food to the birds and animals. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [your flesh as food]

to the bird of the heavens and to the beast of the field

Quote: לְ⁠ע֥וֹף הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֖יִם וּ⁠לְ⁠בֶהֱמַ֥ת הַ⁠שָּׂדֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Goliath is not referring to specific animals. He means these animals in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. Alternate translation: [to the birds of the sky and the wild animals]

to the bird of the heavens

Quote: לְ⁠ע֥וֹף הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֖יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This phrase describes birds that fly in the heavens, that is, the sky. In this context, it refers specifically to scavenger birds that would circle in the sky looking for dead animals or people to eat. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [to scavenger birds]

1 Samuel 17:45

in the name of

Quote: בְּ⁠שֵׁם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here the term name could mean, by association: (1) authority. David could be indicating that as a soldier representing the arrays of Israel, which Yahweh ultimately commands, he is fighting Goliath with a commission from Yahweh, as if Yahweh had authorized him to use his name in order to invoke his authority. Alternate translation: [with the authority of] (2) reputation. David could be indicating that by defeating Goliath, he will be defending the reputation of Yahweh as the all-powerful God, whom no other god can defeat. (Goliath has just called on his gods to defeat David.) Alternate translation: [to uphold the reputation of]

which you have taunted

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר חֵרַֽפְתָּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The context suggests that David is saying that Goliath has taunted the arrays of Israel, since that is what Goliath himself says in 17:10, what the Israelite soldiers say in 17:25, and what David says in 17:26 and in 17:36. However, David could also be saying that Goliath has taunted Yahweh of Armies, the God of the arrays of Israel, since to say that his armies cannot win is to say that Yahweh is not able to make them win. If you follow that interpretation, use a personal pronoun here. Alternate translation: [whom you have taunted]

1 Samuel 17:46

will enclose you in my hand

Quote: יְסַגֶּרְ⁠ךָ֩ & בְּ⁠יָדִ֜⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking as if Goliath were an object that could be enclosed in his hand. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [will give you into my power] or [will enable me to overpower you]

And … I will give

Quote: וְ⁠נָ֨תַתִּ֜י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using himself to represent all the Israelite soldiers. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [we will give] or [we Israelite soldiers will give]

the corpse of

Quote: פֶּ֣גֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

David is not referring to a specific corpse. He means corpses in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the corpses of]

the camp of the Philistines

Quote: מַחֲנֵ֤ה פְלִשְׁתִּים֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term camp by association to mean the army that is staying in the camp. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the army of the Philistines]

to the bird of the heavens and to the animal of the earth

Quote: לְ⁠ע֥וֹף הַ⁠שָּׁמַ֖יִם וּ⁠לְ⁠חַיַּ֣ת הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

See how you translated the similar expression in 17:44. Alternate translation: [to the birds of the sky and the wild animals]

And all of the earth will know

Quote: וְ⁠יֵֽדְעוּ֙ כָּל־הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term earth by association to mean the people living on the earth. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And all of the people on earth]

And all of the earth will know

Quote: וְ⁠יֵֽדְעוּ֙ כָּל־הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

David is making a generalization for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [And people all over the world]

there is a God to Israel

Quote: יֵ֥שׁ אֱלֹהִ֖ים לְ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

David means that Israel has the one true God. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Israel has a real God] or [the only true God is the God of Israel]

1 Samuel 17:47

For

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces a further consideration. Alternate translation: [After all]

you

Quote: אֶתְ⁠כֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The word you is plural here because David is using it to mean all of the Philistine soldiers, so use the plural form in your translation if your language marks that distinction.

into our hand

Quote: בְּ⁠יָדֵֽ⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term hand by association to mean power or control. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [into our power]

1 Samuel 17:48

And it happened

Quote: וְ⁠הָיָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is using this phrase to introduce a new development in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method here that is natural in your language for introducing a new development.

arose

Quote: קָ֣ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 1:9. Alternate translation: [took action]

and went and approached … that … hurried and ran

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֥לֶךְ וַ⁠יִּקְרַ֖ב & וַ⁠יְמַהֵ֣ר & וַ⁠יָּ֥רָץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

These expressions each convey a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word approached tells for what purpose Goliath went, and the word hurried tells in what David ran. Alternate translation: [and came closer … ran hurriedly]

1 Samuel 17:50

So David was stronger than the Philistine with the sling and with the stone

Quote: וַ⁠יֶּחֱזַ֨ק דָּוִ֤ד מִן־הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּי֙ בַּ⁠קֶּ֣לַע וּ⁠בָ⁠אֶ֔בֶן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory

Here the author is offering a concluding summary of the fight between David and Goliath. Your language may have its own way of presenting such information.

So David was stronger than the Philistine

Quote: וַ⁠יֶּחֱזַ֨ק דָּוִ֤ד מִן־הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the phrase was stronger than by association to mean that David, through greater force (since Yahweh was helping him, to defend his own glory), prevailed over Goliath in this battle. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [So David prevailed over the Philistine]

And he struck the Philistine and killed him

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֥ךְ אֶת־הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖י וַ⁠יְמִיתֵ֑⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is introducing a new development in the story. He is telling what happened after the end of the fight between David and Goliath. Use a word, phrase, or other method here that is natural in your language for introducing a new development.

the Philistine

Quote: הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in 17:8. Alternate translation: [the Philistine champion]

Now no sword {was} in the hand of David

Quote: וְ⁠חֶ֖רֶב אֵ֥ין בְּ⁠יַד־דָּוִֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing background information to help readers understand what he describes next. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

1 Samuel 17:51

and took his sword and drew it from its sheath and killed him and cut off his head with it

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּ֣ח אֶת־חַ֠רְבּ⁠וֹ וַֽ⁠יִּשְׁלְפָ֤⁠הּ מִ⁠תַּעְרָ⁠הּ֙ וַ⁠יְמֹ֣תְתֵ֔⁠הוּ וַ⁠יִּכְרָת־בָּ֖⁠הּ אֶת־רֹאשׁ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

In two cases here, the author is describing one event before describing another event that preceded it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they happened. Alternate translation: [and drew his sword from its sheath and took it and cut off his head with it and killed him]

1 Samuel 17:52

And … arose

Quote: וַ⁠יָּקֻ֣מוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 1:9. Alternate translation: [took action]

and they shouted and pursued

Quote: וַ⁠יָּרִ֗עוּ וַֽ⁠יִּרְדְּפוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word shouted tells in what way they pursued. Alternate translation: [and they pursued shoutingly] or [and they pursued with battle cries]

unto your coming {to} the valley

Quote: עַד־בּוֹאֲ⁠ךָ֣ גַ֔יְא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants

The traditional Hebrew text reads “the valley.” The ULT follows that reading. Other ancient manuscripts read “Gath.” If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, you may wish to use the reading that it uses. If a translation of the Bible does not exist in your region, you may wish to use the reading of the ULT.

And the pierced of the Philistines fell

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּפְּל֞וּ חַֽלְלֵ֤י פְלִשְׁתִּים֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

The author is using the adjective pierced as a noun to mean Philistines who were pierced with swords. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [And the Philistines whom the Israelites had pierced with their swords]

And the pierced of the Philistines fell

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּפְּל֞וּ חַֽלְלֵ֤י פְלִשְׁתִּים֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term pierced by association to mean killed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And the Philistines whom the Israelites had killed with their swords]

1 Samuel 17:53

And the sons of Israel returned

Quote: וַ⁠יָּשֻׁ֨בוּ֙ בְּנֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this phrase in 2:28. Alternate translation: [And the Israelites]

1 Samuel 17:54

And David took the head of the Philistine, and he brought it {to} Jerusalem, and he put his equipment in his tent

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּ֤ח דָּוִד֙ אֶת־רֹ֣אשׁ הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔י וַ⁠יְבִאֵ֖⁠הוּ יְרוּשָׁלִָ֑ם וְ⁠אֶת־כֵּלָ֖י⁠ו שָׂ֥ם בְּ⁠אָהֳלֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory

Here the author is saying what happened at the end of the story of David’s victory over Goliath. Your language may have its own way of presenting such information.

and he brought it {to} Jerusalem

Quote: וַ⁠יְבִאֵ֖⁠הוּ יְרוּשָׁלִָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-symaction

This could mean: (1) that David later brought Goliath’s head to Jerusalem, once he had become king and captured the city. He apparently put it in Yahweh’s sanctuary as a trophy of war, commemorating how Yahweh had enabled him and the Israelites to win this victory. Alternate translation: [and he later brought it to Jerusalem and put it in Yahweh’s sanctuary as a trophy of war] (2) that at this time David brought Goliath’s head to a place near Jerusalem, specifically to Nob, where the sacred tent was at this time. The story indicates in 21:9 that Goliath’s sword was there, similarly as a war trophy, and David may also have brought or sent Goliath’s head there. Alternate translation: [and he brought it to Nob, near Jerusalem, where the sacred tent was, and put it in the tent with Goliath’s sword as a trophy of war]

and he put his equipment in his tent

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־כֵּלָ֖י⁠ו שָׂ֥ם בְּ⁠אָהֳלֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) that David brought Goliath’s equipment (that is, his armor and weapons) home with him when he returned to Bethlehem. There is no indication that David had a tent among the Israelite soldiers who had camped by the Valley of Elah. The story says that he was usually tending his father’s flock in Bethlehem but occasionally went to the battle lines to bring provisions to his brothers and to bring back news from them. But he may well have had a tent of his own within his father’s compound. Alternate translation: [and he brought Goliath’s armor and weapons back home with him] (2) that David put Goliath’s equipment in Yahweh’s tent, that is, the sacred tent at Nob. The story indicates in 21:9 that Goliath’s sword was there. Alternate translation: [and he put his equipment in Yahweh’s sacred tent]

1 Samuel 17:55

The life of your soul, O king, if I know

Quote: חֵֽי־נַפְשְׁ⁠ךָ֥ הַ⁠מֶּ֖לֶךְ אִם־יָדָֽעְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Abner is using one part of Saul, his soul, to mean all of him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Your life, O king, if I know]

The life of your soul, O king, if I know

Quote: חֵֽי־נַפְשְׁ⁠ךָ֥ הַ⁠מֶּ֖לֶךְ אִם־יָדָֽעְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Abner is swearing an oath following the custom of his culture. By referring to the life of the king, he means that he is alive to judge and punish his subjects. He is stating the first part of a condition (“if”) but not the second part (“then”). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explicitly state the second part of this condition and explain the meaning more fully. Alternate translation: [If I know and I am not telling you, then punish me severely, since you are alive to judge and punish your subjects, O king]

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

to the face of Saul

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י שָׁא֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term face by association to mean presence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [into the presence of Saul]

And the head of the Philistine {was} in his hand

Quote: וְ⁠רֹ֥אשׁ הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖י בְּ⁠יָדֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term hand by association to mean possession or control. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And the head of the Philistine {was} in his possession] or [And he was holding the head of the Philistine]

1 Samuel 17:58

The son of

Quote: בֶּֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

1 Samuel 18

1 Samuel 18 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). It describes how Saul became jealous of David’s success as a military leader and how Saul became suspicious that David was the person whom Yahweh had chosen to become king instead of him. It relates how Saul tried to kill David both directly, by throwing his spear at him, and indirectly, by getting him to fight the Philistines in dangerous situations. But Yahweh protected David and made him successful, so Saul became even more jealous and suspicious.

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.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Jonathan’s love for David

The author says in 18:1 that Jonathan “loved” David. If your language has more than one term for “love,” be sure not to use a term that describes sexual attraction. Biblical Hebrew has specific language for sexual desire, and the author does not use that language here. Rather, he says that “the soul of Jonathan was bound with the soul of David.” By this he means that Jonathan recognized that David was a man who was like him in terms of character, and so he wanted to be his friend. (As a traditional saying puts it, “A friend is another self.”) Jonathan had demonstrated bold faith and strong trust in Yahweh by attacking the Philistine garrison in chapter 14, and David had demonstrated the same things by fighting Goliath in chapter 17. So Jonathan recognized David as a man of courage and daring, and he knew that if they were friends, they would encourage each other to trust Yahweh and continue to do bold exploits. If your language has a word for friendship-love, it would be appropriate to use that word here in your translation. You could also use a word for unselfish love. (One ancient Greek version uses the verb here from which the New Testament writers developed the noun agape for unselfish love.)

Translation Issues in This Chapter

“I am lightly esteemed” (18:23)

In 18:23, when Saul’s servants tell David that Saul will allow him to marry his daughter Michal, David replies, “I am a poor man, and I am lightly esteemed.” Since the servants tell David in 18:22 that they all love him, and the author says in 18:16 that all the Israelites loved David, it seems unlikely that David means that he is lightly esteemed by people in general or by the people in Saul’s court specifically. Instead, David may be referring implicitly to the way Saul previously promised to allow him to marry his other daughter Merab but then allowed a different man, Adriel the Meholathite, to marry her instead. In other words, David may mean, “I am lightly esteemed by King Saul.” (Some interpreters suggest that Adriel may have offered a large bride-price for Merab and that is why Saul let him marry her. This would explain why David says he is “a poor man” himself.) However, in this culture, a person would not complain explicitly that the king had treated him with disrespect or disregard. That is why David makes what seems to be an indirect statement to that effect. You may find a way to suggest this meaning implicitly in your translation.

1 Samuel 18:1

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֗י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

See how you translated the phrase “And it happened” in 1:12.

when he finished speaking

Quote: כְּ⁠כַלֹּת⁠וֹ֙ לְ⁠דַבֵּ֣ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to David. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [when David finished speaking]

that the soul of Jonathan was bound with the soul of David

Quote: וְ⁠נֶ֨פֶשׁ֙ יְה֣וֹנָתָ֔ן נִקְשְׁרָ֖ה בְּ⁠נֶ֣פֶשׁ דָּוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if souls could be physically bound together. He means that Jonathan formed a very close friendship with David. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [that Jonathan became very close friends with David]

as his soul

Quote: כְּ⁠נַפְשֽׁ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of Jonathan, his soul, to mean all of him, by reference to what was most essential about him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [as he loved himself]

1 Samuel 18:2

And Saul took him on that day, and he did not allow him to return {to} the house of his father

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקָּחֵ֥⁠הוּ שָׁא֖וּל בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠ה֑וּא וְ⁠לֹ֣א נְתָנ֔⁠וֹ לָ⁠שׁ֖וּב בֵּ֥ית אָבִֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

And Saul took him

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקָּחֵ֥⁠הוּ שָׁא֖וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that by Saul took him, he means that Saul took David into his service. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And Saul took David into his service]

1 Samuel 18:3

And Jonathan cut a covenant with David because he loved him as his own soul

Quote: וַ⁠יִּכְרֹ֧ת יְהוֹנָתָ֛ן וְ⁠דָוִ֖ד בְּרִ֑ית בְּ⁠אַהֲבָת֥⁠וֹ אֹת֖⁠וֹ כְּ⁠נַפְשֽׁ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

And … cut a covenant

Quote: וַ⁠יִּכְרֹ֧ת & בְּרִ֑ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 11:1. Alternate translation: [made a covenant]

1 Samuel 18:4

And Jonathan stripped himself {of} the robe that {was} on him, and he gave it to David, and his garments, and even his sword and even his bow and even his belt

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתְפַּשֵּׁ֣ט יְהוֹנָתָ֗ן אֶֽת־הַ⁠מְּעִיל֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר עָלָ֔י⁠ו וַֽ⁠יִּתְּנֵ֖⁠הוּ לְ⁠דָוִ֑ד וּ⁠מַדָּ֕י⁠ו וְ⁠עַד־חַרְבּ֥⁠וֹ וְ⁠עַד־קַשְׁתּ֖⁠וֹ וְ⁠עַד־חֲגֹרֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This was a symbolic action by which Jonathan pledged to protect David and provide for him as a faithful friend. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [And to show that as a faithful friend he would protect David and provide for him, Jonathan took off the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his military tunic, his sword, his bow, and his belt]

and his garments

Quote: וּ⁠מַדָּ֕י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The expression garments means the same thing here as in 17:38. See how you translated it there. Alternate translation: [and his military tunic]

and even his sword and even his bow and even his belt

Quote: וְ⁠עַד־חַרְבּ֥⁠וֹ וְ⁠עַד־קַשְׁתּ֖⁠וֹ וְ⁠עַד־חֲגֹרֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

Since this belt would have been used to hold on a sword, as in as in 17:38, you may wish to put these terms together. Alternate translation: [and even his sword and belt and even his bow]

1 Samuel 18:5

And David went out. In all that Saul sent him

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֨א דָוִ֜ד בְּ⁠כֹל֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר יִשְׁלָחֶ֤⁠נּוּ שָׁאוּל֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And David went out to war. In all that Saul sent him to do]

And he was good in the eyes of all of the people and also in the eyes of the servants of Saul

Quote: וַ⁠יִּיטַב֙ בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֣י כָל־הָ⁠עָ֔ם וְ⁠גַ֕ם בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֖י עַבְדֵ֥י שָׁאֽוּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar phrase in 1:18. This could mean: (1) that he (David) was good in the eyes of the people and Saul’s servants. Alternate translation: [And the Israelites in general and Saul’s officers and officials in particular had a high regard for David] (2) that “it” (Saul appointing David as a military commander) was good in the eyes of the people and Saul’s servants. Alternate translation: [And the Israelites in general and Saul’s officers and officials in particular approved of Saul making David a military commander]

1 Samuel 18:6

when they came

Quote: בְּ⁠בוֹאָ֗⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun they refers to Saul and his army. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [when Saul and his whole army came back to Israel]

from striking

Quote: מֵ⁠הַכּ֣וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the term striking in 4:10. Alternate translation: [from destroying]

the Philistine

Quote: אֶת־הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since the author is referring to a group of people, it may be more natural in your language to use the plural form of Philistine. Alternate translation: [the Philistines]

from all of the cities of Israel

Quote: מִ⁠כָּל־עָרֵ֤י יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The author is making a generalization for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [from many cities in Israel]

to sing and the dances

Quote: ל⁠שור וְ⁠הַ⁠מְּחֹל֔וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word dances tells what these women were doing while they were singing. (Some interpreters suggest that the text here originally read as in 29:5, “sing in the dances.” That would have the same meaning.) Alternate translation: [to sing while dancing]

with tambourines, with joy, and with triples

Quote: בְּ⁠תֻפִּ֥ים בְּ⁠שִׂמְחָ֖ה וּ⁠בְ⁠שָׁלִשִֽׁים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural in your language to put the information about joy first so that the information about the musical instruments will be together. Alternate translation: [with joy, with tambourines and triples]

with joy

Quote: בְּ⁠שִׂמְחָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of joy, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [joyfully]

with tambourines

Quote: בְּ⁠תֻפִּ֥ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A tambourine is a small drum with pieces of metal around its edges that make noise when the drum is shaken. If your readers would not be familiar with what tambourines are, in your translation you could use the name of a similar instrument that your readers would recognize, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [with small drums]

and with triples

Quote: וּ⁠בְ⁠שָׁלִשִֽׁים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The author could be using the expression triples to describe either a lute with three strings or a hanging metal triangle that women would sound by striking it with a stick. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate one of these possibilities in your translation. Alternate translation: [and with three-stringed lutes] or [and with triangles]

1 Samuel 18:7

And … sang and said

Quote: וַֽ⁠תַּעֲנֶ֛ינָה & וַ⁠תֹּאמַ֑רְןָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word sang tells in what way these women said the words that the author quotes. Alternate translation: [said in song] or [sang these words]

Saul has struck

Quote: הִכָּ֤ה שָׁאוּל֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar expression in 4:2. Alternate translation: [Saul has killed]

his thousands, and David his myriads

Quote: בַּאֲלָפָ֔יו וְ⁠דָוִ֖ד בְּ⁠רִבְבֹתָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

The women are using the adjectives thousands and myriads as nouns to mean a certain kind of person. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [thousands of soldiers, and David myriads of soldiers]

and David his myriads

Quote: וְ⁠דָוִ֖ד בְּ⁠רִבְבֹתָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and David has struck his myriads] or [and David has killed myriads of soldiers]

his myriads

Quote: בְּ⁠רִבְבֹתָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers

Translate this number according to the conventions of your own language and culture. Alternate translation: [his ten thousands]

1 Samuel 18:8

And it burned greatly to Saul

Quote: וַ⁠יִּ֨חַר לְ⁠שָׁא֜וּל מְאֹ֗ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expressions in 11:6 and 17:28. (The meaning is comparable, even though the term “nose” is not present here.) Alternate translation: [And this made Saul very angry]

and this thing was bad in his eyes

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֤רַע בְּ⁠עֵינָי⁠ו֙ הַ⁠דָּבָ֣ר הַ⁠זֶּ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term eyes by association to mean Saul’s judgment or opinion. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and this thing greatly displeased him]

And only the kingship is yet for him

Quote: וְ⁠ע֥וֹד ל֖⁠וֹ אַ֥ךְ הַ⁠מְּלוּכָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And only the kingship is yet for him to acquire]

1 Samuel 18:9

Saul was eyeing David

Quote: שָׁא֖וּל עוֹיֵ֣ן אֶת־דָּוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term eyeing by association to mean that Saul was watching David with suspicion and hostility. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [Saul was watching David with suspicion and hostility]

1 Samuel 18:10

a bad spirit from God

Quote: רוּחַ֩ אֱלֹהִ֨ים ׀ רָעָ֤ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of this phrase in the Introduction to chapter 16, and see how you translated it in 16:14–15.

and he prophesied

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתְנַבֵּ֣א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this context, the word prophesied does not indicate that Saul spoke words from God for the warning and instruction of the people. Here the author is using a form of the verb that does not describe genuine prophesy anywhere in the Old Testament. Rather, this form of the verb indicates a raving state in which people are sometimes violent, as Saul was toward David. Alternate translation: [and he raved]

And David was playing by his hand

Quote: וְ⁠דָוִ֛ד מְנַגֵּ֥ן בְּ⁠יָד֖⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context in 16:16 if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And David was playing the lyre by his hand]

And David was playing by his hand

Quote: וְ⁠דָוִ֛ד מְנַגֵּ֥ן בְּ⁠יָד֖⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. See how you translated the similar expression in 16:16. Alternate translation: [And David was strumming the lyre]

as day by day

Quote: כְּ⁠י֣וֹם ׀ בְּ⁠י֑וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean regularly or habitually. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [as he did regularly]

And a spear {was} in the hand of Saul

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠חֲנִ֖ית בְּ⁠יַד־שָׁאֽוּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This was a symbolic action that showed Saul’s royal authority. The description in 22:6 suggests that the spear served as a scepter and was a symbol of royalty. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [And Saul was holding his spear, which showed his royal authority]

1 Samuel 18:11

And Saul hurled the spear, and he said, “I will strike David, and into the wall

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֤טֶל שָׁאוּל֙ אֶֽת־הַ⁠חֲנִ֔ית וַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר אַכֶּ֥ה בְ⁠דָוִ֖ד וּ⁠בַ⁠קִּ֑יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

and into the wall

Quote: וּ⁠בַ⁠קִּ֑יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Saul is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and the spear will drive him into the wall]

But … turned from his face

Quote: וַ⁠יִּסֹּ֥ב & מִ⁠פָּנָ֖י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of Saul, his face, to mean all of him in the act of trying to kill David. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [avoided him]

1 Samuel 18:12

And Saul was afraid from the face of David. For Yahweh was with him, but he had turned from with Saul

Quote: וַ⁠יִּרָ֥א שָׁא֖וּל מִ⁠לִּ⁠פְנֵ֣י דָוִ֑ד כִּֽי־הָיָ֤ה יְהוָה֙ עִמּ֔⁠וֹ וּ⁠מֵ⁠עִ֥ם שָׁא֖וּל סָֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [And since Yahweh was with David but had turned away from Saul, Saul was afraid from the face of David]

And Saul was afraid from the face of David

Quote: וַ⁠יִּרָ֥א שָׁא֖וּל מִ⁠לִּ⁠פְנֵ֣י דָוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of David, his face, to mean all of him, suggesting that Saul found David personally to be imposing and intimidating. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And Saul was afraid of David]

Yahweh was with him

Quote: הָיָ֤ה יְהוָה֙ עִמּ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 3:19. Alternate translation: [Yahweh was helping him]

but he had turned from with Saul

Quote: וּ⁠מֵ⁠עִ֥ם שָׁא֖וּל סָֽר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if Yahweh had once been physically present with Saul but had walked away from him. He means that Yahweh was no longer helping Saul. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [but he was no longer helping Saul]

1 Samuel 18:13

And he went out and came in

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֥א וַ⁠יָּבֹ֖א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture that describes leadership. See the similar uses in Numbers 27:17 and 2 Chronicles 1:10. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And he was a leader]

to the face of

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term face by association to mean the front or head position. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in front of] or [at the head of]

the people

Quote: הָ⁠עָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The term people has the same meaning here as in 13:2 and in its frequent occurrences in chapters 13, 14, and 15. Alternate translation: [these fighting men of Israel]

1 Samuel 18:14

And David was succeeding in all of his ways, for Yahweh {was} with him

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֥י דָוִ֛ד לְ⁠כָל־דָּרְכָ֖⁠יו מַשְׂכִּ֑יל וַֽ⁠יהוָ֖ה עִמּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

in all of his ways

Quote: לְ⁠כָל־דָּרְכָ֖⁠יו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if David’s activities were paths that he walked on. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [in everything he did]

for Yahweh {was} with him

Quote: וַֽ⁠יהוָ֖ה עִמּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 3:19. Alternate translation: [because Yahweh was helping him]

1 Samuel 18:15

And he dreaded from his face

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֖גָר מִ⁠פָּנָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word that the ULT translates as dreaded here is a stronger term than the one it translates as “was afraid” in 18:12. The term “face” seems to represent David himself in 18:12, but the term face here seems to refer more directly to David’s presence. The UST models one way to show this intensification of Saul’s feeling toward David.

1 Samuel 18:16

But all of Israel and Judah were loving David, for he was going out and coming in to their face

Quote: וְ⁠כָל־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ וִ⁠יהוּדָ֔ה אֹהֵ֖ב אֶת־דָּוִ֑ד כִּֽי־ה֛וּא יוֹצֵ֥א וָ⁠בָ֖א לִ⁠פְנֵי⁠הֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [But since David was going out and coming in to their face, all of Israel and Judah were loving David]

But all of Israel and Judah

Quote: וְ⁠כָל־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ וִ⁠יהוּדָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The author is making a generalization for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [But people throughout Judah and the rest of Israel]

he was going out and coming in to their face

Quote: ה֛וּא יוֹצֵ֥א וָ⁠בָ֖א לִ⁠פְנֵי⁠הֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

As in 18:13, the author is using the term face by association to mean “front,” and he is using the term their by association to mean the army of Israel and Judah. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use equivalent expressions or plain language. Alternate translation: [he was going out and coming in at the front of their soldiers]

he was going out and coming in to their face

Quote: ה֛וּא יוֹצֵ֥א וָ⁠בָ֖א לִ⁠פְנֵי⁠הֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 18:13. Alternate translation: [he was leading their soldiers into battle]

1 Samuel 18:17

And Saul said to David, “Behold my older daughter Merab. I will give her to you for a wife. Only be for me a son of valor and fight the battles of Yahweh.” And Saul said, “Let not my hand be against him, but let the hand of the Philistines be against him

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר שָׁא֜וּל אֶל־דָּוִ֗ד הִנֵּה֩ בִתִּ֨⁠י הַ⁠גְּדוֹלָ֤ה מֵרַב֙ אֹתָ⁠הּ֙ אֶתֶּן־לְ⁠ךָ֣ לְ⁠אִשָּׁ֔ה אַ֚ךְ הֱיֵה־לִּ֣⁠י לְ⁠בֶן־חַ֔יִל וְ⁠הִלָּחֵ֖ם מִלְחֲמ֣וֹת יְהוָ֑ה וְ⁠שָׁא֣וּל אָמַ֗ר אַל־תְּהִ֤י יָדִ⁠י֙ בּ֔⁠וֹ וּ⁠תְהִי־ב֖⁠וֹ יַד־פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

The author is describing one event before describing another event that preceded it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they happened. Alternate translation: [Then Saul thought, “Let not my hand be against him, but let the hand of the Philistines be against him.” So Saul said to David, “Behold my older daughter Merab. I will give her to you for a wife. Only be for me a son of valor and fight the battles of Yahweh”]

Behold my older daughter Merab

Quote: הִנֵּה֩ בִתִּ֨⁠י הַ⁠גְּדוֹלָ֤ה מֵרַב֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

It seems unlikely that Merab is present and that Saul is telling David to look at her. But Saul is also probably not using the word Behold primarily to call attention to what he was about to say. He seems to be using the word to mean “Consider,” as David would do if he were actually looking at Merab in person and considering her as a wife. Alternate translation: [Consider my older daughter Merab]

Only be

Quote: אַ֚ךְ הֱיֵה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that by Only be, Saul means that this is the only bride-price he is asking. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [The only bride-price I ask is that you be]

for me a son of valor

Quote: לִּ֣⁠י לְ⁠בֶן־חַ֔יִל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:16. Alternate translation: [a valiant soldier in my service]

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

Quote: אַל־תְּהִ֤י יָדִ⁠י֙ בּ֔⁠וֹ וּ⁠תְהִי־ב֖⁠וֹ יַד־פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Saul is using one part of himself and the Philistines, the hand, to mean the entire person in the act of killing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Let me not be the one who kills him, but let the Philistines be the ones who kill him]

1 Samuel 18:18

Who {am} I, and what {is} my family, the clan of my father in Israel, that I should be son-in-law to the king

Quote: מִ֤י אָֽנֹכִי֙ וּ⁠מִ֣י חַיַּ֔⁠י מִשְׁפַּ֥חַת אָבִ֖⁠י בְּ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל כִּֽי־אֶהְיֶ֥ה חָתָ֖ן לַ⁠מֶּֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

David is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [I am not worthy to be the king’s son-in-law! My family, my father’s clan in Israel, is not important enough!]

son-in-law to the king

Quote: חָתָ֖ן לַ⁠מֶּֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

Your language may have its own term or expression for this relationship. Alternate translation: [the husband of the king’s daughter]

to the king

Quote: לַ⁠מֶּֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

David is speaking about Saul respectfully in the third person even though he is speaking to him directly. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [to you, the king]

1 Samuel 18:19

the daughter of Saul

Quote: בַּת־שָׁא֖וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

It is stated specifically in 18:17 that Merab is Saul’s older daughter, but if your language regularly marks that distinction, you may wish to do so here. Alternate translation: [the older daughter of Saul]

that she was given

Quote: וְ⁠הִ֧יא נִתְּנָ֛ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [that Saul gave her]

1 Samuel 18:20

the daughter of Saul

Quote: בַּת־שָׁא֖וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

If your language regularly marks the distinction between older and younger daughters, you may wish to do so here. Alternate translation: [the younger daughter of Saul]

And they declared to Saul

Quote: וַ⁠יַּגִּ֣דוּ לְ⁠שָׁא֔וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here the author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And Saul was told]

and the thing was right in his eyes

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשַׁ֥ר הַ⁠דָּבָ֖ר בְּ⁠עֵינָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

1 Samuel 18:21

I will give her to him, that she may be a snare for him and the hand of the Philistines may be against him

Quote: אֶתְּנֶ֤⁠נָּה לּ⁠וֹ֙ וּ⁠תְהִי־ל֣⁠וֹ לְ⁠מוֹקֵ֔שׁ וּ⁠תְהִי־ב֖⁠וֹ יַד־פְּלִשְׁתִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [So that she may be a snare for him and the hand of the Philistines may be against him, I will give her to him]

that she may be a snare for him

Quote: וּ⁠תְהִי־ל֣⁠וֹ לְ⁠מוֹקֵ֔שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Saul is speaking as if Michal were a snare that would catch an animal. He means that David’s wish to marry her would lead him into a deadly situation. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [that his wish to marry her will lead him into a deadly situation]

and the hand of the Philistines may be against him

Quote: וּ⁠תְהִי־ב֖⁠וֹ יַד־פְּלִשְׁתִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated this expression in 18:17. Alternate translation: [and the Philistines will be the ones who kill him]

So Saul said to David for a second {time}, “You may make yourself a son-in-law of mine today

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר שָׁאוּל֙ אֶל־דָּוִ֔ד בִּ⁠שְׁתַּ֛יִם תִּתְחַתֵּ֥ן בִּ֖⁠י הַ⁠יּֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

It is possible that the words for a second time are part of the direct quotation from Saul. Alternate translation: [So Saul said to David, “For a second time, you may make yourself a son-in-law of mine today”]

for a second {time

Quote: בִּ⁠שְׁתַּ֛יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

The author is using the adjective second as a noun to mean a certain instance. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. The ULT does that by supplying the word time.

today

Quote: הַ⁠יּֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 9:13. Alternate translation: [at this time]

1 Samuel 18:22

Speak to David in secrecy, saying, ‘Behold, the king delights in you, and all of his servants love you. And now, make yourself a son-in-law of the king

Quote: דַּבְּר֨וּ אֶל־דָּוִ֤ד בַּ⁠לָּט֙ לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר הִנֵּ֨ה חָפֵ֤ץ בְּ⁠ךָ֙ הַ⁠מֶּ֔לֶךְ וְ⁠כָל־עֲבָדָ֖י⁠ו אֲהֵב֑וּ⁠ךָ וְ⁠עַתָּ֖ה הִתְחַתֵּ֥ן בַּ⁠מֶּֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [Speak to David in secrecy and tell him to consider that the king delights in him and that all of his servants love him, so he should make himself a son-in-law of the king]

in secrecy

Quote: בַּ⁠לָּט֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of secrecy, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [secretly]

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֨ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this expression in 18:17. Alternate translation: [Consider that]

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the expression “And now” in 6:7. Alternate translation: [So this is what you should do]

1 Samuel 18:23

And … spoke these words

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְדַבְּר֞וּ & אֶת־הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֖ים הָ⁠אֵ֑לֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to mean the message that Saul had communicated by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [said what Saul had told them to say]

in the ears of David

Quote: בְּ⁠אָזְנֵ֣י דָוִ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term ears by association to mean David’s hearing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in the hearing of David] or [for David to hear]

Does it seem light in your eyes to make oneself a son-in-law of the king

Quote: הַֽ⁠נְקַלָּ֤ה בְ⁠עֵֽינֵי⁠כֶם֙ הִתְחַתֵּ֣ן בַּ⁠מֶּ֔לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

David is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [It should not seem light in your eyes to make oneself a son-in-law of the king!]

Does it seem light … and I am lightly esteemed

Quote: הַֽ⁠נְקַלָּ֤ה & וְ⁠נִקְלֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

David is using related verb forms to make his point eloquently and emphatically. Your language may have comparable forms or terms that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [Does it seem like a little thing … and people have little regard for me]

Does it seem light

Quote: הַֽ⁠נְקַלָּ֤ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking as if becoming the king’s son-in-law were something that could be weighed and found to be light. This conveys the idea of insignificance. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Does it seem insignificant] or [It should not seem insignificant]

in your eyes

Quote: בְ⁠עֵֽינֵי⁠כֶם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term eyes by association to mean judgment or opinion. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in your judgment]

And I {am} a poor man

Quote: וְ⁠אָנֹכִ֖י אִֽישׁ־רָ֥שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By calling himself a poor man, David means l that he would not be able to afford the bride-price for a princess. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And I would not be able to afford the bride-price for a princess]

and I am lightly esteemed

Quote: וְ⁠נִקְלֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and people esteem me lightly]

and I am lightly esteemed

Quote: וְ⁠נִקְלֶֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of the possible implicit meaning of this phrase.

1 Samuel 18:24

saying, “Like these words David spoke

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר כַּ⁠דְּבָרִ֥ים הָ⁠אֵ֖לֶּה דִּבֶּ֥ר דָּוִֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 17:23. Alternate translation: [saying, “This is what David said”]

saying, “Like these words David spoke

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר כַּ⁠דְּבָרִ֥ים הָ⁠אֵ֖לֶּה דִּבֶּ֥ר דָּוִֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

It may be more natural in your language to have an indirect quotation here. Alternate translation: [and told him what David had said]

1 Samuel 18:25

Thus you shall say to David, ‘{There is} no desire to the king for a bride-price except for a hundred foreskins of Philistines, to be avenged against the enemies of the king

Quote: כֹּֽה־תֹאמְר֣וּ לְ⁠דָוִ֗ד אֵֽין־חֵ֤פֶץ לַ⁠מֶּ֨לֶךְ֙ בְּ⁠מֹ֔הַר כִּ֗י בְּ⁠מֵאָה֙ עָרְל֣וֹת פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים לְ⁠הִנָּקֵ֖ם בְּ⁠אֹיְבֵ֣י הַ⁠מֶּ֑לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [Tell David that the king does not desire any bride-price except for a hundred foreskins of Philistines, to be avenged against his enemies]

There is} no desire to the king for a bride-price except for a hundred foreskins of Philistines

Quote: אֵֽין־חֵ֤פֶץ לַ⁠מֶּ֨לֶךְ֙ בְּ⁠מֹ֔הַר כִּ֗י בְּ⁠מֵאָה֙ עָרְל֣וֹת פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

If it would appear in your language that Saul was making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this as a positive statement. Alternate translation: [The only bride-price that the king desires is a hundred foreskins of Philistines]

except for a hundred foreskins of Philistines

Quote: כִּ֗י בְּ⁠מֵאָה֙ עָרְל֣וֹת פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

As 17:54 shows, the usual trophy from a defeated enemy’s body was the head. Saul’s different requirement of a hundred foreskins of Philistines had both practical and symbolic significance. Since Israelite men were circumcised but Philistine men were not, this requirement ensured that David could not bring back the heads of slain Israelites and claim they were Philistines. Beyond that, as 14:6, 17:26, and 17:36 show, Israelites used the word “uncircumcised” as a derogatory term indicating that the Philistines did not worship Yahweh and did not obey his laws. So bringing back their foreskins as war trophies would symbolically show that Saul was being avenged on these enemies who were also hostile to Yahweh. (Saul tells David in 18:17 that he is sending him out to fight “the battles of Yahweh.”) Alternate translation: [except that you kill a hundred Philistines and bring back their foreskins to prove that it was indeed these uncircumcised heathen whom you killed]

to be avenged

Quote: לְ⁠הִנָּקֵ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [so that he may get revenge]

against the enemies of the king

Quote: בְּ⁠אֹיְבֵ֣י הַ⁠מֶּ֑לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

As he tells his men what to say to David, Saul anticipates that they will refer to him respectfully by his royal title. Depending on the conventions of your own culture, it may be possible to convey the same meaning with a simple pronoun. Alternate translation: [against his enemies]

Now Saul thought to make David fall by the hand of the Philistines

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁא֣וּל חָשַׁ֔ב לְ⁠הַפִּ֥יל אֶת־דָּוִ֖ד בְּ⁠יַד־פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing background information to help readers understand Saul’s true motives. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

to make David fall by the hand of the Philistines

Quote: לְ⁠הַפִּ֥יל אֶת־דָּוִ֖ד בְּ⁠יַד־פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term hand by association to mean the power and action of the Philistines. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [that this would enable the Philistines to make David fall]

to make David fall

Quote: לְ⁠הַפִּ֥יל אֶת־דָּוִ֖ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 4:10. Alternate translation: [to make David die] or [to kill David]

1 Samuel 18:26

And his servants declared these words to David

Quote: וַ⁠יַּגִּ֨דוּ עֲבָדָ֤י⁠ו לְ⁠דָוִד֙ אֶת־הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֣ים הָ⁠אֵ֔לֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to mean what Saul had instructed them to say by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And his servants told David what Saul had instructed them to say]

and the thing was right in the eyes of David, to make himself son-in-law of the king

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשַׁ֤ר הַ⁠דָּבָר֙ בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֣י דָוִ֔ד לְ⁠הִתְחַתֵּ֖ן בַּ⁠מֶּ֑לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term eyes by association to mean David’s judgment or opinion. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and it seemed appropriate to David to make himself son-in-law of the king in this way]

And the days were not full

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א מָלְא֖וּ הַ⁠יָּמִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean that a certain period of time had not yet ended. Express this in the way that people in your own culture would speak of a period that had not ended. Alternate translation: [And the time had not expired]

And the days were not full

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א מָלְא֖וּ הַ⁠יָּמִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that by the days, he means a time limit that Saul had set. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And the time limit that Saul had set had not expired]

1 Samuel 18:27

and David arose

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֨קָם דָּוִ֜ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in 1:9. Alternate translation: [and David took action]

and he struck

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using David to represent both him and his men in the act of killing these Philistines. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a plural pronoun here. Alternate translation: [and they struck]

And David brought their foreskins, and they filled them to the king, to make himself son-in-law of the king. And Saul gave Michal, his daughter, to him for a wife

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֵ֤א דָוִד֙ אֶת־עָרְלֹ֣תֵי⁠הֶ֔ם וַ⁠יְמַלְא֣וּ⁠ם לַ⁠מֶּ֔לֶךְ לְ⁠הִתְחַתֵּ֖ן בַּ⁠מֶּ֑לֶךְ וַ⁠יִּתֶּן־ל֥⁠וֹ שָׁא֛וּל אֶת־מִיכַ֥ל בִּתּ֖⁠וֹ לְ⁠אִשָּֽׁה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural in your language to put the information about David bringing the foreskins with the information about the purpose for which he brought them. It may also be more natural to put the information about counting them with the information about the result of the count. Alternate translation: [And David brought their foreskins to make himself son-in-law of the king, and they filled them to the king, so Saul gave his daughter Michal to him for his wife]

and they filled them to the king

Quote: וַ⁠יְמַלְא֣וּ⁠ם לַ⁠מֶּ֔לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean that they counted out the full number. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and they counted them out in full number for the king]

and they filled them to the king

Quote: וַ⁠יְמַלְא֣וּ⁠ם לַ⁠מֶּ֔לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here the author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and they were counted out in full number to the king]

1 Samuel 18:28

And Saul saw and knew

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֤רְא שָׁאוּל֙ וַ⁠יֵּ֔דַע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The terms saw and knew mean similar things. (In this context, saw refers to more than vision; it means recognition.) The author is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [And Saul recognized clearly]

Yahweh {was} with David

Quote: יְהוָ֖ה עִם־דָּוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 18:14. Alternate translation: [Yahweh was helping David]

and {that} Michal, the daughter of Saul

Quote: וּ⁠מִיכַ֥ל בַּת־שָׁא֖וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

The author is referring to Michal formally by her relationship to the king. Following the conventions of your own culture, you could use a different expression that would indicate her status appropriately. Alternate translation: [ “and that the princess Michal]

1 Samuel 18:29

and Saul added to be more afraid

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אסֶף שָׁא֗וּל לֵ⁠רֹ֛א & ע֑וֹד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word added tells in what way Saul became more afraid. Alternate translation: [and Saul became even more afraid]

from the face of David

Quote: מִ⁠פְּנֵ֥י דָוִ֖ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of David, his face, to mean his entire person, with the suggestion that Saul found David personally to be even more imposing and intimidating. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [of the person of David]

all of the days

Quote: כָּל־הַ⁠יָּמִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term days by association to mean a specific period of time, Saul’s remaining lifetime. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for the rest of his life]

1 Samuel 18:30

And the commanders of the Philistines came out, … they came out

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצְא֖וּ שָׂרֵ֣י פְלִשְׁתִּ֑ים & צֵאתָ֗⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using these commanders to represent both them and their armies in the act of going out to battle. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And the commanders of the Philistines led their armies out … they led them out]

came out, … they

Quote: צֵאתָ֗⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that by came out, he means that they came out to fight against the Israelites. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [came out to fight against the Israelites]

and his name became greatly precious

Quote: וַ⁠יִּיקַ֥ר שְׁמ֖⁠וֹ מְאֹֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term name by association to mean David’s reputation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and his reputation became very great] or [and people came to think very highly of him]

1 Samuel 19

1 Samuel 19 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). It describes how, after promising not to harm David, Saul once again became jealous of David’s success as a military leader. This led Saul to try once again to kill David, both indirectly, by sending soldiers to kill him, and directly, by ordering soldiers to bring David to him and by pursuing David in person. But Yahweh continued to protect David so that he could survive and eventually become the next king of Israel.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

What was the “teraphim” that Michal had in her home?

