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Introduction to 2 Samuel

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of 2 Samuel

  1. The first years of Davids reign (1:17:29)
  • Saul is killed; David is kind to Ishbosheth (1:14:12)
  • David defeats the Philistines (5:125)
  • Victories, the ark, the house of God (6:17:29)
  1. David extends his rule to all the Promised Land (8:110:19)
  2. Davids sin with Bathsheba (11:112:31)
  3. Amnon and Tamar; Absalom kills Amnon (13:114:33)
  4. The later years of Davids reign (15:124:25)
  • Absalom rebels and is killed (15:118:33)
  • Davids kingdom restored (19:120:26)
  • Famine and warfare (21:114)
  • Davids song of praise (22:123:7)
  • Davids mighty men (23:839)
  • Yahweh judges Davids sin of numbering the people; the plague stopped (24:125)

What is the Book of 2 Samuel about?

This book is about David ruling as king over Israel. He first ruled over the tribe of Judah for seven years. Then the other eleven tribes agreed to have him become their king. He ruled over all Israel for thirty-three years.

Throughout this time, David led his army to fight foreign enemies who attacked Israel. However, he struggled the most against someone in his own family. Absalom, his son, rebelled and fought against him (2 Samuel 13-19).

The Book of 2 Samuel also tells about when David sinned greatly. He slept with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah the Hittite. When she became pregnant, David arranged for Uriah to be killed in battle. David and all Israel suffered much because of Davids sin. However, the writer also tells of Yahweh repeatedly showing David grace and love after David repented of his sin.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators can use the traditional title “2 Samuel,” or “Second Samuel.” Or translators may consider a clearer title such as “The Second Book about Samuel, Saul, and David.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

What was the purpose of the Book of 2 Samuel?

The Book of 2 Samuel begins where 1 Samuel ended. The writer continues to show how the tribes of Israel unite under the first kings of Israel. The Book of 2 Samuel centers around David as the king Yahweh chose to lead Israel.

Who wrote the Book of 2 Samuel?

It is uncertain who wrote 2 Samuel. It may have been someone alive soon after King Solomon died. When Solomon died, the kingdom of Israel split into two kingdoms. The author probably lived in the southern kingdom of Judah. A descendant of David continued to rule over the southern kingdom. The author may have written 2 Samuel to defend Davids right to be king. This would prove that Davids descendant was the rightful king of Gods people.

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What covenant had its beginning in the Book of 2 Samuel?

In 2 Samuel 7, Yahweh made a covenant with David. God promised to make a descendant of David rule forever over Israel. Christians believe that Jesus Christ fulfills this covenant. Jesus was a descendant of David. Jesus is the true “anointed one,” the person God chose to be king forever. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

Why does the book refer to someone being addressed indirectly?

David frequently refers to himself as “your servant” when he speaks to King Saul. He also calls Saul “my master.” Indirectly addressing a person in this way can be difficult to translate. It is intended to show that the speaker submits to the one being addressed. English sometimes uses the address “sir” or “maam” in this way.

Can I translate this book before 1 Samuel?

The Book of 1 Samuel should be translated before 2 Samuel, since 2 Samuel continues from where 1 Samuel ends.

How is the name “Israel” used in the Bible?

The name “Israel” is used in many different ways in the Bible. Jacob was the son of Isaac. God changed his name to Israel. The descendants of Jacob became a nation also called Israel. Eventually, the nation of Israel split into two kingdoms. The northern kingdom was named Israel. The southern kingdom was named Judah. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/israel]])

2 Samuel speaks of both the northern kingdom of Israel and the whole nation of Israel as “Israel.” However, these references appear in the narrative long before the two kingdoms split apart. It seems clear that the references to Israel and Judah indicate that the author wrote 2 Samuel at a time after the kingdoms split. (See: 2 Samuel 2:10; 2 Samuel 3:10; 2 Samuel 5:5; 2 Samuel 11:11; 2 Samuel 12:8; 2 Samuel 19:42-43; 2 Samuel 21:2; 2 Samuel 24:1).

32SA1introla440

2 Samuel 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetic song in 1:19-27.

This chapter continues the material from 1 Samuel.

Special concepts in this chapter

Davids funeral song

David praised Saul and Jonathan as great warriors and Jonathan as his dearest friend.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Synecdoche

David used two figures of speech to express that Jonathan and Saul were great warriors: “the bow of Jonathan did not turn back, and the sword of Saul did not return empty.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

42SA11q125translate-names0Ziklag

This is the name of a city in the southern part of Judah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

52SA12vci9translate-ordinal0On the third day

“After three days” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])

62SA12v6vvtranslate-symaction0with his clothes torn and with dirt on his head

In this culture, tearing ones own clothes and putting dirt on ones head was an act of mourning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

72SA12js3ttranslate-symaction0he lay facedown on the ground and prostrated himself

This was an act of showing submission to David, who was now the king of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

82SA14j45j0Many have fallen and many are dead

Possible meanings are (1) “Many were wounded and many were killed” or (2) “Many were wounded and killed.”

92SA16uks70By chance I happened to be

This statement emphasizes that the man did not plan to meet Saul.

102SA16g386figs-euphemism0Saul was leaning on his spear

Possible meanings are (1) Saul was weak and using the spear to support himself or (2) Saul was attempting to kill himself by falling on his own spear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

112SA18x88nfigs-quotations0He said to me, Who are you? I answered him, I am an Amalekite.

These direct quotations could be stated as indirect speech. Alternate translation: “He asked me who I was, and I told him that I am an Amalekite” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

122SA18nvy80I am an Amalekite

These are the same people David just finishing attacking in 2 Samuel 1:1.

132SA19t8lyfigs-personification0great suffering has taken hold of me

Sauls suffering is spoken of as something terrible that has grabbed hold of him. Alternate translation: “I am suffering terribly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

142SA19he7bfigs-idiom0life is still in me

This idiom means he is still alive. Alternate translation: “I am still alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

152SA110fh710he would not live after he had fallen

“he would die anyway”

162SA111lzf2translate-symaction0David tore his clothes…the men with him did the same

David and his men tore their clothes as a sign of mourning for the death of King Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

172SA112j5ytfigs-parallelism0for the people of Yahweh, and for the house of Israel

Both statements mean basically same thing. The word “house” is a metonym that represents the descendants of Israel. But, both “people” and “house” probably are a synecdoche representing the soldiers of Israel. Alternate translation: “for the Israelite soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

182SA112v2al0Yahweh

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

192SA112h78cfigs-euphemism0they had fallen by the sword

Here “fallen” is a polite way of referring to being killed. Also, “sword” represents a battle. This here means “had been killed.” Alternate translation: “they had died in battle” or “enemies had killed them in battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

202SA113tje80Where are you from?