In 19:13, the author says that Michal took a “teraphim” that she had in her home and put it in David’s bed under a covering to make it look as if David was there. She did that to help David escape. Teraphim were idols that people kept in their homes. While contexts such as Genesis 31:34 suggest that in some cases they were small, the context in this chapter shows that the teraphim Michal had was the size of a man. It appears that Michal worshiped this idol in some way. But that does not mean that David did. Samuel said in 13:14 that Yahweh considered David to be “a man according to his heart” who would do all that he commanded. So we may be confident that David was wholeheartedly devoted to Yahweh and worshiped only him, even though his wife unfortunately kept an idol in their home.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

“Naioth”

The author says in 19:18 that David and Samuel “stayed in Naioth.” The word “Naioth” is not attested as a place name in any other passage of the Bible or in any historical sources. The term means “dwellings,” and it seems to refer to a cluster of lodgings that had been built near Ramah for young prophets whom Samuel was training. Samuel apparently felt that David would be safer within a community of people, and he may also have hoped that Saul would not seek to harm David within an area that was dedicated to a sacred purpose. While Naioth may have become the name of these lodgings, it might also have been a descriptive term, and the author may be using it in that way. So instead of saying “in Naioth,” you might to choose to say something such as “among the lodgings of the young prophets.” If a translation of the Bible exists in your region, consider what it says.

“Is Saul among the prophets?” (19:24)

In 10:12, the author describes the origin of this short popular saying. Originally people in the culture applied it to situations in which a person did something that was surprising in light of his upbringing or family of origin. In 19:24, the author describes how this saying came to be applied to a further type of situation, one in which a person did something that was very unexpected. You could indicate that explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. The UST models one way to do that.

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 19:2

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the expression And now in 6:7. Alternate translation: [So this is what you should do]

and stay in a secret place and hide yourself

Quote: וְ⁠יָשַׁבְתָּ֥ בַ⁠סֵּ֖תֶר וְ⁠נַחְבֵּֽאתָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

Jonathan is describing one event before describing another event that preceded it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they happened. Alternate translation: [and hide yourself and stay in that secret place]

1 Samuel 19:3

at the hand of

Quote: לְ⁠יַד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Jonathan is using the term hand by association to mean location next to someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [beside]

where you {are} there

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר אַתָּ֣ה שָׁ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [where you are]

and I will see what, and I will declare to you

Quote: וְ⁠רָאִ֥יתִי מָ֖ה וְ⁠הִגַּ֥דְתִּי לָֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Jonathan is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and I will see what he says, and I will declare that to you]

1 Samuel 19:4

May the king not sin against his servant, against David, for he has not sinned against you, but surely his deeds {have been} very good for you

Quote: אַל־יֶחֱטָ֨א הַ⁠מֶּ֜לֶךְ בְּ⁠עַבְדּ֣⁠וֹ בְ⁠דָוִ֗ד כִּ֣י ל֤וֹא חָטָא֙ לָ֔⁠ךְ וְ⁠כִ֥י מַעֲשָׂ֖י⁠ו טוֹב־לְ⁠ךָ֥ מְאֹֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since his servant David has not sinned against the king, but surely his deeds have been very good for you, may you not sin against him]

May the king not sin against his servant

Quote: אַל־יֶחֱטָ֨א הַ⁠מֶּ֜לֶךְ בְּ⁠עַבְדּ֣⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jonathan is speaking to Saul respectfully in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [May you, the king, not sin against your servant]

May the king not sin against his servant

Quote: אַל־יֶחֱטָ֨א הַ⁠מֶּ֜לֶךְ בְּ⁠עַבְדּ֣⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jonathan assumes that his father, King Saul, will know that by sin against, he means to do unjustified harm. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [May the king not sinfully do unjustified harm to his servant]

1 Samuel 19:5

And he put his life in his palm

Quote: וַ⁠יָּשֶׂם֩ אֶת־נַפְשׁ֨⁠וֹ בְ⁠כַפּ֜⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Jonathan is using a common expression of his culture to mean that someone put himself in danger for the sake of others. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [And he took his life into his own hands] or [And he put himself in danger of being killed]

and struck

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the term struck in 4:2. Alternate translation: [and killed]

the Philistine

Quote: אֶת־הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֗י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in 17:8. Alternate translation: [Goliath, the Philistine champion]

and Yahweh made a great salvation for all of Israel

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֨עַשׂ יְהוָ֜ה תְּשׁוּעָ֤ה גְדוֹלָה֙ לְ⁠כָל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of salvation, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [and Yahweh saved all of Israel in a great way]

So why would you sin against innocent blood by killing David without cause

Quote: וְ⁠לָ֤⁠מָּה תֶֽחֱטָא֙ בְּ⁠דָ֣ם נָקִ֔י לְ⁠הָמִ֥ית אֶת־דָּוִ֖ד חִנָּֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jonathan is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [So you should certainly not sin against innocent blood by killing David without cause!]

against innocent blood

Quote: בְּ⁠דָ֣ם נָקִ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Jonathan is using one part of David, his blood, to mean David as an entire person. He is using that part of David to represent him because Saul would shed his blood if he killed him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [against an innocent person]

1 Samuel 19:6

And Saul listened to the voice of Jonathan

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁמַ֥ע שָׁא֖וּל בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל יְהוֹנָתָ֑ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term voice by association to mean what Jonathan said by using his voice. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And Saul listened to what Jonathan said]

And Saul listened to the voice of Jonathan

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁמַ֥ע שָׁא֖וּל בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל יְהוֹנָתָ֑ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that by listened, he means that Saul agreed to do what Jonathan said. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And Saul agreed to do what Jonathan said]

The life of Yahweh, he shall not be killed

Quote: חַי־יְהוָ֖ה אִם־יוּמָֽת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Following the custom of his culture, Saul is swearing an oath by guaranteeing it by something he holds sacred. Use a natural way in your language to express an oath. Alternate translation: [I swear by Yahweh that David shall not be killed]

he shall not be killed

Quote: אִם־יוּמָֽת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [I will not kill him]

1 Samuel 19:7

all of these words

Quote: אֵ֥ת כָּל־הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֖ים הָ⁠אֵ֑לֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to mean what Saul had communicated by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [everything that Saul had said]

to his face

Quote: לְ⁠פָנָ֖י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term face by association to mean Saul’s presence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in his presence]

as yesterday and the third day

Quote: כְּ⁠אֶתְמ֥וֹל שִׁלְשֽׁוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 4:7. Alternate translation: [as he had been previously]

1 Samuel 19:8

and David went out

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּצֵ֨א דָוִ֜ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using David to represent both him and his army in the act of going out to battle. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and David led the army out]

and he struck a great striking against them

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֤ךְ בָּ⁠הֶם֙ מַכָּ֣ה גְדוֹלָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

For emphasis, the author is using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. See how you translated the similar expression in 14:14. Alternate translation: [and he slaughtered very many of them]

from his face

Quote: מִ⁠פָּנָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of David, his face, to represent him and the army he was commanding. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [from him] or [from the army he was commanding]

1 Samuel 19:9

And a bad spirit from Yahweh came upon Saul, and he was sitting in his house, and his spear {was} in his hand, and David was playing by hand

Quote: וַ⁠תְּהִי֩ ר֨וּחַ יְהוָ֤ה ׀ רָעָה֙ אֶל־שָׁא֔וּל וְ⁠הוּא֙ בְּ⁠בֵית֣⁠וֹ יוֹשֵׁ֔ב וַ⁠חֲנִית֖⁠וֹ בְּ⁠יָד֑⁠וֹ וְ⁠דָוִ֖ד מְנַגֵּ֥ן בְּ⁠יָֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

Since the last three clauses in this verse describe the setting in which the event took place that the first clause describes, it may be more natural in your language to put the information about the setting before the information about the event. Alternate translation: [And then, as Saul was sitting in his house with his spear in his hand and David was playing by hand, a bad spirit from Yahweh came upon Saul]

And a bad spirit from Yahweh came

Quote: וַ⁠תְּהִי֩ ר֨וּחַ יְהוָ֤ה ׀ רָעָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of this phrase in the Introduction to chapter 16, and see how you translated it in 16:14–15 and 18:10.

and David was playing by hand

Quote: וְ⁠דָוִ֖ד מְנַגֵּ֥ן בְּ⁠יָֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

See how you translated this expression in 16:16. Alternate translation: [and David was strumming the lyre]

1 Samuel 19:10

and into the wall

Quote: וּ⁠בַ⁠קִּ֔יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. See how you translated this in 18:11. Alternate translation: [so that the spear would drive him into the wall]

but he escaped from the face of Saul

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפְטַר֙ מִ⁠פְּנֵ֣י שָׁא֔וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of Saul, his face, to represent all of him. See how you translated this in 18:11. Alternate translation: [escaped from Saul] or [eluded Saul’s attempt to kill him]

and he struck the spear into the wall

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֥ךְ אֶֽת־הַ⁠חֲנִ֖ית בַּ⁠קִּ֑יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Saul. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [and Saul struck the spear into the wall] or [so that the spear Saul threw stuck in the wall instead]

fled and rescued himself

Quote: נָ֥ס וַ⁠יִּמָּלֵ֖ט & הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word fled tells in what way David rescued himself. Alternate translation: [rescued himself by fleeing]

1 Samuel 19:11

you will be being killed

Quote: אַתָּ֥ה מוּמָֽת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [they will kill you]

1 Samuel 19:12

And he went

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֥לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that by went, he means that David went away from the house. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And he went away from the house]

and fled and rescued himself

Quote: וַ⁠יִּבְרַ֖ח וַ⁠יִּמָּלֵֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

See how you translated this expression in 19:10. Alternate translation: [and rescued himself by fleeing]

1 Samuel 19:13

the teraphim

Quote: אֶת־הַ⁠תְּרָפִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

See how you translated the term teraphim in 15:23. Alternate translation: [the household idol]

the teraphim

Quote: אֶת־הַ⁠תְּרָפִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author says the teraphim to indicate that this was a specific idol that Michal had in her home. While such idols could be small, as Genesis 31:34 indicates, here the context indicates that it was as large as a man, since Michal was able to use it to pretend that David was in the bed. It may be helpful to indicate this in your translation. Alternate translation: [the man-sized idol that she had in her home]

And she put a weaving of goats at its head

Quote: וְ⁠אֵת֙ כְּבִ֣יר הָֽ⁠עִזִּ֔ים שָׂ֖מָה מְרַֽאֲשֹׁתָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term goats by association to mean the hair of goats. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And she put a weaving of goats’ hair at its head]

And she put a weaving of goats at its head

Quote: וְ⁠אֵת֙ כְּבִ֣יר הָֽ⁠עִזִּ֔ים שָׂ֖מָה מְרַֽאֲשֹׁתָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Interpreters are unsure about the meaning of the phrase a weaving of goats. It could be describing: (1) a woven garment with visible fibers of goats’ hair that resembled human hair. Alternate translation: [And she put goats’ hair around the head of the statue to make it look like a human head] (2) a woven pillow stuffed with goats’ hair. Alternate translation: [And she put a pillow stuffed with goat’s hair at the top of the statue to look like David’s head] (3) a net woven from goats’ hair that people used to keep flies away. This covering would have disguised the head of the statue. Alternate translation: [And she put a flynet woven from goats’ hair over the head of the idol to disguise it]

1 Samuel 19:14

But she said

Quote: וַ⁠תֹּ֖אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun she refers to Michal. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [But Michal said]

1 Samuel 19:15

to see David, saying, “Bring him up to me in the bed to kill him

Quote: לִ⁠רְא֥וֹת אֶת־דָּוִ֖ד לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר הַעֲל֨וּ אֹת֧⁠וֹ בַ⁠מִּטָּ֛ה אֵלַ֖⁠י לַ⁠הֲמִתֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author assumes that his readers will know that Saul wanted to see whether David really was too sick to get out of bed. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [to see whether David really was too sick to get out of bed, saying, “If necessary, bring him up to me in the bed so that I can kill him”]

Bring him up

Quote: הַעֲל֨וּ אֹת֧⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

In keeping with the conventions of his language and culture, Saul seems to be marking travel for change in elevation. Apparently Saul lived on the hill of Gibeah, while David lived in the town below the hill. See how you translated the comparable expression in 1:3. Alternate translation: [Bring him]

1 Samuel 19:16

and behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the term behold in 2:31. Alternate translation: [and to their surprise]

and the weaving of goats {was} at its head

Quote: וּ⁠כְבִ֥יר הָ⁠עִזִּ֖ים מְרַאֲשֹׁתָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

See how you translated the phrase weaving of goats in 19:13.

1 Samuel 19:17

He himself said to me, ‘Let me go. Why should I kill you

Quote: הוּא־אָמַ֥ר אֵלַ֛⁠י שַׁלְּחִ֖⁠נִי לָ⁠מָ֥ה אֲמִיתֵֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [He himself told me that if I did not let him go, he would kill me]

Why should I kill you

Quote: לָ⁠מָ֥ה אֲמִיתֵֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

David is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: [I should not have to kill you]

1 Samuel 19:18

Now David fled and rescued himself

Quote: וְ⁠דָוִ֨ד בָּרַ֜ח וַ⁠יִּמָּלֵ֗ט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

See how you translated this expression in 19:10. Alternate translation: [Now David rescued himself by fleeing]

in Naioth

Quote: בְּנָֽיוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See the discussion of this phrase in the Introduction to this chapter.

1 Samuel 19:19

And it was declared to Saul

Quote: וַ⁠יֻּגַּ֥ד לְ⁠שָׁא֖וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And someone told Saul]

1 Samuel 19:20

And one saw

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֗רְא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here the author is not using the pronoun one to refer to a specific person. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And each one saw] or [And they saw]

having stationed himself over them

Quote: נִצָּ֖ב עֲלֵי⁠הֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if Samuel had physically positioned himself above the prophets. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [supervising them as their teacher]

1 Samuel 19:21

And they declared {this} to Saul

Quote: וַ⁠יַּגִּ֣דוּ לְ⁠שָׁא֗וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

And Saul added and sent messengers a third {time

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣סֶף שָׁא֗וּל וַ⁠יִּשְׁלַח֙ מַלְאָכִ֣ים שְׁלִשִׁ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word added tells in what way Saul sent messengers. Alternate translation: [And Saul once again sent messengers, for a third time]

1 Samuel 19:22

So he went

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֨לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Saul. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [So Saul went]

And he asked and said

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁאַ֣ל וַ⁠יֹּ֔אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. Alternate translation: [And he inquired]

And one said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here the author is not using the pronoun one to refer to a specific person. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And someone said]

1 Samuel 19:23

upon him, him also

Quote: עָלָ֨י⁠ו גַּם־ה֜וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

The author is repeating the pronoun him to emphasize that even Saul was affected. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. Alternate translation: [even upon him]

and going, he went, and he prophesied

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֤לֶךְ הָלוֹךְ֙ וַ⁠יִּתְנַבֵּ֔א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

The author is repeating forms of the verb “go” to indicate continuous action. Alternate translation: [and he went along, and he prophesied]

and going, he went, and he prophesied

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֤לֶךְ הָלוֹךְ֙ וַ⁠יִּתְנַבֵּ֔א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two verbal phrases connected with and. The phrase going, he went tells the circumstances under which Saul prophesied. Alternate translation: [and as he went along, he prophesied]

1 Samuel 19:24

And he also stripped off his clothes

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפְשַׁ֨ט גַּם־ה֜וּא בְּגָדָ֗י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This expression likely refers either to royal robes that Saul was wearing to demonstrate his status and authority or to armor and a tunic that Saul may have been wearing on this military expedition to capture David. Alternate translation: [And he also stripped off his royal robes] or [And he also stripped off his armor and his tunic] or [And he also stripped off his outer garments]

And he also stripped off his clothes

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפְשַׁ֨ט גַּם־ה֜וּא בְּגָדָ֗י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Removing his royal robes or his armor was a symbolic action by which, under prophetic inspiration, Saul was acknowledging that he would eventually surrender the kingship to David, who was present. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [And he also symbolically surrendered his royal authority by stripping off his robe]

to the face of Samuel

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י שְׁמוּאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term face by association to mean Samuel’s presence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in Samuel’s presence]

naked

Quote: עָרֹ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In biblical Hebrew, the term naked could refer to someone who was either entirely or partially unclothed. In this context, it seems that Saul had removed his robes or armor but not the rest of his clothes. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [without his outer garments]

Therefore they said, “{Is} Saul also among the prophets

Quote: עַל־כֵּן֙ יֹֽאמְר֔וּ הֲ⁠גַ֥ם שָׁא֖וּל בַּ⁠נְּבִיאִֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-proverbs

See the discussion of this statement in the Introduction to this chapter.

1 Samuel 20

1 Samuel 20 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). It describes how David’s friend Jonathan found out for certain that his father Saul intended to kill David and how Jonathan devised a secret way to warn David that he was in danger and that he should flee for his life.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Why did Saul assume that his son Jonathan would be the next king?

In 20:31, Saul says to his son Jonathan that “all of the days that the son of Jesse lives on the earth, you will not be established, nor your kingdom.” Saul is assuming that Jonathan will be king after him unless David takes his place. He assumes this because in the ancient Near East, it was usually a king’s oldest son who became king after his death. Jonathan was Saul’s oldest son. But throughout the Old Testament, we see Yahweh accomplishing his purposes by doing things other than in the customary ways of a culture. Jonathan knew and understood this. He tells David in 23:17 that he expects David to be the next king but that he will be his most important official and advisor. Jonathan did not know that he would be killed in battle before this could happen.

Why did David flee from Naioth after Yahweh had protected him there?

Even though, as the author describes in 19:19–24, Yahweh protected David at Naioth in a supernatural way, we learn in 20:1 that “David fled from Naioth.” He seems to have been concerned that someone who was not open to Yahweh’s influence in the way that Saul and his messengers clearly were would come to try to capture him. David was right, as an ungodly man, Doeg the Edomite, killed all the priests of Yahweh in 22:18–19. However, it is not necessary to explain this reason in the text of your translation or in a footnote, since the reason becomes clear later in the story.

What was Jonathan doing with the arrows (20:20–22 and 35–40)?

By shooting arrows near the rock where he told David to hide, Jonathan provided a signal for David of whether or not he was safe. Even if David could not hear what Jonathan was saying to the boy, if he saw the boy turn around and head back toward Jonathan, then he would know that he too could return safely to the city and to Saul’s court. Similarly, if he saw the boy running farther away after Jonathan called out to him, then he too needed flee for safety.

Why did Jonathan give his seat to Abner (20:25)?

It is possible that Jonathan was showing special courtesy and honor to Abner, Saul’s cousin and general, by giving up his seat next to his father Saul and letting Abner sit there. But it’s more likely that by seeming to do this, he was actually putting some distance between himself and his father Saul, expecting that Saul might become upset when he learned that Jonathan had given David permission not to be present. In 20:33, the story shows that this was a good idea, since it gave Jonathan more time to get out of the way of the spear that Saul threw at him.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

Why did Jonathan make “the enemies of David” accountable for David’s actions?

In 20:16, when Jonathan has David promise not to harm his descendants, he says, “And may Yahweh seek from the hand of the enemies of David!” This means, “If you break this promise, may Yahweh punish your enemies!” It does not immediately make sense why Jonathan would say “the enemies of David” rather than “David.” Since this is a binding oath, the sense is that Yahweh will hold David accountable for keeping it. Yahweh would punish David, not David’s enemies, if David broke the oath. Interpreters have different understandings of why Jonathan says “the enemies of David.” It is possible that a person in this culture would not directly threaten another person with divine retribution, especially if they were on good terms. So Jonathan may be speaking indirectly. Other interpreters suggest that out of reverence for David, later scribes may have substituted the phrase about his enemies for a direct reference to David’s name. In both explanations, someone is being polite and respectful to David. But if the meaning would not be clear in this polite form, you could state it directly in your translation. You might have Jonathan say, for example, “And may Yahweh seek from the hand of David.”

1 Samuel 20:1

to the face of Jonathan

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוֹנָתָ֗ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of Jonathan, his face, to mean all of him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to Jonathan in person]

What have I done? What {is} my iniquity? And what {is} my sin to the face of your father, that {he is} seeking my life

Quote: מֶ֤ה עָשִׂ֨יתִי֙ מֶֽה־עֲוֺנִ֤⁠י וּ⁠מֶֽה־חַטָּאתִ⁠י֙ לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י אָבִ֔י⁠ךָ כִּ֥י מְבַקֵּ֖שׁ אֶת־נַפְשִֽׁ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

David is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [I have done nothing! I have no iniquity! There is no sin of mine to the face of your father, that he should seek my life!]

What have I done? What {is} my iniquity

Quote: מֶ֤ה עָשִׂ֨יתִי֙ מֶֽה־עֲוֺנִ֤⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [What have I done that would be iniquity?] or [I have done nothing iniquitous!]

to the face of your father

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י אָבִ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of Saul, his face to mean all of him in the act of potentially being offended or injured. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [against your father]

that {he is} seeking my life

Quote: כִּ֥י מְבַקֵּ֖שׁ אֶת־נַפְשִֽׁ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term life by association to mean the end of his life, that is, his death. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [that he is seeking to end my life] or [that he is seeking to kill me]

1 Samuel 20:2

And he said to him

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר ל֣⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Jonathan, while the pronoun him refers to David. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And Jonathan said to David]

Profane

Quote: חָלִילָ⁠ה֮ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 2:30. Alternate translation: [Far be it from me to let that happen]

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֡ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the term “Behold” in 2:31.

a great thing or a small thing

Quote: דָּבָ֣ר גָּד֗וֹל א֚וֹ דָּבָ֣ר קָטֹ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Jonathan is speaking of two extremes in order to mean them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [anything at all]

and not uncover my ear

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א יִגְלֶ֖ה אֶת־אָזְנִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Jonathan is using a common expression of his culture to mean that his father tells him such things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [without telling me]

So why would my father hide this thing from me

Quote: וּ⁠מַדּוּעַ֩ יַסְתִּ֨יר אָבִ֥⁠י מִמֶּ֛⁠נִּי אֶת־הַ⁠דָּבָ֥ר הַ⁠זֶּ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

There is} not this

Quote: אֵ֥ין זֹֽאת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Jonathan is using a common expression of his culture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [This cannot be happening]

1 Samuel 20:3

Knowing, your father knows

Quote: יָדֹ֨עַ יָדַ֜ע אָבִ֗י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

David is repeating forms of the verb “know” in order to intensify his expression of the idea it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [Your father certainly knows]

I have found favor in your eyes

Quote: מָצָ֤אתִי חֵן֙ בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See you translated the similar expression in 1:18. Alternate translation: [you are favorably disposed toward me]

So he said, ‘May Jonathan not know this, lest he be grieved

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֛אמֶר אַל־יֵֽדַע־זֹ֥את יְהוֹנָתָ֖ן פֶּן־יֵֽעָצֵ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [So he decided not to let you know about this, so you would not be grieved]

lest he be grieved

Quote: פֶּן־יֵֽעָצֵ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [lest it grieve him]

the life of Yahweh, and the life of your soul

Quote: חַי־יְהוָה֙ וְ⁠חֵ֣י נַפְשֶׁ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of Jonathan, his ** soul**, to mean all of him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the life of Yahweh, and your life]

the life of Yahweh, and the life of your soul

Quote: חַי־יְהוָה֙ וְ⁠חֵ֣י נַפְשֶׁ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

See how you translated the similar expressions in 14:39, 14:45, and 19/06. Alternate translation: [I swear by Yahweh and I swear by your life that]

like a step {is} between me and between death

Quote: כְ⁠פֶ֔שַׂע בֵּינִ֖⁠י וּ⁠בֵ֥ין הַ⁠מָּֽוֶת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking as if death were an object or a location a short distance away from him that he could reach by taking about a step. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I am just about to be killed]

1 Samuel 20:4

your soul says

Quote: תֹּאמַ֥ר נַפְשְׁ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Jonathan is using one part of David, his soul to mean all of him in the act of speaking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [you say]

1 Samuel 20:5

the new moon

Quote: חֹ֨דֶשׁ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term new moon by association to mean a feast that Saul would host on the occasion of the new moon. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the new moon festival]

and sitting, I should sit

Quote: וְ⁠אָנֹכִ֛י יָשֹׁב־אֵשֵׁ֥ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

David is repeating forms of the verb “sit” in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [and I should certainly sit]

until the third evening

Quote: עַ֖ד הָ⁠עֶ֥רֶב הַ⁠שְּׁלִשִֽׁית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the comparable expression in 9:20. Express this time reference the way your language and culture would. The UST models one way to do that.

1 Samuel 20:6

missing, your father misses me

Quote: פָּקֹ֥ד יִפְקְדֵ֖⁠נִי אָבִ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

David is repeating forms of the verb “miss” in order to intensify his expression of the idea it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [your father indeed misses me]

then you shall say, ‘Asking, David asked from me to run {to} Bethlehem, his city, for the sacrifice of days {is} there for all of the clan

Quote: וְ⁠אָמַרְתָּ֗ נִשְׁאֹל֩ נִשְׁאַ֨ל מִמֶּ֤⁠נִּי דָוִד֙ לָ⁠רוּץ֙ בֵּֽית־לֶ֣חֶם עִיר֔⁠וֹ כִּ֣י זֶ֧בַח הַ⁠יָּמִ֛ים שָׁ֖ם לְ⁠כָל־הַ⁠מִּשְׁפָּחָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

David is using a quotation within his speech. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [then you shall tell him that asking, I asked from you to run to Bethlehem, my city, for the sacrifice of days is there for all of my clan]

Asking, David asked from me to run {to} Bethlehem, his city, for the sacrifice of days {is} there for all of the clan

Quote: נִשְׁאֹל֩ נִשְׁאַ֨ל מִמֶּ֤⁠נִּי דָוִד֙ לָ⁠רוּץ֙ בֵּֽית־לֶ֣חֶם עִיר֔⁠וֹ כִּ֣י זֶ֧בַח הַ⁠יָּמִ֛ים שָׁ֖ם לְ⁠כָל־הַ⁠מִּשְׁפָּחָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since the sacrifice of days is there for all of the clan, asking, David asked from me to run to Bethlehem, his city]

Asking, David asked from me

Quote: נִשְׁאֹל֩ נִשְׁאַ֨ל מִמֶּ֤⁠נִּי דָוִד֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

David is suggesting that Jonathan repeat forms of the verb “ask” in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for emphasis, it may be appropriate to do so here. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [David sincerely asked me]

the sacrifice of days

Quote: זֶ֧בַח הַ⁠יָּמִ֛ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-plural

See how you translated the same expression in 1:21. Alternate translation: [the annual sacrifice]

1 Samuel 20:7

If thus he says, ‘Good

Quote: אִם־כֹּ֥ה יֹאמַ֛ר ט֖וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [If he says that is all right]

peace {is} to your servant

Quote: שָׁל֣וֹם לְ⁠עַבְדֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

David is speaking about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [peace is to me]

peace {is} to your servant

Quote: שָׁל֣וֹם לְ⁠עַבְדֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [I am safe]

burning, it burns to him

Quote: חָרֹ֤ה יֶֽחֱרֶה֙ ל֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

David is repeating forms of the verb “burn” in order to intensify his expression of the idea it conveys. If your language can use repetition for emphatic effect, it would be appropriate to do so here. Alternate translation: [it indeed burns to him]

burning, it burns to him

Quote: חָרֹ֤ה יֶֽחֱרֶה֙ ל֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar expression in 18:8. Alternate translation: [he indeed becomes very angry]

harm has completed from with him

Quote: כָלְתָ֥ה הָ⁠רָעָ֖ה מֵ⁠עִמּֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

David is using a common expression of his culture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [he has determined to harm me]

1 Samuel 20:8

Then you shall do covenant faithfulness with your servant. For you have brought your servant into a covenant of Yahweh with you

Quote: וְ⁠עָשִׂ֤יתָ חֶ֨סֶד֙ עַל־עַבְדֶּ֔⁠ךָ כִּ֚י בִּ⁠בְרִ֣ית יְהוָ֔ה הֵבֵ֥אתָ אֶֽת־עַבְדְּ⁠ךָ֖ עִמָּ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Then, since you have brought your servant into a covenant of Yahweh with you, you shall do covenant faithfulness with your servant]

Then you shall do covenant faithfulness with your servant. For you have brought your servant

Quote: וְ⁠עָשִׂ֤יתָ חֶ֨סֶד֙ עַל־עַבְדֶּ֔⁠ךָ כִּ֚י & הֵבֵ֥אתָ אֶֽת־עַבְדְּ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

David is speaking humbly about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [Then you shall do covenant faithfulness with me, your servant. For you have brought me]

Then you shall do covenant faithfulness with your servant

Quote: וְ⁠עָשִׂ֤יתָ חֶ֨סֶד֙ עַל־עַבְדֶּ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

The term translated as covenant faithfulness describes the obligations of a relationship. Every person has a general obligation to treat any other person generously and helpfully. That is the context in 15:6, where the ULT translates this term as “kindness.” Here the context is more specific. David is reminding Jonathan that he has made a covenant with him, and the term refers to the obligations of that covenant. Alternate translation: [Then you must be faithful to your covenant with me]

Then you shall do covenant faithfulness with your servant

Quote: וְ⁠עָשִׂ֤יתָ חֶ֨סֶד֙ עַל־עַבְדֶּ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

As 18:4 indicates, Jonathan’s covenant with David included a pledge to protect him. Alternate translation: [Then you must be faithful to your covenant with me and protect me]

into a covenant of Yahweh

Quote: בִּ⁠בְרִ֣ית יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

David is using this possessive form to express the idea of a sworn covenant for which Yahweh has served as the witness. Alternate translation: [into a sworn covenant that Yahweh has witnessed]

But if there is iniquity in me

Quote: וְ⁠אִם־יֶשׁ־בִּ֤⁠י עָוֺן֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

David is using the term But to introduce a contrast between what Jonathan should do if he considers him innocent and what he should do if he considers him guilty of doing something worthy of death. In your translation, indicate this contrast in a way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [But if you really think that there is iniquity in me]

For why this, that should you bring me to your father

Quote: וְ⁠עַד־אָבִ֖י⁠ךָ לָ⁠מָּה־זֶּ֥ה תְבִיאֵֽ⁠נִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

1 Samuel 20:9

Profane to you

Quote: חָלִ֣ילָ⁠ה לָּ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 2:30. Alternate translation: [May such a thing never happen to you]

if knowing, I know

Quote: אִם־יָדֹ֣עַ אֵדַ֗ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Jonathan is repeating forms of the verb “know” in order to intensify his expression of the idea it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do so here in your translation. Alternate translation: [certainly if I know]

harm has completed from with my father to come upon you

Quote: כָלְתָ֨ה הָ⁠רָעָ֜ה מֵ⁠עִ֤ם אָבִ⁠י֙ לָ⁠ב֣וֹא עָלֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Jonathan is using a common expression of his culture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [my father has determined to make harm come upon you]

harm has completed from with my father to come upon you

Quote: כָלְתָ֨ה הָ⁠רָעָ֜ה מֵ⁠עִ֤ם אָבִ⁠י֙ לָ⁠ב֣וֹא עָלֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jonathan is speaking as if harm were an object that Saul could actually make come upon David. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [my father has determined to harm you]

then will I not declare it to you

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א אֹתָ֖⁠הּ אַגִּ֥יד לָֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

1 Samuel 20:11

Come, and let us go out {to} the field

Quote: לְכָ֖⁠ה וְ⁠נֵצֵ֣א הַ⁠שָּׂדֶ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

This is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. Alternate translation: [Please go out to the field with me]

1 Samuel 20:12

By} Yahweh

Quote: יְהוָ֞ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Jonathan is swearing an oath. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [I swear by Yahweh]

the third day

Quote: הַ⁠שְּׁלִשִׁ֔ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the comparable expression in 9:20. Express this time reference the way your language and culture would. Alternate translation: [the day after tomorrow]

if} good {is} to David

Quote: ט֖וֹב אֶל־דָּוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of good, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [if things will be well with David]

if} good {is} to David

Quote: ט֖וֹב אֶל־דָּוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jonathan is speaking about David in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the second person. Alternate translation: [if things will be well with you]

if} good {is} to David

Quote: ט֖וֹב אֶל־דָּוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

Jonathan may be speaking about David in the third person, even though he is addressing him directly, because he is speaking by anticipation from his father’s perspective. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could show this by making this a direct quotation. Alternate translation: [if he says, “I do not intend to harm David”]

then will I not then send to you and uncover your ear

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־אָז֙ אֶשְׁלַ֣ח אֵלֶ֔י⁠ךָ וְ⁠גָלִ֖יתִי אֶת־אָזְנֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jonathan is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [then I will certainly then send to you and uncover your ear.]

and uncover your ear

Quote: וְ⁠גָלִ֖יתִי אֶת־אָזְנֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Jonathan is using a common expression of his culture. See how you translated the comparable expression in 9:15. Alternate translation: [and tell you]

1 Samuel 20:13

Thus may Yahweh do to Jonathan, and thus may he add

Quote: כֹּֽה־יַעֲשֶׂה֩ יְהוָ֨ה לִֽ⁠יהוֹנָתָ֜ן וְ⁠כֹ֣ה יֹסִ֗יף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

In this verse, Jonathan is describing what he will do by contrast if his father indeed intends to harm David. It may be helpful to indicate the contrast explicitly. Alternate translation: [But thus may Yahweh do to Jonathan, and thus may he add]

Thus may Yahweh do to Jonathan, and thus may he add

Quote: כֹּֽה־יַעֲשֶׂה֩ יְהוָ֨ה לִֽ⁠יהוֹנָתָ֜ן וְ⁠כֹ֣ה יֹסִ֗יף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

It was customary in this culture for a person swearing an oath to speak of himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [Thus may Yahweh do to me, and thus may he add]

Thus may Yahweh do to Jonathan, and thus may he add

Quote: כֹּֽה־יַעֲשֶׂה֩ יְהוָ֨ה לִֽ⁠יהוֹנָתָ֜ן וְ⁠כֹ֣ה יֹסִ֗יף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Jonathan is swearing an oath. See how you translated the similar expression in 14:44. Alternate translation: [May Yahweh kill me, and do even worse than that to me, if I do not keep the following promise]

if harm upon you is good to my father

Quote: כִּֽי־יֵיטִ֨ב אֶל־אָבִ֤⁠י אֶת־הָֽ⁠רָעָה֙ עָלֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The phrase good to my father seems to be a shorter form of the expression “good in the eyes of my father.” Alternate translation: [if it seems good to my father to harm you] or [if my father intends to harm you]

then I will uncover your ear

Quote: וְ⁠גָלִ֨יתִי֙ אֶת־אָזְנֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Jonathan is using a common expression of his culture. See how you translated the similar expression in the previous verse. Alternate translation: [then I will tell you]

then I will uncover your ear

Quote: וְ⁠גָלִ֨יתִי֙ אֶת־אָזְנֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jonathan is stressing that if David needs to flee for his life, then he will come and tell him that in person. He will not send a messenger with that news. Alternate translation: [then I will come and tell you personally]

so you may go in peace

Quote: וְ⁠הָלַכְתָּ֣ לְ⁠שָׁל֑וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [so you may safely escape]

And may Yahweh be with you just as he was with my father

Quote: וִ⁠יהִ֤י יְהוָה֙ עִמָּ֔⁠ךְ כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֥ר הָיָ֖ה עִם־אָבִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the comparable expression in 3:19. Alternate translation: [And may Yahweh help you just as he helped my father]

1 Samuel 20:14

And if I am not still alive

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֖א אִם־עוֹדֶ֣⁠נִּי חָ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jonathan is referring to the time when David becomes king. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And if I am not still alive when you become king]

And if I am not still alive

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֖א אִם־עוֹדֶ֣⁠נִּי חָ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-hypothetical

Jonathan is describing a condition in which a second event will take place only if a first event does. Express this condition in a way that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Suppose I am not still alive when I become king.]

then you shall not do the covenant faithfulness of Yahweh with me, so I do not die

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־תַעֲשֶׂ֧ה עִמָּדִ֛⁠י חֶ֥סֶד יְהוָ֖ה וְ⁠לֹ֥א אָמֽוּת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jonathan is certain that if he were still alive when David became king, David would spare his life because of the covenant they have made together. But he also wants to be certain that David will spare the lives of his descendants if he is no longer alive. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation, translating this in a way that would lead naturally to that statement in the next verse. Alternate translation: [then rather than doing the covenant faithfulness of Yahweh with me so that I do not die]

then you shall not do the covenant faithfulness of Yahweh with me

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־תַעֲשֶׂ֧ה עִמָּדִ֛⁠י חֶ֥סֶד יְהוָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated the similar expression in 20:8. Alternate translation: [then rather than being faithful to the covenant of Yahweh you made with me]

then you shall not do the covenant faithfulness of Yahweh with me

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־תַעֲשֶׂ֧ה עִמָּדִ֛⁠י חֶ֥סֶד יְהוָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Jonathan is using this possessive form to describe the covenant that he and David made with Yahweh as their witness. Alternate translation: [then rather than being faithful to the sworn covenant between us that Yahweh has witnessed]

1 Samuel 20:15

but you shall not cut off your covenant faithfulness from with my house

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־תַכְרִ֧ת אֶֽת־חַסְדְּ⁠ךָ֛ מֵ⁠עִ֥ם בֵּיתִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jonathan is speaking as if David’s covenant faithfulness were an object that he could cut off. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [but you shall not withhold your covenant faithfulness from my house] or [but you shall be sure to show your covenant faithfulness to my house]

from with my house

Quote: מֵ⁠עִ֥ם בֵּיתִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, house means all the people descended from a particular person. It envisions them as if they were one household living together. Alternate translation: [from my descendants]

when … cuts off

Quote: בְּ⁠הַכְרִ֤ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jonathan is speaking as if David’s enemies were a branch of a bush or tree such as a person cuts off. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [destroys]

the enemies of David

Quote: אֶת־אֹיְבֵ֣י דָוִ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jonathan is referring to David in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the second person. Alternate translation: [your enemies]

a man from upon the face of the ground

Quote: אִ֕ישׁ מֵ⁠עַ֖ל פְּנֵ֥י הָ⁠אֲדָמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Jonathan is using a common expression of his culture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [so that not a single one is left on the surface of the earth]

1 Samuel 20:16

And Jonathan cut

Quote: וַ⁠יִּכְרֹ֥ת יְהוֹנָתָ֖ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

And Jonathan cut

Quote: וַ⁠יִּכְרֹ֥ת יְהוֹנָתָ֖ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the fuller expression “cut a covenant” in 11:1. Alternate translation: [And Jonathan made a covenant]

with the house of David

Quote: עִם־בֵּ֣ית דָּוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar expression in 20:15. Alternate translation: [with David that extended to his descendants]

And may Yahweh seek from the hand of the enemies of David

Quote: וּ⁠בִקֵּ֣שׁ יְהוָ֔ה מִ⁠יַּ֖ד אֹיְבֵ֥י דָוִֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

This sentence is the content of the oath that David and Jonathan swore to one another. You may wish to indicate that explicitly in your translation, use a natural way of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: [saying, “And may Yahweh seek from the hand of the enemies of David!”]

And may Yahweh seek from the hand of the enemies of David

Quote: וּ⁠בִקֵּ֣שׁ יְהוָ֔ה מִ⁠יַּ֖ד אֹיְבֵ֥י דָוִֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Jonathan is using a common expression of his culture to mean to exact a penalty. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And may Yahweh exact an equivalent penalty from David]

And may Yahweh seek from the hand of the enemies of David

Quote: וּ⁠בִקֵּ֣שׁ יְהוָ֔ה מִ⁠יַּ֖ד אֹיְבֵ֥י דָוִֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Following the custom of his culture, Jonathan is swearing an oath by stating only one part of a condition (“then”) but not the other part (“if”). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explicitly state the first part of this condition. Alternate translation: [And if you or your descendants kill all of my descendants, then may Yahweh exact an equivalent penalty] or [And if you or your descendants kill all of my descendants, then may Yahweh kill you and all of your descendants]

1 Samuel 20:17

And Jonathan added to make David swear by his love for him, for he loved him {like} the loving of his soul

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֤וֹסֶף יְהֽוֹנָתָן֙ לְ⁠הַשְׁבִּ֣יעַ אֶת־דָּוִ֔ד בְּ⁠אַהֲבָת֖⁠וֹ אֹת֑⁠וֹ כִּֽי־אַהֲבַ֥ת נַפְשׁ֖⁠וֹ אֲהֵבֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [And since he loved him like the loving of his soul, Jonathan added to make David swear by his love for him]

And Jonathan added to make David swear

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֤וֹסֶף יְהֽוֹנָתָן֙ לְ⁠הַשְׁבִּ֣יעַ אֶת־דָּוִ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word added tells in what way Jonathan made David swear. Alternate translation: [And Jonathan made David swear again]

by his love for him, for he loved him {like} the loving of his soul

Quote: בְּ⁠אַהֲבָת֖⁠וֹ אֹת֑⁠וֹ כִּֽי־אַהֲבַ֥ת נַפְשׁ֖⁠וֹ אֲהֵבֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

This could mean: (1) Alternate translation: [by the love that David had for Jonathan, for David loved Jonathan like the loving of his soul] (2) Alternate translation: [because Jonathan loved David, for Jonathan loved David like the loving of his soul]

like} the loving of his soul

Quote: אַהֲבַ֥ת נַפְשׁ֖⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated this expression in 18:1. Alternate translation: [as he loved himself]

1 Samuel 20:18

is} the new moon

Quote: חֹ֑דֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 20:5. Alternate translation: [the new moon festival]

And you will be missed, for your seat will be missed

Quote: וְ⁠נִפְקַ֕דְתָּ כִּ֥י יִפָּקֵ֖ד מוֹשָׁבֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

And you will be missed, for your seat will be missed

Quote: וְ⁠נִפְקַ֕דְתָּ כִּ֥י יִפָּקֵ֖ד מוֹשָׁבֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Jonathan is using the term seat by association to mean David’s action of sitting in his seat. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And you will be missed, for your sitting in your seat will be missed] or [And you will be missed, for your seat will be empty]

And you will be missed, for your seat will be missed

Quote: וְ⁠נִפְקַ֕דְתָּ כִּ֥י יִפָּקֵ֖ד מוֹשָׁבֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And my father will miss you, for he will miss your sitting in your seat] or [And my father will miss you, for he will see that you are not sitting in your seat]

1 Samuel 20:19

And you shall stay three days

Quote: וְ⁠שִׁלַּשְׁתָּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 20:12. Alternate translation: [And on the day after tomorrow]

where you hid yourself there

Quote: אֲשֶׁר־נִסְתַּ֥רְתָּ שָּׁ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [where you hid yourself]

on the day of the deed

Quote: בְּ⁠י֣וֹם הַֽ⁠מַּעֲשֶׂ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jonathan assumes that David will know that by the day of the deed, he means the time when Saul first tried to kill David, since Jonathan told David then, “stay in a secret place and hide yourself” (19:2). You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [at the time when my father first tried to kill you]

beside the stone Ezel

Quote: אֵ֖צֶל הָ⁠אֶ֥בֶן הָ⁠אָֽזֶל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The name Ezel is the name of a stone. The name Ezel means “departure.” It is possible that the stone got this name because it was the place where David and Jonathan parted from one another, as 20:41-42 describes. If so, the author would be using the later name while presenting what Jonathan said here, even though the stone did not have that name at this time. (The author does something similar with the name Ebenezer in 4:1.) If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain this in a footnote.

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

I will send a boy, ‘Go find the arrows

Quote: אֶשְׁלַ֣ח אֶת־הַ⁠נַּ֔עַר לֵ֖ךְ מְצָ֣א אֶת־הַ⁠חִצִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations

Jonathan is describing what he will say to the boy. You may wish to make this explicit in your translation, using a natural way of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: [I will send a boy, saying, ‘Go find the arrows.’]

I will send a boy, ‘Go find the arrows

Quote: אֶשְׁלַ֣ח אֶת־הַ⁠נַּ֔עַר לֵ֖ךְ מְצָ֣א אֶת־הַ⁠חִצִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [I will send a boy to go and find the arrows]

If saying, I say

Quote: אִם־אָמֹר֩ אֹמַ֨ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Jonathan is repeating forms of the verb “say” in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing emphasis. Alternate translation: [If I clearly say]

to the … Behold, the arrows {are} from you, and hither, get them

Quote: הִנֵּ֥ה הַ⁠חִצִּ֣ים ׀ מִמְּ⁠ךָ֣ וָ⁠הֵ֗נָּה קָחֶ֧⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [that he should look and see that the arrows are from him, and hither, so he should get them]

the arrows {are} from you, and hither, get them

Quote: הַ⁠חִצִּ֣ים ׀ מִמְּ⁠ךָ֣ וָ⁠הֵ֗נָּה קָחֶ֧⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Jonathan is using a common expression of his culture to mean that the arrows are on the his side of where the boy is standing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [you have gone past the arrows, come back toward here and get them]

then come, for peace {is} for you and there is no matter

Quote: וָ⁠בֹ֛אָ⁠ה כִּֽי־שָׁל֥וֹם לְ⁠ךָ֛ וְ⁠אֵ֥ין דָּבָ֖ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

peace {is} for you and there is no matter

Quote: שָׁל֥וֹם לְ⁠ךָ֛ וְ⁠אֵ֥ין דָּבָ֖ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural in your language to put the information about there being no matter (that is, no reason for David to be concerned) before the information about David having peace, since that is a consequence. Alternate translation: [there is no matter and peace is for you]

peace {is} for you

Quote: שָׁל֥וֹם לְ⁠ךָ֛ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

See how you translated this expression in 20:7. Alternate translation: [you are safe]

the life of Yahweh

Quote: חַי־יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

This is a solemn oath formula that appeals to Yahweh as witness. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this in a way that makes this clear. Alternate translation: [as Yahweh lives]

1 Samuel 20:22

the arrows {are} from you, and beyond

Quote: הַ⁠חִצִּ֖ים מִמְּ⁠ךָ֣ וָ⁠הָ֑לְאָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Jonathan is using a common expression of his culture to mean that the arrows are farther ahead of where the boy is standing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [keep going, the arrows are farther ahead of you]

go, for Yahweh has sent you away

Quote: לֵ֕ךְ כִּ֥י שִֽׁלַּחֲ⁠ךָ֖ יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Yahweh has sent you away

Quote: שִֽׁלַּחֲ⁠ךָ֖ יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jonathan means that under these circumstances, Yahweh would be sending David away for his own safety. He is not saying that Yahweh does not want David to be at the royal court. Saul, through his own jealousy and suspicion, is responsible for making it unsafe for David to be there. Alternate translation: [Yahweh has sent you away for your own safety]

1 Samuel 20:23

And the word that I and you have spoken

Quote: וְ⁠הַ֨⁠דָּבָ֔ר אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבַּ֖רְנוּ אֲנִ֣י וָ⁠אָ֑תָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Jonathan is using the term word by association to mean the promises he and David have made to each other. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [As for the promises that you and I have made to each other]

Yahweh {is} between me and between you

Quote: יְהוָ֛ה בֵּינִ֥⁠י וּ⁠בֵינְ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Jonathan means that Yahweh will serve as a witness to their promises and ensure that they keep them. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could make this explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: [Yahweh is a witness between me and you]

1 Samuel 20:24

and the king sat down at the food to eat

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֧שֶׁב הַ⁠מֶּ֛לֶךְ אֶל־הַ⁠לֶּ֖חֶם לֶ⁠אֱכֽוֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term food by association to mean the feast that was prepared for this occasion. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and the king sat down to eat the feast]

1 Samuel 20:25

as time by time

Quote: כְּ⁠פַ֣עַם ׀ בְּ⁠פַ֗עַם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture that means “as usual” or “as was customary.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [as he did every time] or [as he usually did]

on the seat {by} the wall

Quote: אֶל־מוֹשַׁב֙ הַ⁠קִּ֔יר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

In this culture, as in many cultures, certain seats at a table were considered places of honor. The seat by the wall was the place of greatest honor at this table. (The context suggests that the table was long and extended out from the wall.) Sitting in that seat was a symbolic action by which Saul indicated his status as king. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of his action. Your language may have an appropriate expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [at the head of the table, since that was the place of greatest honor]

And Jonathan arose, and Abner sat by the side of Saul

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֨קָם֙ יְה֣וֹנָתָ֔ן וַ⁠יֵּ֥שֶׁב אַבְנֵ֖ר מִ⁠צַּ֣ד שָׁא֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion of this statement in the Introduction to this chapter.

And the place of David was missing

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפָּקֵ֖ד מְק֥וֹם דָּוִֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 20:18. Alternate translation: [But David’s seat was empty]

1 Samuel 20:26

he said

Quote: אָמַר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Saul did not say these words out loud. Rather, this was what he thought to himself. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could make this explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: [he said to himself] or [he thought]

He {is} not clean, surely not clean

Quote: בִּלְתִּ֥י טָה֛וֹר ה֖וּא כִּֽי־לֹ֥א טָהֽוֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

In this instance, Saul is actually not repeating the word clean for emphasis. Instead, the author is showing how Saul talked himself into this conclusion. So it would be appropriate to repeat the word in your translation.

1 Samuel 20:27

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֗י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is introducing a new development in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method in your language that is natural for introducing a new development.

the new moon

Quote: הַ⁠חֹ֨דֶשׁ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 20:5. Alternate translation: [the new moon festival]

the second

Quote: הַ⁠שֵּׁנִ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use a cardinal number here or an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: [day two] or [the following day]

the son of Jesse

Quote: בֶן־יִשַׁ֛י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Saul could have referred to David by his name, or he could have respectfully called him “my son-in-law.” But he seems to call him the son of Jesse in front of his guests in order to suggest that David is of lowly origin and should not take for granted the opportunity to dine at the king’s table. So we recommend that you do not use the name David in place of the phrase Saul uses. It may be possible to represent this phrase in such a way as to indicate Saul’s tone and intention. Alternate translation: [that son of Jesse]

to the food

Quote: אֶל־הַ⁠לָּֽחֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 20:24. Alternate translation: [to the feast]

1 Samuel 20:28

Asking, David asked

Quote: נִשְׁאֹ֨ל נִשְׁאַ֥ל דָּוִ֛ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Jonathan is repeating forms of the verb “ask” to show that David made his request earnestly. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing emphasis. Alternate translation: [David earnestly asked]

to Bethlehem

Quote: עַד־בֵּ֥ית לָֽחֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

1 Samuel 20:29

And he said, ‘Please let me go. For the sacrifice of our clan {is} in the city, and my brother himself has commanded me. And now, if I have found favor in your eyes, may I please go away, and may I see my brothers

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֡אמֶר שַׁלְּחֵ֣⁠נִי נָ֡א כִּ֣י זֶבַח֩ מִשְׁפָּחָ֨ה לָ֜⁠נוּ בָּ⁠עִ֗יר וְ⁠ה֤וּא צִוָּֽה־לִ⁠י֙ אָחִ֔⁠י וְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה אִם־מָצָ֤אתִי חֵן֙ בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֔י⁠ךָ אִמָּ֥לְטָה נָּ֖א וְ⁠אֶרְאֶ֣ה אֶת־אֶחָ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [He asked me if I would please let him go, since the sacrifice of his clan is in that city, and his brother himself had commanded him. He asked me to allow him, if he had found favor in my eyes, please to go away and see his brothers]

my brother

Quote: אָחִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

The context suggests that this would be David’s oldest brother. If your language marks that distinction, you may wish to indicate that in your translation.

Please let me go. For the sacrifice of our clan {is} in the city, and my brother himself has commanded me

Quote: שַׁלְּחֵ֣⁠נִי נָ֡א כִּ֣י זֶבַח֩ מִשְׁפָּחָ֨ה לָ֜⁠נוּ בָּ⁠עִ֗יר וְ⁠ה֤וּא צִוָּֽה־לִ⁠י֙ אָחִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since the sacrifice of our clan is in the city, and my brother himself has commanded me, please send me away]

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 6:7. Alternate translation: [So this is what I would like you to let me do]

I have found favor in your eyes

Quote: מָצָ֤אתִי חֵן֙ בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 20:3. Alternate translation: [you are favorably disposed toward me]

to the table of the king

Quote: אֶל־שֻׁלְחַ֖ן הַ⁠מֶּֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Jonathan is addressing Saul respectfully in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [to your table, O king]

to the table of the king

Quote: אֶל־שֻׁלְחַ֖ן הַ⁠מֶּֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Jonathan is using the term table by association to mean the feast that was served on it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [to your feast, O king]

1 Samuel 20:30

And the nose of Saul burned against Jonathan

Quote: וַ⁠יִּֽחַר־אַ֤ף שָׁאוּל֙ בִּ⁠יה֣וֹנָתָ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 11:6. Alternate translation: [And Saul became very angry with Jonathan]

Son of one perverting herself in rebellion

Quote: בֶּֽן־נַעֲוַ֖ת הַ⁠מַּרְדּ֑וּת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of rebellion, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [Son of one rebelliously perverting herself]

Do I not know that you are choosing the son of Jesse to your shame and to the shame of the nakedness of your mother

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֣וֹא יָדַ֗עְתִּי כִּֽי־בֹחֵ֤ר אַתָּה֙ לְ⁠בֶן־יִשַׁ֔י לְ⁠בָ֨שְׁתְּ⁠ךָ֔ וּ⁠לְ⁠בֹ֖שֶׁת עֶרְוַ֥ת אִמֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Saul is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [Certainly I know that you are choosing the son of Jesse to your shame and to the shame of the nakedness of your mother!]

to your shame and to the shame of the nakedness of your mother

Quote: לְ⁠בָ֨שְׁתְּ⁠ךָ֔ וּ⁠לְ⁠בֹ֖שֶׁת עֶרְוַ֥ת אִמֶּֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using these expressions by association to mean that Jonathan’s actions show that he is illegitimate and that his mother’s sexual conduct has been shameful. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [showing that you are shamefully illegitimate and that your mother’s sexual conduct has been shameful]

1 Samuel 20:31

For

Quote: כִּ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces a fuller explanation. Alternate translation: [I say this because]

all of the days

Quote: כָל־הַ⁠יָּמִ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the term days by association to mean a particular time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the whole time]

you will not be established, nor your kingdom

Quote: לֹ֥א תִכּ֖וֹן אַתָּ֣ה וּ⁠מַלְכוּתֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

you will not be established, nor your kingdom

Quote: לֹ֥א תִכּ֖וֹן אַתָּ֣ה וּ⁠מַלְכוּתֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The sense is the same as in 13:13, where Samuel uses an active form. Alternate translation: [Yahweh will not establish you, nor will he establish your kingdom]

you will not be established, nor your kingdom

Quote: לֹ֥א תִכּ֖וֹן אַתָּ֣ה וּ⁠מַלְכוּתֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Saul is using them together for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them and express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: [you will certainly not be established as king] or [Yahweh will certainly not establish you as king]

send and take him to me, for he {is} a son of death

Quote: שְׁלַ֨ח וְ⁠קַ֤ח אֹת⁠וֹ֙ אֵלַ֔⁠י כִּ֥י בֶן־מָ֖וֶת הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

he {is} a son of death

Quote: בֶן־מָ֖וֶת הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

In certain contexts, biblical authors and characters use the expression son of to indicate that a person is characterized by something. In this case, Saul means that David is characterized by death, that is, he deserves to die. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [he deserves to die]

1 Samuel 20:32

And Jonathan answered Saul his father and said to him

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֨עַן֙ יְה֣וֹנָתָ֔ן אֶת־שָׁא֖וּל אָבִ֑י⁠ו וַ⁠יֹּ֧אמֶר אֵלָ֛י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word answered tells in what way Jonathan said this. Alternate translation: [And Jonathan responded to Saul his father]

Why should he be killed? What has he done

Quote: לָ֥⁠מָּה יוּמַ֖ת מֶ֥ה עָשָֽׂה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Jonathan is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [He should not be killed! He has done nothing to deserve that!]

Why should he be killed

Quote: לָ֥⁠מָּה יוּמַ֖ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Why should you kill him?] or [You should not kill him!]

1 Samuel 20:33

to strike him

Quote: לְ⁠הַכֹּת֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the term “struck” in 4:2. Alternate translation: [to kill him]

it had completed from with his father

Quote: כָ֥לָה הִ֛יא מֵ⁠עִ֥ם אָבִ֖י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 20:7. Alternate translation: [his father had determined]

1 Samuel 20:34

with burning of nose

Quote: בָּ⁠חֳרִי־אָ֑ף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 20:30. Alternate translation: [in great anger]

And he did not eat bread on the second day of the new moon, for he was grieved for David, because his father had dishonored him

Quote: וְ⁠לֹא־אָכַ֞ל בְּ⁠יוֹם־הַ⁠חֹ֤דֶשׁ הַ⁠שֵּׁנִי֙ לֶ֔חֶם כִּ֤י נֶעְצַב֙ אֶל־דָּוִ֔ד כִּ֥י הִכְלִמ֖⁠וֹ אָבִֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [And because his father had dishonored David, he was grieved for him, so he did not eat bread on the second day of the new moon]

on the second day of

Quote: בְּ⁠יוֹם & הַ⁠שֵּׁנִי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use a cardinal number here or an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: [on day two of] or [on that next day of]

the new moon

Quote: הַ⁠חֹ֤דֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 20:5. Alternate translation: [the new moon festival]

he was grieved for David

Quote: נֶעְצַב֙ אֶל־דָּוִ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [he had become aggrieved for David]

1 Samuel 20:35

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is introducing a new development in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method in your language that is natural for introducing a new development.

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

Is} not the arrow from you, and beyond

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֥וֹא הַ⁠חֵ֖צִי מִמְּ⁠ךָ֥ וָ⁠הָֽלְאָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Is} not the arrow from you, and beyond

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֥וֹא הַ⁠חֵ֖צִי מִמְּ⁠ךָ֥ וָ⁠הָֽלְאָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 20:22. Alternate translation: [Is not the arrow farther ahead of you?] or [Keep going, the arrow is farther ahead of you!]

1 Samuel 20:38

the arrows

Quote: אֶת־הַ֣חִצִּ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By using the plural term arrows, the author is indicating that Jonathan actually shot three arrows, as he said he would in 20:20. You may wish to indicate this in your translation. The UST models one way to do that.

1 Samuel 20:39

Now the boy did not know anything

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠נַּ֖עַר לֹֽא־יָדַ֣ע מְא֑וּמָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing background information to help readers understand what is happening in the story. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

Now the boy did not know anything

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠נַּ֖עַר לֹֽא־יָדַ֣ע מְא֑וּמָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author means that the boy did not understand the significance of what Jonathan was doing with the arrows. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could make this explicit in your translation. Alternate translation: [Now the boy did not know anything about what Jonathan and David had arranged]

1 Samuel 20:41

the south

Quote: הַ⁠נֶּ֔גֶב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term south by association to mean the south side of the stone where David was hiding. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the south side of the stone]

and he fell on his nostrils to the ground, and he prostrated himself three times

Quote: וַ⁠יִּפֹּ֨ל לְ⁠אַפָּ֥י⁠ו אַ֛רְצָ⁠ה וַ⁠יִּשְׁתַּ֖חוּ שָׁלֹ֣שׁ פְּעָמִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Be sure that it is clear in your translation that David did not fall down accidentally. He knelt down in front of Jonathan, pressing his face to the ground, as a gesture to honor him. He then pushed himself up onto his knees and lowered his face to the ground again for a total of three times in order to show great honor to Jonathan. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [and he knelt down and pressed his face to the ground in front of Jonathan to show him great honor. He bowed in front of him that way three times]

And they kissed, a man with his companion

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּשְּׁק֣וּ ׀ אִ֣ישׁ אֶת־רֵעֵ֗⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And they kissed each other]

And they kissed, a man with his companion

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּשְּׁק֣וּ ׀ אִ֣ישׁ אֶת־רֵעֵ֗⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

In this culture, when men greeted other men who were family or friends, they would kiss them on one cheek or on both cheeks. If your readers would find it embarrassing if you said that one man kissed another man, you could explain the purpose of the gesture, or you could translate the expression in a more general way. Alternate translation: [And to show their friendship they kissed each other on the cheek] or [And they gave each other a warm, friendly greeting]

And they wept, a man with his companion

Quote: וַ⁠יִּבְכּוּ֙ אִ֣ישׁ אֶת־רֵעֵ֔⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And they wept together]

until David made great

Quote: עַד־דָּוִ֖ד הִגְדִּֽיל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some words that can be understood from the context. Je is speaking about David similarly to the way he spoke about Hannah in 1:12 when he said that “she made great to pray” (although he is using a different verb for made great here). Alternate translation: [until David made great to weep]

until David made great

Quote: עַד־דָּוִ֖ד הִגְדִּֽיל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) Alternate translation: [until David was overcome with emotion] (2) Alternate translation: [but David wept even more than Jonathan did]

1 Samuel 20:42

Go in peace, because we, the two of us, have sworn in the name of Yahweh

Quote: לֵ֣ךְ לְ⁠שָׁל֑וֹם אֲשֶׁר֩ נִשְׁבַּ֨עְנוּ שְׁנֵ֜י⁠נוּ אֲנַ֗חְנוּ בְּ⁠שֵׁ֤ם יְהוָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

in peace

Quote: לְ⁠שָׁל֑וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [peacefully]

saying, ‘Yahweh is between me and between you, and between my seed and between your seed, forever

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר יְהוָ֞ה יִֽהְיֶ֣ה ׀ בֵּינִ֣⁠י וּ⁠בֵינֶ֗⁠ךָ וּ⁠בֵ֥ין זַרְעִ֛⁠י וּ⁠בֵ֥ין זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֖ עַד־עוֹלָֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [that Yahweh will be between us and our seed forever]

have sworn in the name of Yahweh

Quote: נִשְׁבַּ֨עְנוּ & בְּ⁠שֵׁ֤ם יְהוָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Jonathan is using the term name by association to mean Yahweh’s authority and power to enforce oaths. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [have sworn, asking Yahweh to enforce our oath]

Yahweh, … is between me and between you, and between my seed and between your seed

Quote: יְהוָה֙ & יִֽהְיֶ֣ה ׀ בֵּינִ֣⁠י וּ⁠בֵינֶ֗⁠ךָ וּ⁠בֵ֥ין זַרְעִ֛⁠י וּ⁠בֵ֥ין זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in 20:23. Alternate translation: [Yahweh is a witness between me and you, and he is a witness between my seed and your seed]

and between my seed and between your seed

Quote: וּ⁠בֵ֥ין זַרְעִ֛⁠י וּ⁠בֵ֥ין זַרְעֲ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Jonathan is speaking of descendants as if they were seed from which plants could grow. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and between my descendants and your descendants]

And he arose and went

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֖קָם וַ⁠יֵּלַ֑ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to David. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And David arose and went]

And he arose and went

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֖קָם וַ⁠יֵּלַ֑ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in 1:9. The term arose has a similar meaning of “took action,” with the implication here that David made himself do something that was difficult but necessary. Alternate translation: [And he resolutely left] or [And he forced himself to leave]

1 Samuel 21

1 Samuel 21 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). It describes how David fled hastily from Saul’s court in Gibeah in order to save his life. It tells how he went to the city of Nob, where the Israelite priests were with the Box of Yahweh, and asked for food and a weapon. It then tells how he fled to the Philistine city of Gath, where Saul presumably could not attack him. However, the officials of the king of Gath did not want to have David, a great Israelite military commander, in their city. David pretended to be crazy so that they would not feel threatened by him.

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.

1 Samuel 21:1

And … trembled

Quote: וַ⁠יֶּחֱרַ֨ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar expression in 16:4. Alternate translation: [trembled with fear]

Why {are} you by yourself and no man {is} with you

Quote: מַדּ֤וּעַ אַתָּה֙ לְ⁠בַדֶּ֔⁠ךָ וְ⁠אִ֖ישׁ אֵ֥ין אִתָּֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Ahimelek uses them together for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [Why have you come here all alone?]

1 Samuel 21:2

and has said to me, ‘May a man not know anything {about} the matter {for} which I am sending you and {about} which I have commanded you

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֵלַ֗⁠י אִ֣ישׁ אַל־יֵ֧דַע מְא֛וּמָה אֶת־הַ⁠דָּבָ֛ר אֲשֶׁר־אָנֹכִ֥י שֹׁלֵֽחֲ⁠ךָ֖ וַ⁠אֲשֶׁ֣ר צִוִּיתִ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [and has told me not to let anyone know anything about the matter for which he is sending me and about which he has commanded me]

1 Samuel 21:3

what is there under your hand

Quote: מַה־יֵּ֧שׁ תַּֽחַת־יָדְ⁠ךָ֛ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [what do you have on hand] or [what do you have available]

into my hand

Quote: בְ⁠יָדִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of himself, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of receiving. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to me]

or the {thing} being found

Quote: א֖וֹ הַ⁠נִּמְצָֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [or whatever you might find]

or the {thing} being found

Quote: א֖וֹ הַ⁠נִּמְצָֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 9:8. Alternate translation: [or whatever you might have]

1 Samuel 21:4

There is} no common bread toward under my hand

Quote: אֵֽין־לֶ֥חֶם חֹ֖ל אֶל־תַּ֣חַת יָדִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 21:3. Alternate translation: [I have no common bread on hand] or [I have no common bread available]

If the young men have only kept themselves from women

Quote: אִם־נִשְׁמְר֥וּ הַ⁠נְּעָרִ֖ים אַ֥ךְ מֵ⁠אִשָּֽׁה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Ahimelek is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [The young men may have it if only they have kept themselves from women]

1 Samuel 21:5

a woman has been kept from us

Quote: אִשָּׁ֤ה עֲצֻֽרָה־לָ֨⁠נוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

David is not referring to a specific woman. He means women in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [women have been kept from us]

a woman has been kept from us

Quote: אִשָּׁ֤ה עֲצֻֽרָה־לָ֨⁠נוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [we have kept ourselves from women]

as yesterday and the third day

Quote: כִּ⁠תְמ֣וֹל שִׁלְשֹׁ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 4:7. Alternate translation: [as in the past] or [as always]

the vessels of the men … with the vessels

Quote: כְלֵֽי־הַ⁠נְּעָרִ֖ים & בַּ⁠כֶּֽלִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of the men’s bodies, their vessels (meaning their sexual organs), to mean all of them in the context of not having had sexual relations recently. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the bodies of the men … with their bodies]

1 Samuel 21:6

So the priest gave to him the holy. For no bread was there except the bread of the face having been removed from to the face of Yahweh to put hot bread on the day of its being taken away

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתֶּן־ל֥⁠וֹ הַ⁠כֹּהֵ֖ן קֹ֑דֶשׁ כִּי֩ לֹא־הָ֨יָה שָׁ֜ם לֶ֗חֶם כִּֽי־אִם־לֶ֤חֶם הַ⁠פָּנִים֙ הַ⁠מּֽוּסָרִים֙ מִ⁠לִּ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה לָ⁠שׂוּם֙ לֶ֣חֶם חֹ֔ם בְּ⁠י֖וֹם הִלָּקְחֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [So since no bread was there if not the bread of the face having been removed from to the face of Yahweh to put hot bread on the day of its being taken away, the priest gave to him the holy]

the holy

Quote: קֹ֑דֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

The author is using the adjective holy as a noun to mean holy bread. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [holy bread]

For no bread was there except the bread of the face

Quote: כִּי֩ לֹא־הָ֨יָה שָׁ֜ם לֶ֗חֶם כִּֽי־אִם־לֶ֤חֶם הַ⁠פָּנִים֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

If it would appear in your language that the author was making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this as a positive statement. Alternate translation: [For the only bread that was there was the bread of the face]

the bread of the face … from to the face of Yahweh

Quote: לֶ֤חֶם הַ⁠פָּנִים֙ & מִ⁠לִּ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the term “fac” in 1:12. Alternate translation: [the bread of the presence … from the presence of Yahweh]

having been removed

Quote: הַ⁠מּֽוּסָרִים֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [which they had removed]

on the day of its being taken away

Quote: בְּ⁠י֖וֹם הִלָּקְחֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term day by association to mean the time when something happened. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [at the time of its being taken away]

on the day of its being taken away

Quote: בְּ⁠י֖וֹם הִלָּקְחֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [at the time when they took it away]

1 Samuel 21:7

Now a man {was} there from the servants of Saul on that day. He was detained to the face of Yahweh

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁ֡ם אִישׁ֩ מֵ⁠עַבְדֵ֨י שָׁא֜וּל בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠ה֗וּא נֶעְצָר֙ לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

He was detained

Quote: נֶעְצָר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. The context suggests that Doeg needed to stay at the sacred tent, which was in Nob at this time, in order to fulfill a vow or to wait out a period of ceremonial uncleanness. Alternate translation: [A religious obligation was detaining him]

And his name {was} Doeg the Edomite, the chief of the herders who {were} to Saul

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁמ֖⁠וֹ דֹּאֵ֣ג הָ⁠אֲדֹמִ֑י אַבִּ֥יר הָ⁠רֹעִ֖ים אֲשֶׁ֥ר לְ⁠שָׁאֽוּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

Here the author is introducing Doeg as a new participant in the story. Your language may have its own way of introducing new participants that you can use in your translation.

1 Samuel 21:8

And is there not here under your hand a spear or a sword

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֛ין יֶשׁ־פֹּ֥ה תַֽחַת־יָדְ⁠ךָ֖ חֲנִ֣ית אוֹ־חָ֑רֶב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 21:3. Alternate translation: [And would you have on hand a spear or a sword] or [And would you have a spear or sword available]

For

Quote: כִּ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For provides not a reason but an explanation. Alternate translation: [I am asking because]

both my sword and also my weapons I did not take in my hand, because the matter of the king was being urged

Quote: גַם־חַרְבִּ֤⁠י וְ⁠גַם־כֵּלַ⁠י֙ לֹֽא־לָקַ֣חְתִּי בְ⁠יָדִ֔⁠י כִּֽי־הָיָ֥ה דְבַר־הַ⁠מֶּ֖לֶךְ נָחֽוּץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [because the matter of the king was being urged, both my sword and also my weapons I did not take in my hand]

in my hand

Quote: בְ⁠יָדִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of himself, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of carrying weapons. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [with me]

the matter of the king was being urged

Quote: הָיָ֥ה דְבַר־הַ⁠מֶּ֖לֶךְ נָחֽוּץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [the king was urging the matter] or [the matter of the king was urgent]

1 Samuel 21:9

Goliath the Philistine

Quote: גָּלְיָ֨ת הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֜י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated this name in 17:8. Alternate translation: [Goliath the Philistine Champion]

you struck

Quote: הִכִּ֣יתָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar expression in 4:2. Alternate translation: [you killed]

behold

Quote: הִנֵּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Ahimelek is using the term behold to focus David’s attention on what he is about to say. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. See how you translated this term in 2:31.

it {is} wrapped in a cloak behind

Quote: הִ֞יא לוּטָ֣ה בַ⁠שִּׂמְלָה֮ אַחֲרֵ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [we have wrapped it in a cloak and put it behind]

If you would take it for yourself, take, for no other except it {is} in this {place

Quote: אִם־אֹתָ֤⁠הּ תִּֽקַּח־לְ⁠ךָ֙ קָ֔ח כִּ֣י אֵ֥ין אַחֶ֛רֶת זוּלָתָ֖⁠הּ בָּ⁠זֶ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

no other except it {is} in this {place

Quote: אֵ֥ין אַחֶ֛רֶת זוּלָתָ֖⁠הּ בָּ⁠זֶ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

If it would appear in your language that Ahimelek was making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this as a positive statement. Alternate translation: [it is the only one in this place]

Give {it} to me

Quote: תְּנֶ֥⁠נָּה לִּֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

1 Samuel 21:10

And David arose

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֣קָם דָּוִ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:9. Alternate translation: [And David took action]

from the face of Saul

Quote: מִ⁠פְּנֵ֣י שָׁא֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of Saul, his face, to mean all of him in his determination to kill David. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [from Saul]

1 Samuel 21:11

Is} not this David the king of the land? Do they not sing about this {one} in the dances, saying, Saul has struck his thousands, and David his myriads

Quote: הֲ⁠לוֹא־זֶ֥ה דָוִ֖ד מֶ֣לֶךְ הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ הֲ⁠ל֣וֹא לָ⁠זֶ֗ה יַעֲנ֤וּ בַ⁠מְּחֹלוֹת֙ לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר הִכָּ֤ה שָׁאוּל֙ בַּאֲלָפָ֔יו\n וְ⁠דָוִ֖ד בְּרִבְבֹתָֽיו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The servants are using the question form for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [This David is the king of the land! Certainly they sing about him in the dances, saying, ‘Saul has struck his thousands, and David his myriads!’]

Is} not this David the king of the land

Quote: הֲ⁠לוֹא־זֶ֥ה דָוִ֖ד מֶ֣לֶךְ הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The servants of Achish are not making a comparison here. They know that David has led the Israelite armies into battle against them with great success, as a king would do, and so they believe that he actually is the king of Israel. So it would not be appropriate to translate this statement as if it were making a comparison.

the land

Quote: הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The servants mean the land of Israel. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [the land of Israel]

saying, Saul has struck his thousands, and David his myriads

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר הִכָּ֤ה שָׁאוּל֙ בַּאֲלָפָ֔יו\n וְ⁠דָוִ֖ד בְּרִבְבֹתָֽיו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [and say that Saul has struck his thousands, and David his myriads]

Saul has struck his thousands, and David his myriads

Quote: הִכָּ֤ה שָׁאוּל֙ בַּאֲלָפָ֔יו וְ⁠דָוִ֖ד בְּרִבְבֹתָֽיו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar expression in 18:7. Alternate translation: [Saul has killed thousands of soldiers, and David has killed tens of thousands of soldiers]

1 Samuel 21:12

And David put these words in his heart

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֧שֶׂם דָּוִ֛ד אֶת־הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֥ים הָ⁠אֵ֖לֶּה בִּ⁠לְבָב֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 9:20. Alternate translation: [And David became concerned about these words]

these words

Quote: אֶת־הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֥ים הָ⁠אֵ֖לֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to mean what the servants were saying about David. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [what they were saying]

from the face of Achish

Quote: מִ⁠פְּנֵ֖י אָכִ֥ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

See how you translated the similar expression in 21:10. The author is using one part of Achish, his face, to mean all of him in his potential hostility toward David. Alternate translation: [of Achish]

1 Samuel 21:13

in their eyes

Quote: בְּ⁠עֵ֣ינֵי⁠הֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term eyes by association to mean seeing and observing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [while they were watching]

in their hand

Quote: בְּ⁠יָדָ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term hand by association to mean control or custody. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for as long as he was in their custody]

And he made marks on the doors of the gate

Quote: ו⁠יתו עַל־דַּלְת֣וֹת הַ⁠שַּׁ֔עַר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) that David scratched the doors of the gate with his fingernails. Alternate translation: [And he scratched the doors of the gate with his fingernails] (2) that David scribbled nonsense on the doors of the gate. Alternate translation: [And he scribbled nonsense on the doors of the gate]

1 Samuel 21:14

Why did you bring him to me

Quote: לָ֛⁠מָּה תָּבִ֥יאוּ אֹת֖⁠וֹ אֵלָֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Achish is using the question form for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You should not have brought him to me!]

1 Samuel 21:15

Am I lacking ravers, that you have brought this {one} to rave near me? Should this {one} enter into my house

Quote: חֲסַ֤ר מְשֻׁגָּעִים֙ אָ֔נִי כִּי־הֲבֵאתֶ֣ם אֶת־זֶ֔ה לְ⁠הִשְׁתַּגֵּ֖עַ עָלָ֑⁠י הֲ⁠זֶ֖ה יָב֥וֹא אֶל־בֵּיתִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

1 Samuel 22

1 Samuel 22 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). It describes how David fled from the Philistine city of Gath when he no longer felt safe there. He brought his parents to the king of Moab for safety and stayed in Moab himself for a while. But then Yahweh’s prophet Gad told him to return to the land of Judah. There he gathered a force of 400 men, including his older brothers, and became their commander. This chapter also describes how Saul accused the Israelite priests of conspiring with David against him and had one of his officials kill all of them.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Saul and the chief priest and his family

One of Saul’s officials, Doeg the Edomite, tells Saul that Ahimelech the high priest gave David food and a sword and asked Yahweh to guide him. Saul summoned the priests and accused them of encouraging David to rebel against him. This was a serious accusation. The priests had an obligation to represent Yahweh and support his purposes. They would have been rebelling against Yahweh’s king if this accusation had been true. But it was not. Nevertheless, Saul had Doeg kill all the priests and their families. Only one young man escaped to tell David. (See: high priest, chief priests)

1 Samuel 22:1

and they went down

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּרְד֥וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:3, where the author similarly marks travel for change in elevation. Alternate translation: [and they went]

1 Samuel 22:2

every man of distress and every man for whom {was} a creditor and every man bitter of soul

Quote: כָּל־אִ֨ישׁ מָצ֜וֹק וְ⁠כָל־אִ֨ישׁ אֲשֶׁר־ל֤⁠וֹ נֹשֶׁא֙ וְ⁠כָל־אִ֣ישׁ מַר־נֶ֔פֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The author is making a generalization for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [men who were in distress and men who had creditors and men who were bitter of soul]

man of distress

Quote: אִ֨ישׁ מָצ֜וֹק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of distress, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [man who was distressed] or [man who was being oppressed]

man bitter of soul

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ מַר־נֶ֔פֶשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

As in 2:35, here the term soul represents a person’s inward feelings. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [man who was feeling bitter]

1 Samuel 22:3

let … come out {and be} with you

Quote: יֵֽצֵא & אִתְּ⁠כֶ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some words that in many languages would be needed to complete the meaning. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [come out of Israel and stay with you]

1 Samuel 22:4

And he led them to the face of the king of Moab

Quote: וַ⁠יַּנְחֵ֕⁠ם אֶת־פְּנֵ֖י מֶ֣לֶךְ מוֹאָ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of the king, his face, to mean all of him in his role as protector. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And he brought them to the king of Moab] or [And he brought them under the protection of the king of Moab]

1 Samuel 22:5

Leave and enter for yourself the land of Judah

Quote: לֵ֥ךְ וּ⁠בָֽאתָ־לְּ⁠ךָ֖ אֶ֣רֶץ יְהוּדָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Gad is using the reflexive pronoun yourself to indicate that David should do this for his own benefit. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this meaning in another way. Alternate translation: [It is better for you to leave and enter the land of Judah]

1 Samuel 22:6

David had become known

Quote: דָּוִ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [people knew where David was]

Now Saul was sitting in Gibeah under the tamarisk tree on the height, and his spear {was} in his hand

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁאוּל֩ יוֹשֵׁ֨ב בַּ⁠גִּבְעָ֜ה תַּֽחַת־הָ⁠אֶ֤שֶׁל בָּֽ⁠רָמָה֙ וַ⁠חֲנִית֣⁠וֹ בְ⁠יָד֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Sitting under this tree holding this spear was a symbolic action that showed Saul was acting as king. The tree and spear were symbols of royal authority in this culture. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [Now Saul was in Gibeah on the height, sitting under the tamarisk tree and holding his spear to show his authority]

1 Samuel 22:7

Benjaminite

Quote: בְּנֵ֣י יְמִינִ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

Saul is not referring to a specific Benjaminite. He means all the Benjaminites who were there. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. (Saul had given the important positions in his court to people from his own tribe of Benjamin, and he suggests in the next verse that as king, David would give their positions to people from his tribe of Judah.) Alternate translation: [you Benjaminites]

Will the son of Jesse give fields and vineyards even to all of you? Will he make all of you commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds

Quote: גַּם־לְ⁠כֻלְּ⁠כֶ֗ם יִתֵּ֤ן בֶּן־יִשַׁי֙ שָׂד֣וֹת וּ⁠כְרָמִ֔ים לְ⁠כֻלְּ⁠כֶ֣ם יָשִׂ֔ים שָׂרֵ֥י אֲלָפִ֖ים וְ⁠שָׂרֵ֥י מֵאֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Saul is using the question form for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You seem to believe that the son of Jesse will give fields and vineyards also to all of you! You seem to believe that he will make all of you commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds!]

even to all of you

Quote: גַּם־לְ⁠כֻלְּ⁠כֶ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Saul means that his officials seem to believe David would give these things even to all of them, and not just to his fellow Judeans. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [even to all of you, and not just to his fellow Judeans]

1 Samuel 22:8

For

Quote: כִּי֩ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For provides not a reason but an explanation. Alternate translation: [I say this because]

And {there was} no uncovering my ear … or uncovering my ear

Quote: וְ⁠אֵין־גֹּלֶ֤ה אֶת־אָזְנִ⁠י֙ & וְ⁠גֹלֶ֣ה אֶת־אָזְנִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expression in 9:15. Alternate translation: [And no one told me … and no one told me]

when my son cut

Quote: בִּ⁠כְרָת־בְּנִ֣⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

See how you translated the similar expression in 20:16. Alternate translation: [when my son cut a covenant] or [when my son made a covenant]

my son had raised up my servant against me

Quote: הֵקִים֩ בְּנִ֨⁠י אֶת־עַבְדִּ֥⁠י עָלַ֛⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Saul is speaking of Jonathan’s actions as if he had physically lifted David up to fight against him. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [my son had incited my servant to rebel against me]

as this day

Quote: כַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the term day by association to mean the present time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [as he is doing right now]

1 Samuel 22:9

And Doeg the Edomite answered (now he had stationed himself beside the servants of Saul) and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֜עַן דֹּאֵ֣ג הָ⁠אֲדֹמִ֗י וְ⁠ה֛וּא נִצָּ֥ב עַל־עַבְדֵֽי־שָׁא֖וּל וַ⁠יֹּאמַ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural in your language to put the information about Doeg’s position before his response. Alternate translation: [Now Doeg the Edomite had stationed himself beside the servants of Saul. He answered and said]

now he had stationed himself beside the servants of Saul

Quote: וְ⁠ה֛וּא נִצָּ֥ב עַל־עַבְדֵֽי־שָׁא֖וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

And Doeg the Edomite answered (… and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֜עַן דֹּאֵ֣ג הָ⁠אֲדֹמִ֗י & וַ⁠יֹּאמַ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word answered tells for what purpose Doeg said this. Alternate translation: [And Doeg the Edomite responded]

1 Samuel 22:10

And he inquired of Yahweh for him

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁאַל־ל⁠וֹ֙ בַּֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Ahimelek, while the pronoun him refers to David. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And Ahimelek inquired of Yahweh for David]

Goliath the Philistine

Quote: גָּלְיָ֥ת הַ⁠פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you translated this name in 17:8. Alternate translation: [Goliath the Philistine Champion]

1 Samuel 22:12

Behold me

Quote: הִנְ⁠נִ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

See how you translated this expression of respect in 3:4. Ahimelek is responding to his king with appropriate deference. Alternate translation: [I am listening]

1 Samuel 22:13

Why have you conspired against me, you and the son of Jesse, by your giving to him bread and a sword and inquiring of God for him, to rise up against me, to lie in ambush, as this day

Quote: לָ֚⁠מָּה קְשַׁרְתֶּ֣ם עָלַ֔⁠י אַתָּ֖ה וּ⁠בֶן־יִשָׁ֑י בְּ⁠תִתְּ⁠ךָ֨ ל֜⁠וֹ לֶ֣חֶם וְ⁠חֶ֗רֶב וְ⁠שָׁא֥וֹל ל⁠וֹ֙ בֵּֽ⁠אלֹהִ֔ים לָ⁠ק֥וּם אֵלַ֛⁠י לְ⁠אֹרֵ֖ב כַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Saul is using the question form for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You have conspired against me with the son of Jesse by giving him bread and a sword and inquiring of God for him so that he could rise up against me and lie in ambush, as this day!]

as this day

Quote: כַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 22:8. Alternate translation: [as he is doing right now]

1 Samuel 22:14

And Ahimelek answered the king and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֧עַן אֲחִימֶ֛לֶךְ אֶת־הַ⁠מֶּ֖לֶךְ וַ⁠יֹּאמַ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word answered tells for what purpose Ahimelek said this. Alternate translation: [And Ahimelek responded to the king]

Now who among all of your servants is being faithful like David, and the son-in-law of the king, and commander over your bodyguard, and being honored in your house

Quote: וּ⁠מִ֤י בְ⁠כָל־עֲבָדֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ כְּ⁠דָוִ֣ד נֶאֱמָ֔ן וַ⁠חֲתַ֥ן הַ⁠מֶּ֛לֶךְ וְ⁠סָ֥ר אֶל־מִשְׁמַעְתֶּ֖⁠ךָ וְ⁠נִכְבָּ֥ד בְּ⁠בֵיתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Ahimelek is using the question form for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [No one among all of your servants is being faithful like David, who is the son-in-law of the king and commander over your bodyguard and being honored in your house!]

and the son-in-law of the king

Quote: וַ⁠חֲתַ֥ן הַ⁠מֶּ֛לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Ahimelek is speaking about Saul in the third person out of respect. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the second person. Alternate translation: [who is also your son-in-law]

and the son-in-law of the king

Quote: וַ⁠חֲתַ֥ן הַ⁠מֶּ֛לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

See how you translated this relationship term in 18:18.

and being honored in your house

Quote: וְ⁠נִכְבָּ֥ד בְּ⁠בֵיתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Ahimelek is speaking Saul’s court, that is, all of his royal servants, as if it were an actual house. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and being honored in your court] or [and being honored by your royal servants]

and being honored in your house

Quote: וְ⁠נִכְבָּ֥ד בְּ⁠בֵיתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and someone whom the people of your court honor]

1 Samuel 22:15

Did I begin to inquire of God for him today

Quote: הַ⁠יּ֧וֹם הַחִלֹּ֛תִי ל⁠שאול־ל֥⁠וֹ בֵ⁠אלֹהִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Ahimelek is using a common expression of his culture to mean that this was not the first time he had done this. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Was this the first time I inquired of God for him?]