The man had already stated that he is an Amalekite in 2 Samuel 1:8. David apparently asks the man to confirm this because of the serious judgment that David was going to pronounce on the man.

212SA114f3mpfigs-rquestion0Why were you not afraid to kill Yahwehs anointed…hand?

This rhetorical question is used to rebuke the man. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should have feared Yahweh and not killed his anointed…hand!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

222SA114gdq90Yahwehs anointed king

This refers to Saul.

232SA114llc8figs-metonymy0with your own hand

This phrase refers to doing something yourself. Alternate translation: “yourself” or “personally” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

242SA115k3wwfigs-idiom0struck him down

This idiom means “killed him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

252SA116sv2efigs-metonymy0Your blood is on your head

Here “blood” is a metonym that implies “shed blood” and is associated with death. Here “your head” is a synecdoche referring to the man and means that he is responsible. Alternate translation: “You are responsible for your own death” or “You have caused your own death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

262SA116e596figs-synecdoche0your own mouth has testified against you

Here “your own mouth” refers to the man himself. Alternate translation: “you have testified against yourself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

272SA117k1zm0General Information:

David sings a song of mourning for Saul and Jonathan.

282SA118xw5d0Song of the Bow

This was the title of the song.

292SA118rz25writing-background0which has been written in the Book of Jashar

This is background information added to tell the reader what happened to the song in the future. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

302SA118h5m5translate-names0the Book of Jashar

The word “Jashar” means “upright.” Alternate translation: “the Book of the Upright” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

312SA119bch8figs-metonymy0Your glory, Israel, is dead

“Your glory” refers to Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

322SA119luf3figs-metonymy0the mighty

The phrase “the mighty” refers to both Saul and Jonathan. This nominal adjective is plural, and can be stated as “the mighty ones.”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

332SA119v53lfigs-euphemism0have fallen

The word “fallen” here means “died.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

342SA120as79figs-parallelism0Do not tell it in Gath…do not proclaim it in the streets of Ashkelon

These two phrases mean the same thing and are repeated as part of the poetry of the song. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

352SA120new30Gath…Ashkelon

Gath and Ashkelon are two of the Philistines major cities. The Philistines killed Saul and Jonathan.

362SA120m8lhfigs-parallelism0so that the daughters of the Philistines may not rejoice…so that the daughters of the uncircumcised may not celebrate

These two phrases mean the same thing and are repeated as part of the poetry of the song. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

372SA120kk6nfigs-metonymy0the daughters of the uncircumcised

This phrase refers to people who do not follow Yahweh, such as the Philistines. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

382SA121yma7figs-apostrophe0Mountains of Gilboa

David speaks directly to the “Mountains of Gilboa” as if they were listening to his song. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])

392SA121k9a40let there not be dew or rain on you

David curses the ground where King Saul died in the battle. This was out of reverence for Saul, who was Gods anointed king.

402SA121nbh3figs-metonymy0the shield of the mighty was defiled

The “mighty” here refers to Saul. The shield was defiled because it fell on the ground, and because the kings blood was shed on it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

412SA121bh3a0The shield of Saul is no longer anointed with oil

Sauls shield was made of leather. To care for the shield, it was rubbed with oil. Alternate translation: “No one will care for Sauls shield anymore”

422SA122i5nkfigs-parallelism0From the blood of those who have been killed, from the bodies of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan did not turn back, and the sword of Saul did not return empty

Saul and Jonathan are shown here to have been fierce and valiant warriors. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

432SA122px2sfigs-personification0the sword of Saul did not return empty

Sauls sword is spoken of as if it were a living thing that could return on its own. Rather than return empty, it was carrying the blood of Sauls enemies that it killed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

442SA123zvc30in their death they were not separated

The phrase “were not separated” is used to emphasize that they were always together. Alternate translation: “even in death they were together”

452SA123k29gfigs-metaphor0They were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.

Saul and Jonathan were spoken of as if they were faster than eagles and stronger than lions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

462SA124b7wifigs-parallelism0who clothed you in scarlet as well as jewels, and who put ornaments of gold on your clothing

“who provided you nice clothes and jewelry.” These two phrases share similar meanings that describe providing the women with expensive, attractive clothing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

472SA125lw460How the mighty have fallen in the midst of the battle

This phrase is repeated in verse 27 to emphasize that Israels best warriors are dead. Alternate translation: “The mighty men have died in battle”

482SA125s578figs-nominaladj0the mighty

Here “mighty” is plural and may refer to only Saul and Jonathan, or to all of the soldiers of Israel. Alternate translation: “the mighty warriors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

492SA125ap6lfigs-euphemism0have fallen

This is a polite way to say “have died.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

502SA125l3rxfigs-activepassive0Jonathan is killed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Jonathan has died in battle” or “The enemy has killed Jonathan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

512SA125i3z2figs-apostrophe0on your high places

David continues to address this part of the song to the mountains of Gilboa as he started in 2 Samuel 1:21. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])

522SA126eg6m0my brother Jonathan

Here “brother” is used in the sense of a very close friend.

532SA126l4ln0Your love to me was wonderful, exceeding the love of women

Here “love” is used in the sense of friendship and loyalty. Jonathans loyalty to David was even greater than the loyalty a woman has for her husband and children.

542SA2introk3220

2 Samuel 02 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter begins the story of the civil war between Sauls son and David.

Special concepts in this chapter

Civil war

There was a civil war in Israel. David was made king of Judah and Sauls uncle (Abner) made Sauls son (Ishbosheth) king of the rest of Israel. When they fought each other, Abner killed Joabs brother, but Davids army was victorious.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Rhetorical question

Abner finally stopped the battle with a rhetorical question to Davids army. “Must the sword devour forever?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

552SA21lt470After this

“After David mourned the deaths of Saul and Jonathan in battle”

562SA21ncw10go up to one of the cities of Judah

At this time David was in the city of Ziklag. David used the phrase “go up” because Ziklag was lower in elevation than Judah. Alternate translation: “travel to one of the cities of Judah”

572SA22x7ln0David went up with his two wives

At this time David was in the city of Ziklag. The narrator uses the phrase “went up” because Ziklag was lower in elevation than Hebron. Alternate translation: “David traveled to Hebron with his two wives”

582SA24jw8ktranslate-symaction0anointed David king

In this symbolic act, they poured oil on Davids head to show that he was selected to be the king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

592SA24gc4b0the house of Judah

Here “house” is used in the sense of “tribe.” Alternate translation: “the tribe of Judah”

602SA24h1l8translate-names0Jabesh Gilead

This is the name of a town in the region of Gilead. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

612SA26c5wi0General Information:

David speaks to the people of Jabesh Gilead.

622SA26jp9r0this thing

They buried Saul.

632SA27ss4ufigs-synecdoche0let your hands be strong

Here “hands” refers to the people of Jabesh Gilead. Alternate translation: “be strong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

642SA27c3tdtranslate-symaction0anointed me king

In this symbolic act, they poured oil on Davids head to show that he was selected to be the king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

652SA28m5pwtranslate-names0Ner…Ishbosheth

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

662SA28i3ahtranslate-names0Mahanaim

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

672SA29e9wttranslate-names0Gilead…Jezreel

These are the names of places. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

682SA210fb37figs-idiom0the house of Judah followed David

Obeying Davids rule is spoken of as “following” him. Alternate translation: “the tribe of Judah obeyed David as their king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

692SA210kz8s0house of Judah

Here “house” is used to mean “tribe.”

702SA212t3hitranslate-names0Abner…Ner…Ishbosheth…Saul

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

712SA213n2wntranslate-names0Zeruiah

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

722SA216ni8pfigs-euphemism0they fell down together

This is a polite way of saying they died. Alternate translation: “they both died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

732SA216x416translate-names0Helkath Hazzurim

This is a name given to remind people what happened there. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

742SA217gm4cfigs-explicit0The battle was very severe that day

It may be helpful to explicitly state that this was the large battle that followed the contest of the young men. Alternate translation: “Then the others started to fight also. It was a very fierce battle that day” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

752SA218smv9translate-names0Zeruiah…Joab…Abishai…Asahel

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

762SA218n11nfigs-simile0Asahel was swift in his feet like a wild gazelle

Here Asahel is compared to a gazelle, an animal that runs very fast. Alternate translation: “Asahel could run very fast” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

772SA218aak90wild gazelle

This small, four-legged animal, with two long horns on its head, runs very fast.

782SA219mmf2translate-names0Abner

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

792SA219j8wb0followed him without turning away in any direction

Here “without turning away” is stated in negative form to emphasize how closely he followed Abners path. Alternate translation: “followed him wherever he went”

802SA220jd6rtranslate-names0Asahel

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

812SA221we6k0Turn aside to your right or to your left…turn aside

“Stop chasing me…stop chasing Abner”

822SA221ck9ffigs-euphemism0seize one of the young men and take his armor

Abner was asking Asahel to kill and plunder another younger soldier who would not be as dangerous as Abner. He did not want to kill Asahel. Alternate translation: “fight with another soldier and take his equipment as plunder” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

832SA222mpv8figs-rquestion0Why should I strike you to the ground?

This rhetorical question is used to warn Asahel of the danger he faced. “Strike to the ground” is a polite way of saying “to kill.” Alternate translation: “I do not wish to kill you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

842SA222k44vfigs-rquestion0How then could I hold up my face to Joab, your brother?

This rhetorical question emphasizes that Abner does not want to fight and kill Asahel because it would destroy Abners relationship with Joab. Here “hold up my face to Joab” is an idiom that means that he would be too ashamed to look at Joab. Alternate translation: “I would be too ashamed to look at your brother, Joab” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

852SA223y5pa0turn aside

This means to “halt” or “stop chasing.”

862SA223eb53figs-explicit0the blunt end of his spear

This refers to the handle, which is not sharp or designed to pierce anything. It can be implied that Abner was only trying to stop Asahel from following him, and did not intend to kill him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

872SA224dk79translate-names0Abishai

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

882SA224ja3rtranslate-names0hill of Ammah…Giah

These are the names of places. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

892SA226w79x0Abner called

“Abner shouted” or “Abner yelled”

902SA226bju9figs-rquestion0Must the sword devour forever?

This rhetorical question emphasizes that the battle had already continued too long. Here “sword” refers to the fighting. The killing in the battle is spoken of as if a wild animal was eating the soldiers. Alternate translation: “We do not need to keep using our swords to fight and kill each other.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

912SA226ukm3figs-rquestion0Do you not know it will be bitter in the end?

This rhetorical question is used to force Joab to acknowledge that continued fighting could only result in more suffering. Here “bitter” is a euphemism for the terrible suffering that would occur. Alternate translation: “You know very well that there will be a terrible result if this continues!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

922SA226e6unfigs-rquestion0How long will it be before you tell your men to stop pursuing their brothers?

This rhetorical question is intended to convince Joab to stop fighting their fellow Israelites. Here “brother” is used to represent the members of the nation of Israel. Alternate translation: “Stop this now so that Israelites will not have to kill each other!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

932SA227yh650Just as God lives

This is a very strong vow. Alternate translation: “With God as my witness” or “God will affirm that I mean what I say”

942SA227gze5figs-hypo0if you had not said that…pursued their brothers until the morning

This hypothetical statement tells what might have happened if Abner had not spoken wisely to Joab. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

952SA228qt3nfigs-explicit0blew the trumpet

Trumpets were used to signal orders to the armies across great distances. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

962SA228zk88figs-synecdoche0did not pursue Israel

Here “Israel” refers to the Israelite soldiers. Alternate translation: “did not continue to chase the Israelite soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

972SA229g9irtranslate-names0Arabah…Mahanaim

These are the names of places. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

982SA230ju9ltranslate-names0Asahel

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

992SA231e92j0360 men of Benjamin with Abner

“360 men from Benjamin who followed Abner.” Abner did not die.

1002SA231qxt6translate-numbers0360 men

“three hundred and sixty men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1012SA231d81hfigs-metonymy0of Benjamin

This phrase means “from the tribe of Benjamin.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1022SA232e5xq0took up Asahel

“carried Asahels body with them”

1032SA232pzw90the day dawned on them at Hebron

“they arrived at Hebron by dawn the next morning”

1042SA3introka390

2 Samuel 03 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter records the first attempt to end the civil war.

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 3:33-34.

Special concepts in this chapter

David never wanted to hurt Sauls family. Isbosheth criticized Abner and Abner became angry. He decided to help David become king of all of Israel. Abner came and made a treaty with David. As he left, Joab arrived and told him he wanted to talk to him and he murdered Abner. David was very unhappy that Abner had been killed.

1052SA31sq7qwriting-background0Now

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Samuel gives information about the war between David and the supporters of Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1062SA31u6f10house

Here “house” is used to mean “supporters.”