Did I begin to inquire of God for him today

Quote: הַ⁠יּ֧וֹם הַחִלֹּ֛תִי ל⁠שאול־ל֥⁠וֹ בֵ⁠אלֹהִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Ahimelek is using the question form for emphasis. If speakers of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [This was certainly not the first time I inquired of God for him!]

Profane to me

Quote: חָלִ֣ילָ⁠ה לִּ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression of strong denial in 2:30. Alternate translation: [Far be it from me to do such a thing as you have suggested]

May the king not set a word against his servant, against all of the house of my father. For your servant does not know about any of this matter, small or great

Quote: אַל־יָשֵׂם֩ הַ⁠מֶּ֨לֶךְ בְּ⁠עַבְדּ֤⁠וֹ דָבָר֙ בְּ⁠כָל־בֵּ֣ית אָבִ֔⁠י כִּ֠י לֹֽא־יָדַ֤ע עַבְדְּ⁠ךָ֙ בְּ⁠כָל־זֹ֔את דָּבָ֥ר קָטֹ֖ן א֥וֹ גָדֽוֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since your servant does not know about any of this matter, small or great, may the king not set a word against his servant, against all of the house of my father]

May the king not set a word

Quote: אַל־יָשֵׂם֩ הַ⁠מֶּ֨לֶךְ & דָבָר֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Ahimelek is using the term word by association to mean the accusation that Saul has made by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [May the king not make such an accusation]

May the king not set a word against his servant, … For your servant does not know

Quote: אַל־יָשֵׂם֩ הַ⁠מֶּ֨לֶךְ בְּ⁠עַבְדּ֤⁠וֹ דָבָר֙ & כִּ֠י לֹֽא־יָדַ֤ע עַבְדְּ⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Ahimelek is speaking respectfully to Saul and humbly about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the second person and the first person. Alternate translation: [May you, O king, not set a word against me, your servant … For I, your servant, do not know]

against all of the house of my father

Quote: בְּ⁠כָל־בֵּ֣ית אָבִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

See how you translated this expression in 9:20. Alternate translation: [against my entire extended family]

about any of this matter, small or great

Quote: בְּ⁠כָל־זֹ֔את דָּבָ֥ר קָטֹ֖ן א֥וֹ גָדֽוֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Ahimelek is speaking of two extremes, small and great, in order to mean them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [anything at all about this matter]

1 Samuel 22:16

Dying, you shall die

Quote: מ֥וֹת תָּמ֖וּת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

The author is repeating forms of the verb “die” in order to intensify his expression of the idea it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [You shall certainly die]

1 Samuel 22:17

to the runners

Quote: לָ⁠רָצִים֩ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The term runners refers to the king’s bodyguards. Samuel described them in 8:11 when he said that a king would have men who would “run to the face of his chariot.” They would surround him when he traveled in order to protect him, although having a large entourage was also symbolic of the king’s power and authority. Alternate translation: [to his bodyguards]

Turn and kill the priests of Yahweh, because their hand {is} also with David, and because they knew that he was fleeing but they did not uncover my ear

Quote: סֹ֥בּוּ וְ⁠הָמִ֣יתוּ ׀ כֹּהֲנֵ֣י יְהוָ֗ה כִּ֤י גַם־יָדָ⁠ם֙ עִם־דָּוִ֔ד וְ⁠כִ֤י יָֽדְעוּ֙ כִּֽי־בֹרֵ֣חַ ה֔וּא וְ⁠לֹ֥א גָל֖וּ אֶת־אָזְנִ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since their hand is also with David, and since they knew that he was fleeing but they did not uncover my ear, turn and kill the priests of Yahweh]

Turn and kill

Quote: סֹ֥בּוּ וְ⁠הָמִ֣יתוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

While it is possible that Saul’s bodyguards were facing him and that they would have needed to turn physically in order to kill the priests, here the word Turn has a meaning similar to that of the word “arise” elsewhere in the book. It means to take action to do something. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Go ahead and kill]

their hand {is} also with David, … to stretch out their hand

Quote: גַם־יָדָ⁠ם֙ עִם־דָּוִ֔ד & לִ⁠שְׁלֹ֣חַ & יָדָ֔⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns

Since Saul is referring to a group of people, it may be more natural in your language to use the plural form of hand. Alternate translation: [their hands are also with David … to stretch out their hands]

their hand {is} also with David

Quote: גַם־יָדָ⁠ם֙ עִם־דָּוִ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Saul is using one part of the priests, their hand, to mean all of them in the act of helping David. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [they are also helping David]

but they did not uncover my ear

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א גָל֖וּ אֶת־אָזְנִ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 22:8. Alternate translation: [but they did not tell me]

to stretch out their hand to attack

Quote: לִ⁠שְׁלֹ֣חַ & יָדָ֔⁠ם לִ⁠פְגֹ֖עַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean attacking or violently harming someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to use violence to attack]

1 Samuel 22:18

You turn … So Doeg the Edomite turned and he himself attacked the priests

Quote: סֹ֣ב אַתָּ֔ה & וַ⁠יִּסֹּ֞ב דּוֹאֵ֣ג הָ⁠אֲדֹמִ֗י וַ⁠יִּפְגַּע־הוּא֙ בַּ⁠כֹּ֣הֲנִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this expression in 22:17. Alternate translation: [You go ahead … So Doeg the Edomite went ahead and attacked the priests himself]

men wearing a linen ephod

Quote: אִ֔ישׁ נֹשֵׂ֖א אֵפ֥וֹד בָּֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the linen ephod, a priestly garment, by association to mean the men who wore it as priests. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [men who were priests]

1 Samuel 22:19

And Nob, the city of the priests, he struck to the mouth of the sword

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֨ת נֹ֤ב עִיר־הַ⁠כֹּֽהֲנִים֙ הִכָּ֣ה לְ⁠פִי־חֶ֔רֶב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 15:8. Alternate translation: [And he completely destroyed Nob, the city of the priests]

from man and to woman, from child and to infant, and ox and donkey and sheep, to the mouth of the sword

Quote: מֵ⁠אִישׁ֙ וְ⁠עַד־אִשָּׁ֔ה מֵ⁠עוֹלֵ֖ל וְ⁠עַד־יוֹנֵ֑ק וְ⁠שׁ֧וֹר וַ⁠חֲמ֛וֹר וָ⁠שֶׂ֖ה לְ⁠פִי־חָֽרֶב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

The author is speaking of the two human sexes, of an extreme of age, and of animals with different roles (plowing, carrying, giving wool and milk) to mean them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [all of the people, regardless of their age or sex, and all of the animals, he completely destroyed]

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 22:22

that declaring, he would declare to Saul

Quote: כִּֽי־הַגֵּ֥ד יַגִּ֖יד לְ⁠שָׁא֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

David is repeating forms of the verb “declare” in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [that he would certainly declare to Saul]

I myself have turned against every soul of the house of your father

Quote: אָנֹכִ֣י סַבֹּ֔תִי בְּ⁠כָל־נֶ֖פֶשׁ בֵּ֥ית אָבִֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is using the word turned in the same sense as in 22:17 and 22:18, speaking as if he himself had actively killed all of Abiathar’s relatives. He means that he is responsible for their deaths. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I myself am responsible for the deaths of every soul of the house of your father]

against every soul of the house of your father

Quote: בְּ⁠כָל־נֶ֖פֶשׁ בֵּ֥ית אָבִֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of a person, the soul, to mean the whole person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [every person in the house of your father] or [every one of your relatives]

1 Samuel 22:23

Stay with me, do not be afraid. For {he} who seeks my life seeks your life

Quote: שְׁבָ֤⁠ה אִתִּ⁠י֙ אַל־תִּירָ֔א כִּ֛י אֲשֶׁר־יְבַקֵּ֥שׁ אֶת־נַפְשִׁ֖⁠י יְבַקֵּ֣שׁ אֶת־נַפְשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

he} who seeks my life seeks your life

Quote: אֲשֶׁר־יְבַקֵּ֥שׁ אֶת־נַפְשִׁ֖⁠י יְבַקֵּ֣שׁ אֶת־נַפְשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in 20:1. Alternate translation: [he who is seeking to end my life is seeking to end your life] or [he who is seeking to kill me is seeking to kill you]

Surely protection {for} you {is} with me

Quote: כִּֽי־מִשְׁמֶ֥רֶת אַתָּ֖ה עִמָּדִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of protection, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [I will surely protect you]

1 Samuel 23

1 Samuel 23 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). It describes how David rescued the city of Keilah from the Philistines who were stealing their harvest. Saul then went to Keilah to capture David, but Yahweh warned David and he fled to the wilderness near Ziph. Saul chased David there, and he would have caught him, but he had to leave to fight the Philistines, who were invading Israel.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

David trusts Yahweh to protect him

While the author does not state this specifically but leaves it for readers to recognize on their own, Yahweh worked out the timing of all these circumstances in order to rescue David from being captured and killed. Saul wanted to kill David, but David trusted in Yahweh, and Yahweh kept rescuing him. (See: trust, trusted, trustworthy, trustworthiness)

1 Samuel 23:1

And they declared to David

Quote: וַ⁠יַּגִּ֥דוּ לְ⁠דָוִ֖ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And David was told]

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The people who spoke with David were using the term Behold to focus his attention on what they were about to say. See how you translated this term in 2:31.

with Keilah

Quote: בִּ⁠קְעִילָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Keilah is the name of a city in the territory of Judah. It was located in the lowlands near Philistine territory.

1 Samuel 23:2

and strike

Quote: וְ⁠הִכֵּ֔יתִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this context, the author is using the term strike to mean “attack.” It does not necessarily have the specific sense here of “kill,” as it does elsewhere in the book. Alternate translation: [and attack]

1 Samuel 23:3

we {are} afraid

Quote: אֲנַ֥חְנוּ & יְרֵאִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David’s men are using the emotion of fear by association to mean the danger that causes that fear. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [we are in danger]

And much more

Quote: וְ⁠אַף֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

David’s men are leaving out some words that in many languages would be needed to complete the meaning. You can supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: [And we will be much more afraid] or [And we will be in much more danger]

the arrays of the Philistines

Quote: מַֽעַרְכ֖וֹת פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David’s soldiers are using the term arrays (battle formations) by association to mean the soldiers who form them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the soldiers of the Philistines]

1 Samuel 23:4

So David added yet to inquire of Yahweh

Quote: וַ⁠יּ֨וֹסֶף ע֤וֹד דָּוִד֙ לִ⁠שְׁאֹ֣ל בַּֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word added tells in what way David inquired of Yahweh. Alternate translation: [So David inquired of Yahweh yet again]

Arise, go down to Keilah, for I am giving the Philistines into your hand

Quote: ק֚וּם רֵ֣ד קְעִילָ֔ה כִּֽי־אֲנִ֥י נֹתֵ֛ן אֶת־פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖ים בְּ⁠יָדֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Arise

Quote: ק֚וּם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this term in 16:12. Alternate translation: [Take action]

go down

Quote: רֵ֣ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:3, where the author marks travel for change in elevation. Keilah was at a lower elevation than where David was. Alternate translation: [go]

into your hand

Quote: בְּ⁠יָדֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 4:3. Alternate translation: [into your power]

1 Samuel 23:5

And he drove off their livestock and struck a great striking against them

Quote: וַ⁠יִּנְהַג֙ אֶת־מִקְנֵי⁠הֶ֔ם וַ⁠יַּ֥ךְ בָּ⁠הֶ֖ם מַכָּ֣ה גְדוֹלָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

and struck a great striking against them

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֥ךְ בָּ⁠הֶ֖ם מַכָּ֣ה גְדוֹלָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

See how you translated this same expression in 19:8. Alternate translation: [and slaughtered very many of them]

1 Samuel 23:6

And it happened that

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֗י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

an ephod came down in his hand

Quote: אֵפ֖וֹד יָרַ֥ד בְּ⁠יָדֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of Abiathar, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of bringing the ephod. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [he brought an ephod with him]

1 Samuel 23:7

And it was declared

Quote: וַ⁠יֻּגַּ֣ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And someone declared]

David had come to Keilah

Quote: בָ֥א דָוִ֖ד קְעִילָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

In this context, your language might say “gone” instead of come. Alternate translation: [David had gone to Keilah]

God has delivered him into my hand. For he has enclosed himself by entering into a city of doors and a bar

Quote: נִכַּ֨ר אֹת֤⁠וֹ אֱלֹהִים֙ בְּ⁠יָדִ֔⁠י כִּ֚י נִסְגַּ֣ר לָ⁠ב֔וֹא בְּ⁠עִ֖יר דְּלָתַ֥יִם וּ⁠בְרִֽיחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since he has enclosed himself by entering into a city of doors and a bar, God has delivered him into my hand]

into my hand

Quote: בְּ⁠יָדִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 23:4. Alternate translation: [into my power]

into a city of doors and a bar

Quote: בְּ⁠עִ֖יר דְּלָתַ֥יִם וּ⁠בְרִֽיחַ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the terms doors and bar by association to mean a walled city that had gates that could be closed and locked. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [into a walled city whose gates can be locked]

1 Samuel 23:8

And Saul made all of the people hear for battle

Quote: וַ⁠יְשַׁמַּ֥ע שָׁא֛וּל אֶת־כָּל־הָ⁠עָ֖ם לַ⁠מִּלְחָמָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture that means that Saul called his troops together for military service. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And Saul summoned all of his troops to battle]

1 Samuel 23:10

hearing, your servant has heard

Quote: שָׁמֹ֤עַ שָׁמַע֙ עַבְדְּ⁠ךָ֔ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

David is repeating forms of the verb “hear” in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [your servant has clearly heard]

hearing, your servant has heard

Quote: שָׁמֹ֤עַ שָׁמַע֙ עַבְדְּ⁠ךָ֔ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

David is speaking about himself in the third person as a way of showing respect to Yahweh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [I, your servant, have clearly heard]

1 Samuel 23:11

Will the lords of Keilah enclose me in his hand? Will Saul come down, just as your servant has heard

Quote: הֲ⁠יַסְגִּרֻ֣⁠נִי בַעֲלֵי֩ קְעִילָ֨ה בְ⁠יָד֜⁠וֹ הֲ⁠יֵרֵ֣ד שָׁא֗וּל כַּֽ⁠אֲשֶׁר֙ שָׁמַ֣ע עַבְדֶּ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

David is asking about one event before asking about another event that would precede it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they would happen. Alternate translation: [Will Saul come down, just as your servant has heard? Will the lords of Keilah enclose me in his hand?]

Will the lords of Keilah enclose me in his hand

Quote: הֲ⁠יַסְגִּרֻ֣⁠נִי בַעֲלֵי֩ קְעִילָ֨ה בְ⁠יָד֜⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking of the lords of Keilah surrendering to Saul as if they would place him in Saul’s hand and enclose him in it by wrapping Saul’s fingers tightly around him. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Will the lords of Keilah surrender me to him]

just as your servant has heard? … please declare to your servant

Quote: כַּֽ⁠אֲשֶׁר֙ שָׁמַ֣ע עַבְדֶּ֔⁠ךָ & הַגֶּד־נָ֖א לְ⁠עַבְדֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

1 Samuel 23:12

They will enclose

Quote: יַסְגִּֽירוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Yahweh is leaving out some words that in many languages would be needed to complete the meaning. You can supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: [They will enclose you and your men in the hand of Saul]

1 Samuel 23:13

So David and his men, about 600 men, arose

Quote: וַ⁠יָּקָם֩ דָּוִ֨ד וַ⁠אֲנָשָׁ֜י⁠ו כְּ⁠שֵׁשׁ־מֵא֣וֹת אִ֗ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the term arose in 1:9. Alternate translation: [So David and his men, about 600 men, took action]

And it was declared to Saul

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠שָׁא֣וּל הֻגַּ֗ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And someone declared to Saul]

1 Samuel 23:14

And David stayed in the wilderness, in the strongholds, and he stayed in the hill country in the wilderness of Ziph. And Saul sought him all of the days, but God did not give him into his hand

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֨שֶׁב דָּוִ֤ד בַּ⁠מִּדְבָּר֙ בַּ⁠מְּצָד֔וֹת וַ⁠יֵּ֥שֶׁב בָּ⁠הָ֖ר בְּ⁠מִדְבַּר־זִ֑יף וַ⁠יְבַקְשֵׁ֤⁠הוּ שָׁאוּל֙ כָּל־הַ⁠יָּמִ֔ים וְ⁠לֹֽא־נְתָנ֥⁠וֹ אֱלֹהִ֖ים בְּ⁠יָדֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory

Here the author is saying what happened at the end of this part of the story of David fleeing from Saul. Your language may have its own way of presenting information that brings one part of a story to a close.

all of the days

Quote: כָּל־הַ⁠יָּמִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term days by association to mean “time.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [all of the time] or [continually]

but God did not give him into his hand

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־נְתָנ֥⁠וֹ אֱלֹהִ֖ים בְּ⁠יָדֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

1 Samuel 23:15

And David saw that Saul had come out to seek his life. Now David {was} in the wilderness of Ziph, in the forest

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣רְא דָוִ֔ד כִּֽי־יָצָ֥א שָׁא֖וּל לְ⁠בַקֵּ֣שׁ אֶת־נַפְשׁ֑⁠וֹ וְ⁠דָוִ֥ד בְּ⁠מִדְבַּר־זִ֖יף בַּ⁠חֹֽרְשָׁה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural in your language to put the information about David’s location before the information about what he saw Saul doing. Alternate translation: [While David was in the wilderness of Ziph, in the forest, he saw that Saul had come out to seek his life]

And David saw that Saul had come out to seek his life

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣רְא דָוִ֔ד כִּֽי־יָצָ֥א שָׁא֖וּל לְ⁠בַקֵּ֣שׁ אֶת־נַפְשׁ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term saw by association to mean becoming aware. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And David became aware that Saul had come out to seek his life]

And David saw that Saul had come out to seek his life

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣רְא דָוִ֔ד כִּֽי־יָצָ֥א שָׁא֖וּל לְ⁠בַקֵּ֣שׁ אֶת־נַפְשׁ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using Saul to represent people he sent out to find David. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And David was aware that Saul was sending people out to seek his life]

to seek his life

Quote: לְ⁠בַקֵּ֣שׁ אֶת־נַפְשׁ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in 20:1. Alternate translation: [to find him so that he could end his life] or [to find him so that he could kill him]

Now David {was} in the wilderness of Ziph, in the forest

Quote: וְ⁠דָוִ֥ד בְּ⁠מִדְבַּר־זִ֖יף בַּ⁠חֹֽרְשָׁה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

1 Samuel 23:16

And he strengthened his hand

Quote: וַ⁠יְחַזֵּ֥ק אֶת־יָד֖⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author says that Jonathan strengthened David’s hand to mean that he encouraged him, by association with the way that people have less strengthen in their hands weaken when they are discouraged and afraid and more strength when they are encouraged and brave. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And he encouraged him]

1 Samuel 23:17

And he said to him

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֨אמֶר אֵלָ֜י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to Jonathan, while the pronoun him refers to David. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And Jonathan said to David]

Do not be afraid, for the hand of Saul my father will not find you

Quote: אַל־תִּירָ֗א כִּ֠י לֹ֤א תִֽמְצָאֲ⁠ךָ֙ יַ֚ד שָׁא֣וּל אָבִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

the hand of Saul my father will not find you

Quote: לֹ֤א תִֽמְצָאֲ⁠ךָ֙ יַ֚ד שָׁא֣וּל אָבִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Jonathan is using one part of Saul, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of trying to capture David. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Saul my father will not find you and capture you]

and I myself will be to you for a second

Quote: וְ⁠אָנֹכִ֖י אֶֽהְיֶה־לְּ⁠ךָ֣ לְ⁠מִשְׁנֶ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal

Jonathan is using the ordinal number second to describe his future position in David’s kingdom. If your language does not use ordinal numbers, you can use an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: [and I myself will be the next most powerful person in the kingdom]

1 Samuel 23:18

And … cut a covenant

Quote: וַ⁠יִּכְרְת֧וּ & בְּרִ֖ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 11:1. Alternate translation: [made a covenant]

And … cut a covenant

Quote: וַ⁠יִּכְרְת֧וּ & בְּרִ֖ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Since David and Jonathan had already made a covenant in chapter 18, by cut a covenant, the author means they renewed their previous agreement. Alternate translation: [renewed their covenant]

to the face of Yahweh

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 1:12. Alternate translation: [in the presence of Yahweh]

1 Samuel 23:19

Is not David hiding himself among us in strongholds in the forest on the hill of Hakilah, which {is} from the south of Jeshimon

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֣וֹא דָ֠וִד מִסְתַּתֵּ֨ר עִמָּ֤⁠נוּ בַ⁠מְּצָדוֹת֙ בַּ⁠חֹ֔רְשָׁה בְּ⁠גִבְעַת֙ הַֽ⁠חֲכִילָ֔ה אֲשֶׁ֖ר מִ⁠ימִ֥ין הַ⁠יְשִׁימֽוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The Ziphites are using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [David is hiding himself among us in strongholds in the forest on the hill of Hakilah, which is from the south of Jeshimon!]

which {is} from the south of Jeshimon

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֖ר מִ⁠ימִ֥ין הַ⁠יְשִׁימֽוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

These Ziphites are describing the location of one place relative to another in the way that is characteristic of their culture. In your translation, express this in the way your culture describes the relative location of places. Alternate translation: [which is south of Jeshimon]

1 Samuel 23:20

according to all of the desire of your soul

Quote: לְ⁠כָל־אַוַּ֨ת נַפְשְׁ⁠ךָ֥ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The Ziphites are using one part of Saul, his soul, to mean all of him in the act of desiring something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [according to all of your desire]

to enclose him in the hand of the king

Quote: הַסְגִּיר֖⁠וֹ בְּ⁠יַ֥ד הַ⁠מֶּֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this same image in 23:11. Alternate translation: [to surrender him to the king]

to enclose him in the hand of the king

Quote: הַסְגִּיר֖⁠וֹ בְּ⁠יַ֥ד הַ⁠מֶּֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

The Ziphites are addressing Saul respectfully in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the second person. Alternate translation: [to enclose him in your hand, O king] or [to surrender him to you, O king]

1 Samuel 23:21

Blessed {be} you by Yahweh! For you have had compassion on me

Quote: בְּרוּכִ֥ים אַתֶּ֖ם לַֽ⁠יהוָ֑ה כִּ֥י חֲמַלְתֶּ֖ם עָלָֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

be} you … you have had compassion

Quote: אַתֶּ֖ם & חֲמַלְתֶּ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The instances of the word you are plural here and through verse 23 because Saul is addressing all of the Ziphites, so use the plural form in your translation if your language marks that distinction.

you have had compassion on me

Quote: חֲמַלְתֶּ֖ם עָלָֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the term compassion by association to mean the help that people provide to others for whom they feel compassion. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [you have helped me]

1 Samuel 23:22

Please go, confirm again, and know and see his place, where his foot is. Who has seen him there? For one has said to me, ‘Being craftly, he is crafty

Quote: לְכוּ־נָ֞א הָכִ֣ינוּ ע֗וֹד וּ⁠דְע֤וּ וּ⁠רְאוּ֙ אֶת־מְקוֹמ⁠וֹ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר תִּֽהְיֶ֣ה רַגְל֔⁠וֹ מִ֥י רָאָ֖⁠הוּ שָׁ֑ם כִּ֚י אָמַ֣ר אֵלַ֔⁠י עָר֥וֹם יַעְרִ֖ם הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since one has said to me, ‘Being craftly, he is crafty,’ please go, confirm again, and know and see his place, where his foot is. Who has seen him there?]

and know and see his place

Quote: וּ⁠דְע֤וּ וּ⁠רְאוּ֙ אֶת־מְקוֹמ⁠וֹ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

Saul is describing one event before describing another event that would precede it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they would happen. Alternate translation: [and look in order to know his place]

where his foot is

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר תִּֽהְיֶ֣ה רַגְל֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Saul is using one part of David, his foot, to mean all of him in the act of being somewhere, as if he were standing there on his feet. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [where he is]

Who has seen him there

Quote: מִ֥י רָאָ֖⁠הוּ שָׁ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Saul is using the question form to emphasize how important it is to have a reliable firsthand report of David’s location. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: [Be sure that someone reliable has seen him there]

For one has said to me, ‘Being craftly, he is crafty

Quote: כִּ֚י אָמַ֣ר אֵלַ֔⁠י עָר֥וֹם יַעְרִ֖ם הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [For one has said to me that being craftly, he is crafty]

one has said to me

Quote: אָמַ֣ר אֵלַ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Saul is not using the pronoun one to refer to a specific person. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [I have been told]

Being craftly, he is crafty

Quote: עָר֥וֹם יַעְרִ֖ם הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Saul is repeating forms of the verb “be crafty” in order to intensify the expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [He is very crafty]

1 Samuel 23:23

where he hides himself there

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר יִתְחַבֵּ֣א שָׁ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that the expression where he hides himself there contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [where he hides himself]

a confirmed {thing

Quote: נָכ֔וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [information that you have confirmed]

among all of the thousands of Judah

Quote: בְּ⁠כֹ֖ל אַלְפֵ֥י יְהוּדָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers

See how you translated this expression in 10:19. Alternate translation: [all of the clans of Judah]

among all of the thousands of Judah

Quote: בְּ⁠כֹ֖ל אַלְפֵ֥י יְהוּדָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the term thousands, meaning clans, by association to mean the territory where these clans lived. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the territory of all of the clans of Judah]

1 Samuel 23:24

to the face of Saul

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י שָׁא֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of Saul, his face, to mean all of him in the act of intending to go to the area of Ziph. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [ahead of Saul]

1 Samuel 23:25

And Saul and his men went to seek

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֨לֶךְ שָׁא֣וּל וַ⁠אֲנָשָׁי⁠ו֮ לְ⁠בַקֵּשׁ֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

You could indicate explicitly in your translation whom Saul and his men went to seek if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And Saul and his men went to seek David]

And they declared to David

Quote: וַ⁠יַּגִּ֣דוּ לְ⁠דָוִ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And David was told]

from the wilderness of Maon

Quote: מִדְבַּ֥ר מָעֽוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is describing the location of one place relative to another in the way that is characteristic of his culture. He is describing the direction from which Saul was coming as he pursued David. The implication is that Saul chased David farther into this wilderness. In your translation, express this in the way your culture describes the relative location of places. Alternate translation: [farther into the wilderness of Maon]

1 Samuel 23:26

from the face of Saul

Quote: מִ⁠פְּנֵ֣י שָׁא֔וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of Saul, his face, to mean all of him in the act of pursuing David. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [from Saul]

1 Samuel 23:27

Hurry and go, for the Philistines have raided against the land

Quote: מַהֲרָ֣⁠ה וְ⁠לֵ֔כָ⁠ה כִּֽי־פָשְׁט֥וּ פְלִשְׁתִּ֖ים עַל־הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Hurry and go

Quote: מַהֲרָ֣⁠ה וְ⁠לֵ֔כָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word hurry tells in what way the messenger wants Saul to go. Alternate translation: [Go hurriedly]

Hurry and go

Quote: מַהֲרָ֣⁠ה וְ⁠לֵ֔כָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

In this context, your language might say “come” instead of go. Alternate translation: [Hurry and come] or [Come hurriedly]

1 Samuel 23:28

they called that place

Quote: קָֽרְאוּ֙ לַ⁠מָּק֣וֹם הַ⁠ה֔וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [that place was called]

Sela Hammahlekoth

Quote: סֶ֖לַע הַֽמַּחְלְקֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The name Sela Hammahlekoth means “the Crag of Divisions.” The name indicates that at this crag, the forces of Saul and David divided and went in separate directions. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain this in a footnote.

1 Samuel 24

1 Samuel 24 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). It describes how Saul, after fighting off the Philistines, returned to the wilderness to try to capture David and kill him. Instead, David got the opportunity to kill Saul, but he did not do so, since Yahweh had anointed Saul to be the king. David proved to Saul that he could have killed him, and Saul realized that David was not his enemy and said that he would become king after him.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

“pens of sheep”

The author says in 24:3 that Saul came to some “pens of sheep” along the roadway. These were enclosures that shepherds had created in this area by building circular stone walls outside the openings of caves. The sheep stayed within the enclosures in good weather during the day, and they could go inside the caves for warmth and shelter at night and during storms. Describe these enclosures with a term or phrase that would help your readers understand what they were.

Why did David cut off the edge of Saul’s robe?

In 24:4, David cuts off the edge of Saul’s robe. Shortly afterwards, he is able to show this piece of the robe as proof that he could have killed Saul but did not. But this action may have had further symbolic significance. In 15:27–28, Saul tears off the edge of Samuel’s robe as he is trying to keep him from leaving. Samuel replies, “Yahweh has torn the kingdom of Israel from upon you today.” If David had learned of this incident, he may have been showing Saul that Samuel’s prophecy was coming true as Yahweh preserved his life so that he could be the next king. However, as the author does not make this point explicitly, we recommend that you do not say anything about it in the text of your translation or in a footnote. This repeated imagery speaks for itself within the story, and you can let it do that in your translation.

What does the proverb mean that David quotes to Saul?

In 24:13, David says to Saul, “As the proverb of the ancient says, ‘From the wicked comes out wickedness.’” He is using this proverb to mean, “If I had been a wicked person, I would have wickedly killed you in the cave. But I did not. So you can be sure that I will do nothing to harm you.”

1 Samuel 24:1

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֗י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

See how you translated this expression in 1:12. The author is introducing a new development in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method here that is natural in your language for introducing a new development.

that they declared to him

Quote: וַ⁠יַּגִּ֤דוּ ל⁠וֹ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [that it was declared to him]

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this term in 2:31. The people who spoke with Saul were using the term Behold to focus his attention on what they were about to say.

1 Samuel 24:2

chosen from all of Israel

Quote: בָּח֖וּר מִ⁠כָּל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [whom he had chosen from all of Israel]

And he went

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֗לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using Saul to represent himself and all his men in the act of traveling. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a plural pronoun to indicate this. Alternate translation: [And they went]

on the face of

Quote: עַל־פְּנֵ֖י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:12. The author is using the term face by association to mean the surface or slopes of these cliffs. Alternate translation: [on the slopes of]

on the face of

Quote: עַל־פְּנֵ֖י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

These cliffs contained many caves where David could have been hiding, and the author means that Saul went to search for David in the caves that opened up onto the face or slopes of the cliffs. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [in the caves in]

1 Samuel 24:3

to cover his feet

Quote: לְ⁠הָסֵ֣ךְ אֶת־רַגְלָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism

The author is speaking in a polite way about a private or uncomfortable matter. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [to relieve himself]

Now David and his men were staying in the recesses of the cave

Quote: וְ⁠דָוִד֙ וַ⁠אֲנָשָׁ֔י⁠ו בְּ⁠יַרְכְּתֵ֥י הַ⁠מְּעָרָ֖ה יֹשְׁבִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

1 Samuel 24:4

today

Quote: הַ⁠יּ֜וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The men are using a common expression of their culture. See how you translated the similar expression in 9:13. Alternate translation: [what is happening at this time]

is} what Yahweh said to you, ‘Behold, I am giving your enemy into your hand, and you will do to him just as is good in your eyes

Quote: אֲֽשֶׁר־אָמַ֧ר יְהוָ֣ה אֵלֶ֗י⁠ךָ הִנֵּ֨ה אָנֹכִ֜י נֹתֵ֤ן אֶת־אֹֽיִבְךָ֙\n בְּ⁠יָדֶ֔⁠ךָ וְ⁠עָשִׂ֣יתָ לּ֔⁠וֹ כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֖ר יִטַ֣ב בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [is what Yahweh meant when he told you that he would give your enemy into your hand and that you would do to him just as was good in your eyes]

is} what Yahweh said to you, ‘Behold, I am giving your enemy into your hand, and you will do to him just as is good in your eyes

The author has not directly quoted Yahweh as saying this to David at any earlier point in the book, so this could be the way David’s men interpreted the more general statements by Yahweh that he had chosen David to be the next king. (Jonathan’s concern for his own descendants shows that people in this culture expected a king to destroy any enemies who could threaten him.) To show that this is not necessarily something that Yahweh said to David directly, you could make this an indirect quotation, as suggested in the Quotes in Quotes note, even if your language can present one direct quotation within another.

into your hand

Quote: בְּ⁠יָדֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 4:3. Alternate translation: [into your power]

is good in your eyes

Quote: יִטַ֣ב בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated this expression in 1:18. Alternate translation: [you see fit]

And David arose

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֣קָם דָּוִ֗ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this term in 1:9. Alternate translation: [And David took action]

and cut off the edge of the robe that {was} to Saul

Quote: וַ⁠יִּכְרֹ֛ת אֶת־כְּנַֽף־הַ⁠מְּעִ֥יל אֲשֶׁר־לְ⁠שָׁא֖וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This was a symbolic action that demonstrated that David could have killed Saul. David shows the piece of the robe to make that point explicitly in 24:11, and Saul acknowledges it in 24:18. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [and cut off the edge of Saul’s robe to show that he could have killed him]

in secrecy

Quote: בַּ⁠לָּֽט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of secrecy, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [secretly]

1 Samuel 24:5

And it happened after this

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי֙ אַֽחֲרֵי־כֵ֔ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is introducing a new development in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method here that is natural in your language for introducing a new development.

that the heart of David struck him because he had cut off the edge that {was} to Saul

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֥ךְ לֵב־דָּוִ֖ד אֹת֑⁠וֹ עַ֚ל אֲשֶׁ֣ר כָּרַ֔ת אֶת־כָּנָ֖ף אֲשֶׁ֥ר לְ⁠שָׁאֽוּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

that the heart of David struck him

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֥ךְ לֵב־דָּוִ֖ד אֹת֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if David’s heart had physically struck him. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [that David felt very guilty]

the edge that {was} to Saul

Quote: אֶת־כָּנָ֖ף אֲשֶׁ֥ר לְ⁠שָׁאֽוּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some words that in many languages would be needed to complete the meaning. You can supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: [the edge of the robe that belonged to Saul]

1 Samuel 24:6

Profane to me from Yahweh if I have done this thing to my master, to the anointed one of Yahweh, to stretch out my hand against him. For he {is} the anointed one of Yahweh

Quote: חָלִ֧ילָ⁠ה לִּ֣⁠י מֵֽ⁠יהוָ֗ה אִם־אֶעֱשֶׂה֩ אֶת־הַ⁠דָּבָ֨ר הַ⁠זֶּ֤ה לַֽ⁠אדֹנִ⁠י֙ לִ⁠מְשִׁ֣יחַ יְהוָ֔ה לִ⁠שְׁלֹ֥חַ יָדִ֖⁠י בּ֑⁠וֹ כִּֽי־מְשִׁ֥יחַ יְהוָ֖ה הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since he is the anointed one of Yahweh, profane to me from Yahweh if I have done this thing to my master, to the anointed one of Yahweh, to stretch out my hand against him]

Profane to me from Yahweh if I have done this thing to my master

Quote: חָלִ֧ילָ⁠ה לִּ֣⁠י מֵֽ⁠יהוָ֗ה אִם־אֶעֱשֶׂה֩ אֶת־הַ⁠דָּבָ֨ר הַ⁠זֶּ֤ה לַֽ⁠אדֹנִ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

David is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, then you could translate this as a confident statement. Alternate translation: [Profane to me from Yahweh, that I have done this thing to my master]

Profane to me from Yahweh if I have done this thing to my master

Quote: חָלִ֧ילָ⁠ה לִּ֣⁠י מֵֽ⁠יהוָ֗ה אִם־אֶעֱשֶׂה֩ אֶת־הַ⁠דָּבָ֨ר הַ⁠זֶּ֤ה לַֽ⁠אדֹנִ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The similar assertions in 12:13 and Joshua 22:29 suggest that David is leaving out some words that in many languages would be needed to complete the meaning. You can supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: [Profane to me from sinning against Yahweh by doing this thing to my master]

Profane to me from Yahweh if I have done this thing to my master

Quote: חָלִ֧ילָ⁠ה לִּ֣⁠י מֵֽ⁠יהוָ֗ה אִם־אֶעֱשֶׂה֩ אֶת־הַ⁠דָּבָ֨ר הַ⁠זֶּ֤ה לַֽ⁠אדֹנִ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the expression “profane to me” in 2:30. Alternate translation: [Far be it from me to sin against Yahweh by doing this thing to my master]

to the anointed one of Yahweh, … he {is} the anointed one of Yahweh

Quote: לִ⁠מְשִׁ֣יחַ יְהוָ֔ה & מְשִׁ֥יחַ יְהוָ֖ה הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [to the one whom Yahweh has anointed … he is the one whom Yahweh has anointed]

to stretch out my hand against him

Quote: לִ⁠שְׁלֹ֥חַ יָדִ֖⁠י בּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 22:17. Alternate translation: [to attack him] or [to use violence against him in any way]

1 Samuel 24:7

And David dispersed his men with words and did not allow them to arise against Saul

Quote: וַ⁠יְשַׁסַּ֨ע דָּוִ֤ד אֶת־אֲנָשָׁי⁠ו֙ בַּ⁠דְּבָרִ֔ים וְ⁠לֹ֥א נְתָנָ֖⁠ם לָ⁠ק֣וּם אֶל־שָׁא֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

It is possible that David’s men told him that if he did not feel he could attack and kill Saul himself, they would do it for him. (In 26:8, Abishai tells David that directly when David gets another opportunity to kill Saul.) If that is the case, then the author is describing one event before describing another event that preceded it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they would have happened. Alternate translation: [And David did not allow his men to arise against Saul, but he dispersed them with words]

And David dispersed his men

Quote: וַ⁠יְשַׁסַּ֨ע דָּוִ֤ד אֶת־אֲנָשָׁי⁠ו֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In its few other uses in the Hebrew Bible, the term translated as dispersed means to tear in pieces or to divide. Here it could mean: (1) that David’s men had gathered in a large group in preparation to attack Saul, but by refusing to allow them to do that, David caused them to move back into various parts of the cave in smaller groups. The ULT suggests this meaning. (2) that David spoke harshly to his men to keep them from attacking Saul. In that case, the author would be speaking of David’s action as if he had slashed at the crowd of men the way someone might slash a sacrificial animal in order to divide it into pieces. Alternate translation: [And David rebuked his men] (3) that David restrained his men. Some interpreters believe that the text originally had a word with this meaning that was altered in the process of transmission. Alternate translation: [And David restrained his men]

with words

Quote: בַּ⁠דְּבָרִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to mean what David said by using words. The author could be referring to: (1) what David said in the previous verse. Alternate translation: [by saying this] (2) something further that David said to keep his men from killing Saul themselves. Alternate translation: [by persuading them that they too should respect Saul as Yahweh’s anointed]

to arise against Saul

Quote: לָ⁠ק֣וּם אֶל־שָׁא֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in 1:9. Alternate translation: [to take action against Saul]

And Saul arose from the cave

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁא֛וּל קָ֥ם מֵ⁠הַ⁠מְּעָרָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The cave was not a hole in the ground that Saul had to climb out of. The author says that he arose from the cave to indicate that he left the cave and continued his search for David once he had finished relieving himself. Alternate translation: [And Saul moved on from the cave]

1 Samuel 24:8

My master the king

Quote: אֲדֹנִ֣⁠י הַ⁠מֶּ֑לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

David is referring to Saul by a respectful title. Use a comparable title or expression for addressing someone of high status respectfully in your language. Alternate translation: [Your Majesty]

and David bowed, nostrils to the ground, and prostrated himself

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקֹּ֨ד דָּוִ֥ד אַפַּ֛יִם אַ֖רְצָ⁠ה וַ⁠יִּשְׁתָּֽחוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

See how you translated the description of this symbolic action in 20:41. Alternate translation: [and David knelt down and pressed his face to the ground, stretching himself out completely, to show great honor to Saul]

1 Samuel 24:9

Why do you listen to the words of a man, saying, ‘Behold, David is seeking your harm

Quote: לָ֧⁠מָּה תִשְׁמַ֛ע אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֥י אָדָ֖ם לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר הִנֵּ֣ה דָוִ֔ד מְבַקֵּ֖שׁ רָעָתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Why do you listen to the words of

Quote: לָ֧⁠מָּה תִשְׁמַ֛ע אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֥י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion in the Introduction to 1 Samuel of the author’s use of the term “listen.” In this context, it means “believe.” Alternate translation: [Why do you believe]

to the words of a man, saying

Quote: אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֥י אָדָ֖ם לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

David is not referring to a specific man. He means any person in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning with a plural form. Alternate translation: [the words of anyone, saying]

to the words of a man, saying

Quote: אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֥י אָדָ֖ם לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term words by association to mean what people were telling Saul by using words. Alternate translation: [what anyone says who claims]

saying, ‘Behold, David is seeking your harm

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר הִנֵּ֣ה דָוִ֔ד מְבַקֵּ֖שׁ רָעָתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [who tells you to be watch out because I am seeking your harm]

your harm

Quote: רָעָתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of harm, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [to harm you]

1 Samuel 24:10

your eyes have seen

Quote: רָא֣וּ עֵינֶ֗י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of Saul, his eyes, to mean all of him in the act of witnessing what happened. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [you have seen with your own eyes] or [you have seen for yourself]

Yahweh gave you into my hand

Quote: נְתָנְ⁠ךָ֩ יְהוָ֨ה & בְּ⁠יָדִ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term hand by association to mean power and control. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [Yahweh gave you into my power] or [Yahweh gave me an opportunity to kill you]

And one said to slay you

Quote: וְ⁠אָמַ֥ר לַ⁠הֲרָגֲ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

David is not using the pronoun one to refer to a specific person. He means his men in general. Alternate translation: [And my men said to slay you]

And one said to slay you

Quote: וְ⁠אָמַ֥ר לַ⁠הֲרָגֲ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

It may be more natural in your language to express this as a direct quotation. Alternate translation: [And my men told me, “Kill him!”]

but it had compassion on you

Quote: וַ⁠תָּ֣חָס עָלֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

David is leaving out some words that in many languages would be needed to complete the meaning. Contexts such as Deuteronomy 7:16, Isaiah 13:18, and Ezekiel 7:4 suggest that the fuller form of this expression would be “my eye had compassion.” You can supply these words if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [but my eye had compassion on you]

but it had compassion on you

Quote: וַ⁠תָּ֣חָס עָלֶ֑י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of himself, his eye, to mean all of himself in the act of showing mercy. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [but I had compassion on you]

And I said, ‘I will not stretch out my hand against my master, for he {is} the anointed one of Yahweh

Quote: וָ⁠אֹמַ֗ר לֹא־אֶשְׁלַ֤ח יָדִ⁠י֙ בַּֽ⁠אדֹנִ֔⁠י כִּי־מְשִׁ֥יחַ יְהוָ֖ה הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [And I said that I would not stretch out my hand against my master, for he was the anointed one of Yahweh]

I will not stretch out my hand against my master, for he {is} the anointed one of Yahweh

Quote: לֹא־אֶשְׁלַ֤ח יָדִ⁠י֙ בַּֽ⁠אדֹנִ֔⁠י כִּי־מְשִׁ֥יחַ יְהוָ֖ה הֽוּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

I will not stretch out my hand against my master

Quote: לֹא־אֶשְׁלַ֤ח יָדִ⁠י֙ בַּֽ⁠אדֹנִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated this expression in 22:17 and 24:6. Alternate translation: [I will not attack my master] or [I will not use violence against my master]

1 Samuel 24:11

And see, my father, even see

Quote: וְ⁠אָבִ֣⁠י רְאֵ֔ה גַּ֗ם רְאֵ֛ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

David is repeating the verb “see” in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [Now look carefully, my father, at]

And … my father

Quote: וְ⁠אָבִ֣⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

David is referring to Saul by a respectful title. Use a comparable title or expression for addressing someone of high status respectfully in your language. Alternate translation: [O king]

For

Quote: כִּ֡י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces not a reason but an explanation. Alternate translation: [This is significant because]

Know and see

Quote: דַּ֤ע וּ⁠רְאֵה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

David is describing one event before describing another event that would precede it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they would happen. Alternate translation: [See and know]

is} in my hand

Quote: בְּ⁠יָדִ֜⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of himself, his hand, to mean all of himself potentially acting against Saul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [is motivating my actions]

but you are hunting my life, to take it

Quote: וְ⁠אַתָּ֛ה צֹדֶ֥ה אֶת־נַפְשִׁ֖⁠י לְ⁠קַחְתָּֽ⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of himself, his life, to mean all of himself in the act of being hunted. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [but you are hunting me to take my life]

1 Samuel 24:12

but my hand will not be against you

Quote: וְ⁠יָדִ֖⁠י לֹ֥א תִֽהְיֶה־בָּֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

1 Samuel 24:13

As the proverb of the ancient says, ‘From the wicked comes out wickedness

Quote: כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֣ר יֹאמַ֗ר מְשַׁל֙ הַ⁠קַּדְמֹנִ֔י מֵ⁠רְשָׁעִ֖ים יֵ֣צֵא רֶ֑שַׁע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [The proverb of the ancient says that from the wicked comes out wickedness]

the ancient

Quote: הַ⁠קַּדְמֹנִ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

David is not referring to a specific ancient person. He means the remote ancestors of the Israelites in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning with a plural form. Alternate translation: [the ancients]

the ancient

Quote: הַ⁠קַּדְמֹנִ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

David is using the adjective ancient as a noun to mean a certain kind of person. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [the ancient ones] or [our ancestors]

From the wicked comes out wickedness

Quote: מֵ⁠רְשָׁעִ֖ים יֵ֣צֵא רֶ֑שַׁע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

David is using the adjective wicked as a noun to mean a certain kind of person. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [From wicked people comes out wickedness]

From the wicked comes out wickedness

Quote: מֵ⁠רְשָׁעִ֖ים יֵ֣צֵא רֶ֑שַׁע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of wickedness, you could express this idea in another way. Alternate translation: [Wicked people commit wicked actions]

1 Samuel 24:14

After whom does the king of Israel come out? After whom are you pursuing

Quote: אַחֲרֵ֨י מִ֤י יָצָא֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל אַחֲרֵ֥י מִ֖י אַתָּ֣ה רֹדֵ֑ף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. For emphasis, David is repeating the idea they express. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them and express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: [After whom has the king of Israel come out violently in pursuit?]