1072SA31lag1figs-metaphor0grew stronger and stronger

This metaphor means the number of people supporting David increased. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1082SA31dju3figs-metaphor0grew weaker and weaker

This metaphor means the number of people supporting Sauls family decreased. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1092SA32w7d8figs-activepassive0Sons were born to David

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Davids wives gave birth to six sons” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1102SA32q2r6translate-names0Ahinoam

This is the name of a woman, a wife of David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1112SA33j96ytranslate-numbers0second son…third

These two sons were born after the “firstborn” (verse 2). This is the numerical order of Davids sons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1122SA33hxl2translate-names0Abigail…Maacah

These are womens names. They are the wives of David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1132SA33hy1jtranslate-names0Kileab…Nabal…Talmai

These are mens names. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1142SA34m8yptranslate-numbers0fourth son…fifth son

This is the numerical order of Davids sons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1152SA34d5tdtranslate-names0Adonijah…Shephatiah

These are the names of Davids sons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1162SA34ai9ytranslate-names0Haggith…Abital

These are names of Davids wives. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1172SA35nky8translate-numbers0the sixth

This is the numerical order of Davids sons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1182SA35n4tztranslate-names0Ithream

This is the name of one of Davids sons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1192SA35ujk6translate-names0Eglah

This is the name of one of Davids wives. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1202SA36vrd9writing-newevent0It came about

This introduces a new event in the story of the struggle between Davids supporters and Sauls family. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

1212SA36n8iu0house of Saul

This refers to Sauls family and supporters who assumed control of his estate after he died.

1222SA36fu4e0house of David

This refers to the supporters of David.

1232SA36ahk2figs-metaphor0Abner made himself strong in the house of Saul

Abners increasing power over Sauls family is spoken of as if he became physically stronger. Alternate translation: “Abner gained more power over the family and supporters of Saul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1242SA37wnw6translate-names0Rizpah…Aiah

These are names of women. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1252SA37nvs7translate-names0Ishbosheth

This is a male name, a son of Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1262SA37y6erfigs-rquestion0Why have you gone in to my fathers concubine?

Ishbosheth asked this question to rebuke Abner who was acting like he was the king. Alternate translation: “You did not have the right to go in to fathers concubine!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1272SA37x31pfigs-euphemism0gone in to

This is a euphemism for sexual relations. Alternate translation: “had sexual relations with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

1282SA38jcd6figs-rquestion0Am I a dogs head that belongs to Judah?

This question is used by Abner as an angry denial of Ishbosheths accusation. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “I am not a traitor working for David!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1292SA38rjr7figs-metaphor0Am I a dogs head that belongs to Judah?

Abner speaks of himself as the head of a dog, which the Israelites considered to be loyal to anyone who fed them. Here “belongs to Judah” implies that Abners loyalty is to Judah, to which David belonged, and not to Sauls house. Alternate translation: “Am I a traitor for Judah?” or “I am not a traitor working for David!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1302SA38jb39figs-metonymy0into the hand of David

Here “hand” represents the power to defeat. Alternate translation: “to be defeated by David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1312SA38lub9figs-rquestion0But now you accuse me of an offense concerning this woman?

Abner asks this question to rebuke Ishbosheth. It is unclear if Abner actually slept with Rizpah, or if he was falsely accused. Possible meanings are (1) Abner was guilty. Alternate translation: “You should not be upset that I slept with this woman!” or (2) Abner was not guilty. Alternate translation: “You should not think that I have slept with this woman!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1322SA39a45s0May God do so to me…and more also, if I do not

This is the form of a solemn vow in that time. Abner is asking God to judge him severely if he does not keep his vow. Your language may have a way of expressing vows. Alternate translation: “I am asking God to punish me if I do not”

1332SA310h7qr0the house of Saul

Here “house” refers to Sauls family and supporters who survived Sauls death. Alternate translation: “the family and supporters of Saul”

1342SA310m8b2figs-metonymy0throne of David

This phrase refers to the authority of David as king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1352SA312y24ctranslate-textvariants0to David

Some versions add “when he was at Hebron” and others do not. You may want to add the phrase if it is present in your national version. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])

1362SA312alc7figs-rquestion0Whose land is this?

The original text of this question is not clear. Possible meanings are (1) Abner had the power to give the land to David. Alternate translation: “This land is mine!” or (2) David is chosen by God to rule the land: Alternate translation: “This land rightfully belongs to you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1372SA312mm4sfigs-metonymy0my hand is with you

Here “hand” represents Abners assistance that he is offering to David. Alternate translation: “I will assist you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1382SA313r77zfigs-synecdoche0you cannot see my face unless you first bring Michal

David is stating the condition under which he will meet Abner. Here “face” refers to David himself. Alternate translation: “you cannot see me unless you bring Michal to me first” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1392SA313mks3translate-names0Michal

This is the name of a daughter of Saul. She was Davids first wife. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1402SA314x49ctranslate-numbers0one hundred Philistine foreskins

This represents the number of men David killed so that Saul would allow him to marry Michal. These men are represented here by their “foreskins.” The “foreskin” is the fold of skin that covers the male reproductive organ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1412SA315ch63figs-explicit0took her from her husband

Paltiel was Michals second husband. Saul gave her to him after David fled from Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1422SA315z1titranslate-names0Paltiel…Laish

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1432SA316uhj7translate-names0Bahurim

This is the name of a village. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1442SA318js5z0Now do it

“So now make David your king”

1452SA318iac5figs-metonymy0By the hand of my servant David

Here “hand” refers to Davids power to defeat the Philistines. Alternate translation: “I will empower my servant David and” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1462SA318c3tefigs-metonymy0the hand of the Philistines

Here “hand” refers to power over Israel. Alternate translation: “the power of the Philistines” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1472SA318d2l2figs-metonymy0the hand of all their enemies

Here “hand” refers to power over Israel. Alternate translation: “the power of all of their enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1482SA319qv92figs-metonymy0the people of Benjamin…the whole house of Benjamin

Both of these statements refer to the descendants of Benjamin, who were one of the tribes of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1492SA320bp1atranslate-numbers0twenty of his men

The number of men who came with Abner. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1502SA321k2bufigs-metonymy0all Israel

This phrase means “all of the nation of Israel.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1512SA321ej770So David sent Abner away

They parted as friends. David was not angry with Abner.

1522SA322x15t0plunder

These are items taken from the enemy.

1532SA322c54e0Abner was not with David in Hebron

Abner had already left to return home.

1542SA323e26m0they told Joab

“someone told Joab”

1552SA323d2r8translate-names0Ner

This is a mans name. He is the grandfather of Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1562SA324nzs6figs-rquestion0What have you done?

Joab asks this question to rebuke David for letting Abner go in peace. Alternate translation: “You should not have done this!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1572SA324ia9hfigs-rquestion0Why have you sent him away, and he is gone?

Joab asks this question to rebuke David for letting Abner escape. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “Abner was here and you let him leave!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1582SA325c3xzfigs-rquestion0Do you not know…everything you are doing?

Joab asks this question to convince David that Abner is plotting against David. Alternate translation: “Surely you know…everything you are doing.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1592SA326v16btranslate-names0well of Sirah

“Sirah” is the name of a place where the well was located. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1602SA327w3m90the middle of the gate

This refers to one of the gates in the city wall at Hebron. As the UST implies, city gates were constructed as part of buildings set into the city walls. Inside the passageway were doors leading to side rooms, where guests could be received and business and judicial proceedings could be conducted. It was probably in one of these rooms that Joab murdered Abner.

1612SA327us2yfigs-metonymy0the blood of Asahel

Here “blood” is associated with the death of Asahel. Alternate translation: “the death of Asahel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1622SA327fbb9translate-names0Asahel

This is the name of a male person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1632SA328esw1figs-metonymy0the blood of Abner

Here “blood” refers to violent death. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Samuel 3:27. Alternate translation: “the death of Abner” or “the murder of Abner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1642SA328kq45translate-names0Ner

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1652SA329h3l1figs-metaphor0fall on the head of Joab and on all his fathers house

This phrase means the results of the guilt will happen to Joab and his family as if something heavy had collapsed on them. Alternate translation: “always cause suffering for Joab and for all his fathers house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1662SA329vz8zfigs-metonymy0all his fathers house

Here “house” refers to descendants. Alternate translation: “all the descendants of Joabs father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1672SA329l3jdfigs-metonymy0May there never fail to be

This double negative emphasizes that there will always be someone with the problems listed. Alternate translation: “May there always be” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1682SA329lvn8figs-metonymy0is killed by the sword

Here “sword” refers to violent death. Alternate translation: “dies violently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1692SA329wgz10goes without food

“is hungry”

1702SA330x1zutranslate-names0Abishai…Asahel

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1712SA331g9prtranslate-symaction0Tear your clothes, put on sackcloth

These were symbolic actions to demonstrate their grief and sadness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

1722SA332d6g4figs-doublet0The king wept and cried loudly

The words “wept” and “cried loudly” mean basically the same thing and emphasize how much David mourned for Abner. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

1732SA333aq3lfigs-rquestion0Should Abner die as a fool dies?

This rhetorical question is used to emphasize that his death was not fair. Alternate translation: “Abner should not have died in disgrace!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1742SA334b11cfigs-parallelism0Your hands were not bound. Your feet were not shackled

These two sentences express similar ideas. They can be combined into one sentence. Alternate translation: “You were in no way a criminal in prison” or “You were completely innocent of doing wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

1752SA334ni42figs-activepassive0Your hands were not bound

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “No one had tied your hands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1762SA334uia7figs-activepassive0Your feet were not shackled

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “No one had attached your feet to chains” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1772SA334im2lfigs-metonymy0the sons of injustice

This refers to people who are unjust or wicked. Alternate translation: “wicked men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1782SA335zt2vfigs-hyperbole0All the people came

This deliberate exaggeration is used to show that the nation of Israel wanted to take care of David in his grief. Alternate translation: “Many people came” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

1792SA335s8g20May God do so to me, and more also, if

This is the form of a solemn vow in that time. David is asking God to judge him severely if he eats anything before sunset. Your language many have a way of expressing vows. Alternate translation: “I am asking God to punish me if”

1802SA337ax2qtranslate-names0Ner

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1812SA338z5prfigs-rquestion0Do you not know that a prince and a great man has fallen this day in Israel?

This rhetorical question is used to show how much David respected Abner. Here “fallen” is a euphemism that means “died.” It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “It is certainly true that a great prince has died today in Israel!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

1822SA338wxn9figs-hendiadys0a prince and a great man

These two phrases both refer to Abner. Alternate translation: “a great prince” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])

1832SA339e6uxtranslate-names0Zeruiah

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1842SA339bw2y0are too brutal

“are too much like animals” or “are too violent”

1852SA4introhm820

2 Samuel 04 General Notes

Structure and formatting

While the end of the civil war occurs in this chapter, David still only reigned over Judah (1-4).

Special concepts in this chapter

David and Ishbosheth

David never sought revenge against Sauls family. When two men snuck into Ishbosheths room, cut off his head and brought it to David, David had them killed for killing an innocent man. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/avenge]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Rhetorical questions

When two men brought Ishbosheths head to David and expected to get a reward for it, David condemned them with the rhetorical question: “should I not now require his blood from your hand, and remove you from the earth?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/condemn]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/reward]])

1862SA41jmf8translate-names0Ishbosheth

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1872SA41jnb3figs-synecdoche0his hands became weak

In this phrase “his hands” represents Ishbosheth himself. Alternate translation: “Ishbosheth became weak” or “Ishbosheth lost all strength” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

1882SA42zhe1translate-names0Baanah…Recab…Rimmon

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1892SA42uag2writing-participants0Now Sauls son had two men

This introduces the men Baanah and Rechab into the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

1902SA42d6giwriting-background0for Beeroth is also considered part of Benjamin

Here the author begins to provide background information about Beeroth for the reader. The area of Beeroth was part of the land that belonged to the tribe of Benjamin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1912SA42c93qtranslate-names0Beeroth

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1922SA43uyh4writing-background0and the Beerothites fled to Gittaim and have been living there until this very time

Here the author finishes providing background information about Beeroth for the reader. The area of Beeroth was part of the land that belonged to the tribe of Benjamin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

1932SA43qq9mtranslate-names0Gittaim

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

1942SA44th4jwriting-background0General Information:

This verse pauses the main story to provide background information about Mephibosheth, a descendent of Saul through Jonathan instead of through Ishbosheth. Mephibosheth will become an important character later in the book. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])

1952SA44rav80crippled in his feet

This phrase means “unable to walk.”

1962SA44as76translate-numbers0five years old

This was the age of Jonathans son at the time of his fathers death. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

1972SA44d8qr0the news about Saul and Jonathan

This refers to the news about their death.

1982SA44zj2w0nurse

This is a woman or girl who is hired to care for young children.

1992SA44hwu80became lame

This explains how Mephibosheth was injured so he was unable to walk.

2002SA44xl1ztranslate-names0Mephibosheth

This is the name of Jonathans young son, the grandson of Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2012SA45rr920General Information:

The story returns to the actions of Rechab and Baanah who were introduced in 2 Samuel 4:2.