After whom does the king of Israel come out? After whom are you pursuing

Quote: אַחֲרֵ֨י מִ֤י יָצָא֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל אַחֲרֵ֥י מִ֖י אַתָּ֣ה רֹדֵ֑ף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

David is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or exclamation. Alternate translation: [The king of Israel has not come out after anyone dangerous! You are not pursuing anyone significant!] or [The king of Israel has not come out in pursuit of anyone who is a danger to him!]

After whom does the king of Israel come out

Quote: אַחֲרֵ֨י מִ֤י יָצָא֙ מֶ֣לֶךְ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

David is addressing Saul directly, but he is speaking respectfully to him in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the second person. Alternate translation: [After whom have you, the king of Israel, come out?] or [You, the king of Israel, have not come out after anyone dangerous!]

After a dead dog

Quote: אַֽחֲרֵי֙ כֶּ֣לֶב מֵ֔ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking as if he were actually a dead dog. In this culture, wild dogs were considered dirty, and they were regarded with contempt. Moreover, a dead dog would be powerless. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [After someone who is powerless and whom people regard with contempt!]

After one flea

Quote: אַחֲרֵ֖י פַּרְעֹ֥שׁ אֶחָֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking as if he were actually a flea, a tiny and insignificant creature. Moreover, David is just one person, but Saul has raised an army of 3,000 soldiers to pursue him. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [After merely one man, who is insignificant!]

1 Samuel 24:15

and conduct my case

Quote: וְ⁠יָרֵ֣ב אֶת־רִיבִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

For emphasis, David is using a construction in which a verb (translated as conduct) and its object (translated as case) come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, since this is a legal expression, there may be a comparable one in your language that you can use. Alternate translation: [and defend me]

and may he judge me out of your hand

Quote: וְ⁠יִשְׁפְּטֵ֖⁠נִי מִ⁠יָּדֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term hand by association to mean power and control. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and may he judge that I should not be in your power]

1 Samuel 24:16

speaking these words

Quote: לְ⁠דַבֵּ֞ר אֶת־הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֤ים הָ⁠אֵ֨לֶּה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to mean the things that David said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [saying these things]

Is} this your voice, my son David

Quote: הֲ⁠קֹלְ⁠ךָ֥ זֶ֖ה בְּנִ֣⁠י דָוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Saul is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: [I recognize your voice, my son David!]

Is} this your voice, my son David

Quote: הֲ⁠קֹלְ⁠ךָ֥ זֶ֖ה בְּנִ֣⁠י דָוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the term voice by association to refer to David speaking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [Is it you speaking to me, my son David?] or [I recognize that it is you speaking to me, my son David!]

my son

Quote: בְּנִ֣⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

Saul is using this kinship term to acknowledge David as the husband of his daughter. Your language may have its own term or expression for this relationship. Be sure that the term you choose is affectionate and embracing. Previously Saul has referred to David disdainfully as the “son of Jesse.” Here he acknowledges him as a member by marriage of the royal family. Alternate translation: [my son-in-law]

And Saul lifted up his voice and wept

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשָּׂ֥א שָׁא֛וּל קֹל֖⁠וֹ וַ⁠יֵּֽבְךְּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if Saul’s voice were an object that he could have lifted up. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And Saul spoke loudly and wept]

And Saul lifted up his voice and wept

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשָּׂ֥א שָׁא֛וּל קֹל֖⁠וֹ וַ⁠יֵּֽבְךְּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two phrases connected with and. The expression lifted up his voice tells in what way Saul wept. Alternate translation: [And Saul wept in a loud voice] or [And Saul wept loudly]

1 Samuel 24:17

You {are} more righteous than I. For you did good to me, but I did evil to you

Quote: צַדִּ֥יק אַתָּ֖ה מִמֶּ֑⁠נִּי כִּ֤י אַתָּה֙ גְּמַלְתַּ֣⁠נִי הַ⁠טּוֹבָ֔ה וַ⁠אֲנִ֖י גְּמַלְתִּ֥י⁠ךָ הָ⁠רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

you did good to me, but I did evil to you

Quote: אַתָּה֙ גְּמַלְתַּ֣⁠נִי הַ⁠טּוֹבָ֔ה וַ⁠אֲנִ֖י גְּמַלְתִּ֥י⁠ךָ הָ⁠רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

Saul is describing one event before describing another event that preceded it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they happened. Alternate translation: [even though I did evil to you, you then did good to me]

you did good to me, but I did evil to you

Quote: אַתָּה֙ גְּמַלְתַּ֣⁠נִי הַ⁠טּוֹבָ֔ה וַ⁠אֲנִ֖י גְּמַלְתִּ֥י⁠ךָ הָ⁠רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of good and evil, you could express these ideas in another way. Alternate translation: [you did something good to me, but I did something evil to you] or [even though I did something evil to you, you then did something good to me]

1 Samuel 24:18

Yahweh enclosed me in your hand

Quote: סִגְּרַ֧⁠נִי יְהוָ֛ה בְּ⁠יָדְ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated the similar expression in 23:11. Saul is speaking as if he were an object that could be enclosed in David’s hand. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Yahweh surrendered me to you] or [Yahweh gave you power over me]

1 Samuel 24:19

Now if a man finds his enemy, will he send him on a good way

Quote: וְ⁠כִֽי־יִמְצָ֥א אִישׁ֙ אֶת־אֹ֣יְב֔⁠וֹ וְ⁠שִׁלְּח֖⁠וֹ בְּ⁠דֶ֣רֶךְ טוֹבָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

finds

Quote: יִמְצָ֥א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this term in 9:11. By finds, Saul is describing a situation in which a man unexpectedly encounters someone. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [encounters]

on a good way

Quote: בְּ⁠דֶ֣רֶךְ טוֹבָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is speaking of this way as good by association with the condition of the enemy a man would surprisingly send on it. The enemy would be in good condition, that is, unharmed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [away in good condition] or [away unharmed]

1 Samuel 24:20

reigning, you will reign

Quote: מָלֹ֖ךְ תִּמְל֑וֹךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Saul is repeating forms of the verb “reign” in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [you will certainly reign]

and the kingdom of Israel will stand in your hand

Quote: וְ⁠קָ֨מָה֙ בְּ⁠יָ֣דְ⁠ךָ֔ מַמְלֶ֖כֶת יִשְׂרָאֵֽל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression “your kingdom will not stand” in 13:24. Saul is using the term hand by association to mean rule and authority. The expression stand indicates endurance and stability. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and the kingdom of Israel will endure under your rule]

1 Samuel 24:21

swear to me by Yahweh, if you shall cut off my seed after me, and if you shall destroy my name from the house of my father

Quote: הִשָּׁ֤בְעָ⁠ה לִּ⁠י֙ בַּֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה אִם־תַּכְרִ֥ית אֶת־זַרְעִ֖⁠י אַֽחֲרָ֑⁠י וְ⁠אִם־תַּשְׁמִ֥יד אֶת־שְׁמִ֖⁠י מִ⁠בֵּ֥ית אָבִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

Saul is stating the content of an oath that he wants David to swear. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could present this content as a direct quotation. Alternate translation: [swear to me by Yahweh, “If I cut off your seed after you and if I destroy your name from the house of your father!”]

if you shall cut off my seed after me, and if you shall destroy my name from the house of my father

Quote: אִם־תַּכְרִ֥ית אֶת־זַרְעִ֖⁠י אַֽחֲרָ֑⁠י וְ⁠אִם־תַּשְׁמִ֥יד אֶת־שְׁמִ֖⁠י מִ⁠בֵּ֥ית אָבִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Saul is asking David to swear an oath following the custom of his culture by stating the first part of a condition (“if”) but not the second part (“then”). The understood second part would invoke divine punishment for breaking the oath. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explicitly state this second part. Alternate translation: [that if you cut off my seed after me and if you destroy my name from the house of my father, then may he punish you very severely] or [“If I cut off your seed after you and if I destroy your name from the house of your father, then may Yahweh punish me very severely!”]

if you shall cut off my seed after me, and if you shall destroy my name from the house of my father

Quote: אִם־תַּכְרִ֥ית אֶת־זַרְעִ֖⁠י אַֽחֲרָ֑⁠י וְ⁠אִם־תַּשְׁמִ֥יד אֶת־שְׁמִ֖⁠י מִ⁠בֵּ֥ית אָבִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. For emphasis, Saul is repeating the idea of destroying his family line. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them and express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: [if you completely destroy my family line after I am gone]

you shall cut off

Quote: תַּכְרִ֥ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this expression in 2:33. Saul is speaking as if his family line were a branch that could be cut off from a tree. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [you kill]

my seed

Quote: אֶת־זַרְעִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

See how you translated this expression in 20:42. Saul is speaking of his descendants as if they were the seed from which new plants would grow. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [my descendants]

and if you shall destroy my name from the house of my father

Quote: וְ⁠אִם־תַּשְׁמִ֥יד & שְׁמִ֖⁠י מִ⁠בֵּ֥ית אָבִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the term name by association to mean his memory and legacy as carried on through his descendants. The house of my father means his extended family. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [so that no one who would name me as an ancestor remains alive in my extended family]

1 Samuel 24:22

and David and his men went up onto the stronghold

Quote: וְ⁠דָוִד֙ וַֽ⁠אֲנָשָׁ֔י⁠ו עָל֖וּ עַל־הַ⁠מְּצוּדָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By the stronghold, the author means one of the specific “strongholds of Engedi” that he mentioned in 23:29. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and David and his men went back into one of the strongholds of Engedi]

1 Samuel 25

1 Samuel 25 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). It describes David and his men protected the extensive flocks of a man named Nabal who lived in the southern part of the territory of Judah. When David then reasonably asked for some food from a feast that Nabal was holding to celebrate the shearing of his sheep, Nabal rudely refused him. This made David so angry that he wanted to kill all the men in Nabal’s household. But Nabal’s prudent wife Abigail sent very generous portions of food to David, and she convinced him not to attack and kill those men, persuading him that if he did, he would deeply regret that when he became king.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Sheep-shearing

People in ancient Israel who owned sheep would cut off their wool when the weather started to get warm so that they could use the wool to make clothing, blankets, and other articles. The sheep would eventually grow back another thick coat of wool, but in the meantime they would stay cool in the warmer weather. Cutting the wool of sheep is called “shearing” them. Sheep-shearing was like a time of harvest, since it gave sheep owners and their workers benefits in return for the hard work they had done caring for their sheep. So it was also a time of celebration. Sheep owners would reward those who had helped care for their flocks by hosting them at banquets. When someone told David that Nabal was shearing his sheep, David therefore thought it was reasonable for him to ask Nabal for some of the food from the banquet he knew Nabal would be hosting. David and his men had protected Nabal's shepherds and flocks while they were in the area and, as a result, Nabal got even more wool from his flocks than usual, since he had suffered no losses due to theft or wild-animal attacks. In ancient Israelite culture, this kind of protection was understood to have created an obligation of hospitality and sharing, especially during times of celebration like sheep-shearing. David's request was therefore not just a matter of charity but was based on the established social customs and the practical services that he and his men had provided to Nabal. It was outrageous for Nabal to deny David this recognition of his help and this well-deserved share in the banquet. That is why David became so angry with Nabal.

1 Samuel 25:1

and all of Israel gathered

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקָּבְצ֤וּ כָל־יִשְׂרָאֵל֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The author is making a generalization for emphasis. Not every person in Israel came, but people came from throughout the nation. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [and many people from throughout Israel]

and they buried him

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְבְּרֻ֥⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and people buried him] or [and he was buried]

Then David arose

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֣קָם דָּוִ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar expression in 24:7. Alternate translation: [Then David left]

and went down

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֖רֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

See how you translated the similar phrase in 1:3, where the author, in keeping with the conventions of his culture, marks travel for change in elevation. Alternate translation: [and went]

1 Samuel 25:2

Now a man {was} in Maon

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֨ישׁ בְּ⁠מָע֜וֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

Here the author is introducing Nabal as a new participant in the story. Your language may have its own way of introducing new participants that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [Now there was a certain man in Maon]

For to him

Quote: וְ⁠ל֛⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the author is using the word For to introduce not a reason but an explanation of why he describes Nabal as very great. (In this context, that word means “rich” or “wealthy.”) Alternate translation: [After all]

1 Samuel 25:3

and the name of his wife {was} Abigail. Now the woman {was} good of insight and beautiful of appearance

Quote: וְ⁠שֵׁ֥ם אִשְׁתּ֖⁠וֹ אֲבִגָ֑יִל וְ⁠הָ⁠אִשָּׁ֤ה טֽוֹבַת־שֶׂ֨כֶל֙ וִ֣⁠יפַת תֹּ֔אַר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

Here the author is introducing Abigail as another new participant in the story. Your language may have its own way of introducing new participants that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [and he had a wife whose name was Abigail. She was a woman of good judgment and beautiful appearance]

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

And David sent ten young men

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁלַ֥ח דָּוִ֖ד עֲשָׂרָ֣ה נְעָרִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

By sending a round and significant number of representatives, David was performing a symbolic action that showed respect for Nabal. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [And David showed respect for Nabal by sending ten young men to speak with him]

and you shall ask him in my name regarding peace

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁאֶלְתֶּם־ל֥⁠וֹ בִ⁠שְׁמִ֖⁠י לְ⁠שָׁלֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express this idea in another way. See how you translated the similar expression in 10:4. Alternate translation: [and you shall ask him in my name whether all is well with him]

and you shall ask him in my name regarding peace

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁאֶלְתֶּם־ל֥⁠וֹ בִ⁠שְׁמִ֖⁠י לְ⁠שָׁלֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

It may be more natural in your language to express this as a direct quotation. Alternate translation: [and you shall tell him that David asks, “Is all well with you?”]

in my name

Quote: בִ⁠שְׁמִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term name by association to mean his own interests. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [on my behalf]

1 Samuel 25:6

And you shall say thus, ‘To life! And peace {to} you and peace {to} your house and peace {to} all that {is} to you

Quote: וַ⁠אֲמַרְתֶּ֥ם כֹּ֖ה לֶ⁠חָ֑י וְ⁠אַתָּ֤ה שָׁלוֹם֙ וּ⁠בֵיתְ⁠ךָ֣ שָׁל֔וֹם וְ⁠כֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר־לְ⁠ךָ֖ שָׁלֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [And you shall tell him that I wish him a good life and that peace may be to him and to his house and to all that is to him]

To life

Quote: לֶ⁠חָ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations

David is using a phrase that expresses a strong feeling, an earnest wish that Nabal’s life is happy and prosperous. There may be an equivalent word or phrase in your language that you can use in your translation to convey this feeling. Alternate translation: [May you live long and prosper!]

And peace {to} you and peace {to} your house and peace {to} all that {is} to you

Quote: וְ⁠אַתָּ֤ה שָׁלוֹם֙ וּ⁠בֵיתְ⁠ךָ֣ שָׁל֔וֹם וְ⁠כֹ֥ל אֲשֶׁר־לְ⁠ךָ֖ שָׁלֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express this idea in another way. Alternate translation: [And may all go well with you and with your house and with all that is to you]

and peace {to} your house

Quote: וּ⁠בֵיתְ⁠ךָ֣ שָׁל֔וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking of the people in Nabal’s household as if they were his house. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and peace to your whole family] or [and may all go well with your whole family]

1 Samuel 25:7

And now, I have heard that shearers {are} to you

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֣ה שָׁמַ֔עְתִּי כִּ֥י גֹזְזִ֖ים לָ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If you decided to translate David’s instructions so that there would not be a quotation within a quotation, you can continue to do that here. (The rest of this verse would not need to be changed.) Alternate translation: [And now, he says he has heard that shearers are to you]

with us. We have not hurt them

Quote: עִמָּ֔⁠נוּ לֹ֣א הֶכְלַמְנ֗וּ⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

David is instructing his messengers to use the pronouns us and we to refer to him and his men but not to Nabal, so use the exclusive form of those words if your language marks that distinction.

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

And now was a common expression that speakers in this culture used to introduce their main topic. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. See how you translated this expression in 6:7. Alternate translation: [Now please let me make a small request]

Now the shepherds who {are} to you have been with us

Quote: עַתָּ֗ה הָ⁠רֹעִ֤ים אֲשֶׁר־לְ⁠ךָ֙ הָי֣וּ עִמָּ֔⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

David is providing background information to support his request for food from the sheep-shearing feast that Nabal is hosting. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

and anything to them has not been missing

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־נִפְקַ֤ד לָ⁠הֶם֙ מְא֔וּמָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and we have not taken anything that belonged to them]

all of the days of

Quote: כָּל־יְמֵ֖י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term days by association to mean time, since time is made up of days. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [all of the time of]

1 Samuel 25:8

Ask your young men, and they will declare to you. So let the young men find favor in your eyes, for we have come on a good day. Please give whatever your hand finds to your servants and to your son, to David

Quote: שְׁאַ֨ל אֶת־נְעָרֶ֜י⁠ךָ וְ⁠יַגִּ֣ידוּ לָ֗⁠ךְ וְ⁠יִמְצְא֨וּ הַ⁠נְּעָרִ֥ים חֵן֙ בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֔י⁠ךָ כִּֽי־עַל־י֥וֹם ט֖וֹב בָּ֑נוּ תְּנָ⁠ה־נָּ֗א אֵת֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר תִּמְצָ֤א יָֽדְ⁠ךָ֙ לַ⁠עֲבָדֶ֔י⁠ךָ וּ⁠לְ⁠בִנְ⁠ךָ֖ לְ⁠דָוִֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If you decided to translate David’s instructions so that there would not be a quotation within a quotation, you can continue to do that here. Alternate translation: [He invites you to ask your young men, and they will declare to you. He hopes that we young men will find favor in your eyes, for all of us have come on a good day. He asks you please to give whatever your hand finds to us, your servants, and to him, your son, to David]

Ask your young men, and they will declare to you

Quote: שְׁאַ֨ל אֶת־נְעָרֶ֜י⁠ךָ וְ⁠יַגִּ֣ידוּ לָ֗⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative

This is an imperative, but David is instructing his messengers to use it to make a polite request rather than to give a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. Alternate translation: [Please ask your young men, and they will declare to you that this is true]

So let the young men find favor in your eyes, for we have come on a good day

Quote: וְ⁠יִמְצְא֨וּ הַ⁠נְּעָרִ֥ים חֵן֙ בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֔י⁠ךָ כִּֽי־עַל־י֥וֹם ט֖וֹב בָּ֑נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

So let the young men find favor in your eyes

Quote: וְ⁠יִמְצְא֨וּ הַ⁠נְּעָרִ֥ים חֵן֙ בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:18. Alternate translation: [So please regard these young men favorably]

we have come

Quote: בָּ֑נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

David is instructing his messengers to use the pronoun we to refer to themselves but not to Nabal, so use the exclusive form of that word if your language marks that distinction.

on a good day

Quote: עַל־י֥וֹם ט֖וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is instructing his messengers to speak of this day as good by association with the mood that they presume Nabal will be in at sheep-shearing time. In this culture, that was an occasion for celebration and generosity. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [on a day of celebration] or [at a time when you must be feeling happy]

whatever your hand finds

Quote: אֵת֩ אֲשֶׁ֨ר תִּמְצָ֤א יָֽדְ⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

David is instructing his messengers to use a common expression of their culture. See how you translated the similar expression in 10:7. Alternate translation: [whatever seems suitable to you]

to your servants

Quote: לַ⁠עֲבָדֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

David is instructing his messengers to speak about themselves humbly in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [to us, your servants]

and to your son, to David

Quote: וּ⁠לְ⁠בִנְ⁠ךָ֖ לְ⁠דָוִֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

David is instructing his messengers to refer to him humbly as Nabal’s son, indicating that David regards Nabal as a father-figure and benefactor. Use a comparable title or expression from your own language and culture.

1 Samuel 25:9

So the young men of David came

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֨אוּ֙ נַעֲרֵ֣י דָוִ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go

In a context such as this, your language might say “went” instead of came. Alternate translation: [So the young men of David went]

in the name of David

Quote: בְּ⁠שֵׁ֣ם דָּוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term name by association to mean that these messengers spoke on David’s behalf. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [on behalf of David]

1 Samuel 25:10

And Nabal answered the servants of David and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֨עַן נָבָ֜ל אֶת־עַבְדֵ֤י דָוִד֙ וַ⁠יֹּ֔אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word ** answered ** tells for what purpose Nabal said this. Alternate translation: [And Nabal replied to the servants of David]

Who {is} David? And who {is} the son of Jesse

Quote: מִ֥י דָוִ֖ד וּ⁠מִ֣י בֶן־יִשָׁ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. For emphasis, Nabal is repeating the idea they express. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [Who is David, this son of Jesse?]

Who {is} David? And who {is} the son of Jesse

Quote: מִ֥י דָוִ֖ד וּ⁠מִ֣י בֶן־יִשָׁ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Nabal is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or exclamation. Alternate translation: [David, that son of Jesse, is not anyone I must be generous to!]

a man from the face of his master

Quote: אִ֖ישׁ מִ⁠פְּנֵ֥י אֲדֹנָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Nabal is using one part of a master, his face, to mean all of him in the act of exercising authority. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [a man from his master] or [a man from his master’s authority]

1 Samuel 25:11

So shall I take my bread and my water and my slaughter that I have slaughtered for my shearers and give to men whom I do not know where from this they {are

Quote: וְ⁠לָקַחְתִּ֤י אֶת־לַחְמִ⁠י֙ וְ⁠אֶת־מֵימַ֔⁠י וְ⁠אֵת֙ טִבְחָתִ֔⁠י אֲשֶׁ֥ר טָבַ֖חְתִּי לְ⁠גֹֽזְזָ֑⁠י וְ⁠נָֽתַתִּי֙ לַֽ⁠אֲנָשִׁ֔ים אֲשֶׁר֙ לֹ֣א יָדַ֔עְתִּי אֵ֥י מִ⁠זֶּ֖ה הֵֽמָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Nabal is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or exclamation. Alternate translation: [So I am not going to take my bread and my water and my slaughter that I have slaughtered for my shearers and give them to men whom I do not know where from this they are!]

my bread and my water

Quote: אֶת־לַחְמִ⁠י֙ וְ⁠אֶת־מֵימַ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Nabal is using two specific items, bread and water, to mean all of the food and drink he has prepared. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [my food and my drink] or [the food and drink I have prepared for this festival]

and my slaughter that I have slaughtered

Quote: וְ⁠אֵת֙ טִבְחָתִ֔⁠י אֲשֶׁ֥ר טָבַ֖חְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

For emphasis, Nabal is using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root. You may be able to use the same construction in your language to express the meaning here. Alternatively, your language may have another way of showing the emphasis. Alternate translation: [and the precious meat from the animals I have slaughtered]

whom I do not know where from this they {are

Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ לֹ֣א יָדַ֔עְתִּי אֵ֥י מִ⁠זֶּ֖ה הֵֽמָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Nabal is using a common expression of his culture. The expression encapsulates a question and answer: “Where are these men from? They are from this place.” If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [when I do not know where they come from]

whom I do not know where from this they {are

Quote: אֲשֶׁר֙ לֹ֣א יָדַ֔עְתִּי אֵ֥י מִ⁠זֶּ֖ה הֵֽמָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By this expression, Nabal means that he considers David and his men to be drifters and outlaws who have no settled place of residence. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [who are roaming outlaws]

1 Samuel 25:12

according to all of these words

Quote: כְּ⁠כֹ֖ל הַ⁠דְּבָרִ֥ים הָ⁠אֵֽלֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to mean what Nabal had said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [everything that Nabal had said]

1 Samuel 25:13

Strap on, a man his sword

Quote: חִגְר֣וּ ׀ אִ֣ישׁ אֶת־חַרְבּ֗⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

While the term man is singular, the implied “you” in the imperative Strap on is plural because David is addressing all his men, so use the plural form in your translation if your language marks that distinction. Alternate translation: [All of you, strap on your swords]

And about 400 men went up

Quote: וַֽ⁠יַּעֲל֣וּ & כְּ⁠אַרְבַּ֤ע מֵאוֹת֙ אִ֔ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By went up, the author means that these men went up to Carmel. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And about 400 men went up to Carmel] or [And about 400 men went to Carmel]

behind David

Quote: אַחֲרֵ֣י דָוִ֗ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term behind by association to mean under David’s leadership. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [with David as their leader] or [under David’s command]

and 200 stayed

Quote: וּ⁠מָאתַ֖יִם יָשְׁב֥וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

The author is using the number 200 as a noun to mean a certain number of men. Your language may use numbers in the same way. If not, you can translate this with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [and 200 men stayed]

1 Samuel 25:14

But … to Abigail, the wife of Nabal

Quote: וְ⁠לַ⁠אֲבִיגַ֨יִל֙ אֵ֣שֶׁת נָבָ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

Here the author is reintroducing Abigail as a participant in the story. Your language may have its own way of reintroducing participants that you can use in your translation.

to bless

Quote: לְ⁠בָרֵ֥ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By bless, the young man means to greet respectfully. See how you translated the similar expression in 13:10. Alternate translation: [to greet]

our master

Quote: אֶת־אֲדֹנֵ֖י⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

While a wife in this culture might speak respectfully of her husband as her “lord,” that is a different term from the one that the young man uses here for master. So the servants are using the pronoun our to refer to themselves but not to Abigail, to whom they are speaking. Use the exclusive form of that word if your language marks that distinction.

1 Samuel 25:15

and we did not miss anything

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־פָקַ֣דְנוּ מְא֔וּמָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By this expression, the young man means that David’s men did not steal anything from him and his fellow servants. See how you translated the similar expression in 25:7. Alternate translation: [and they did not steal anything from us]

all of the days when

Quote: כָּל־יְמֵי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The young man is using the term days by association to mean time, since time is made up of days. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for the whole time that]

1 Samuel 25:16

They were a wall for us

Quote: חוֹמָה֙ הָי֣וּ עָלֵ֔י⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The young man is speaking of David’s men as if they had been a wall that provided protection. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [They provided protection for us]

both night and day

Quote: גַּם־לַ֖יְלָה גַּם־יוֹמָ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

The young man is speaking of the two major components of time, night and day, to mean all of time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [constantly]

all of the days of our being with them

Quote: כָּל־יְמֵ֛י הֱיוֹתֵ֥⁠נוּ עִמָּ֖⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The young man is using the term days by association to mean time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for the whole time that we were with them]

1 Samuel 25:17

And now, know and see what you shall do, for harm has completed against our master and against all of his house

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה דְּעִ֤י וּ⁠רְאִי֙ מַֽה־תַּעֲשִׂ֔י כִּֽי־כָלְתָ֧ה הָ⁠רָעָ֛ה אֶל־אֲדֹנֵ֖י⁠נוּ וְ⁠עַ֣ל כָּל־בֵּית֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [And now, since harm has completed against our master and against all of his house, know and see what you shall do]

know and see

Quote: דְּעִ֤י וּ⁠רְאִי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

The young man is describing one event before describing another event that would precede it. See how you translated this same expression in 12:17. Alternate translation: [see and know]

harm has completed

Quote: כָלְתָ֧ה הָ⁠רָעָ֛ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The young man is using a common expression of his culture that means someone has determined to do harm. See how you translated the similar expression in 20:7. Alternate translation: [David has determined to do harm]

his house

Quote: בֵּית֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The young man is speaking of the people in Nabal’s household as if they were his house. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [his family]

from speaking to him

Quote: מִ⁠דַּבֵּ֖ר אֵלָֽי⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The young man is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and that keeps anyone from speaking to him] or [so that there is no speaking to him]

1 Samuel 25:18

And Abigail hurried and took

Quote: וַ⁠תְּמַהֵ֣ר אֲבִיגַ֡יִל וַ⁠תִּקַּח֩ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word hurried tells in what way Abigail took. Alternate translation: [And Abigail hurriedly took]

and five prepared sheep

Quote: וְ⁠חָמֵ֨שׁ צֹ֤אן עשוות (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and five sheep that her servants had prepared]

and five seahs of roasted grain

Quote: וְ⁠חָמֵ֤שׁ סְאִים֙ קָלִ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume

These seahs were each equivalent to 7.7 liters or a little over two gallons. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this in terms of modern measurements, either in the text or in a footnote.

1 Samuel 25:19

to my face

Quote: לְ⁠פָנַ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Abigail is using the term face by association to mean the area ahead of her in direction she is facing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [ahead of me]

1 Samuel 25:20

in the cover of the mountain

Quote: בְּ⁠סֵ֣תֶר הָ⁠הָ֔ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By in the cover of the mountain, the author means in a place where the mountain provided concealment. Such a place would do that because it was where the terrain sloped downward out of view. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [into a hollow of the mountain]

to meet her

Quote: לִ⁠קְרָאתָ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By to meet her, the author means that David and his men were traveling in her direction. They did not know she was coming, and they were not intending to meet with her personally. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [in her direction]

1 Samuel 25:21

Surely for a lie I kept all that {was} to this {one} in the wilderness, and not anything was missed from all that {was} to him. For he has returned evil to me for good

Quote: אַךְ֩ לַ⁠שֶּׁ֨קֶר שָׁמַ֜רְתִּי אֶֽת־כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֤ר לָ⁠זֶה֙ בַּ⁠מִּדְבָּ֔ר וְ⁠לֹא־נִפְקַ֥ד מִ⁠כָּל־אֲשֶׁר־ל֖⁠וֹ מְא֑וּמָה וַ⁠יָּֽשֶׁב־לִ֥⁠י רָעָ֖ה תַּ֥חַת טוֹבָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since he has returned evil to me for good, surely for a lie I kept all that {was} to this {one} in the wilderness, and not anything was missed from all that {was} to him]

for a lie

Quote: לַ⁠שֶּׁ֨קֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

David is using a common expression of his culture that he had acted on a belief that was not true. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [with false expectations]

I kept

Quote: שָׁמַ֜רְתִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using I to mean himself and his men in the act of protecting Nabal’s property. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [we kept]

and not anything was missed

Quote: וְ⁠לֹא־נִפְקַ֥ד & מְא֑וּמָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. See how you translated the similar expression in 25:7. Alternate translation: [and I did not take anything]

For he has returned evil to me for good

Quote: וַ⁠יָּֽשֶׁב־לִ֥⁠י רָעָ֖ה תַּ֥חַת טוֹבָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of evil and good, you could express these ideas in another way. See how you translated the similar expression in 24:17. Alternate translation: [For he has done something evil to me even though I did something good to him]

1 Samuel 25:22

to the enemies of David

Quote: לְ⁠אֹיְבֵ֥י דָוִ֖ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

See the discussion of the expression “the enemies of David” in the Introduction to chapter 20. The expression may have a similar explanation here. See how you translated it in 20:16. Alternate translation: [to David]

and thus may he add

Quote: וְ⁠כֹ֣ה יֹסִ֑יף (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

David is using a common expression of his culture. See how you translated the similar expression in 3:17. Alternate translation: [and even more]

any pissing against the wall who {are} to him

Quote: מִ⁠כָּל־אֲשֶׁר־ל֛⁠וֹ & מַשְׁתִּ֥ין בְּ⁠קִֽיר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is referring by association to the males in Nabal’s household. In his anger, he is using an expression that might be considered vulgar in some cultures. If it would not be appropriate for your readers if you reproduced this exact expression, you could use an equivalent expression that would reflect David’s anger. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [every single one of the men in his household]

1 Samuel 25:23

and she hurried and got down

Quote: וַ⁠תְּמַהֵ֕ר וַ⁠תֵּ֖רֶד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word hurried tells in what way Abigail got down. Alternate translation: [and she hurriedly got down]

And she fell to the face of David on her face and prostrated herself {on} the ground

Quote: וַ⁠תִּפֹּ֞ל לְ⁠אַפֵּ֤י דָוִד֙ עַל־פָּנֶ֔י⁠הָ וַ⁠תִּשְׁתַּ֖חוּ אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This was a symbolic action by which Abigail was showing great honor to David. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. See how you translated the similar expression in 20:41. Alternate translation: [and she knelt down and pressed her face to the ground in front of David to honor him]

1 Samuel 25:24

And she fell at his feet

Quote: וַ⁠תִּפֹּל֙ עַל־רַגְלָ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This was a symbolic action by which Abigail was showing that she was taking the posture of someone making an urgent request to a superior. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [Then she approached and knelt down right in front of him, in the posture of someone who is going to ask a superior for something]

Now please let your female servant speak in your ears, and hear the words of your female servant

Quote: וּֽ⁠תְדַבֶּר־נָ֤א אֲמָֽתְ⁠ךָ֙ בְּ⁠אָזְנֶ֔י⁠ךָ וּ⁠שְׁמַ֕ע אֵ֖ת דִּבְרֵ֥י אֲמָתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Abigail is repeating the idea for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [Now please listen carefully to what I have to say]

your female servant … the words of your female servant

Quote: אֲמָֽתְ⁠ךָ֙ & אֵ֖ת דִּבְרֵ֥י אֲמָתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Abigail is speaking about herself humbly in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [me … my words]

in your ears

Quote: בְּ⁠אָזְנֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Abigail is using one part of David, his ears, to mean all of him in the act of listening. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to you]

the words of your female servant

Quote: אֵ֖ת דִּבְרֵ֥י אֲמָתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Abigail is using the term words by association to mean the message she wants to communicate by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [what your female servant has to say]

1 Samuel 25:25

May my master please not set his heart … the young men of my master

Quote: אַל־נָ֣א יָשִׂ֣ים אֲדֹנִ֣⁠י ׀ אֶת־לִבּ֡⁠וֹ & אֶת־נַעֲרֵ֥י אֲדֹנִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Abigail is addressing David respectfully in the third person. (She continues to address him that way, and to speak of herself humbly in the third person, through verse 31.) If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [May you, my master, please not set your heart & your young men]

May … not set his heart to this man of wickedness, upon Nabal

Quote: אַל & יָשִׂ֣ים & אֶת־לִבּ֡⁠וֹ אֶל־אִישׁ֩ הַ⁠בְּלִיַּ֨עַל הַ⁠זֶּ֜ה עַל־נָבָ֗ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Abigail is using a common expression of her culture that means not to be concerned about someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. See how you translated the similar expression in 9:20. Alternate translation: [not be concerned about this man of wickedness, about Nabal]

man of wickedness

Quote: אִישׁ֩ הַ⁠בְּלִיַּ֨עַל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of wickedness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [wicked man]

for

Quote: כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word for introduces not a reason but an explanation. Alternate translation: [after all]

Nabal {is} his name, and foolishness {is} with him

Quote: נָבָ֣ל שְׁמ֔⁠וֹ וּ⁠נְבָלָ֖ה עִמּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Nabal means “fool.” In this culture, that term indicated a disregard for moral and religious obligations, including the obligation to share hospitality. (This was probably not his birth name, but a name he was given later, reflecting his character, as was common in this culture.) If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain this in your translation. Alternate translation: [His name means “fool,” and he acts just like a fool]

and foolishness {is} with him

Quote: וּ⁠נְבָלָ֖ה עִמּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Abigail is speaking of foolishness as if it were a person who could be with someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and he does foolish things]

1 Samuel 25:26

the life of Yahweh, and the life of your soul

Quote: חַי־יְהוָ֤ה וְ⁠חֵֽי־נַפְשְׁ⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Following the custom of her culture, Abigail is making a solemn statement by swearing by both Yahweh’s life and David’s life. She means that David can be as sure of what she is saying as he can be sure that she reveres Yahweh and reveres him. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this meaning directly. Alternate translation: [I swear by Yahweh, and I swear by the life of your soul]

and the life of your soul

Quote: וְ⁠חֵֽי־נַפְשְׁ⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Abigail is using one part of David, his soul, to mean all of him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and your own life]

it is} Yahweh who has restrained you

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֨ר מְנָעֲ⁠ךָ֤ יְהוָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By this statement, Abigail means that Yahweh has arranged for them to meet at this moment to prevent bloodshed. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [by having us meet in this way, it is Yahweh who has restrained you]

from entering into bloodshed and your hand saving for yourself

Quote: מִ⁠בּ֣וֹא בְ⁠דָמִ֔ים וְ⁠הוֹשֵׁ֥עַ יָדְ⁠ךָ֖ לָ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

Abigail is describing one event before describing another event that would have preceded it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they would have happened. Alternate translation: [from your hand saving for yourself and entering into bloodshed]

from entering into bloodshed and your hand saving for yourself

Quote: מִ⁠בּ֣וֹא בְ⁠דָמִ֔ים וְ⁠הוֹשֵׁ֥עַ יָדְ⁠ךָ֖ לָ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Abigail is using one part of David, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of taking revenge for himself. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [from taking matters into your own hands and entering into bloodshed] or [from taking revenge personally on an enemy by entering into bloodshed]

from entering into bloodshed

Quote: מִ⁠בּ֣וֹא בְ⁠דָמִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Abigail is speaking of bloodshed as if it were a place that someone could enter. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [from shedding much blood]

from entering into bloodshed

Quote: מִ⁠בּ֣וֹא בְ⁠דָמִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Abigail is using the term bloodshed by association to mean killing people, since blood is shed when people are killed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [from killing many people]

your enemies and the ones seeking harm against my master

Quote: אֹיְבֶ֔י⁠ךָ וְ⁠הַֽ⁠מְבַקְשִׁ֥ים אֶל־אֲדֹנִ֖⁠י רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The terms enemies and ones seeking harm mean similar things. Abigail is using them together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [all those who hostilely seek to harm you, my master]

like Nabal

Quote: כְ⁠נָבָל֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By saying she wants David’s enemies to be like Nabal, Abigail means she wants them to become as insignificant and contemptible as he is. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [also too insignificant to be considered] or [equally contemptible]

1 Samuel 25:27

may this blessing that your female servant has caused to come to my master be given

Quote: הַ⁠בְּרָכָ֣ה הַ⁠זֹּ֔את אֲשֶׁר־הֵבִ֥יא שִׁפְחָתְ⁠ךָ֖ לַֽ⁠אדֹנִ֑⁠י וְ⁠נִתְּנָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [may you, my master, give this blessing that I, your female servant, have caused to come]

blessing

Quote: הַ⁠בְּרָכָ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Abigail is using the term blessing by association to mean a gift that she hopes will be beneficial to David and his men. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [gift]

going about at the feet of my master

Quote: הַ⁠מִּֽתְהַלְּכִ֖ים בְּ⁠רַגְלֵ֥י אֲדֹנִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Abigail is using the expression at the feet by association to mean under David’s command, since followers walk behind their leader. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [who follow you] or [whom you command]

1 Samuel 25:28

lift off the transgression of

Quote: שָׂ֥א & לְ⁠פֶ֣שַׁע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Abigail is speaking of transgression as if it were an object that someone could lift off another person. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [forgive the transgression of]

For

Quote: כִּ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces a reason why David should forgive Abigail. Alternate translation: [You should do this because]

making, Yahweh will make for my master an established house, because my master is fighting the battles of Yahweh

Quote: עָשֹֽׂה־יַעֲשֶׂה֩ יְהוָ֨ה לַֽ⁠אדֹנִ֜⁠י בַּ֣יִת נֶאֱמָ֗ן כִּי־מִלְחֲמ֤וֹת יְהוָה֙ אֲדֹנִ֣⁠י נִלְחָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [since you, my master, are fighting the battles of Yahweh, making, Yahweh will make for you, my master, an established house]

making, Yahweh will make for my master an established house

Quote: עָשֹֽׂה־יַעֲשֶׂה֩ יְהוָ֨ה לַֽ⁠אדֹנִ֜⁠י בַּ֣יִת נֶאֱמָ֗ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Abigail is repeating forms of the verb “make” in order to intensify her expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [Yahweh will surely make for you, my master, an established house]

making, Yahweh will make for my master an established house

Quote: עָשֹֽׂה־יַעֲשֶׂה֩ יְהוָ֨ה לַֽ⁠אדֹנִ֜⁠י בַּ֣יִת נֶאֱמָ֗ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [Yahweh will surely establish a house for you, my master]

an established house

Quote: בַּ֣יִת נֶאֱמָ֗ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Abigail is speaking of David’s royal dynasty as if it were a house that would stand firmly. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [an enduring royal dynasty]

And evil will not be found in you

Quote: וְ⁠רָעָ֛ה לֹא־תִמָּצֵ֥א בְ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Abigail is using a common expression of her culture. When she says that evil will not be found, she means that it will not be able to be found because it will not be there. See how you translated the similar expression in 9:8. Alternate translation: [And there will be no evil in you]

And evil will not be found in you

Quote: וְ⁠רָעָ֛ה לֹא־תִמָּצֵ֥א בְ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of evil, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [And you will not be guilty of having done something very wrong]

from your days

Quote: מִ⁠יָּמֶֽי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Abigail is using the term days by association to mean a specific time, the lifetime of David, since time is made up of days. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for your whole lifetime]