2022SA45f4qv0the heat of the day

the middle of the day, the part of the day when it is the hottest

2032SA46g8pb0sifting wheat

“cleaning chaff from wheat”

2042SA48n1gdfigs-idiom0sought your life

This idiom means “was trying to kill you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2052SA49c7l9figs-idiom0As Yahweh lives

This is one of the strongest oaths David could swear, as Yahweh is the witness. Alternate translation: “I swear on the life of Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2062SA49qe3vfigs-synecdoche0who delivered my life

Here “life” refers to David himself. This means that Yahweh has kept David alive. Alternate translation: “who rescued me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2072SA411ve2rfigs-rquestion0How much more…should I not now require his blood from your hand, and remove you from the earth?

This question is used to show that the men had committed an especially serious crime. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You are even more guilty! It is my duty to require his blood from your hand and to remove you from the earth.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

2082SA411pl52figs-metonymy0require his blood from your hand

The phrase “his blood” represents the life of Ishbosheth. Here “from your hand” represents Rechab and Baanah, the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, introduced in 2 Samuel 4:5. Alternate translation: “hold you responsible for the death of Ishbosheth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2092SA412b1eptranslate-symaction0cut off their hands and feet and hung them up

These were symbolic actions to show contempt for the men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

2102SA412a16gtranslate-symaction0they took the head of Ishbosheth and buried it in the grave

This was a symbolic act to honor Ishbosheth. This could be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “they honored Ishbosheth by burying his head in the grave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2112SA5introjv2a0

2 Samuel 05 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This records the beginning of the kingdoms expansion.

Special concepts in this chapter

David conquers Jerusalem

David brought the combined army to Jerusalem and conquered it by going in through the water shaft. He enlarged the city and strengthened the defenses, and made it his capital. Jerusalem is an important place in the plans of God.

David consulting God

David always consulted God before fighting a battle. The Philistines invaded Israel trying to capture David. David asked God if he should attack the Philistines, and God said yes; so he defeated them. They invaded again and God told him to attack them from the rear and he defeated them again.

2122SA51qs6rfigs-idiom0we are your flesh and bone

This phrase means “a relative.” Alternate translation: “we are related to you” or “we are of the same family” - (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2132SA52h5dxwriting-background0In the recent past

This is historical information. Saul had been their king before David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

2142SA52fr5efigs-parallelism0You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become ruler over Israel

These two clauses mean basically the same thing and emphasize that Yahweh had chosen David to be king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

2152SA52rcd5figs-metaphor0You will shepherd my people Israel

Here ruling over the people is spoken of as shepherding them. Alternate translation: “You will care for my people Israel” or “You will rule over my people Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2162SA53ep1qtranslate-symaction0They anointed David king over Israel

To “anoint” is a symbolic act to show that they recognized that God had chosen David as king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

2172SA56w24t0General Information:

David and the army of Israel attack Jerusalem.

2182SA56j73y0You will not come here except to be turned away by the blind and the lame

This can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: “If you come here, even the blind and the lame will be able to turn you away”

2192SA56m16bfigs-nominaladj0the blind and the lame

Here “the blind” and “the lame” are nominal adjectives. Alternate translation: “those people who cannot see and those who cannot walk” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

2202SA58c5p90David said, “Those who attack the Jebusites

David was speaking to his soldiers. Alternate translation: “David said to his soldiers, Those who want to get rid of the Jebus people”

2212SA58z3vcfigs-metonymy0The blind and the lame

Possible meanings are (1) this refers to people who are truly lame and blind or (2) this is a metonym that speaks about the Jebusites inside the city of Jerusalem as if they were all weak and handicapped. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2222SA511m9gytranslate-names0Hiram

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2232SA511fv7z0carpenters

those who work with wood

2242SA511s2rm0masons

those who work with stone or brick

2252SA513d3s6figs-activepassive0more sons and daughters were born to him

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he had more sons and daughters” or “they bore him more sons and daughters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2262SA514fcd9translate-names0Shammua…Shobab…Nathan…Solomon

These are the names of Davids sons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2272SA514lw16figs-activepassive0who were born to him

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that his wives bore for him” or “he had” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2282SA515t2yztranslate-names0Ibhar…Elishua…Nepheg…Japhia

These are the names of Davids sons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2292SA516xzm3translate-names0Elishama…Eliada…Eliphelet

These are the names of Davids sons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2302SA517y7vufigs-activepassive0David had been anointed as king over Israel

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Israel had anointed David as king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2312SA517w75rfigs-hyperbole0they all went out looking for him

Here “all” is a generalization that means the Philistine army. Alternate translation: “the Philistine army went looking for him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

2322SA518f39ytranslate-names0Valley of Rephaim

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2332SA520sm5ptranslate-names0Baal Perazim

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2342SA520n37ifigs-simile0Yahweh has burst through my enemies before me like a bursting flood of water

Here David speaks of the victory that Yahweh brought as if it were a flood of water that overflowed its banks and covered the land, causing destruction. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has overwhelmed my enemies like a flood overwhelms the land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

2352SA522ipp20the Philistines came up again

They “came up” because the Philistines lived at a lower elevation than Davids stronghold.

2362SA522u2grtranslate-names0Valley of Rephaim

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2372SA523lzk7translate-names0balsam woods

“Balsam” here is a type of tree, and the “woods” describe many balsam trees growing together. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2382SA524vp29figs-123person0When you hear…Yahweh will have gone out before you to attack the army of the Philistines

This is the continuation of Yahwehs instruction to David that began in 2 Samuel 5:23. Yahweh here speaks of himself in the third person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

2392SA524ccz2figs-metaphor0When you hear the sound of marching in the wind blowing through the balsam treetops

This speaks of the sound of the leaves rustling as wind blows through them as if it were the sound of marching. Alternate translation: “When the wind blowing through the tops of the balsam trees sounds like men marching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2402SA525z8t1translate-names0Geba…Gezer

These are the names of places. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2412SA6introaen50

2 Samuel 06 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem

David organized a procession with many musical instruments to bring the ark to Jerusalem. They put it on a cart; but when the oxen stumbled, Uzzah reached out to steady it so it would not fall. God killed him for touching the ark. David was angry at God for killing Uzzah and was afraid to bring the ark any further. Uzzah died because the ark was perfectly holy. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])

Dancing

David danced for joy in front of the ark. His wife, Michal, criticized David for uncovering himself as he danced, but David did not care. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/joy]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Irony

Michal criticized David by using irony: “How honored the king of Israel was today, who undressed himself today before the eyes of the slave girls among his servants, like one of the crude fellows who shamelessly undresses himself!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

2422SA61prk30Now

This word marks a new part of the story.