1 Samuel 25:29

If a man arises to pursue you to seek your life, then the life of my master will be bound in the bundle of the living by Yahweh your God

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֤קָם אָדָם֙ לִ⁠רְדָפְ⁠ךָ֔ וּ⁠לְ⁠בַקֵּ֖שׁ אֶת־נַפְשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ וְֽ⁠הָיְתָה֩ נֶ֨פֶשׁ אֲדֹנִ֜⁠י צְרוּרָ֣ה ׀ בִּ⁠צְר֣וֹר הַ⁠חַיִּ֗ים אֵ֚ת יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Abigail is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but she means that it is actually true. She knows that Saul has been pursuing David and seeking to kill him. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, then you could translate this as a confident statement. Alternate translation: [Even though a man has arisen to pursue you and to seek your life, the life of my master will nevertheless be bound in the bundle of the living by Yahweh your God]

If a man arises

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֤קָם אָדָם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar expression in 1:9. Alternate translation: [If a man takes action]

to pursue you to seek your life

Quote: לִ⁠רְדָפְ⁠ךָ֔ וּ⁠לְ⁠בַקֵּ֖שׁ אֶת־נַפְשֶׁ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two phrases connected with and. The phrase seek your life tells for what reason the man would pursue. Alternate translation: [in deadly pursuit of you]

then the life of my master will be bound in the bundle of the living by Yahweh your God

Quote: וְֽ⁠הָיְתָה֩ נֶ֨פֶשׁ אֲדֹנִ֜⁠י צְרוּרָ֣ה ׀ בִּ⁠צְר֣וֹר הַ⁠חַיִּ֗ים אֵ֚ת יְהוָ֣ה אֱלֹהֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Abigail is speaking of Yahweh protecting David as if he would tie up David’s life securely in a bundle with other people whose lives he was preserving. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [then Yahweh your God will ensure that you, my master, remain among those who are alive]

he will sling it away in the midst of the pocket of a sling

Quote: יְקַלְּעֶ֔⁠נָּה בְּ⁠ת֖וֹךְ כַּ֥ף הַ⁠קָּֽלַע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Abigail is speaking of Yahweh destroying David’s enemies as if he would use a sling to throw away their lives. The point of comparison is that Yahweh will do this suddenly and powerfully, the way a stone comes out of a sling. (Abigail seems to be making an allusion to the way David was able to kill Goliath with a stone from a sling, reminding him of Yahweh’s protection at that time.) If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [he will end it suddenly and powerfully]

1 Samuel 25:30

the good

Quote: אֶת־הַ⁠טּוֹבָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of good, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [the good things]

1 Samuel 25:31

then this will not be an obstacle for you or a stumbling block of heart for my master, or for the pouring out of blood without cause, or for my master saving himself. … for my master

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֣א תִהְיֶ֣ה זֹ֣את ׀ לְ⁠ךָ֡ לְ⁠פוּקָה֩ וּ⁠לְ⁠מִכְשׁ֨וֹל לֵ֜ב לַ⁠אדֹנִ֗⁠י וְ⁠לִ⁠שְׁפָּךְ־דָּם֙ חִנָּ֔ם וּ⁠לְ⁠הוֹשִׁ֥יעַ אֲדֹנִ֖⁠י ל֑⁠וֹ & לַֽ⁠אדֹנִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [then, because you, my master, will not have tried to save yourself by pouring out blood without cause, this will not be an obstacle for you or a stumbling block of heart for you, my master]

an obstacle for you or a stumbling block of heart for my master, … my master

Quote: לְ⁠ךָ֡ לְ⁠פוּקָה֩ וּ⁠לְ⁠מִכְשׁ֨וֹל לֵ֜ב לַ⁠אדֹנִ֗⁠י & אֲדֹנִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The terms obstacle and stumbling block of heart mean similar things. Abigail is using them together to emphasize how serious this would be. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [anything that will make your heart trip and fall, my master]

an obstacle for you or a stumbling block of heart for my master, … my master

Quote: לְ⁠ךָ֡ לְ⁠פוּקָה֩ וּ⁠לְ⁠מִכְשׁ֨וֹל לֵ֜ב לַ⁠אדֹנִ֗⁠י & אֲדֹנִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Abigail is speaking of future regret as if it were something physical that could make a person stumble and fall and of David’s heart as if it were such a person. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [a source of deep grief for you, my master]

or for the pouring out of blood without cause

Quote: וְ⁠לִ⁠שְׁפָּךְ־דָּם֙ חִנָּ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Abigail is using the expression pouring out of blood by association to mean killing, since blood pours out of people when they are killed violently. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [because you would have killed many people without cause]

and you will remember your female servant

Quote: וְ⁠זָכַרְתָּ֖ אֶת־אֲמָתֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Abigail is using herself by association to mean the advice she has given. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and you will remember the good advice that I, your female servant, have given you]

1 Samuel 25:32

May Yahweh, the God of Israel, be blessed, who sent you

Quote: בָּר֤וּךְ יְהוָה֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל אֲשֶׁ֧ר שְׁלָחֵ֛⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [I bless Yahweh, the God of Israel, for sending you]

1 Samuel 25:33

And blessed be your discernment, and blessed be {you} who

Quote: וּ⁠בָר֥וּךְ טַעְמֵ֖⁠ךְ וּ⁠בְרוּכָ֣ה אָ֑תְּ אֲשֶׁ֨ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And I bless your discernment, and I bless you]

And blessed be your discernment, and blessed be {you} who

Quote: וּ⁠בָר֥וּךְ טַעְמֵ֖⁠ךְ וּ⁠בְרוּכָ֣ה אָ֑תְּ אֲשֶׁ֨ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of discernment, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [And I bless you for being so discerning]

from entering into bloodshed and my hand saving for myself

Quote: מִ⁠בּ֣וֹא בְ⁠דָמִ֔ים וְ⁠הֹשֵׁ֥עַ יָדִ֖⁠י לִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of himself, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of potentially taking revenge. See how you translated the similar expression in 25:26. Alternate translation: [from taking matters into my own hands and entering into bloodshed] or [from taking revenge personally on an enemy by entering into bloodshed]

from entering into bloodshed

Quote: מִ⁠בּ֣וֹא בְ⁠דָמִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking of killing as if it were a place that someone could enter. See how you translated the similar expression in 25:26. Alternate translation: [from shedding much blood] or [from killing many people]

1 Samuel 25:34

the life of Yahweh, the God of Israel

Quote: חַי־יְהוָה֙ אֱלֹהֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Following the custom of his culture, David is making a solemn statement by swearing by Yahweh's life. He means that Abigail can be as certain of what he is saying as she can be certain that he reveres Yahweh. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express this meaning directly. Alternate translation: [I swear by Yahweh, the God of Israel]

from harming you

Quote: מֵ⁠הָרַ֖ע אֹתָ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By harming, David means causing Abigail great loss and sorrow by killing her husband and the men of her household. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [from causing you great loss and sorrow]

you had hurried and come

Quote: מִהַ֗רְתְּ וַתָּבֹאת֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word hurried tells in what way Abigail came. Alternate translation: [you had hurriedly come]

that if one pissing against the wall had been left to Nabal until the light of the morning

Quote: כִּ֣י אִם־נוֹתַ֧ר לְ⁠נָבָ֛ל עַד־א֥וֹר הַ⁠בֹּ֖קֶר מַשְׁתִּ֥ין בְּ⁠קִֽיר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

David is referring to the oath he made in verse 22. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this explicitly. Alternate translation: [that I would have kept my oath not to leave to Nabal until the light of the morning one pissing against the wall]

if one pissing against the wall had been left to Nabal

Quote: אִם־נוֹתַ֧ר לְ⁠נָבָ֛ל & מַשְׁתִּ֥ין בְּ⁠קִֽיר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [I would not have left to Nabal one pissing against the wall]

one pissing against the wall

Quote: מַשְׁתִּ֥ין בְּ⁠קִֽיר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using this expression by association to mean any male person. See how you translated the same expression in 25:22. Alternate translation: [even one male person]

1 Samuel 25:35

from her hand

Quote: מִ⁠יָּדָ֔⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of Abigail, her hand, to mean all of her in the act of giving. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [from her]

in peace

Quote: לְ⁠שָׁלוֹם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [peacefully] or [fearing no harm]

See

Quote: רְאִי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is using See in the same way that people in this culture often used the comparable term “Behold,” to call attention to what he is about to say. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Let me assure you]

I have listened to your voice

Quote: שָׁמַ֣עְתִּי בְ⁠קוֹלֵ֔⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term voice by association to mean what Abigail has said by using her voice. See how you translated the similar expression in 2:25. Alternate translation: [I have agreed to do what you have said]

and I have lifted up your face

Quote: וָ⁠אֶשָּׂ֖א פָּנָֽיִ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the expression lifted up your face by association to mean he has granted Abigail's request. In this culture, a supplicant would look down at the ground in front of a superior, and the superior would reach down and lift up the person’s face if he were going to grant the request. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [so I have granted your request]

1 Samuel 25:36

like the feast of a king

Quote: כְּ⁠מִשְׁתֵּ֣ה הַ⁠מֶּ֗לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The point of this comparison is that just as a king would serve an abundance of fine food and drink at a feast, so Nabal had prepared a very lavish celebration. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this point explicitly. Alternate translation: [like the lavish feast that a king would prepare]

And the heart of Nabal was good within him

Quote: וְ⁠לֵ֤ב נָבָל֙ ט֣וֹב עָלָ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here the heart represents a person’s feelings and mood. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And Nabal was in a very happy mood]

to … a thing small or great

Quote: דָּבָ֥ר קָטֹ֛ן וְ⁠גָד֖וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

The author is speaking of two extremes, small and great, in order to mean such things and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [anything at all]

1 Samuel 25:37

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is using this phrase to introduce a new development in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method here that is natural in your language for introducing a new development.

when the wine had gone out from Nabal

Quote: בְּ⁠צֵ֤את הַ⁠יַּ֨יִן֙ מִ⁠נָּבָ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using wine by association to mean its intoxicating effects. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [when Nabal was no longer feeling the effects of the wine]

And his heart died in the midst of him

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֤מָת לִבּ⁠וֹ֙ בְּ⁠קִרְבּ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Since Nabal lived for another ten days, as the next verse indicates, the author is probably not using the term heart to mean the organ that pumped Nabal’s blood. Instead, as in the previous verse, the term probably describes his feelings. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [And he lost all heart] or [And he became terribly upset]

and he became a stone

Quote: וְ⁠ה֖וּא הָיָ֥ה לְ⁠אָֽבֶן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking of Nabal as if he had turned into a stone. He means that Nabal became completely unresponsive, apparently from a stroke. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and he could no longer move]

1 Samuel 25:38

and Yahweh struck Nabal and he died

Quote: וַ⁠יִּגֹּ֧ף יְהוָ֛ה אֶת־נָבָ֖ל וַ⁠יָּמֹֽת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

When the author says that Yahweh struck Nabal, this probably indicates that Nabal had another medical event such as a second stroke. However, the author is saying that Yahweh caused this so that Nabal would die. Since it is not clear exactly what happened in medical terms, you may wish to state this generally in your translation. Alternate translation: [Yahweh caused Nabal to die]

1 Samuel 25:39

Blessed be Yahweh

Quote: בָּר֣וּךְ יְהוָ֡ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

who has conducted the case of my reproach from the hand of Nabal

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר רָב֩ אֶת־רִ֨יב חֶרְפָּתִ֜⁠י מִ⁠יַּ֣ד & נָבָ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry

David is using a construction in which a verb and its object come from the same root to emphasize how completely Yahweh has defended him. See how you translated the similar expression "conduct my case" in 24:15. Alternate translation: [who has defended me after my reproach from the hand of Nabal]

my reproach from the hand of Nabal

Quote: חֶרְפָּתִ֜⁠י מִ⁠יַּ֣ד & נָבָ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of Nabal, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of insulting David by refusing his request. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Nabal insulting me by refusing to give me anything]

his servant

Quote: עַבְדּ⁠וֹ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

David is speaking about himself in relation to Yahweh humbly in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [me, his servant]

And Yahweh has returned the evil of Nabal on his head

Quote: נָבָל֒ & וְ⁠אֵת֙ רָעַ֣ת & הֵשִׁ֥יב יְהוָ֖ה בְּ⁠רֹאשׁ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking of Nabal’s evil as if it were an object that Yahweh could have brought back to him and placed on his head. He means that Yahweh has caused the consequences of those actions to affect him. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And because Nabal did something bad to me, Yahweh made something bad happen to him]

And David sent and spoke

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁלַ֤ח דָּוִד֙ וַ⁠יְדַבֵּ֣ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word sent tells by what means David spoke to Abigail, by sending messengers. Alternate translation: [And David sent people to speak]

1 Samuel 25:41

and bowed down, nostrils to the ground

Quote: וַ⁠תִּשְׁתַּ֥חוּ אַפַּ֖יִם אָ֑רְצָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This was a symbolic action by which Abigail was showing great honor to David. See how you translated similar expressions in 20:41 and 24:8. Alternate translation: [and knelt down and pressed her face to the ground to show great honor to David]

Behold your female servant

Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה אֲמָֽתְ⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Abigail is speaking about herself humbly in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [Behold me, your female servant]

Behold your female servant

Quote: הִנֵּ֤ה אֲמָֽתְ⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

Abigail is responding to David’s marriage proposal with the courteous expression that people in this culture used to tell a superior that they had heard a summons and were ready and willing to obey. See how you translated this expression in 3:4. Alternate translation: [I am at your service]

your female servant

Quote: אֲמָֽתְ⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The word your is singular here because Abigail is addressing David through his messengers. So use the singular form in your translation if your language marks that distinction.

for a slave woman for washing the feet of the servants of my master

Quote: לְ⁠שִׁפְחָ֔ה לִ⁠רְחֹ֕ץ רַגְלֵ֖י עַבְדֵ֥י אֲדֹנִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Abigail is making an overstatement for emphasis. She means that she is willing to serve David in any way, even in the most humble tasks. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [I am willing to serve you in any task, no matter how humble]

my master

Quote: אֲדֹנִֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

Abigail is speaking about David respectfully in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the second person. Alternate translation: [you, my master]

1 Samuel 25:42

And Abigail hurried and arose

Quote: וַ⁠תְּמַהֵ֞ר וַ⁠תָּ֣קָם אֲבִיגַ֗יִל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By saying that Abigail arose, the author means that she took action in response to David’s proposal. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And Abigail hurried and took action]

And Abigail hurried and arose

Quote: וַ⁠תְּמַהֵ֞ר וַ⁠תָּ֣קָם אֲבִיגַ֗יִל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word hurried tells in what way Abigail arose (took action). Alternate translation: [And Abigail hurriedly took action]

were going at her feet

Quote: הַ⁠הֹלְכ֖וֹת לְ⁠רַגְלָ֑⁠הּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the expression at her feet by association to mean that Abigail’s young women walked behind her. (Even though Abigail was riding a donkey, the author is speaking as if she was walking on her feet.) See how you translated the similar expression in 25:27. Alternate translation: [followed her]

1 Samuel 25:43

And David took Ahinoam from Jezreel

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־אֲחִינֹ֛עַם לָקַ֥ח דָּוִ֖ד מִֽ⁠יִּזְרְעֶ֑אל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean either: (1) that around this time, David also married a woman named Ahinoam who came from Jezreel. The ULT reflects this understanding. Alternate translation: [And David married Ahinoam from Jezreel] (2) that David had already married Ahinoam at some previous time. Some interpreters believe that this is the case because Ahinoam is named first in the list of David’s sons and their mothers in 2 Samuel 3:2. (However, other interpreters believe that is because she bore David his first son, not necessarily because he married her first.) Alternate translation: [And David had married Ahinoam from Jezreel]

and the two of them also became wives for him

Quote: וַ⁠תִּהְיֶ֛יןָ גַּֽם־שְׁתֵּי⁠הֶ֥ן ל֖⁠וֹ לְ⁠נָשִֽׁים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word also indicates "in addition to Michal," whom the author discusses in the next verse. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and the two of them became wives for him in addition to Michal]

1 Samuel 25:44

But Saul had given his daughter Michal, the wife of David, to Palti the son of Laish

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁא֗וּל נָתַ֛ן אֶת־מִיכַ֥ל בִּתּ֖⁠וֹ אֵ֣שֶׁת דָּוִ֑ד לְ⁠פַלְטִ֥י בֶן־לַ֖יִשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This was a symbolic action by which Saul showed that he no longer wanted to have anything to do with David. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [But Saul had given his daughter Michal, the wife of David, to Palti the son of Laish as his wife, to show that he no longer wanted to have anything to do with David, his former son-in-law]

1 Samuel 26

1 Samuel 26 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). It describes how David got a second opportunity to kill Saul when Saul once again pursued him into the wilderness. Once again David did not kill him, since Yahweh had anointed Saul to be the king. David proved to Saul once more that he could have killed him, and Saul admitted that he had been wrong to pursue David and promised that he would never harm him.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Why did David take Saul’s spear and water jug?

As in the case of David cutting off the edge of Saul’s robe 24:4, when David took the spear and water jug that were near Saul’s head (26:11), he was able shortly afterwards to show these items as proof that he could have killed Saul but did not. But in this case as in that earlier case, this action may have had further symbolic significance. As 22:6 shows, the spear was an emblem of Saul’s royal office. The water jar may have been a similar emblem. In some ancient cultures, an important official accompanying the king would carry a beautiful and valuable jug containing water for the king to use to wash his hands before eating and for other personal purposes. The context suggests that it was the duty of Abner, as Saul’s general, to carry this jug with him and present it to Saul whenever he wanted to use the water in it. By taking these royal emblems, David may have been dramatizing how the kingship would pass from Saul to him. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain this possibility in a footnote.

1 Samuel 26:1

Now the Ziphites came to Saul at Gibeah

Quote: וַ⁠יָּבֹ֤אוּ הַ⁠זִּפִים֙ אֶל־שָׁא֔וּל הַ⁠גִּבְעָ֖תָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is introducing a new development in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method here that is natural in your language for introducing a new development.

Is} not David hiding himself on the hill of Hakilah, on the face of Jeshimon

Quote: הֲ⁠ל֨וֹא דָוִ֤ד מִסְתַּתֵּר֙ בְּ⁠גִבְעַ֣ת הַ⁠חֲכִילָ֔ה עַ֖ל פְּנֵ֥י הַ⁠יְשִׁימֹֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

on the face of Jeshimon

Quote: עַ֖ל פְּנֵ֥י הַ⁠יְשִׁימֹֽן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The Ziphites are using the term on the face of by association to mean in front of or opposite. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [opposite Jeshimon]

1 Samuel 26:2

And Saul arose

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֣קָם שָׁא֗וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated the similar phrase in 1:9. Alternate translation: [And Saul took action]

and went down

Quote: וַ⁠יֵּ֨רֶד֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

See how you translated the similar phrase in 1:3, where the author, in keeping with the conventions of his culture, marks travel for change in elevation. Alternate translation: [and went]

chosen {ones} of Israel

Quote: בְּחוּרֵ֣י יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

1 Samuel 26:3

And he saw

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֕רְא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term saw by association to mean that David learned this, since people often learn things by seeing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And he learned]

1 Samuel 26:4

as a confirmed {thing

Quote: אֶל־נָכֽוֹן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

See how you translated the similar phrase in 23:23. Alternate translation: [as something that he had confirmed]

1 Samuel 26:5

where Saul had camped there. … where Saul lay there

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֣ר חָנָה־שָׁ֣ם שָׁאוּל֒ & אֲשֶׁ֣ר שָֽׁכַב־שָׁ֣ם שָׁא֔וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that the expressions where Saul had camped there and where Saul lay there contain extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten them. Alternate translation: [where Saul had camped … where Saul lay]

and Abner, the son of Ner, the commander of his army

Quote: וְ⁠אַבְנֵ֥ר בֶּן־נֵ֖ר שַׂר־צְבָא֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The author is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and Abner, the son of Ner, the commander of his army, lay nearby]

within the wagon-track

Quote: בַּ⁠מַּעְגָּ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term within the wagon-track by association to mean within the defensive circle of supply wagons around the camp. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [within to the defensive circle of supply wagons around the camp]

and the people

Quote: וְ⁠הָ⁠עָ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

As he has done frequently in previous chapters, the author is using the term people here to mean soldiers. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and his soldiers]

1 Samuel 26:6

And David answered and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֨עַן דָּוִ֜ד וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word answered tells for what purpose David said this. Alternate translation: [In response to what he had seen, David said]

Zeruiah

Quote: צְרוּיָ֜ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

The word Zeruiah is the name of a woman. She was David’s older sister. (So the author is identifying Abishai, not Zeruiah, as the brother of Joab.)

I myself will go down with you

Quote: אֲנִ֖י אֵרֵ֥ד עִמָּֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

For emphasis, Abishai is stating the pronoun I, whose meaning is already present in the verb translated will go down. If your language can state implied pronouns explicitly for emphasis, you may want to use that construction here in your translation. Other languages may have other ways of bringing out this emphasis. The ULT does so by using the intensive pronoun myself.

1 Samuel 26:7

And behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is using the term behold to focus his readers’ attention on what he is about to say. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. See how you translated the term in 2:31.

and his spear was pressed into the ground by his head

Quote: וַ⁠חֲנִית֥⁠וֹ מְעוּכָֽה־בָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ מראשת⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Displaying the spear in this way was a symbolic action that identified Saul as the king, similarly to the way Saul held this spear in his hand in 22:6 when he was holding court. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [and his spear was pressed into the ground by his head to identify him as the king]

and his spear was pressed into the ground

Quote: וַ⁠חֲנִית֥⁠וֹ מְעוּכָֽה־בָ⁠אָ֖רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and he had pressed his spear into the ground]

1 Samuel 26:8

into your hand

Quote: בְּ⁠יָדֶ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

one … And I will not do again to him

Quote: אַחַ֔ת וְ⁠לֹ֥א אֶשְׁנֶ֖ה לֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Abishai is not asking David for just one chance to kill Saul and promising that he will let Saul live if he fails to kill him the first time. He means that he will not need to strike Saul more than once, since the first blow will kill him. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And I will not need to strike him a second time]

1 Samuel 26:9

Do not destroy him. For who has stretched out his hand against the anointed one of Yahweh and been innocent

Quote: אַל־תַּשְׁחִיתֵ֑⁠הוּ כִּ֠י מִ֣י שָׁלַ֥ח יָד֛⁠וֹ בִּ⁠מְשִׁ֥יחַ יְהוָ֖ה וְ⁠נִקָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Who has stretched out his hand against the anointed one of Yahweh and been innocent? So do not destroy him]

who has stretched out his hand against the anointed one of Yahweh and been innocent

Quote: מִ֣י שָׁלַ֥ח יָד֛⁠וֹ בִּ⁠מְשִׁ֥יחַ יְהוָ֖ה וְ⁠נִקָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

David is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [no one has stretched out his hand against the anointed one of Yahweh and been innocent!]

For who has stretched out his hand against the anointed one of Yahweh

Quote: כִּ֠י מִ֣י שָׁלַ֥ח יָד֛⁠וֹ בִּ⁠מְשִׁ֥יחַ יְהוָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

David is using a common expression of his culture to mean attacking or harming someone. See how you translated the similar phrase in 24:6. Alternate translation: [has used violence against the anointed one of Yahweh]

against the anointed one of Yahweh

Quote: בִּ⁠מְשִׁ֥יחַ יְהוָ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. See how you translated this in 24:6. Alternate translation: [against the one whom Yahweh has anointed]

1 Samuel 26:10

The life of Yahweh

Quote: חַי־יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

At the beginning of this quotation, David starts to swear an oath that he will not kill Saul, as he does say in the next verse. But in the rest of this verse, he says what will happen instead. It may be more natural in your language to put this phrase at the end of this verse so that it will directly precede what David swears in the next verse.

Yahweh will strike him

Quote: יְהוָ֖ה יִגָּפֶ֑⁠נּוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By strike him, David means that Yahweh will kill Saul. See how you translated the similar phrase in 4:2. Alternate translation: [Yahweh will kill him]

or his day will come and he will die

Quote: אֽוֹ־יוֹמ֤⁠וֹ יָבוֹא֙ וָ⁠מֵ֔ת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term his day by association to mean the time when Saul will die. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [or the time will come for him to die]

or he will go down into a battle and be swept away

Quote: א֧וֹ בַ⁠מִּלְחָמָ֛ה יֵרֵ֖ד וְ⁠נִסְפָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [or he will go down into a battle and it will sweep him away]

and be swept away

Quote: וְ⁠נִסְפָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking as if battle were a flood that could sweep Saul away. See how you translated the similar phrase in 12:25. Alternate translation: [and be destroyed] or [and it will destroy him]

1 Samuel 26:11

profane to me from Yahweh to stretch out my hand

Quote: חָלִ֤ילָ⁠ה לִּ⁠י֙ מֵֽ⁠יהוָ֔ה מִ⁠שְּׁלֹ֥חַ יָדִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

David is using a common expression of his culture, Profane to me, to mean that he would be committing a serious sin against Yahweh if he were to harm Saul. See how you translated the similar phrase in 24:6. Alternate translation: [far be it from me to sin against Yahweh by stretching out my hand]

to stretch out my hand against the anointed one of Yahweh

Quote: מִ⁠שְּׁלֹ֥חַ יָדִ֖⁠י בִּ⁠מְשִׁ֣יחַ יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

David is using a common expression of his culture, stretch out my hand, to mean attacking or harming someone. See how you translated the similar phrase in 24:6. Alternate translation: [to attack the anointed one of Yahweh] or [to use violence against the anointed one of Yahweh]

against the anointed one of Yahweh

Quote: בִּ⁠מְשִׁ֣יחַ יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [the one whom Yahweh has anointed]

take the spear that {is} by his head and the jug of water

Quote: קַח & אֶֽת־הַ⁠חֲנִ֜ית אֲשֶׁ֧ר מראשת⁠ו וְ⁠אֶת־צַפַּ֥חַת הַ⁠מַּ֖יִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Taking the spear and the jug of water was a symbolic action that demonstrated that David had been close enough to kill Saul but had chosen not to do so. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [take the spear that is by his head and the jug of water to show that we could have killed him but chose not to]

and let us go for ourselves

Quote: וְ⁠נֵ֥לֲכָה לָּֽ⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

After saying let us go, David uses the pronoun ourselves to emphasize that there is benefit for him and Abishai in doing that. He means that the two of them should leave before any of the soldiers awake and they are discovered and captured. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: [and let us get out of here!]

1 Samuel 26:12

And David took

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקַּח֩ דָּוִ֨ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using one person who was involved in this action, David, who requested it, to mean by association another person who was involved, Abishai, who took the items at David’s request. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [So Abishai took for David]

And none was seeing, and none was knowing, and none was awakening, for all of them were sleeping, because a deep sleep of Yahweh had fallen on them

Quote: וְ⁠אֵ֣ין רֹאֶה֩ וְ⁠אֵ֨ין יוֹדֵ֜עַ וְ⁠אֵ֣ין מֵקִ֗יץ כִּ֤י כֻלָּ⁠ם֙ יְשֵׁנִ֔ים כִּ֚י תַּרְדֵּמַ֣ת יְהוָ֔ה נָפְלָ֖ה עֲלֵי⁠הֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [And because a deep sleep of Yahweh had fallen on them, so all of them were sleeping, thus none was seeing, and none was knowing, and none was awakening]

a deep sleep of Yahweh had fallen on them

Quote: תַּרְדֵּמַ֣ת יְהוָ֔ה נָפְלָ֖ה עֲלֵי⁠הֶֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if sleep were an object that could have fallen on these soldiers. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Yahweh had caused all of them to fall fast asleep] or [Yahweh had caused all of them to be completely asleep]

1 Samuel 26:13

on the head of a hill

Quote: עַל־רֹאשׁ־הָ⁠הָ֖ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The author is speaking as if a hill were a person who had a head. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [on top of a hill] or [high up on a hill]

1 Samuel 26:14

And David called to the people and to Abner

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרָ֨א דָוִ֜ד אֶל־הָ⁠עָ֗ם וְ⁠אֶל & אַבְנֵ֑ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two phrases connected with and. The phrase to the people tells among whom David called to Abner. Alternate translation: [And David called to Abner among the people]

Will you not answer, Abner

Quote: אַבְנֵ֤ר & הֲ⁠ל֥וֹא תַעֲנֶ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

And Abner answered and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֤עַן אַבְנֵר֙ וַ⁠יֹּ֔אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word answered tells for what purpose Abner said this. Alternate translation: [And Abner replied]

who} call to the king

Quote: קָרָ֥אתָ אֶל־הַ⁠מֶּֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By call to the king, Abner does not mean that David has called out to Saul. The author describes how David called out to him by name. Rather, Abner means to ask who is calling out so as to disturb the king's sleep. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [who call out so as to disturb the king]

1 Samuel 26:15

Are} you not a man? And who {is} like you in Israel? So why did you not watch over your master the king

Quote: הֲ⁠לוֹא־אִ֣ישׁ אַתָּ֗ה וּ⁠מִ֤י כָמ֨וֹ⁠ךָ֙ בְּ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל וְ⁠לָ֨⁠מָּה֙ לֹ֣א שָׁמַ֔רְתָּ אֶל־אֲדֹנֶ֖י⁠ךָ הַ⁠מֶּ֑לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

David is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You are a man! No one is like you in Israel! So you should have watched over your master the king!]

Are} you not a man

Quote: הֲ⁠לוֹא־אִ֣ישׁ אַתָּ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By a man, David means a great warrior. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Are you not a great warrior?] or [You are a great warrior!]

For

Quote: כִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces not a reason but an explanation. Alternate translation: [I say this because]

one of the people

Quote: אַחַ֣ד הָ⁠עָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By one of the people, David means a soldier. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [a soldier]

1 Samuel 26:16

The life of Yahweh, that

Quote: חַי־יְהוָ֗ה כִּ֤י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Following the custom of his culture, David is swearing an oath by guaranteeing it by something he holds sacred. Alternate translation: [I swear by Yahweh that]

you {are} sons of death who did not watch over your master

Quote: בְנֵי־מָ֨וֶת֙ אַתֶּ֔ם אֲשֶׁ֧ר לֹֽא־שְׁמַרְתֶּ֛ם עַל־אֲדֹנֵי⁠כֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

David is using a common expression of his culture to mean that Abner and his men deserve to die for not protecting Saul. See how you translated the similar phrase in 20:31. Alternate translation: [you who did not watch over your master deserve to die]

the anointed one of Yahweh

Quote: מְשִׁ֣יחַ יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֣ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

And now was a common expression that speakers in this culture used to introduce their main topic. David is using it to introduce his proof that someone could have killed Saul that night. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. See how you translated this expression in 6:7. Alternate translation: [Let me prove to you that someone could have killed the king tonight]

And now, see, where {are} the spear of the king and the jug of water that {were} by his head

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֣ה ׀ רְאֵ֗ה אֵֽי־חֲנִ֥ית הַ⁠מֶּ֛לֶךְ וְ⁠אֶת־צַפַּ֥חַת הַ⁠מַּ֖יִם אֲשֶׁ֥ר מראשת⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

David is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [someone has taken the spear of the king and the jar of water that were by his head!]

And now, see, where {are} the spear of the king and the jug of water that {were} by his head

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֣ה ׀ רְאֵ֗ה אֵֽי־חֲנִ֥ית הַ⁠מֶּ֛לֶךְ וְ⁠אֶת־צַפַּ֥חַת הַ⁠מַּ֖יִם אֲשֶׁ֥ר מראשת⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

This could mean: (1) that David is telling Abner to look around Saul and see that the spear and jar are missing. The ULT reflects this meaning. (2) that David is holding up the spear and jar and telling Abner to see that he has them. Alternate translation: [And now, see where the spear of the king and the jar of water are that were by his head!]

1 Samuel 26:17

Is} this your voice, my son David

Quote: הֲ⁠קוֹלְ⁠ךָ֥ זֶ֖ה בְּנִ֣⁠י דָוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Saul is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. See how you translated the similar phrase in 24:16. Alternate translation: [I recognize your voice, my son David!]

Is} this your voice, my son David

Quote: הֲ⁠קוֹלְ⁠ךָ֥ זֶ֖ה בְּנִ֣⁠י דָוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the term voice by association to mean the person who is speaking. See how you translated the similar phrase in 24:16. Alternate translation: [Is it you speaking to me, my son David?] or [I recognize that it is you speaking to me, my son David!]

my son David

Quote: בְּנִ֣⁠י דָוִ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

In the similar episode in 24:16, Saul seemed to be using this same expression to reaffirm David as his own son-in-law, after he had been referring to him dismissively as "the son of Jesse." By this point, however, Saul has repudiated David as his son-in-law by giving his daughter Michal to another man (25:44.) So here my son is probably a term of endearment rather than a kinship term. Alternate translation: [my dear David]

My voice

Quote: קוֹלִ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

1 Samuel 26:18

And he said

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֕אמֶר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to David. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And David said]

Why {is} this, my master pursuing after his servant? For what have I done, and what evil {is} in my hand

Quote: לָ֥⁠מָּה זֶּ֛ה אֲדֹנִ֥⁠י רֹדֵ֖ף אַחֲרֵ֣י עַבְדּ֑⁠וֹ כִּ֚י מֶ֣ה עָשִׂ֔יתִי וּ⁠מַה־בְּ⁠יָדִ֖⁠י רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

David is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [My master should not be pursuing after his servant! For I have done nothing wrong, and no evil is in my hand.]

Why {is} this, my master pursuing after his servant? For what have I done, and what evil {is} in my hand

Quote: לָ֥⁠מָּה זֶּ֛ה אֲדֹנִ֥⁠י רֹדֵ֖ף אַחֲרֵ֣י עַבְדּ֑⁠וֹ כִּ֚י מֶ֣ה עָשִׂ֔יתִי וּ⁠מַה־בְּ⁠יָדִ֖⁠י רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [What have I done, and what evil is in my hand? So why {is} this, my master pursuing after his servant?] or [I have done nothing wrong, and no evil is in my hand. So my master should not be pursuing after his servant!]

my master pursuing after his servant

Quote: אֲדֹנִ֥⁠י רֹדֵ֖ף אַחֲרֵ֣י עַבְדּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

David is addressing Saul respectfully in the third person and speaking about himself humbly in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [you, my master, pursuing after me, your servant]

what have I done, and what evil {is} in my hand

Quote: מֶ֣ה עָשִׂ֔יתִי וּ⁠מַה־בְּ⁠יָדִ֖⁠י רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of himself, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of potentially doing evil. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [what have I done, and what evil have I committed]

what have I done, and what evil {is} in my hand

Quote: מֶ֣ה עָשִׂ֔יתִי וּ⁠מַה־בְּ⁠יָדִ֖⁠י רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of evil, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [what have I done, and what evil action have I committed]

what have I done, and what evil {is} in my hand

Quote: מֶ֣ה עָשִׂ֔יתִי וּ⁠מַה־בְּ⁠יָדִ֖⁠י רָעָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [what wrong have I done]

1 Samuel 26:19

the words of his servant

Quote: אֵ֖ת דִּבְרֵ֣י עַבְדּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term words by association to mean what he has to say. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [what his servant has to say]

the words of his servant

Quote: אֵ֖ת דִּבְרֵ֣י עַבְדּ֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

David is speaking about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [what I, his servant, have to say]

may he smell an offering

Quote: יָרַ֣ח מִנְחָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term smell by association to mean accept. In the Israelite sacrificial system, when Yahweh accepted an offering, he was understood to be pleased with its smell. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [may he accept an offering]

But if sons of man

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֣ם ׀ בְּנֵ֣י הָ⁠אָדָ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

sons of man

Quote: בְּנֵ֣י הָ⁠אָדָ֗ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here the masculine terms sons and man have a generic sense that includes both men and women. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use language in your translation that is clearly inclusive of both men and women. Alternate translation: [human beings]

may they be cursed to the face of Yahweh. For they have driven me out today from joining myself with the inheritance of Yahweh, saying, ‘Go, serve other gods

Quote: אֲרוּרִ֥ים הֵם֙ לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה כִּֽי־גֵרְשׁ֣וּ⁠נִי הַ⁠יּ֗וֹם מֵ⁠הִסְתַּפֵּ֜חַ בְּ⁠נַחֲלַ֤ת יְהוָה֙ לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר לֵ֥ךְ עֲבֹ֖ד אֱלֹהִ֥ים אֲחֵרִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [since they have driven me out today from joining myself with the inheritance of Yahweh, saying, ‘Go, serve other gods,’ may they be cursed to the face of Yahweh]

may they be cursed to the face of Yahweh

Quote: אֲרוּרִ֥ים הֵם֙ לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term face by association to mean Yahweh’s regard or attention. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [may they be cursed in Yahweh’s regard]

may they be cursed to the face of Yahweh

Quote: אֲרוּרִ֥ים הֵם֙ לִ⁠פְנֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [may Yahweh regard them as people whom he should curse] or [may Yahweh curse them]

from joining myself with the inheritance of Yahweh

Quote: מֵ⁠הִסְתַּפֵּ֜חַ בְּ⁠נַחֲלַ֤ת יְהוָה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking as if the people of Israel were something that Yahweh had inherited as a lasting possession. He means that the Israelites belong to Yahweh perpetually. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. See how you translated the similar expression in 10:1. Alternate translation: [from living together with his chosen people] or [from living among the other Israelites]

saying, ‘Go, serve other gods

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֔ר לֵ֥ךְ עֲבֹ֖ד אֱלֹהִ֥ים אֲחֵרִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [telling me to go and serve other gods]

Go, serve other gods

Quote: לֵ֥ךְ עֲבֹ֖ד אֱלֹהִ֥ים אֲחֵרִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By Go, serve other gods, David means that his enemies are forcing him to live in another country, where the people worship other gods. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [Go and live in another country, where the people worship other gods]

1 Samuel 26:20

do not let my blood fall to the earth

Quote: אַל־יִפֹּ֤ל דָּֽמִ⁠י֙ אַ֔רְצָ⁠ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term blood by association to mean his death, since as a foreigner in another country he would be at risk of being killed violently. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [do not let me die a violent death]

from before the face of Yahweh

Quote: מִ⁠נֶּ֖גֶד פְּנֵ֣י יְהוָ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term face by association to mean Yahweh’s presence. He is referring to the land of Israel, where Yahweh is worshiped. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [away from the presence of Yahweh] or [in some distant country where the people do not worship Yahweh]

For

Quote: כִּֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces not a reason but an explanation. Alternate translation: [You can safely agree to this because]

one flea

Quote: אֶת־פַּרְעֹ֣שׁ אֶחָ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking as if he were a flea, a small, insignificant insect. See how you translated the similar phrase in 24:14. Alternate translation: [one man, who is insignificant]

just as one pursues a partridge in the mountains

Quote: כַּ⁠אֲשֶׁ֛ר יִרְדֹּ֥ף הַ⁠קֹּרֵ֖א בֶּ⁠הָרִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The point of this comparison is that just as it would not be worthwhile for a person to pursue a partridge once it had fled into the mountains, since whole flocks of partridges lived in fields where people could catch them easily, so the pursuit of one flea would not justify the attention and effort of a king and his army. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this point explicitly. Alternate translation: [just as it would be pointless for someone to pursue a partridge in the mountains]

a partridge

Quote: הַ⁠קֹּרֵ֖א (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A partridge is a medium-sized bird that people of this culture hunted for food. If your readers would not be familiar with what a partridge is, in your translation you could use the name of a similar bird that your readers would recognize, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [a game bird] or [a wild bird]

1 Samuel 26:21

Return, my son David! For I will not harm you again, for my life was precious in your eyes this day

Quote: שׁ֣וּב בְּנִֽ⁠י־דָוִ֗ד כִּ֠י לֹֽא־אָרַ֤ע לְ⁠ךָ֙ ע֔וֹד תַּ֠חַת אֲשֶׁ֨ר יָקְרָ֥ה נַפְשִׁ֛⁠י בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֖י⁠ךָ הַ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Since my life was precious in your eyes this day, I will not do evil to you again, so return, my son David!]

my life was precious in your eyes

Quote: יָקְרָ֥ה נַפְשִׁ֛⁠י בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֖י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the term eyes by association to mean David’s judgment or evaluation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [you considered my life to be precious]

for my life was precious in your eyes

Quote: תַּ֠חַת אֲשֶׁ֨ר יָקְרָ֥ה נַפְשִׁ֛⁠י בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֖י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Saul is speaking as if his life were a valuable object that David considered precious. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [you valued my life] or [you considered my life worth saving]

and have strayed, making very much

Quote: וָ⁠אֶשְׁגֶּ֖ה הַרְבֵּ֥ה מְאֹֽד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two phrases connected with and. The phrase making very much tells in what way Saul strayed. See how you translated the similar phrase in 1:12. Alternate translation: [and have strayed greatly]

and have strayed

Quote: וָ⁠אֶשְׁגֶּ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Saul is speaking as if he had wandered off a path. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and have done the wrong thing]

1 Samuel 26:23

And may Yahweh return to a man his righteousness and his faithfulness

Quote: וַֽ⁠יהוָה֙ יָשִׁ֣יב לָ⁠אִ֔ישׁ אֶת־צִדְקָת֖⁠וֹ וְ⁠אֶת־אֱמֻנָת֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking as if righteousness and faithfulness were objects that Yahweh could return to a person. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And may Yahweh reward each person for his righteousness and his faithfulness]

And may Yahweh return to a man his righteousness and his faithfulness

Quote: וַֽ⁠יהוָה֙ יָשִׁ֣יב לָ⁠אִ֔ישׁ אֶת־צִדְקָת֖⁠וֹ וְ⁠אֶת־אֱמֻנָת֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of righteousness and faithfulness, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: [And may Yahweh reward each person for the righteous and faithful things he has done]

into {my} hand

Quote: בְּ⁠יָ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term hand by association to mean his power or control. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [into my power]

to stretch out my hand against the anointed one of Yahweh

Quote: לִ⁠שְׁלֹ֥חַ יָדִ֖⁠י בִּ⁠מְשִׁ֥יחַ יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

David is using a common expression of his culture to mean attacking or harming someone. See how you translated the similar phrase in 22:17. Alternate translation: [to use violence against the anointed one of Yahweh]

against the anointed one of Yahweh

Quote: בִּ⁠מְשִׁ֥יחַ יְהוָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

1 Samuel 26:24

your life was great in my eyes … may my life be great in the eyes of Yahweh

Quote: גָּדְלָ֧ה נַפְשְׁ⁠ךָ֛ & בְּ⁠עֵינָ֑⁠י & תִּגְדַּ֤ל נַפְשִׁ⁠י֙ בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֣י יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term eyes by association to mean judgment or evaluation. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [I considered your life important … may Yahweh consider my life important]

1 Samuel 26:25

Blessed be you

Quote: בָּר֤וּךְ אַתָּה֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [May Yahweh bless you]

Both doing, you will do, and also being able, you will be able

Quote: גַּ֚ם עָשֹׂ֣ה תַעֲשֶׂ֔ה וְ⁠גַ֖ם יָכֹ֣ל תּוּכָ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Saul is repeating forms of the verbs “do” and “be able” in order to intensify his expression of the ideas that they convey. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [You will certainly do, and you will certainly be able]

and also being able, you will be able

Quote: וְ⁠גַ֖ם יָכֹ֣ל תּוּכָ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By being able, you will be able, Saul could mean: (1) that the verb be able has the same sense as in 17:9. Alternate translation: [and you will certainly prevail] or [and you will certainly become king instead of me] (2) that Saul is using two verbs together to convey a single idea. Alternate translation: [and you will certainly be able to do many things]

1 Samuel 27

1 Samuel 27 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). It describes how David fled for a second time to the Philistine city of Gath for safety. This time Achish, the king of Gath, agreed to let David live there and serve him. David and his men went on raids against other people groups in the area but told Achish that they had attacked Israelite communities. This made Achish think that David would not be able to go back to Israel and so David would always serve him.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Why did David leave Israel even after Saul promised not to kill him?

Even though Saul promised in 26:21 that he would never kill David, nevertheless David fled to Philistia for safety immediately afterwards. It seems that David did not trust Saul to keep his promise. David had good reason not to trust Saul. In 19:6, Saul swore an oath by Yahweh that he would not kill David, but shortly afterwards, when Saul learned of David’s great military success against the Philistines, he became jealous and tried to kill David again. So David had learned that Saul was someone whose promises could not be trusted.

Why did Achish give David the town of Ziklag to live in?

In 27:5, David asks King Achish to allow him and his men to live away from the royal city of Gath, in one of the smaller settlements within its territory. Achish agrees and gives David and his men the town of Ziklag. David had told Achish there was no need for him and his men to live with the king. This suggests that for as long as they were in the royal city, they were the king’s guests and lived at his expense. David was courteously offering to do without this support, and Achish accepted his offer. But this also gave David much more freedom of movement, since he was no longer where the officials of Achish could watch him and report on his actions. This allowed him to pretend that he was attacking Israelite settlements when he really was not.

1 Samuel 27:1

to his heart

Quote: אֶל־לִבּ֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of himself, his heart, representing his thoughts, to mean all of him in the act of thinking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to himself]

I will be swept away one day by the hand of Saul

Quote: אֶסָּפֶ֥ה יוֹם־אֶחָ֖ד בְּ⁠יַד־שָׁא֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [the hand of Saul will sweep me away one day]

I will be swept away one day by the hand of Saul

Quote: אֶסָּפֶ֥ה יוֹם־אֶחָ֖ד בְּ⁠יַד־שָׁא֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

David is speaking as if he were an object that could be swept away. See how you translated the similar phrase in 26:10. Alternate translation: [I will be destroyed by the hand of Saul] or [the hand of Saul will destroy me one day]

I will be swept away one day by the hand of Saul

Quote: אֶסָּפֶ֥ה יוֹם־אֶחָ֖ד בְּ⁠יַד־שָׁא֑וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using one part of Saul, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of attacking him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [I will be destroyed one day by Saul] or [Saul will destroy me one day]

There is} no good for me except escaping, I should escape

Quote: אֵֽין־לִ֨⁠י ט֜וֹב כִּ֣י הִמָּלֵ֥ט אִמָּלֵ֣ט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

If it would appear in your language that David was making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this as a positive statement. Alternate translation: [The only good thing for me is that escaping, I should escape]

good

Quote: ט֜וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

David is using the adjective good as a noun to mean a certain kind of thing. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this adjective with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [good thing]

escaping, I should escape

Quote: הִמָּלֵ֥ט אִמָּלֵ֣ט (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

David is repeating forms of the verb “escape” in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [I should definitely escape]

the border of Israel

Quote: גְּב֣וּל יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term border by association to mean the territory within borders. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the territory of Israel]

from his hand

Quote: מִ⁠יָּדֽ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term hand by association to mean Saul’s power or control. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [his power]

1 Samuel 27:2

And David arose

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֣קָם דָּוִ֔ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By arose, the author means that David took action based on his decision. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [So David took action]

1 Samuel 27:3

a man and his house

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ וּ⁠בֵית֑⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if each man’s family were his house. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [each man with his family]

the wife of Nabal

Quote: אֵֽשֶׁת־נָבָ֖ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

Your language may have its own term or expression for this relationship, since Nabal was now dead and Abigail was no longer his legal wife. Alternate translation: [who had been the wife of Nabal] or [the widow of Nabal]

1 Samuel 27:4

And it was declared to Saul

Quote: וַ⁠יֻּגַּ֣ד לְ⁠שָׁא֔וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And someone told Saul]

and he did not add to seek him more

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־יָסַ֥ף ע֖וֹד לְ⁠בַקְשֽׁ⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of this culture to mean that Saul stopped doing something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [so he did not continue to seek him further]

1 Samuel 27:5

I have found favor in your eyes

Quote: מָצָ֨אתִי חֵ֤ן בְּ⁠עֵינֶ֨י⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term eyes by association to mean Achish’s judgment or evaluation. See how you translated the similar phrase in 1:18. Alternate translation: [you regard me favorably]

may they give to me

Quote: יִתְּנוּ־לִ֣⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [may you give to me] or [may I be given]

to me … and let me dwell

Quote: לִ֣⁠י & וְ⁠אֵ֣שְׁבָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

David is using himself as a representative of his entire group. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [to us … and let us dwell]

in one of the cities of the field

Quote: בְּ⁠אַחַ֛ת עָרֵ֥י הַ⁠שָּׂדֶ֖ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term field by association to mean a rural area. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in a city in a more rural area]

For why should your servant dwell in the city of the kingship with you

Quote: וְ⁠לָ֨⁠מָּה יֵשֵׁ֧ב עַבְדְּ⁠ךָ֛ בְּ⁠עִ֥יר הַ⁠מַּמְלָכָ֖ה עִמָּֽ⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

David is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [There is no need for your servant to dwell in the city of the kingship with you.]

your servant

Quote: עַבְדְּ⁠ךָ֛ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

David is speaking about himself humbly in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [I, your servant]

1 Samuel 27:6

on that day

Quote: בַּ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠ה֖וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Therefore Ziklag is to the kings of Judah up to this day

Quote: לָ⁠כֵ֞ן הָיְתָ֤ה צִֽקְלַג֙ לְ⁠מַלְכֵ֣י יְהוּדָ֔ה עַ֖ד הַ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing background information to help readers understand why the city of Ziklag, formerly a Philistine possession, belonged to the kings of Judah in their own time. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

up to this day

Quote: עַ֖ד הַ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By up to this day, the author means the time when he was writing. In your translation, make clear that the phrase refers to a time that is now in the past. Avoid giving the impression the phrase means “to the present day.” Alternate translation: [right up to the time of this writing]

1 Samuel 27:7

And the number of the days … was

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי֙ מִסְפַּ֣ר הַ⁠יָּמִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term the number of the days by association to mean a certain length of time, since time is made up of days. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And the length of time]

in the field of the Philistines

Quote: בִּ⁠שְׂדֵ֣ה פְלִשְׁתִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term field by association to mean a territory or region in which there were fields. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in the territory of the Philistines]

the days

Quote: הַ⁠יָּמִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-plural

In Hebrew, the plural form days can mean a year. That is the meaning in this context. Alternate translation: [one year]

1 Samuel 27:8

And David and his men went up

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֤עַל דָּוִד֙ וַֽ⁠אֲנָשָׁ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

See how you translated the similar phrase in 1:3, where the author, in keeping with the conventions of his culture, marks travel for change in elevation. The Philistine territory was on the coastland, and David and his men had to go up in elevation to reach the other places the author describes. Alternate translation: [And David and his men went]

the Geshurite and the Girzite and the Amalekite

Quote: הַ⁠גְּשׁוּרִ֥י ו⁠ה⁠גרזי וְ⁠הָ⁠עֲמָלֵקִ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The author is not referring to a specific Geshurite, Girzite, or Amalekite. He means the members of these people groups in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Geshurites and the Girzites and the Amalekites]

for they were dwelling in the land, that from ancient times

Quote: כִּ֣י הֵ֜נָּה יֹשְׁב֤וֹת הָ⁠אָ֨רֶץ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר מֵֽ⁠עוֹלָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing background information to help readers understand who these people groups were. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture. Alternate translation: [(for they had lived in that area since ancient times)]

in your going to Shur and to the land of Egypt

Quote: בּוֹאֲ⁠ךָ֥ שׁ֖וּרָ⁠ה וְ⁠עַד־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mean the area extending as far as Shur and the border of Egypt. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [as far as Shur and up to the border of Egypt]

1 Samuel 27:9

And David struck the land and did not let a man or a woman live

Quote: וְ⁠הִכָּ֤ה דָוִד֙ אֶת־הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ וְ⁠לֹ֥א יְחַיֶּ֖ה אִ֣ישׁ וְ⁠אִשָּׁ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term land by association to mean the people who lived in the land. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And David struck the people who lived there and did not let a man or a woman live]

And David struck the land and did not let a man or a woman live

Quote: וְ⁠הִכָּ֤ה דָוִד֙ אֶת־הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ וְ⁠לֹ֥א יְחַיֶּ֖ה אִ֣ישׁ וְ⁠אִשָּׁ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here the context shows that the term struck means “killed,” as it often does elsewhere in the book. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And David killed the people and did not let a man or a woman live]

And David struck the land and did not let a man or a woman live

Quote: וְ⁠הִכָּ֤ה דָוִד֙ אֶת־הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ וְ⁠לֹ֥א יְחַיֶּ֖ה אִ֣ישׁ וְ⁠אִשָּׁ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

The author is speaking of two basic types of people, man and woman, in order to mean all people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And David struck the land and did not let anyone live]

And David struck the land and did not let a man or a woman live

Quote: וְ⁠הִכָּ֤ה דָוִד֙ אֶת־הָ⁠אָ֔רֶץ וְ⁠לֹ֥א יְחַיֶּ֖ה אִ֣ישׁ וְ⁠אִשָּׁ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [And David killed every one of the people]

and did not let a man or a woman live

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֥א יְחַיֶּ֖ה אִ֣ישׁ וְ⁠אִשָּׁ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Since the author indicates in 27:11 the reason why David killed all the people, you do not need to explain that reason here.

1 Samuel 27:10

Have you not raided today

Quote: אַל־פְּשַׁטְתֶּ֖ם הַ⁠יּ֑וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Achish is using the question form for emphasis. (David probably brought him a share of the spoils from his raids, which is what would have prompted this response.) If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for emphasis, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You must have raided today!]

Have you not raided today

Quote: אַל־פְּשַׁטְתֶּ֖ם הַ⁠יּ֑וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular

The word you is plural here because Achish is speaking of David and his men, so use the plural form in your translation if your language marks that distinction.

And David said, “Against the Negev of Judah” or “against the Negev of the Jerahmeelite” or “against the Negev of the Kenite

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר דָּוִ֗ד עַל־נֶ֤גֶב יְהוּדָה֙ וְ⁠עַל־נֶ֣גֶב הַ⁠יַּרְחְמְאֵלִ֔י וְ⁠אֶל־נֶ֖גֶב הַ⁠קֵּינִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

David is leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [And David would say, “We raided against the Negev of Judah” or “We raided against the Negev of the Jerahmeelite” or “We raided against the Negev of the Kenite.”]

the Negev of Judah” … the Negev of the Jerahmeelite” … the Negev of the Kenite

Quote: נֶ֤גֶב יְהוּדָה֙ & נֶ֣גֶב הַ⁠יַּרְחְמְאֵלִ֔י & נֶ֖גֶב הַ⁠קֵּינִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term Negev by association to mean the people who lived in that region. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the people who live in the part of the Negev that belongs to Judah … the people who live in the part of the Negev that belongs to the Jehrameelite … the people who live in the part of the Negev that belongs to the Kenite]

the Jerahmeelite” … the Kenite

Quote: הַ⁠יַּרְחְמְאֵלִ֔י & הַ⁠קֵּינִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The author is not referring to specific individuals but to people groups. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Jehrameelites … the Kenites]

1 Samuel 27:11

Now David did not let a man or a woman live to bring {to} Gath

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֨ישׁ וְ⁠אִשָּׁ֜ה לֹֽא־יְחַיֶּ֣ה דָוִ֗ד לְ⁠הָבִ֥יא גַת֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing background information to help readers understand why David killed all the people in the places he raided. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

Now David did not let a man or a woman live

Quote: וְ⁠אִ֨ישׁ וְ⁠אִשָּׁ֜ה לֹֽא־יְחַיֶּ֣ה דָוִ֗ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Lest they declare about us, saying, ‘Thus did David do

Quote: פֶּן־יַגִּ֥דוּ עָלֵ֖י⁠נוּ לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר כֹּֽה־עָשָׂ֤ה דָוִד֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [Lest they declare about us and tell what I actually did]

in the field of the Philistines

Quote: בִּ⁠שְׂדֵ֥ה פְלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

1 Samuel 27:12

in David

Quote: בְּ⁠דָוִ֣ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term David by association to mean what David told Achish. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in what David told him]

Stinking, he stinks among his people in Israel

Quote: הַבְאֵ֤שׁ הִבְאִישׁ֙ בְּ⁠עַמּ֣⁠וֹ בְ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Achish is repeating forms of the verb “stink” in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [He must certainly stink among his people in Israel]

Stinking, he stinks among his people in Israel

Quote: הַבְאֵ֤שׁ הִבְאִישׁ֙ בְּ⁠עַמּ֣⁠וֹ בְ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Achish is speaking as if David were giving off a bad odor that would make people avoid him. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [He has certainly made himself odious to his people in Israel] or [His fellow Israelites must now consider him to be a terrible person]

1 Samuel 28

1 Samuel 28 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). It describes how, because of Saul’s disobedience, Yahweh would no longer guide him about how to fight against the Philistines. It tells how Saul instead asked a woman to contact the spirit of Samuel for him so that Samuel could provide guidance. But Samuel only told Saul that what he had prophesied was about to come true. Saul and his sons would be killed in battle against the Philistines the next day.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

What were “ritual pits” and “familiar spirits” (28:3)?

A “ritual pit” was a hole that some people in this culture dug in the ground in order to use it in ceremonies in which they tried to contact the spirits of dead people. Some versions of the Bible translate this term as “medium,” referring to a person who tries to contact such spirits. However, the most recent biblical scholarship suggests that the term refers to the pit rather than to the person who uses it. A “familiar spirit” was a supernatural being that people in this culture believed could help them gain secret knowledge. Some versions of the Bible translate this term as “wizard,” “spiritist,” or “soothsayer,” once again referring to the person who uses the means rather than the means itself. But current scholarship suggests in this case as well that it refers to the spirit rather than the person who uses it. The law of Moses forbade such practices, and that was why Saul at first had banned them from Israel. The fact that he now turned to a woman who owned a ritual pit shows how he was no longer obeying God.

How did the woman know her visitor was Saul once she had seen Samuel?

In 28:12, the author says that when the woman with the ritual pit saw Samuel, she “cried out with a loud voice” and then said to her visitor, “Why have you deceived me? For you are Saul!” While the author does not state this explicitly, this suggests that the woman was not expecting to see anyone or anything like Samuel when he appeared. The overall teaching of the Bible is that it is not possible to contact the spirits of people who have died and that it is not possible for those spirits to return to earth. So Yahweh apparently did something very exceptional in this case. This surprised and frightened the woman. She also apparently concluded that this would only have happened for someone as important as Saul, and that was how she realized who her visitor was. Readers of the Bible are not meant to take any encouragement from this episode to try to contact the spirits of people who have died. Samuel announced that Yahweh had judged Saul for his disobedience and that he was was going to punish him with death before another day went by. Trying to contact the spirit of a dead person was further disobedience, and it only resulted in a definitive pronouncement of judgment and punishment.

Where were Shunem and Gilboa?

The author says in 28:4 that Philistines assembled their troops and marched into Israel and set up their tents near the city of Shunem. That city was in the north of Israel, within the Valley of Jezreel. While the Israelites lived in hilly territory that became more mountainous the farther it got from the coast, the Philistines were able to use that valley to march well into Israel. The author also says in 28:4 that Saul gathered the Israelite army and they set up their tents at Gilboa. That was a mountain range on one side of the Valley of Jezreel. So as in the case of the battle in which Goliath challenged the Israelites (17:3), the Israelites took up defensive positions on a height overlooking a potential field of battle.

1 Samuel 28:1

And it happened

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is introducing a new event, an invasion of Israel by the Philistine army. Use a word, phrase, or other method here that is natural in your language for introducing a new event.

And Achish said to David, “Knowing, you know that you shall go out with me into the camp, you and your men

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֤אמֶר אָכִישׁ֙ אֶל־דָּוִ֔ד יָדֹ֣עַ תֵּדַ֗ע כִּ֤י אִתִּ⁠י֙ תֵּצֵ֣א בַֽ⁠מַּחֲנֶ֔ה אַתָּ֖ה וַ⁠אֲנָשֶֽׁי⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

Here and in the next verse, the author is introducing an episode within the event of the Philistine invasion, King Achish of Gath requiring David and his men to join him in fighting against Israel. The author will resume his account of this episode in 29:1 after relating a different episode in this chapter. Use a word, phrase, or other method here that is natural in your language for introducing an episode within an event.

in those days

Quote: בַּ⁠יָּמִ֣ים הָ⁠הֵ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term days by association to mean a certain time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [at that time]

their camps

Quote: אֶת־מַֽחֲנֵי⁠הֶם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term camps by association to mean the soldiers who stayed in those camps. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [their soldiers]

Knowing, you know

Quote: יָדֹ֣עַ תֵּדַ֗ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Achish is repeating forms of the verb “know” in order to intensify his expression of the idea that it conveys. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [You must certainly know]

1 Samuel 28:2

Therefore you yourself will know

Quote: לָ⁠כֵן֙ אַתָּ֣ה תֵדַ֔ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

David is using the word Therefore to acknowledge that what Achish has just said is true and to describe something that is also true as a result. Alternate translation: [That being the case, you yourself will know]

you yourself will know

Quote: אַתָּ֣ה תֵדַ֔ע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term know by association to mean seeing or experiencing something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [you yourself will see]

your servant

Quote: עַבְדֶּ֑⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

David is speaking about himself in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [I, your servant]

Therefore I am appointing you

Quote: לָ⁠כֵ֗ן & אֲשִֽׂימְ⁠ךָ֖ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Achish is using the word Therefore in the same sense that David uses it earlier in this verse. Alternate translation: [That being the case, I am appointing you]

the keeper of my head

Quote: שֹׁמֵ֧ר לְ⁠רֹאשִׁ֛⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Achish is using one part of himself, his head, to mean all of him in the act of protection. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [my personal bodyguard]

all of the days

Quote: כָּל־הַ⁠יָּמִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Achish is using the term days by association to mean time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [all of the time] or [permanently]

1 Samuel 28:3

Now Samuel had died, … And Saul had removed the ritual pits and the familiar spirits from the land

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁמוּאֵ֣ל מֵ֔ת & וְ⁠שָׁא֗וּל הֵסִ֛יר הָ⁠אֹב֥וֹת וְ⁠אֶת־הַ⁠יִּדְּעֹנִ֖ים מֵ⁠הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is providing background information to help readers understand what happens in the episode that he relates in this chapter. In your translation, introduce this information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

and they had buried him

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְבְּרֻ֥⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [and the Israelites had buried him] or [and he was buried]

And Saul had removed the ritual pits and the familiar spirits from the land

Quote: וְ⁠שָׁא֗וּל הֵסִ֛יר הָ⁠אֹב֥וֹת וְ⁠אֶת־הַ⁠יִּדְּעֹנִ֖ים מֵ⁠הָ⁠אָֽרֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author means that Saul had forbidden these practices. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And Saul had forbidden people to use ritual pits or consult familiar spirits in the land]

the ritual pits and the familiar spirits

Quote: הָ⁠אֹב֥וֹת וְ⁠אֶת־הַ⁠יִּדְּעֹנִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the terms ritual pits and familiar spirits by association to mean the people who used these things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the people who used ritual pits to contact the dead and the people who consulted familiar spirits to obtain secret knowledge]

the ritual pits

Quote: הָ⁠אֹב֥וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A ritual pit was a hole in the ground that was used in ceremonies to contact the spirits of dead people. If your readers would not be familiar with what a ritual pit was, in your translation you could use the name of a similar thing that your readers would recognize, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [the places that people used to try to contact the dead]

the familiar spirits

Quote: הַ⁠יִּדְּעֹנִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A familiar spirit was a supernatural being that people in this culture believed could help them gain secret knowledge. If your readers would not be familiar with this, in your translation you could use the name of a similar thing that your readers would recognize, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [the spirits that people believed could give them secret knowledge]

1 Samuel 28:4

all of Israel

Quote: אֶת־כָּל־יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term Israel by association to mean the Israelite army. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the whole Israelite army]

1 Samuel 28:5

the camp of the Philistines

Quote: אֶת־מַחֲנֵ֣ה פְלִשְׁתִּ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term camp by association to mean the soldiers in the camp. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the army of the Philistines]

1 Samuel 28:6

by the Urim

Quote: בָּ⁠אוּרִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one of two objects that were used to obtain guidance, the Urim, to represent both parts. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [by the Urim and Thummim]

by the Urim

Quote: בָּ⁠אוּרִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

The Urim was one of two objects (along with the Thummim) that the high priest used to determine God’s will. If your readers would not be familiar with what the Urim was, in your translation you could use the name of a similar thing that your readers would recognize, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [by the sacred lots]

1 Samuel 28:7

Behold

Quote: הִנֵּ֛ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The servants are speaking as if they were showing Saul something that he could see. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [Listen] or [Pay attention to what I am about to tell you]

a woman of a mistress of a ritual pit {is} in Endor

Quote: אֵ֥שֶׁת בַּֽעֲלַת־א֖וֹב בְּ⁠עֵ֥ין דּֽוֹר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

The author is quoting what Saul’s servants said in order to introduce this woman as a new participant in the story. Your language may have its own way of introducing new participants that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [there is a certain woman in Endor who owns a ritual pit]

a woman of a mistress of

Quote: אֵ֣שֶׁת בַּעֲלַת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

The servants are using this possessive form to mean that this woman is the mistress or owner of the pit. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [a woman who is the owner of]

1 Samuel 28:8

And Saul disguised himself and put on other garments

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתְחַפֵּ֣שׂ שָׁא֗וּל וַ⁠יִּלְבַּשׁ֙ בְּגָדִ֣ים אֲחֵרִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The words put on other garments tells in what way Saul disguised himself. Alternate translation: [And Saul disguised himself by putting on other garments]

and bring up

Quote: וְ⁠הַ֣עֲלִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the term bring up by association to mean to summon a spirit from the realm of the dead. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and summon]

1 Samuel 28:9

that he has cut off

Quote: אֲשֶׁ֥ר הִכְרִ֛ית (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The woman is speaking as if these pits and spirits as if they were something that Saul had cut off from a larger thing of which they were a part. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [that he has banned]

the ritual pits and the familiar spirits

Quote: אֶת־הָ⁠אֹב֥וֹת וְ⁠אֶת־הַ⁠יִּדְּעֹנִ֖י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The woman is using the terms ritual pits and familiar spirits by association to mean the people who used those things. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [people who use ritual pits to contact the dead and people who consult familiar spirits to obtain secret knowledge]

So why are you setting a trap against my life, to cause me to die

Quote: וְ⁠לָ⁠מָ֥ה אַתָּ֛ה מִתְנַקֵּ֥שׁ בְּ⁠נַפְשִׁ֖⁠י לַ⁠הֲמִיתֵֽ⁠נִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The woman is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [So you should not be setting a trap against my life, to cause me to die!]

setting a trap against my life

Quote: מִתְנַקֵּ֥שׁ בְּ⁠נַפְשִׁ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The woman is speaking as if her visitor were setting a physical trap to catch her. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [asking me to do something that would put my life in danger, with the result that I would die]

1 Samuel 28:10

The life of Yahweh, if punishment shall meet you for this thing

Quote: חַי־יְהוָ֕ה אִֽם־יִקְּרֵ֥⁠ךְ עָוֺ֖ן בַּ⁠דָּבָ֥ר הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Following the custom of his culture, Saul is swearing an oath by guaranteeing it by something he holds sacred. What he states as a condition is what he means will not happen. Use a natural way in your language to express an oath. Alternate translation: [I swear by Yahweh that no punishment shall meet you for this thing]

if punishment shall meet you for this thing

Quote: אִֽם־יִקְּרֵ֥⁠ךְ עָוֺ֖ן בַּ⁠דָּבָ֥ר הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

Saul is speaking of punishment as if it were a person who could meet someone. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [no one will punish you for this thing]

1 Samuel 28:11

shall I bring up … Bring up

Quote: אַֽעֲלֶה & הַֽעֲלִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The woman and Saul are using the expression bring up by association to mean to summon someone from the realm of the dead. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [shall I summon … Summon]

1 Samuel 28:12

and she cried out with a loud voice. … For you are Saul

Quote: וַ⁠תִּזְעַ֖ק בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל גָּד֑וֹל & וְ⁠אַתָּ֥ה שָׁאֽוּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See the discussion in the Introduction to this chapter of why the woman cried out and how she knew that her visitor was Saul.

For you are Saul

Quote: וְ⁠אַתָּ֥ה שָׁאֽוּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces the woman’s explanation of why she said that her visitor had deceived her. Alternate translation: [In fact, you are Saul]

1 Samuel 28:13

a god

Quote: אֱלֹהִ֥ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word translated as god can refer in some contexts to a being that is considered divine, but in this context it refers simply to a being that is a spirit, that is, a being that does not have a body. Express this in a way that would be natural in your language and culture.

1 Samuel 28:14

and he bowed, nostrils to the ground, and he prostrated himself

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקֹּ֥ד אַפַּ֛יִם אַ֖רְצָ⁠ה וַ⁠יִּשְׁתָּֽחוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

This was a symbolic action that showed respect and submission. See how you translated the similar expression in 20:41. Alternate translation: [and he knelt down and pressed his face to the ground, stretching himself out completely, to show great honor to Samuel]

1 Samuel 28:15

It is very narrow for me, the Philistines are fighting with me

Quote: צַר־לִ֨⁠י מְאֹ֜ד וּ⁠פְלִשְׁתִּ֣ים ׀ נִלְחָמִ֣ים בִּ֗⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

It is very narrow for me

Quote: צַר־לִ֨⁠י מְאֹ֜ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Saul is speaking as if he were in a physically narrow space where he did not have much freedom of movement. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. Alternate translation: [I am in a tight situation] or [I am in very difficult circumstances]

And God has turned aside from with me

Quote: וֵֽ⁠אלֹהִ֞ים סָ֤ר מֵֽ⁠עָלַ⁠י֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Saul is speaking as if God had physically turned aside and moved away from him. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And God has abandoned me] or [And God is no longer helping me]

by the hand of prophets

Quote: בְּ⁠יַֽד־הַ⁠נְּבִיאִם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Saul is using the term hand by association to mean action or agency. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [through the agency of prophets]

1 Samuel 28:16

And why do you ask me, since Yahweh has turned aside from with you and has become your enemy

Quote: וְ⁠לָ֖⁠מָּה תִּשְׁאָלֵ֑⁠נִי וַ⁠יהוָ֛ה סָ֥ר מֵ⁠עָלֶ֖י⁠ךָ וַ⁠יְהִ֥י עָרֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

And why do you ask me, since Yahweh has turned aside from with you and has become your enemy

Quote: וְ⁠לָ֖⁠מָּה תִּשְׁאָלֵ֑⁠נִי וַ⁠יהוָ֛ה סָ֥ר מֵ⁠עָלֶ֖י⁠ךָ וַ⁠יְהִ֥י עָרֶֽ⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Samuel is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [You should not ask me, since Yahweh has turned aside from with you and has become your enemy!] or [Since Yahweh has turned aside from with you and has become your enemy, you should not ask me!]

since Yahweh has turned aside from with you

Quote: וַ⁠יהוָ֛ה סָ֥ר מֵ⁠עָלֶ֖י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if Yahweh had physically turned aside and moved away from Saul. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [since Yahweh is no longer helping you] or [since Yahweh has abandoned you]

1 Samuel 28:17

by my hand

Quote: בְּ⁠יָדִ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term hand by association to mean his action or agency. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [through my agency]

For Yahweh has torn the kingdom from your hand

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרַ֨ע יְהוָ֤ה אֶת־הַ⁠מַּמְלָכָה֙ מִ⁠יָּדֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces Samuel’s explanation of what he meant by saying that Yahweh had done what he spoke. Alternate translation: [Specifically, Yahweh has torn the kingdom from your hand]

For Yahweh has torn the kingdom from your hand

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרַ֨ע יְהוָ֤ה אֶת־הַ⁠מַּמְלָכָה֙ מִ⁠יָּדֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Samuel is using one part of Saul, his hand, to mean all of him in the act of ruling. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [For Yahweh has torn the kingdom from you]

For Yahweh has torn the kingdom from your hand

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְרַ֨ע יְהוָ֤ה אֶת־הַ⁠מַּמְלָכָה֙ מִ⁠יָּדֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Samuel is speaking as if the kingdom were a physical object that Yahweh had torn away from Saul. See how you translated the similar expression in 15:28. Alternate translation: [Yahweh has taken the kingdom away from you]

1 Samuel 28:18

you did not listen to the voice of Yahweh

Quote: לֹֽא־שָׁמַ֨עְתָּ֙ בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term voice by association to mean what Yahweh said by using his voice. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [you did not listen to what Yahweh told you]

you did not listen to the voice of Yahweh

Quote: לֹֽא־שָׁמַ֨עְתָּ֙ בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל יְהוָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By you did not listen, Samuel means that Saul did not obey. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [you did not obey what Yahweh told you to do]

and you did not do the burning of his nose against Amalek

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־עָשִׂ֥יתָ חֲרוֹן־אַפּ֖⁠וֹ בַּ⁠עֲמָלֵ֑ק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the expression the burning of his nose by association to mean Yahweh’s anger. See how you translated the similar expression in 11:16. Alternate translation: [and you did not do his great anger against Amalek] or [and you did not execute his great wrath against Amalek]

1 Samuel 28:19

into the hand of the Philistines

Quote: בְּ⁠יַד־פְּלִשְׁתִּ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term hand by association to mean power or control. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [into the power of the Philistines]

will be} with me

Quote: עִמִּ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By with me, Samuel means in the realm of the dead. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [with me in the realm of the dead]

the camp of Israel

Quote: אֶת־מַחֲנֵ֣ה יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Samuel is using the term camp by association to mean the army that is staying in the camp. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the army of Israel]

1 Samuel 28:20

And Saul hurried and fell, the fullness of his height to the ground, for he feared greatly from the words of Samuel

Quote: וַ⁠יְמַהֵ֣ר שָׁא֗וּל וַ⁠יִּפֹּ֤ל מְלֹא־קֽוֹמָת⁠וֹ֙ אַ֔רְצָ⁠ה וַ⁠יִּרָ֥א מְאֹ֖ד מִ⁠דִּבְרֵ֣י שְׁמוּאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [And because Saul feared greatly from the words of Samuel, he hurried and fell, the fullness of his height to the ground]

And Saul hurried and fell

Quote: וַ⁠יְמַהֵ֣ר שָׁא֗וּל וַ⁠יִּפֹּ֤ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word hurried tells in what way Saul fell. Alternate translation: [And Saul hurriedly fell] or [And Saul immediately fell down]

from the words of Samuel

Quote: מִ⁠דִּבְרֵ֣י שְׁמוּאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term words by association to mean the message that Samuel delivered by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [because of what Samuel had said]

Also strength was not in him, for he had not eaten bread all of the day and all of the night

Quote: גַּם־כֹּ֨חַ֙ לֹא־הָ֣יָה ב֔⁠וֹ כִּ֣י לֹ֤א אָכַל֙ לֶ֔חֶם כָּל־הַ⁠יּ֖וֹם וְ⁠כָל־הַ⁠לָּֽיְלָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Also, because he had not eaten bread all of the day and all of the night, strength was not in him]

bread

Quote: לֶ֔חֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one kind of food, bread, to mean food in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [food]

1 Samuel 28:21

he was very frightened

Quote: נִבְהַ֣ל מְאֹ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [this had frightened him greatly]

your female servant has listened

Quote: שָׁמְעָ֤ה שִׁפְחָֽתְ⁠ךָ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

The woman is speaking about herself humbly in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [I, your female servant, have listened]

has listened to your voice

Quote: שָׁמְעָ֤ה & בְּ⁠קוֹלֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The woman is using the term voice by association to mean what Saul said by using his voice. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [has listened to what you said]

has listened to your voice

Quote: שָׁמְעָ֤ה & בְּ⁠קוֹלֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By has listened to your voice, the woman means that she has done what Saul requested. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [has done what you requested]

and I have put my life in my palm, for I heard the words that you spoke to me

Quote: וָ⁠אָשִׂ֤ים נַפְשִׁ⁠י֙ בְּ⁠כַפִּ֔⁠י וָֽ⁠אֶשְׁמַע֙ אֶת־דְּבָרֶ֔י⁠ךָ אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבַּ֖רְתָּ אֵלָֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

and I have put my life in my palm

Quote: וָ⁠אָשִׂ֤ים נַפְשִׁ⁠י֙ בְּ⁠כַפִּ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The woman is using a common expression of her culture to mean that she has risked her life. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. See how you translated the similar expression in 19:5. Alternate translation: [And I have taken my life into my own hands] or [And I have put myself in danger of being killed]

for I heard the words that you spoke to me

Quote: וָֽ⁠אֶשְׁמַע֙ אֶת־דְּבָרֶ֔י⁠ךָ אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבַּ֖רְתָּ אֵלָֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The woman is using the term words by association to mean what Saul said by using words. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for I heard what you said to me]

for I heard the words that you spoke to me

Quote: וָֽ⁠אֶשְׁמַע֙ אֶת־דְּבָרֶ֔י⁠ךָ אֲשֶׁ֥ר דִּבַּ֖רְתָּ אֵלָֽ⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By I heard the words, the woman means that she obeyed what Saul told her to do. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [for I obeyed what you told me to do]

1 Samuel 28:22

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֗ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

And now was a common expression that speakers in this culture used to introduce their main topic. See how you translated this expression in 6:7. Alternate translation: [So this is what I would like you to do]

listen

Quote: שְׁמַֽע (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this same verb in the previous verse.

to the voice of your female servant

Quote: בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל שִׁפְחָתֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

The woman is speaking about herself humbly in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate this in the first person. Alternate translation: [to my voice]

to the voice of your female servant

Quote: בְּ⁠ק֣וֹל שִׁפְחָתֶ֔⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The woman is using the term voice by association to mean what she is saying by using her voice. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [to what I am telling you]

to your face

Quote: לְ⁠פָנֶ֛י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The woman is using the term face by association to mean the area in front of Saul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [before you]

a piece of bread

Quote: פַּת־לֶ֖חֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

The woman is using the courteous hospitality language of her culture and understating what she is offering to Saul. Use a comparable way of speaking from your own language and culture. Alternate translation: [a simple meal]

1 Samuel 28:23

and he listened to their voice

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁמַ֖ע לְ⁠קֹלָ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term voice by association to mean what the servants and the woman said by using their voices. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and he listened to what they said]

and he listened to their voice

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁמַ֖ע לְ⁠קֹלָ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By he listened to their voice, the author means that Saul agreed to do what they said. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and he agreed to do what they said]

the bed

Quote: הַ⁠מִּטָּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

In this context, the word translated as bed described a couch or divan in a common room on which household members and guests could sit to visit and eat. Your language may have a term for such a piece of furniture that you can use in your translation.

1 Samuel 28:24

was} a calf of the stall

Quote: עֵֽגֶל־מַרְבֵּק֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

A calf of the stall was a young cow that people in this culture kept in a pen and fed well to make it fat so that its meat would be juicy and tasty when it was served on a special occasion or to important guests. If your readers would not be familiar with what this is, in your translation you could use the name of a similar thing that your readers would recognize, or you could use a general expression. Alternate translation: [was a young cow that she had been fattening]

and she hurried and slaughtered it

Quote: וַ⁠תְּמַהֵ֖ר וַ⁠תִּזְבָּחֵ֑⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word hurried tells in what way the woman slaughtered the calf. Alternate translation: [and she hurriedly slaughtered it]

1 Samuel 28:25

And she brought it to the face of Saul and to the face of his servants

Quote: וַ⁠תַּגֵּ֧שׁ לִ⁠פְנֵֽי־שָׁא֛וּל וְ⁠לִ⁠פְנֵ֥י עֲבָדָ֖י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term face by association to mean the area in front of these people. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [And she set it in front of Saul and his servants]

1 Samuel 29

1 Samuel 29 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). It describes how the Philistine lords refused to have David and his men accompany them into battle against the Israelites.

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.

Translation Issues in This Chapter

Did David want to fight in the Philistine army against the Israelites?

It is unclear whether David wanted to go into battle with the Philistines against the Israelites. He would have been fighting against Saul, an enemy who was determined to kill him. But he also would have been fighting against the soldiers of his own people group, and they were not his enemies. Some scholars believe that David planned to turn against the Philistines during the battle, as the Philistine lords were afraid he would do. But the author does not say that specifically. As David speaks with Achish in 29:6–10, he insists that he wants to fight in his army (as he also does in 28:1–2). However, David may have said that for his own protection while he was among the Philistines and not really meant it. Since David’s wishes are unclear, we recommend that you not suggest anything about them in the text of your translation or in a footnote.

1 Samuel 29:1

Now the Philistines had gathered all of their camp {at} Aphek, and Israel was camping at the spring that {is} in Jezreel

Quote: וַ⁠יִּקְבְּצ֧וּ פְלִשְׁתִּ֛ים אֶת־כָּל־מַחֲנֵי⁠הֶ֖ם אֲפֵ֑קָ⁠ה וְ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵ֣ל חֹנִ֔ים בַּ⁠עַ֖יִן אֲשֶׁ֥ר בְּ⁠יִזְרְעֶֽאל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is reminding readers of the Philistine invasion, after relating in the previous chapter the episode of Saul seeking guidance from the woman who had a ritual pit. This is a restatement of where the action left off at 28:4–5, with the Israelites and Philistines in battle positions facing each other across a valley. Use a word, phrase, or other method here that is natural in your language for reminding readers where a story has left off.

their camp

Quote: מַחֲנֵי⁠הֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term camp by association to mean the army that was staying in the camp. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [their army]

1 Samuel 29:2

Now the lords of the Philistines were passing over by hundreds and by thousands, and David and his men were passing over in the rear with Achish

Quote: וְ⁠סַרְנֵ֤י פְלִשְׁתִּים֙ עֹֽבְרִ֔ים לְ⁠מֵא֖וֹת וְ⁠לַ⁠אֲלָפִ֑ים וְ⁠דָוִ֣ד וַ⁠אֲנָשָׁ֗י⁠ו עֹֽבְרִ֛ים בָּ⁠אַחֲרֹנָ֖ה עִם־אָכִֽישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-background

The author is returning to an earlier point in the story in order to provide background information about what happened to David before the battle between the Philistines and Israelites. In this chapter, the author will describe what happened to keep David from fighting in that battle, and in the next chapter, he will relate further information about David. Finally, in chapter 31, he will describe the battle itself. In your translation, introduce this background information in a way that would be natural in your own language and culture.

1 Samuel 29:3

What {are} these Hebrews

Quote: מָ֖ה הָ⁠עִבְרִ֣ים הָ⁠אֵ֑לֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The Philistine lords are using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [These Hebrews should not be marching with our army!]

are} … Hebrews

Quote: הָ⁠עִבְרִ֣ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

See how you decided to translate the name “Hebrews” in 13:3.

Is} this not David, the servant of Saul the king of Israel, who has been with me these days, or these years

Quote: הֲ⁠לֽוֹא־זֶ֨ה דָוִ֜ד עֶ֣בֶד ׀ שָׁא֣וּל מֶֽלֶךְ־יִשְׂרָאֵ֗ל אֲשֶׁ֨ר הָיָ֤ה אִתִּ⁠י֙ זֶ֤ה יָמִים֙ אוֹ־זֶ֣ה שָׁנִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Achish is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [This is David, the former servant of Saul the king of Israel, and he has been with me these days, or these years!]

these days, or these years

Quote: זֶ֤ה יָמִים֙ אוֹ־זֶ֣ה שָׁנִ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Achish is using the terms days and years by association to mean periods of time. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for many days, in fact, for years] or [for quite a long time]

And I have not found anything in him

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־מָצָ֤אתִי ב⁠וֹ֙ מְא֔וּמָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Achish means that he has not found anythingt wrong in David’s character or behavior. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And I have not found anything wrong in him]

And I have not found anything in him

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־מָצָ֤אתִי ב⁠וֹ֙ מְא֔וּמָה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the term found in 9:8. Alternate translation: [and he has done nothing wrong]

from the day of his falling … day

Quote: מִ⁠יּ֥וֹם נָפְל֖⁠וֹ & הַ⁠יּ֥וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Achish is using a common expression of this culture that describes deserting and going over to an opponent. Compare the similar usage in Jeremiah 37:13 and Jeremiah 38:19. Alternate translation: [from the time he deserted to me]

1 Samuel 29:4

to his place that you assigned him there

Quote: אֶל־מְקוֹמ⁠וֹ֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר הִפְקַדְתּ֣⁠וֹ שָׁ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [to his place that you assigned him]

For he shall not go down

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־יֵרֵ֤ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

By saying go down, the Philistine lords are marking travel for elevation, as was customary in this culture. Express this in a way that would be natural in your language. See how you translated the similar expression in 1:3. Alternate translation: [he shall not go]

with us

Quote: עִמָּ֨⁠נוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

The Philistine lords are using the pronoun us to refer to themselves to and Achish, whom they are addressing, so use the inclusive form of that word if your language marks that distinction.

For by what shall this {one} make himself acceptable to his master? {Is it} not by the heads of these men

Quote: וּ⁠בַ⁠מֶּ֗ה יִתְרַצֶּ֥ה זֶה֙ אֶל־אֲדֹנָ֔י⁠ו הֲ⁠ל֕וֹא בְּ⁠רָאשֵׁ֖י הָ⁠אֲנָשִׁ֥ים הָ⁠הֵֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

The Philistine lords are using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [For this one would make himself acceptable to his master by the heads of these men!]