2432SA61dz26figs-metonymy0all the chosen men of Israel

This metonym represents the army of the nation of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2442SA61f7cltranslate-numbers0thirty thousand

“30,000” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

2452SA62bci3figs-explicit0from Baalah in Judah to bring up from there the ark of God

It is implied that they are taking the ark to Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “from Baalah in Judah to take to Jerusalem the ark of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2462SA62vy3h0to bring up from there the ark of God

Jerusalem was higher than almost any other place in Israel, so it was normal for Israelites to speak of going up to Jerusalem and going down from it.

2472SA62jrd4figs-go0to bring up

The word “bring” can be translated as “take.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

2482SA62t6lntranslate-names0Baalah

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2492SA62pkw60which is called by the name of Yahweh of hosts

Yahwehs name was written on the ark.

2502SA62ima6figs-explicit0who sits enthroned over the cherubim

You may need to make explicit that the cherubim are those on the lid of the ark of the covenant. The biblical writers often spoke of the ark of the covenant as if it were Yahwehs footstool upon which he rested his feet as he sat on his throne in heaven above. Alternate translation: “who sits on his throne above the cherubim on the ark of the covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2512SA62ae720enthroned

to sit on a throne

2522SA63y6lf0General Information:

David and the army of the nation of Israel move the ark of the covenant.

2532SA63b2ebtranslate-names0Abinadab…Uzzah…Ahio

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2542SA65h1vhfigs-metonymy0all the house of Israel

This metonym represents the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “all the other Israelites with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2552SA65g4xktranslate-unknown0tambourines

A tambourine is a musical instrument like the head of a drum with pieces of metal around the side that sound when the instrument is shaken or hit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2562SA65tc14translate-unknown0rattles

musical instruments with many small, hard objects inside a hard shell, making rhythmic noise when shaken (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2572SA65d3bqtranslate-unknown0cymbals

two thin, round metal plates that are hit together to make a loud sound (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

2582SA66ju6gtranslate-names0Nakon

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2592SA67yht6figs-metaphor0anger of Yahweh burned

Here the “anger of Yahweh” is spoken of as if it were fire. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2602SA67b8dyfigs-explicit0for his sin

It was a sin for Uzzah to touch the ark because Yahweh had commanded that no one should touch the ark. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2612SA68e8lqtranslate-names0Perez Uzzah

This is the name of a place. Translator may add a footnote that says, “The name Perez Uzzah means the punishment of Uzzah.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2622SA68tqy30to this day

This means to the time when this was being written, not to the present time in the twenty-first century.

2632SA69yx34figs-rquestion0How can the ark of Yahweh come to me?

David uses this question to emphasize that he is afraid to take the ark to Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “I am too afraid to bring the ark of Yahweh with me to Jerusalem.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

2642SA610qjd6translate-names0Obed Edom the Gittite

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

2652SA611a4fg0blessed him

Here “him” refers to Obed Edom the Gittite.

2662SA612kg8i0Now

This word starts a new part of the story.

2672SA612j7rufigs-activepassive0King David was told

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people told King David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2682SA612tg1qfigs-metonymy0Obed Edoms house

Here “house” represents a family. Alternate translation: “Obed Edom and his family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2692SA612tke40brought up the ark of God

Jerusalem was higher than almost any other place in Israel, so it was normal for Israelites to speak of going up to Jerusalem and going down from it. Alternate translation: “moved the ark of God” or “took the ark of God”

2702SA612d195figs-go0brought up

The word “brought” can be translated as “took.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

2712SA614m97q0David danced before Yahweh with all his might

Dancing here is a form of joyfully worshiping Yahweh.

2722SA614ubu50linen

a cloth made from fibers of the flax plant

2732SA615td5nfigs-metonymy0all the house of Israel

Here “house” represents the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “all the other Israelites with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2742SA616qn6w0Now…in her heart

The word “Now” marks a break in the story line. Here the narrator gives information about Michal.

2752SA616jz440Michal

Michal was the daughter of King Saul and also Davids first wife. See how you translated this name in 2 Samuel 3:13.

2762SA616tjm7figs-metonymy0she despised him in her heart

Here “heart” represents thoughts or emotions. Alternate translation: “she looked at him with disdain” or “she sneered at him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2772SA616b6w20before Yahweh

“to Yahweh”

2782SA618k4tafigs-metonymy0he blessed the people in the name of Yahweh of hosts

To bless “in the name of Yahweh of hosts” means to bless with Yahwehs power and authority or as his representative. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2792SA619m8cs0cake of raisins

a baked sweet bread made with dried grapes

2802SA620k14xfigs-go0came out

Here “came” can be translated as “went.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

2812SA620jd22figs-irony0How honored the king of Israel was today

This is an ironic statement. Michal means the opposite of what she said, and she does not believe David acted honorably. Michal speaks disrespectfully to King David about his dancing attire and behavior. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

2822SA620nsq4figs-synecdoche0before the eyes of the slave girls

Here “eyes of the slave girls” represents the slave girls. Alternate translation: “in front of the slave girls” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2832SA620b7au0crude fellows

Michal is comparing David to vulgar and foolish men.

2842SA621pz59figs-you0who chose me above your father

Here “your” refers to Michal. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

2852SA621a36nfigs-doublet0over the people of Yahweh, over Israel

Here “the people of Yahweh” and “Israel” mean the same thing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

2862SA622run9figs-irony0I will be even more undignified than this

David is being ironic and means the opposite of what he said. He does not believe what he did was actually undignified or that his actions in the future will be undignified. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

2872SA622y1pufigs-metonymy0I will be humiliated in my own eyes

Here “in my own eyes” represents what a person considers or thinks about something. Alternate translation: “I will consider myself humiliated” or “I will consider myself a fool” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2882SA622ifj3figs-activepassive0But by these slave girls you have spoken about, I will be honored

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “But the slave girls of whom you have spoken will honor me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2892SA623cjq60had no children to the day of her death

“was never able to bear any children”

2902SA7introc6fb0

2 Samuel 07 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This is the finishing of a small interruption about the house of God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/houseofgod]])

Special concepts in this chapter

David wanted to honor God by building him a temple. God told David that he would not build it, but his son would build it. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/temple]])

Covenant of David

God made a covenant with David that was not conditioned upon anything David or his descendants did. God promised that one of Davids descendants would rule Israel forever. Because Israel would not have a king in the future, this promise did not begin at this time. The descendant, who would rule forever, is Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/promise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]])