For … not

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces not a reason but a further explanation. Alternate translation: [After all]

by the heads of these men

Quote: בְּ⁠רָאשֵׁ֖י הָ⁠אֲנָשִׁ֥ים הָ⁠הֵֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The Philistine lords are using one part of these men, their heads, to mean all of them in the act of potentially being killed by David and his men. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [by killing these men]

by the heads of these men

Quote: בְּ⁠רָאשֵׁ֖י הָ⁠אֲנָשִׁ֥ים הָ⁠הֵֽם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

The Philistine lords could also be suggesting that David and his men would cut off the heads of Philistine soldiers and bring them to Saul. That would be a symbolic action proving loyalty to Saul and providing him with war trophies, just as David took Goliath’s head as a war trophy in 17:54. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [by killing these men and presenting their heads to him as war trophies]

1 Samuel 29:5

Is} this not David, of whom they sing in the dances, saying, Saul has struck his thousands, and David his myriads

Quote: הֲ⁠לוֹא־זֶ֣ה דָוִ֔ד אֲשֶׁ֧ר יַעֲנוּ־ל֛⁠וֹ בַּ⁠מְּחֹל֖וֹת לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר הִכָּ֤ה שָׁאוּל֙ בַּֽ⁠אֲלָפָ֔י⁠ו וְ⁠דָוִ֖ד בְּרִבְבֹתָֽיו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

they sing

Quote: יַעֲנוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The author is not using the pronoun they to refer to specific people. Use an expression for this that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [people sing] or [is sung]

saying, Saul has struck his thousands, and David his myriads

Quote: לֵ⁠אמֹ֑ר הִכָּ֤ה שָׁאוּל֙ בַּֽ⁠אֲלָפָ֔י⁠ו וְ⁠דָוִ֖ד בְּרִבְבֹתָֽיו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [saying that Saul has struck his thousands, and David his myriads]

Saul has struck his thousands

Quote: הִכָּ֤ה שָׁאוּל֙ בַּֽ⁠אֲלָפָ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By struck, the singers mean killed in battle. See how you translated that term in 4:2. Alternate translation: [Saul has killed his thousands]

and David his myriads

Quote: וְ⁠דָוִ֖ד בְּרִבְבֹתָֽיו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The singers are leaving out some of the words that in many languages a sentence would need in order to be complete. You can supply these words from the context if that would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: [and David has struck his myriads] or [and David has killed his myriads]

his myriads

Quote: בְּרִבְבֹתָֽיו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers

See how you translated this number in 18:7. Alternate translation: [his ten thousands]

1 Samuel 29:6

The life of Yahweh, that

Quote: חַי־יְהוָ֞ה כִּי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Following the custom of his culture, Achish is swearing an oath by guaranteeing it by something he knows that David holds sacred. Use a natural way in your language to express an oath.

and your going out and your coming in with me in the camp {is} good in my eyes, for I have not found evil in you from the day of your coming to me until this day. … are} … good

Quote: וְ⁠ט֣וֹב בְּ֠⁠עֵינַ⁠י צֵאתְ⁠ךָ֨ וּ⁠בֹאֲ⁠ךָ֤ אִתִּ⁠י֙ בַּֽ⁠מַּחֲנֶ֔ה כִּ֠י לֹֽא־מָצָ֤אתִֽי בְ⁠ךָ֙ רָעָ֔ה מִ⁠יּ֛וֹם בֹּאֲ⁠ךָ֥ אֵלַ֖⁠י עַד־הַ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה & ט֥וֹב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [and since I have not found evil in you from the day of your coming to me until this day, your going out and your coming in with me in the camp is good in my eyes]

and your going out and your coming in with me in the camp {is} … good

Quote: וְ⁠ט֣וֹב & צֵאתְ⁠ךָ֨ וּ⁠בֹאֲ⁠ךָ֤ אִתִּ⁠י֙ בַּֽ⁠מַּחֲנֶ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Achish is using the term camp by association to mean the army that was staying in the camp. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and your going out and your coming in with me in the army]

and your going out and your coming in with me in the camp {is} … good

Quote: וְ⁠ט֣וֹב & צֵאתְ⁠ךָ֨ וּ⁠בֹאֲ⁠ךָ֤ אִתִּ⁠י֙ בַּֽ⁠מַּחֲנֶ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Achish is speaking of the first and last actions of a military campaign, going out and coming in, in order to mean military activities as a whole. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [your marching and fighting with me in the army]

and … is} good in my eyes, … But in the eyes of the lords you {are} not good

Quote: וְ⁠ט֣וֹב בְּ֠⁠עֵינַ⁠י & וּ⁠בְ⁠עֵינֵ֥י הַ⁠סְּרָנִ֖ים לֹֽא־ט֥וֹב אָֽתָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Achish is using the term eyes by association to mean sight. Sight, in turn, represents attention, perspective, and judgment. See how you translated the similar expression in 1:18. Alternate translation: [is acceptable to me … But this is not acceptable to the lords]

I have not found evil in you

Quote: לֹֽא־מָצָ֤אתִֽי בְ⁠ךָ֙ רָעָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

See how you translated the similar expressions in 29:3. Alternate translation: [you have done nothing wrong]

1 Samuel 29:7

And now

Quote: וְ⁠עַתָּ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Achish is using a common expression of his culture to introduce his main topic. See how you translated this expression in 6:7. Alternate translation: [So this is what I would like you to do]

return and go in peace, so you do not do evil in the eyes of the lords of the Philistines

Quote: שׁ֖וּב וְ⁠לֵ֣ךְ בְּ⁠שָׁל֑וֹם וְ⁠לֹֽא־תַעֲשֶׂ֣ה רָ֔ע בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֖י סַרְנֵ֥י פְלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [so that you do not do evil in the eyes of the lords of the Philistines, return and go in peace]

return and go in peace

Quote: שׁ֖וּב וְ⁠לֵ֣ךְ בְּ⁠שָׁל֑וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

in peace

Quote: בְּ⁠שָׁל֑וֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of peace, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [peacefully]

evil in the eyes of the lords of the Philistines

Quote: רָ֔ע בְּ⁠עֵינֵ֖י סַרְנֵ֥י פְלִשְׁתִּֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expressions in the previous verse. Alternate translation: [anything that the lords of the Philistines consider to be wrong]

1 Samuel 29:8

But what have I done? And what have you found in your servant from the day when I was to your face up to this day, that I may not come and fight with the enemies of my master the king

Quote: כִּ֣י מֶ֤ה עָשִׂ֨יתִי֙ וּ⁠מַה־מָּצָ֣אתָ בְ⁠עַבְדְּ⁠ךָ֔ מִ⁠יּוֹם֙ אֲשֶׁ֣ר הָיִ֣יתִי לְ⁠פָנֶ֔י⁠ךָ עַ֖ד הַ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה כִּ֣י לֹ֤א אָבוֹא֙ וְ⁠נִלְחַ֔מְתִּי בְּ⁠אֹיְבֵ֖י אֲדֹנִ֥⁠י הַ⁠מֶּֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

David is using the question form for emphasis. If a speaker of your language would not use the question form for that purpose, you could translate this as a statement or as an exclamation. Alternate translation: [But I have done nothing wrong! And have you found nothing in your servant from the day when I was to your face up to this day, that I may not come and fight with the enemies of my master the king!]

in your servant … my master the king

Quote: בְ⁠עַבְדְּ⁠ךָ֔ & אֲדֹנִ֥⁠י הַ⁠מֶּֽלֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-123person

David is speaking about himself humbly in the third person and to Achish respectfully in the third person. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate these expressions in the first and second persons. Alternate translation: [in me, your servant … you, my master, the king]

I was to your face

Quote: הָיִ֣יתִי לְ⁠פָנֶ֔י⁠ךָ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

David is using the term face by association to mean Achish’s presence. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [I came into your presence] or [I became your servant]

1 Samuel 29:9

And Achish answered and said to David

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֣עַן אָכִישׁ֮ וַ⁠יֹּ֣אמֶר אֶל־דָּוִד֒ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word answered tells for what purpose Achish said this to David. Alternate translation: [And Achish replied to David]

you {are} good in my eyes

Quote: ט֥וֹב אַתָּ֛ה בְּ⁠עֵינַ֖⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

See how you translated the similar expressions in 29:6 and 29:7. Alternate translation: [you are acceptable to me]

like an angel of God

Quote: כְּ⁠מַלְאַ֣ךְ אֱלֹהִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile

The point of this comparison is that just as an angel of God is completely innocent and trustworthy, so David has been completely innocent and trustworthy. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this point explicitly. Alternate translation: [like an innocent, trustworthy angel of God]

have said, ‘He shall not go up with us into the battle

Quote: אָֽמְר֔וּ לֹֽא־יַעֲלֶ֥ה עִמָּ֖⁠נוּ בַּ⁠מִּלְחָמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes

If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this so that there is not a quotation within a quotation. Alternate translation: [have said that you must not go up with us into the battle]

He shall not go up with us into the battle

Quote: לֹֽא־יַעֲלֶ֥ה עִמָּ֖⁠נוּ בַּ⁠מִּלְחָמָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

By saying go up, the Philistine lords are marking travel for change in elevation. In this instance, they are referring to marching up from the coastal plain into Israel. In 29:4, they were envisioning going down into the valley to fight. Express this in a way that would be natural in your language. Alternate translation: [He shall not go with us into the battle]

1 Samuel 29:10

with the servants of your master who came with you

Quote: וְ⁠עַבְדֵ֥י אֲדֹנֶ֖י⁠ךָ אֲשֶׁר־בָּ֣אוּ אִתָּ֑⁠ךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By the servants of your master, Achish means the other men who formerly served Saul but who came with David to serve Achish. The other Philistine lords were suspicious of the loyalty of all such men. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [with the other men who formerly served Saul but who came with you to serve me]

1 Samuel 30

1 Samuel 30 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). It describes how David and his men discovered that the Amalekites had attacked their town of Ziklag while they were away. The Amalekites had captured their families and animals and burned down all the buildings in the town. David received guidance from Yahweh that he would be able to pursue and defeat the Amalekites and recover the family members and animals. Yahweh made it possible for him to do that and also to capture a great amount of further plunder from the Amalekites.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

How did Yahweh guide David to pursue the Amalekites?

When David wanted to find out whether he should pursue the Amalekites to try to recover the family members and animals they had captured, he asked Abiathar the priest to bring the ephod to him (30:7). This suggests that David wanted Abiathar to use the Urim and Thummim to answer yes-and-no questions that he would ask Yahweh. The author says that David asked Yahweh, “Shall I pursue after this band? Will I overtake it?” He says that Yahweh replied, “Pursue, for overtaking, you will overtake, and delivering, you will deliver.” But this might be a summary of a series of questions and answers. David may have first asked Yahweh, “Shall I pursue after this band?” Abiathar would then have drawn out whichever stone, the Urim or the Thummim, that they had asked Yahweh to use to indicate “yes.” David would then have asked Yahweh, “Will I overtake it?” The answer once again would have been “yes.” Finally, David would have asked, “Will I deliver the captured people and animals?” And Yahweh would have said “yes.” Represent this in your translation in a way that would be clear and natural in your language.

1 Samuel 30:1

And it happened

Quote: וַ⁠יְהִ֞י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is introducing a new development in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method here that is natural in your language for introducing a new development.

on the third day

Quote: בַּ⁠יּ֣וֹם הַ⁠שְּׁלִישִׁ֑י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is describing a particular time according to the conventions of his culture. See how you translated this in 4:7. Alternate translation: [on the second day after they left the Philistine army]

that the Amalekite

Quote: וַ⁠עֲמָלֵקִ֣י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The author is not referring to a specific Amalekite. He means Amalekites in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Amalekites]

and they had struck

Quote: וַ⁠יַּכּוּ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By struck, the author means that they had attacked. See how you translated that term in 23:2. Alternate translation: [and they had attacked]

and burned it with fire

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׂרְפ֥וּ אֹתָ֖⁠הּ בָּ⁠אֵֽשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [and burned it down] or [and set it on fire]

1 Samuel 30:2

from small and to great

Quote: מִ⁠קָּטֹ֣ן וְ⁠עַד־גָּד֔וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author is not using this phrase to describe the women of the city. He is using it to describe the other dependent family members, including children and older adults, whom David’s men had left behind when they marched out with the Philistine army. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and all the other people, from small and to great]

from small and to great

Quote: מִ⁠קָּטֹ֣ן וְ⁠עַד־גָּד֔וֹל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Here the terms small and great refer to people’s ages. The author is speaking of two extremes in order to mean them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [and all the other people of all ages]

a man

Quote: אִ֑ישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

1 Samuel 30:3

and behold

Quote: וְ⁠הִנֵּ֥ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is using the term behold to focus readers’ attention on what he is about to say. See how you translated the same term in 2:31. Alternate translation: [and this was the situation]

it was burned with fire

Quote: שְׂרוּפָ֖ה בָּ⁠אֵ֑שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [the Amalekites had burned it with fire]

it was burned with fire

Quote: שְׂרוּפָ֖ה בָּ⁠אֵ֑שׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

See how you translated this expression in 30:1. Alternate translation: [and burned it down] or [and set it on fire]

And their wives and their sons and their daughters had been taken captive

Quote: וּ⁠נְשֵׁי⁠הֶ֛ם וּ⁠בְנֵי⁠הֶ֥ם וּ⁠בְנֹתֵי⁠הֶ֖ם נִשְׁבּֽוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And the Amalekites had taken their wives and their sons and their daughters captive]

1 Samuel 30:4

and the people

Quote: וְ⁠הָ⁠עָ֧ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By the people, the author means the fighting men who accompanied David. See how you translated this in 13:2. Alternate translation: [and the fighting men]

And … lifted up their voices and wept

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשָּׂ֨א & קוֹלָ֖⁠ם וַ⁠יִּבְכּ֑וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if the people had physically lifted their voices upward. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [increased the volume of their voices and wept]

And … lifted up their voices and wept

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשָּׂ֨א & קוֹלָ֖⁠ם וַ⁠יִּבְכּ֑וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The words lifted up their voices tell in what way the people wept. Alternate translation: [wept very loudly]

1 Samuel 30:5

And the two wives of David had been taken captive

Quote: וּ⁠שְׁתֵּ֥י נְשֵֽׁי־דָוִ֖ד נִשְׁבּ֑וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

the wife of Nabal

Quote: אֵ֖שֶׁת נָבָ֥ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship

Your language may have its own term or expression for this relationship. See how you translated this in 27:3. Alternate translation: [the widow of Nabal]

1 Samuel 30:6

And it was very narrow to David, for the people said to stone him, for the soul of all of the people {was} bitter, a man for his sons and for his daughters

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֨צֶר לְ⁠דָוִ֜ד מְאֹ֗ד כִּֽי־אָמְר֤וּ הָ⁠עָם֙ לְ⁠סָקְל֔⁠וֹ כִּֽי־מָ֨רָה֙ נֶ֣פֶשׁ כָּל־הָ⁠עָ֔ם אִ֖ישׁ עַל־בָּנָ֣יו וְ⁠עַל־בְּנֹתָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [And the soul of all of the people {was} bitter, a man for his sons and for his daughters, so the people said to stone David, so it was very narrow to him]

And it was very narrow to David

Quote: וַ⁠תֵּ֨צֶר לְ⁠דָוִ֜ד מְאֹ֗ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if David were in a physically narrow space in which it was difficult for him move. Your language may have a comparable expression that you can use in your translation. You could also use plain language. See how you translated this in 13:6. Alternate translation: [And David was in a tight situation] or [And David was in very dangerous circumstances]

the people said to stone him

Quote: אָמְר֤וּ הָ⁠עָם֙ לְ⁠סָקְל֔⁠וֹ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

It may be more natural in your language to have a direct quotation here. Alternate translation: [the people said, “Stone him!”]

the soul of all of the people {was} bitter

Quote: מָ֨רָה֙ נֶ֣פֶשׁ כָּל־הָ⁠עָ֔ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of the people, their soul, to mean all of them in the act of being bitter. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [all of the people were bitter]

for his sons and for his daughters

Quote: עַל־בָּנָ֣יו וְ⁠עַל־בְּנֹתָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

The author is speaking of two extremes, sons and daughters, in order to mean all family members. See 30:22, which shows that this included their wives. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [for his family]

1 Samuel 30:7

Abiathar the priest, the son of Ahimelek

Quote: אֶבְיָתָ֤ר הַ⁠כֹּהֵן֙ בֶּן־אֲחִימֶ֔לֶךְ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

Here the author is reintroducing Abiathar as a participant in the story. Your language may have its own way of reintroducing participants that you can use in your translation.

1 Samuel 30:8

Pursue, for overtaking, you will overtake, and delivering, you will deliver

Quote: רְדֹ֔ף כִּֽי־הַשֵּׂ֥ג תַּשִּׂ֖יג וְ⁠הַצֵּ֥ל תַּצִּֽיל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

overtaking, you will overtake, and delivering, you will deliver

Quote: הַשֵּׂ֥ג תַּשִּׂ֖יג וְ⁠הַצֵּ֥ל תַּצִּֽיל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-reduplication

Yahweh is repeating forms of the verbs overtake and deliver in order to intensify his expression of the ideas that they convey. If your language can repeat words for intensification, it would be appropriate to do that here in your translation. If not, your language may have another way of expressing the intensification. Alternate translation: [you will certainly overtake, and you will certainly deliver]

1 Samuel 30:9

And the ones left behind stayed

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠נּֽוֹתָרִ֖ים עָמָֽדוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

And the ones left behind stayed

Quote: וְ⁠הַ⁠נּֽוֹתָרִ֖ים עָמָֽדוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And some stayed, so the others left them behind]

stayed

Quote: עָמָֽדוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo

Since the story indicates in the next verse that these men stayed behind because they were too exhausted to continue, you do not need to explain that reason here.

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

And they found

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּמְצְא֤וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun they refers to some of David’s men. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And some of David’s men found]

And they found

Quote: וַֽ⁠יִּמְצְא֤וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author does not mean that David and his men were looking for people out in the field and that they found this man. He means that they met or encountered him. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. See how you translated the similar expression in 9:11. Alternate translation: [and they encountered]

a man, an Egyptian

Quote: אִישׁ־מִצְרִי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-participants

Here the author is introducing an Egyptian man as a new participant in the story. Your language may have its own way of introducing new participants that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [a certain Egyptian man]

And they gave bread to him, and he ate, and they had him drink water

Quote: וַ⁠יִּתְּנוּ־ל֥⁠וֹ לֶ֨חֶם֙ וַ⁠יֹּ֔אכַל וַ⁠יַּשְׁקֻ֖⁠הוּ מָֽיִם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

Since it is likely that the man could not have eaten the bread before he had drunk the water, it seems that the author is describing one event before describing another event that preceded it. In your translation, you may wish to relate these events in the order in which they happened. Alternate translation: [And they had him drink water, and they gave bread to him, and he ate]

1 Samuel 30:12

and his spirit returned to him

Quote: וַ⁠תָּ֥שָׁב רוּח֖⁠וֹ אֵלָ֑י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking as if the man’s spirit had left him and then returned. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and he regained his strength]

For

Quote: כִּ֠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces not a reason but a further explanation. Alternate translation: [He had been so weak because]

he had not eaten bread and had not drunk water three days and three nights

Quote: לֹֽא־אָ֤כַל לֶ֨חֶם֙ וְ⁠לֹא־שָׁ֣תָה מַ֔יִם שְׁלֹשָׁ֥ה יָמִ֖ים וּ⁠שְׁלֹשָׁ֥ה לֵילֽוֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to describe a period of time. See how you translated the similar expression in 4:7. Alternate translation: [this was the first time since two days earlier that he had eaten any bread or drunk any water]

bread

Quote: לֶ֨חֶם֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Since he refers to a fig cake and raisin clusters earlier in the verse, here author is using one kind of food, bread, to mean food in general. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [food]

1 Samuel 30:13

are} you? And where from this {are} you

Quote: אַ֔תָּה וְ⁠אֵ֥י מִ⁠זֶּ֖ה אָ֑תָּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to ask about someone’s origin. See how you translated the similar expression in 25:11. Alternate translation: [And where are you from]

the Amalekite

Quote: עֲמָֽלֵקִ֔י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The Egyptian man is not referring to a specific Amalekite. He means Amalekites in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Amalekites]

But my master abandoned me the third day because I became sick

Quote: וַ⁠יַּעַזְבֵ֧⁠נִי אֲדֹנִ֛⁠י כִּ֥י חָלִ֖יתִי הַ⁠יּ֥וֹם שְׁלֹשָֽׁה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

the third day

Quote: הַ⁠יּ֥וֹם שְׁלֹשָֽׁה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The author is using a common expression of his culture to mark time. See how you translated this in the previous verse. Alternate translation: [the day before yesterday]

1 Samuel 30:14

the Kerethite

Quote: הַ⁠כְּרֵתִ֛י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The author is not referring to a specific Kerethite. He means Kerethites in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using a plural form. Alternate translation: [the Kerethites]

Caleb

Quote: כָּלֵ֑ב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the name of the ancestor Caleb to refer to his descendants. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [the Calebites]

we burned with fire

Quote: שָׂרַ֥פְנוּ בָ⁠אֵֽשׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. See how you translated the similar expression in 30:3. Alternate translation: [we burned down] or [we set on fire]

1 Samuel 30:15

Swear to me by God, if you will cause me to die and if you will deliver me into the hand of my master

Quote: הִשָּׁבְעָ⁠ה֩ לִּ֨⁠י בֵֽ⁠אלֹהִ֜ים אִם־תְּמִיתֵ֗⁠נִי וְ⁠אִם־תַּסְגִּרֵ֨⁠נִי֙ בְּ⁠יַד־אֲדֹנִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations

It may be more natural in your language to have a direct quotation here. Alternate translation: [Swear to me by God, “If I cause you to die, or if I deliver you into the hand of your master!”]

Swear to me by God, if you will cause me to die and if you will deliver me into the hand of my master

Quote: הִשָּׁבְעָ⁠ה֩ לִּ֨⁠י בֵֽ⁠אלֹהִ֜ים אִם־תְּמִיתֵ֗⁠נִי וְ⁠אִם־תַּסְגִּרֵ֨⁠נִי֙ בְּ⁠יַד־אֲדֹנִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula

Following the custom of his culture, the Egyptian man is asking David to swear an oath by stating the first part of a condition (“if”) but not the second part (“then”). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explicitly state the second part of this condition. You could also just state the basic meaning of the oath. Alternate translation: [Swear to me by God, “If I cause you to die, or if I deliver you into the hand of your master, then may God punish me severely!”] or [Swear to me by God that you will not cause me to die and that you will not deliver me into the hand of my master]

1 Samuel 30:16

And he brought him down

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣רִדֵ֔⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

The pronoun he refers to the Egyptian man, while the pronoun him refers to David. It may be helpful to clarify this for your readers. Alternate translation: [And the Egyptian man brought David down]

And he brought him down

Quote: וַ⁠יֹּ֣רִדֵ֔⁠הוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of David’s group, David himself, to mean David and his men. You could indicate this by using a plural pronoun. Alternate translation: [And he brought them down]

over the face of all of the land

Quote: עַל־פְּנֵ֣י כָל־הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification

The author is speaking of the land as if it were a living thing that had a face. See how you translated the similar expression in 14:25. Alternate translation: [over the surface of all of the land]

over the face of all of the land

Quote: עַל־פְּנֵ֣י כָל־הָ⁠אָ֑רֶץ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

The author is making an overstatement for emphasis. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the emphasis in a different way. Alternate translation: [in widely scattered groups]

eating and drinking and celebrating for all of the great plunder that they had taken from the land of the Philistines and from the land of Judah

Quote: אֹכְלִ֤ים וְ⁠שֹׁתִים֙ וְ⁠חֹ֣גְגִ֔ים בְּ⁠כֹל֙ הַ⁠שָּׁלָ֣ל הַ⁠גָּד֔וֹל אֲשֶׁ֥ר לָקְח֛וּ מֵ⁠אֶ֥רֶץ פְּלִשְׁתִּ֖ים וּ⁠מֵ⁠אֶ֥רֶץ יְהוּדָֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [Because of all of the great plunder that they had taken from the land of the Philistines and from the land of Judah, they were eating and drinking and celebrating]

1 Samuel 30:17

And David struck them

Quote: וַ⁠יַּכֵּ֥⁠ם דָּוִ֛ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of David’s group, David himself, to mean him and his men. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And David and his men struck them]

And David struck them

Quote: וַ⁠יַּכֵּ֥⁠ם דָּוִ֛ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

In this context, by struck, the author means that they killed them. See how you translated this in 4:10. Alternate translation: [And David and his men slaughtered them]

from twilight and until the evening of the next day of them

Quote: מֵ⁠הַ⁠נֶּ֥שֶׁף וְ⁠עַד־הָ⁠עֶ֖רֶב לְ⁠מָֽחֳרָתָ֑⁠ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here the author is describing a period of time according to the conventions of his culture. Since the term twilight could describe either dawn or dusk, to be clear that he does not mean from dawn until evening on the day after David discovered the Amalekites, he says the next day of them, meaning the next or second of the two days on which David first discovered the Amalekites and then finished slaughtering them. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly in your translation. Alternate translation: [from the time it got dark that day until the evening of the following day]

And a man did not escape from them except 400 men

Quote: וְ⁠לֹֽא־נִמְלַ֤ט מֵ⁠הֶם֙ אִ֔ישׁ כִּי֩ אִם־אַרְבַּ֨ע מֵא֧וֹת אִֽישׁ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

If it would appear in your language that the author was making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this as a positive statement. Alternate translation: [And the only ones who escaped from them were 400 men]

who rode on camels and fled

Quote: אֲשֶׁר־רָכְב֥וּ עַל־הַ⁠גְּמַלִּ֖ים וַ⁠יָּנֻֽסוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two phrases connected with and. The phrase rode on camels tell in what way the men fled. Alternate translation: [who fled by riding on camels]

1 Samuel 30:18

Amalek

Quote: עֲמָלֵ֑ק (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the name of the ancestor Amalek to refer to his descendants. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the Amalekites]

1 Samuel 30:19

And nothing was missing to them

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֣א נֶעְדַּר־לָ֠⁠הֶם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: [And they were not missing anything]

from small and to great and to sons and daughters

Quote: מִן־הַ⁠קָּטֹ֨ן וְ⁠עַד־הַ⁠גָּד֜וֹל וְ⁠עַד־בָּנִ֤ים וּ⁠בָנוֹת֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

The author is speaking of two pairs extremes in order to mean them and everything in between. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [including all of the captives of every age and sex]

and from plunder and to all that they had taken for themselves

Quote: וּ⁠מִ⁠שָּׁלָ֔ל וְ⁠עַ֛ד כָּל־אֲשֶׁ֥ר לָקְח֖וּ לָ⁠הֶ֑ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine them. Alternate translation: [and including all of their plundered possessions]

1 Samuel 30:20

to the face of

Quote: לִ⁠פְנֵי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term face by association to mean the front of something. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [in front of]

that livestock

Quote: הַ⁠מִּקְנֶ֣ה הַ⁠ה֔וּא (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By that livestock, the author means their own recaptured livestock. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [their own recaptured livestock]

1 Samuel 30:21

behind David

Quote: אַחֲרֵ֣י דָוִ֗ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Since the author has already mentioned David by name earlier in the sentence, it may be natural in your language to refer to him by a pronoun here. Alternate translation: [behind him]

about peace

Quote: לְ⁠שָׁלֽוֹם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

See how you translated this expression in 17:18. Alternate translation: [how they were doing] or [if they were well]

1 Samuel 30:22

the evil and wicked men

Quote: אִֽישׁ־רָ֣ע וּ⁠בְלִיַּ֗עַל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The terms evil and wicked mean similar things. The author is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [the very wicked men]

But … answered and said

Quote: וַ⁠יַּ֜עַן & וַ⁠יֹּאמְר֗וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys

This expression conveys a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word answered tells for what purpose the men said this. In this case, the men were not answering a question but responding to the situation. Alternate translation: [responded]

we will not give to them from the plunder that we have rescued except a man, his wife and his sons

Quote: לֹֽא־נִתֵּ֣ן לָ⁠הֶ֔ם מֵ⁠הַ⁠שָּׁלָ֖ל אֲשֶׁ֣ר הִצַּ֑לְנוּ כִּֽי־אִם־אִ֤ישׁ אֶת־אִשְׁתּ⁠וֹ֙ וְ⁠אֶת־בָּנָ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions

If it would appear in your language that the men were making a statement and then contradicting it, you could reword this as a positive statement. Alternate translation: [the only thing we will give to them from the plunder that we have rescued is a man, his wife and his sons]

a man, his wife and his sons

Quote: אִ֤ישׁ אֶת־אִשְׁתּ⁠וֹ֙ וְ⁠אֶת־בָּנָ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

and his sons

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־בָּנָ֔י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here the masculine term sons has a generic sense that includes both sons and daughters. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use language in your translation that is clearly inclusive of both male and female children. Alternate translation: [and his children]

that they may lead away

Quote: וְ⁠יִנְהֲג֖וּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Since this refers back to a man, it may be more natural in your language to use a singular pronoun here. Alternate translation: [that he may lead away]

1 Samuel 30:23

my brothers

Quote: אֶחָ֑⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness

Although David is the leader of this group of men, he is not using his authority to insist that they do as he says. Instead, he addresses the men who do not want to share the plunder as his brothers. In this context, the term means more than that they are fellow Israelites. David is using it to mean men who have just fought together (“brothers in arms”), as he describes in the next sentence. Your language may have a comparable term that you can use here in your translation.

For he has kept

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׁמֹ֣ר (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

Here the word For introduces not a reason but a further explanation. Alternate translation: [After all]

into our hand

Quote: בְּ⁠יָדֵֽ⁠נוּ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

1 Samuel 30:24

Now who will listen to you regarding this matter

Quote: וּ⁠מִי֙ יִשְׁמַ֣ע לָ⁠כֶ֔ם לַ⁠דָּבָ֖ר הַ⁠זֶּ֑ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

1 Samuel 30:25

from that day and beyond, that he set it for a statute and for an ordinance for Israel

Quote: מֵֽ⁠הַ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠ה֖וּא וָ⁠מָ֑עְלָ⁠ה וַ⁠יְשִׂמֶ֜⁠הָ לְ⁠חֹ֤ק וּ⁠לְ⁠מִשְׁפָּט֙ לְ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure

It may be more natural in your language to put the information about David establishing this statute and ordinance before the information about when it began. Alternate translation: [that he set it for a statute and for an ordinance for Israel from that day and beyond]

for a statute and for an ordinance for Israel

Quote: לְ⁠חֹ֤ק וּ⁠לְ⁠מִשְׁפָּט֙ לְ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The terms statute and ordinance mean similar things. The author is using the two terms together for emphasis. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express the emphasis with a single phrase. Alternate translation: [for a practice for the Israelites to observe]

up to this day

Quote: עַ֖ד הַ⁠יּ֥וֹם הַ⁠זֶּֽה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The author is using this phrase to refer to the time when he was writing. In your translation, make clear that the phrase refers to a time that is now in the past. Avoid giving the impression the phrase means “to the present day.” Alternate translation: [and the Israelites still share plunder in this way at the time of this writing]

1 Samuel 30:26

a blessing

Quote: בְּרָכָ֔ה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term blessing by association to mean a gift. See how you translated this in 25:27. 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

the Jerahmeelite … the Kenite

Quote: הַ⁠יְּרַחְמְאֵלִ֔י & הַ⁠קֵּינִֽי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun

The author is not referring to specific Jerahmeelite or Kenite. He means Jerahmeelites and Kenites in general. It may be more natural in your language to express this meaning by using plural forms. Alternate translation: [the Jerahmeelites … the Kenites]

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

where David had walked about there

Quote: אֲשֶֽׁר־הִתְהַלֶּךְ־שָׁ֥ם דָּוִ֖ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [where David had walked about]

1 Samuel 31

1 Samuel 31 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

This chapter continues the part of the book that describes how David became king (chapters 16–31). The details of how he ultimately became king are related in the book of 2 Samuel. But this chapter is the end of the part of that story that involves Saul. It describes how Saul and his sons were killed in battle with the Philistines.

Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Chapter

Why did the men of Jabesh Gilead get Saul’s body from Beth Shan?

After the Philistines killed Saul and his sons on Mount Gilboa, the Israelites who lived in that area fled across the Jordan River for safety. The Philistines occupied their cities and towns all the way to Beth Shan, a few miles from the Jordan. They hung the bodies of Saul and his sons on the wall of Beth Shan as a way of celebrating their victory, claiming that territory, and warning the Israelites against any further opposition. However, they were also disgracing and dishonoring Saul’s body by not burying it. The people of Jabesh Gilead were still grateful to Saul for rescuing them years before from the Ammonite king Nahash (11:1–11). To honor him, their soldiers marched all night to Beth Shan and, at great risk to themselves from the Philistines, took down his body and the bodies of his sons and brought them back to Jabesh Gilead for a proper and honorable burial.

1 Samuel 31:1

Now the Philistines were fighting with Israel

Quote: וּ⁠פְלִשְׁתִּ֖ים נִלְחָמִ֣ים בְּ⁠יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is resuming the story of the Philistine attack against Israel after relating in the previous two chapters the episode of David and his men leaving the Philistine army and rescuing their families and possessions from the Amalekites. The author is resuming the action from where it left off at 29:1, where the Israelites and Philistines were facing each other in battle positions. Use a word, phrase, or other method here that is natural in your language for resuming a story after relating another episode.

from the face of the Philistines

Quote: מִ⁠פְּנֵ֣י פְלִשְׁתִּ֔ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using one part of the Philistines, their face, to mean all of them in the act of attacking. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [from the attacking Philistines]

pierced

Quote: חֲלָלִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term pierced by association to mean those who died from being pierced by swords or other weapons. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [dead]

1 Samuel 31:2

And the Philistines struck

Quote: וַ⁠יַּכּ֣וּ פְלִשְׁתִּ֗ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By struck, the author means that the Philistine soldiers killed these men. See how you translated the term in 4:2. Alternate translation: [And the Philistines killed]

1 Samuel 31:3

And the battle was heavy against Saul

Quote: וַ⁠תִּכְבַּ֤ד הַ⁠מִּלְחָמָה֙ אֶל־שָׁא֔וּל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking of the battle as if it were a heavy physical weight pressing down on Saul. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [And the Philistines fought fiercely against Saul]

And the shooters, the men with the bow, found him. … from the shooters

Quote: וַ⁠יִּמְצָאֻ֥⁠הוּ הַ⁠מּוֹרִ֖ים אֲנָשִׁ֣ים בַּ⁠קָּ֑שֶׁת & מֵ⁠הַ⁠מּוֹרִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Since the term shooters could describe either soldiers throwing javelins or soldiers launching arrows, the author adds the phrase the men with the bow to clarify his meaning. Your language may have a single term that you can use in your translation. Alternate translation: [And the archers … from the archers]

And he writhed greatly from the shooters

Quote: וַ⁠יָּ֥חֶל מְאֹ֖ד מֵ⁠הַ⁠מּוֹרִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By this phrase, the author means that Saul was in great pain because the archers had wounded him with arrows. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And he writhed greatly in pain because the archers had wounded him with arrows]

1 Samuel 31:4

Draw your sword and stab me with it, lest these uncircumcised {ones} come and stab me and abuse me

Quote: שְׁלֹ֥ף חַרְבְּ⁠ךָ֣ ׀ וְ⁠דָקְרֵ֣⁠נִי בָ֗⁠הּ פֶּן־יָ֠בוֹאוּ הָ⁠עֲרֵלִ֨ים הָ⁠אֵ֤לֶּה וּ⁠דְקָרֻ֨⁠נִי֙ וְ⁠הִתְעַלְּלוּ־בִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: [So that these uncircumcised ones do not come and stab me and abuse me, draw your sword and stab me with it]

and stab me

Quote: וְ⁠דָקְרֵ֣⁠נִי (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

Saul is using the first part of killing someone with a sword, to stab that person, to mean the entire act of killing. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. Alternate translation: [and kill me]

these uncircumcised {ones

Quote: הָ⁠עֲרֵלִ֨ים הָ⁠אֵ֤לֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

Saul is using the adjective uncircumcised as a noun to mean a certain kind of person. See how you translated this in 14:6. Alternate translation: [these uncircumcised Philistines]

these uncircumcised {ones

Quote: הָ⁠עֲרֵלִ֨ים הָ⁠אֵ֤לֶּה (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Saul is using this expression as a term of derision. See how you translated it in 14:6. Alternate translation: [these heathen]

and abuse me

Quote: וְ⁠הִתְעַלְּלוּ־בִ֔⁠י (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By abuse, Saul means that the Philistines would taunt and torture him. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and taunt and torture me]

But the carrier of his equipment was not willing, for he feared greatly

Quote: וְ⁠לֹ֤א אָבָה֙ נֹשֵׂ֣א כֵלָ֔י⁠ו כִּ֥י יָרֵ֖א מְאֹ֑ד (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

the sword

Quote: אֶת־הַ⁠חֶ֔רֶב (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By the sword, the author means Saul’s own sword. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [his own sword]

1 Samuel 31:6

even all of his men

Quote: גַּ֧ם כָּל־אֲנָשָׁ֛י⁠ו (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By all of his men, the author means the rest of Saul’s bodyguard, not his entire army. (The later narrative makes clear that many of them, including his general Abner, survived.) You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and the rest of his bodyguard]

1 Samuel 31:7

who {were} on the other side of the valley and who {were} on the other side of the Jordan

Quote: אֲשֶׁר־בְּ⁠עֵ֨בֶר הָ⁠עֵ֜מֶק וַ⁠אֲשֶׁ֣ר ׀ בְּ⁠עֵ֣בֶר הַ⁠יַּרְדֵּ֗ן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By these phrases, the author means the Israelites who lived in the territory north of the Valley of Jezreel and west of the Jordan River. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [who lived in the territory north of the Valley of Jezreel and west of the Jordan River]

1 Samuel 31:8

And it happened

Quote: וַֽ⁠יְהִי֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent

The author is introducing a new development in the story. Use a word, phrase, or other method here that is natural in your language for introducing a new development.

the pierced

Quote: אֶת־הַ⁠חֲלָלִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

The author is using the adjective pierced as a noun to mean a certain kind of person. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you can translate this with an equivalent phrase. Alternate translation: [those whom they had pierced]

the pierced

Quote: אֶת־הַ⁠חֲלָלִ֑ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term pierced by association to mean those who died from being pierced. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [the dead]

fallen

Quote: נֹפְלִ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

The author is using the term fallen by association to mean those who had died in battle, since soldiers fall down when they die. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: [dead]

1 Samuel 31:9

in} the house of their idols

Quote: בֵּ֥ית עֲצַבֵּי⁠הֶ֖ם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

The author is speaking of the temple in which the Philistines worshiped an idols as if they were a house in which that idol lived. If it would be clearer in your language, you could state the meaning plainly. (Since the narrative has already shown that the Philistines had multiple idol temples, you may wish to use a plural form.) Alternate translation: [in the temples of their idols]

1 Samuel 31:10

And they put his equipment in the house of the Ashtoreths

Quote: וַ⁠יָּשִׂ֨מוּ֙ אֶת־כֵּלָ֔י⁠ו בֵּ֖ית עַשְׁתָּר֑וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By this phrase, the author means that they put both Saul’s equipment and his head in their temple. The parallel account in 1 Chronicles 10:10 states that explicitly. You could indicate this in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [And they put his equipment and his head in the house of the Ashtoreths]

And they put his equipment in the house of the Ashtoreths

Quote: וַ⁠יָּשִׂ֨מוּ֙ אֶת־כֵּלָ֔י⁠ו בֵּ֖ית עַשְׁתָּר֑וֹת (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Putting the armor (and, apparently in this case, the head) of a defeated enemy leader in a temple or sanctuary was a symbolic action that attributed the victory over this enemy to the help of the deity whom people worshiped in that temple or sanctuary. This is what David did with Goliath’s sword and head, as the author describes in 17:54. See how you described the similar action there. Alternate translation: [And they put his equipment and head in the house of the Ashtoreths as trophies of war]

and they fastened his corpse on the wall of Beth Shan

Quote: וְ⁠אֶת־גְּוִיָּת⁠וֹ֙ תָּקְע֔וּ בְּ⁠חוֹמַ֖ת בֵּ֥ית שָֽׁן (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

The city of Beth Shan was a few miles west of the Jordan River. The narrative suggests in 31:7 that the Philistines had occupied this city. By hanging on the city wall the body of the Israelite king they had killed, they were asserting that they had conquered Israelite territory extending this far. (This act was probably also intended to terrify the surrounding Israelite population into non-resistance.) If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [and they fastened his corpse on the wall of Beth Shan to assert that they had conquered the territory extending that far]

his corpse

Quote: גְּוִיָּת⁠וֹ֙ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

The author is using the body of one person that the Philistines fastened to the wall, Saul’s corpse, to represent the bodies of Saul and his sons. The author indicates in 31:12 that the Philistines also fastened his sons’ bodies to the wall. Alternate translation: [his corpse and the corpses of his sons]

1 Samuel 31:11

about it, what the Philistines had done

Quote: אֵלָ֔י⁠ו & אֵ֛ת אֲשֶׁר־עָשׂ֥וּ פְלִשְׁתִּ֖ים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo

It might seem that this expression contains extra information that would not be natural to express in your language. If so, you can shorten it. Alternate translation: [about it what the Philistines had done]

1 Samuel 31:12

And all of the men of valor arose

Quote: וַ⁠יָּק֜וּמוּ כָּל־אִ֣ישׁ חַיִל֮ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

By this phrase, the author means that these men took action. See how you translated the term arose in 1:9. Alternate translation: [And all of the men of valor took action]

the men of valor

Quote: אִ֣ישׁ חַיִל֮ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of valor, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: [the valiant men]

and they burned them there

Quote: וַ⁠יִּשְׂרְפ֥וּ אֹתָ֖⁠ם שָֽׁם (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The Israelites probably burned the bodies in this instance, even though that was not their usual practice, in order to prevent any further desecration of them by the Philistines. You could indicate this explicitly in your translation if that would be helpful to your readers. Alternate translation: [and they burned them there to prevent the Philistines from desecrating them any further]

1 Samuel 31:13

under the tamarisk tree

Quote: תַֽחַת־הָ⁠אֶ֖שֶׁל (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

Sitting under a tamarisk tree was symbolic of royal status, as the story indicates in 22:6. By burying Saul under that kind of tree, the people of Jabesh Gilead were giving him royal honors in his death. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [under the tamarisk tree in Jabesh to honor Saul’s royal status]

And they fasted seven days

Quote: וַ⁠יָּצֻ֖מוּ שִׁבְעַ֥ת יָמִֽים (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction

The people of Jabesh Gilead fasted seven days to show respect to Saul and to express their grief over his death. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could explain the significance of this action. Alternate translation: [And they fasted seven days as a sign of mourning and respect]

open-licensed biblical content

1 Samuel

1 Samuel front

Introduction to 1 Samuel

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of 1 Samuel

What is the book of 1 Samuel about?

What title should translators use for this book?

Who wrote the book of 1 Samuel?

Part 2: Religious and Cultural Concepts in This Book

Who is “Yahweh’s anointed”?

Part 3: Translation Issues in This Book

“And it happened”

“behold”

curses

“to this day”

“in the eyes of”

“to the face of” (before)

“to the face of” (representing a person)

“into the hand of”/“into your hand”

“listen”

name of a person representing him and associated or accompanying people

name of nation, tribe, or city representing its people

“saying”

“shall”

“sons of”

“struck”

“went up,” “went down”

1 Samuel 1

1 Samuel 1 Chapter Introduction

Structure and Formatting

Translation Issues in This Chapter

Why does the author use the name Ramathaim Zophim for Ramah in 1:1?

Why does the author call the tent of meeting the “temple” in 1:9?

Why does Elkanah say “may Yahweh raise up his word” when Yahweh has not said anything?

What “vow” did Elkanah make?

1 Samuel 1:1

Now {there} was a man

Ramathaim Zophim

1 Samuel 1:2

the second

1 Samuel 1:3

that man

And that man went up

from days to days

1 Samuel 1:4

And it was the day, and Elkanah sacrificed, and he gave

1 Samuel 1:5

one portion {for} two faces, for

but Yahweh had shut her womb

1 Samuel 1:6

but her adversary … provoked her

but … provoked her {with} provocation

to make her thunder

because Yahweh had shut up her womb

1 Samuel 1:7

And thus he did

her going up … she would provoke her. And she wept

1 Samuel 1:8

Hannah, why do you weep? And why do you not eat? And why is your heart bad? {Am} I not better for you than ten sons

And why is your heart bad

1 Samuel 1:9

And Hannah arose

after eating and after drinking

Now Eli the priest was sitting on a seat by the doorpost of the temple of Yahweh

was sitting on a seat by the doorpost of the temple of

the temple of

1 Samuel 1:10

And she {was} bitter of soul

and weeping, she wept

1 Samuel 1:11

And she vowed a vow

if looking, you will look

your maidservant … your maidservant

and remember me and not forget your maidservant

and remember me and not forget your maidservant

to Yahweh

all of the days of his life

and a razor will not go up on his head

and a razor will not go up on his head