2912SA71cu7zwriting-newevent0It happened

This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

2922SA71r5agfigs-abstractnouns0given him rest from all his surrounding enemies

“given him safety from all his surrounding enemies.” Here “rest” is an abstract noun. Alternate translation: “caused the enemy people groups to stop attacking Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2932SA72chf8figs-explicit0I am living in a house of cedar

Cedar is a kind of tree that is known for its strength. If you have an equivalent type of tree in your culture, you can use that name, otherwise you can reword this. Alternate translation: “I am living in a strong, permanent house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2942SA72uvh3figs-explicit0the ark of God is staying in the middle of a tent

Tents are temporary dwellings. If you do not have tents in your culture, you can word this differently. Alternate translation: “the ark of God is staying in a temporary place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2952SA73q2imfigs-metonymy0do what is in your heart

Here “heart” represents the mind. Alternate translation: “do what you think you should” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2962SA73aw2nfigs-idiom0for Yahweh is with you

Here “with you” means God is helping and blessing David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2972SA74l5r9figs-idiom0the word of Yahweh came to Nathan, saying:

The idiom “the word of Yahweh came to” is used to introduce a special message from God. Alternate translation: “Yahweh gave a message to Nathan. He said,” or “Yahweh spoke this message to Nathan:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2982SA75ebh50Go and tell David my servant, This is what Yahweh says: Will you build me a house in which to live?

This is the beginning of a quotation that contains quotations within it.

2992SA75kj3lfigs-rquestion0Will you build me a house in which to live?

Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that David is not the one to build a house for Yahweh. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You will not build a house for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3002SA75j3s50build me a house

Here “house” means a temple. In 7:11 Yahweh will say that he will build a house for David. There “house” means a family. If your language has a word that can express both ideas, use it here and in 7:11.

3012SA77t5djfigs-quotesinquotes0did I ever say anything to any of Israels leaders whom I appointed to shepherd my people Israel, saying, “Why have you not built me a house of cedar?”

This has a quotation within a quotation. The direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “did I ever ask any of Israels leaders, whom I appointed to shepherd my people Israel, why they had not built me a house of cedar?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

3022SA77azt9figs-rquestion0did I ever say anything to any of Israels leaders

Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that he never asked any of Israels leaders to build him a house. Alternate translation: “I never said anything to any of Israels leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3032SA77vnx2figs-metaphor0whom I appointed to shepherd my people Israel

Those who are leaders of the people of Israel are spoken of as if they were shepherds and the people were sheep. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3042SA77kek6figs-rquestion0Why have you not built me a house of cedar?

If Yahweh had asked the leaders this question, he would have been using a question to scold them for not building him a house of cedar. But, Yahweh said previously that he did not ask them this question. Alternate translation: “You should have built me a house of cedar.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3052SA78k8e30General Information:

Yahweh describes his promises to King David through the prophet Nathan.

3062SA78knq90Now

This does not mean “at this moment,” but is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.

3072SA78xsx1figs-quotesinquotes0tell my servant David, This is what Yahweh of hosts says: I took you…so that you would be ruler over my people Israel.

This has quotations within quotations. It may be necessary to translate the direct quotations as indirect quotations as in the UST. Alternate translation: “tell my servant David that I took him…so that he would be ruler over my people Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

3082SA78fe6g0tell my servant David

Yahweh is still telling the prophet Nathan what he should tell David.

3092SA78dae2figs-metonymy0I took you from the pasture

Davids job as a shepherd is referred to by the place he watched his sheep. Alternate translation: “I took you from your job as a shepherd” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3102SA79euh7figs-quotesinquotes0I have been with you wherever you went. I have cut off all your enemies from before you. Now I will make your name great, like the names of the great ones of the earth

This continues the quotations within quotations. It may be necessary to translate the direct quotations as indirect quotations as in the UST. Alternate translation: “I have been with him wherever he went. I have cut off all his enemies from before him. Now I will make his name great, like the name of the great ones of the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

3112SA79arz6figs-idiom0I have been with you

Here “with you” means that Yahweh has helped and blessed David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

3122SA79pbz4figs-metaphor0I have cut off all your enemies

Yahweh destroying Davids enemies is spoken of as if Yahweh cut them off, as one would cut a piece of cloth or cut a branch from a tree. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3132SA79g9f5figs-metonymy0make your name great

Here “name” represents a persons reputation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3142SA79vtf60the great ones

The phrase “great ones” means famous persons.

3152SA710l6jj0General Information:

Yahweh continues describing his promises to King David through the prophet Nathan.

3162SA710k1yc0I will appoint a place

“I will choose a place”

3172SA710etx1figs-metaphor0will plant them there

Yahweh causing the people to live in the land permanently and securely is spoken of as if he would plant them in the land. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3182SA710kax4figs-activepassive0be troubled no more

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “no one will ever trouble them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3192SA711wxh30from the days

“from the time”

3202SA711d6c80I commanded judges

After the people of Israel entered the land of Canaan and before they had kings to rule them, God appointed leaders called “judges” to lead them in times of trouble.

3212SA711gat9figs-idiom0to be over my people Israel

To be in authority is referred to as being over someone. Alternate translation: “to rule my people Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

3222SA711cyy5figs-quotesinquotes0Now I will give you rest from all your enemies…declare to you that I will make you a house

If in 2 Samuel 7:8 and 2 Samuel 7:9 you translated the direct quotations as indirect quotation, then here you may need to translate “you” as “him” or “his.” Alternate translation: “Now I will give him rest from all his enemies…declare to him that I will make him a house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

3232SA711a1awfigs-abstractnouns0I will give you rest from all your enemies

“I will give you safety from all your enemies.” Here “rest” is an abstract noun. Alternate translation: “I will make all your enemies stop attacking you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

3242SA711ax6wfigs-metonymy0I will make you a house

Here the metonym “house” refers to Davids ancestors continuing on as the rulers of Israel. In 2 Samuel 7:4 Yahweh asked David if he would be the one to build a house for Yahweh. There “house” represented a temple. If your language has a word that can express both ideas, use it here and in 7:4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3252SA712ap2z0General Information:

Yahweh continues describing his promises to King David through the prophet Nathan.

3262SA712bvq2figs-parallelism0When your days are fulfilled and you lie down with your fathers

These two phrases have similar meanings and are combined for emphasis. They both are polite ways to refer to death and dying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

3272SA712zh5ifigs-metaphor0I will raise up a descendant after you

Yahweh appointing Davids descendant is spoken of as if Yahweh would raise or lift him up. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3282SA712n1u2figs-idiom0one who will come out from your body

This is an idiom that means the person will be Davids descendant. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

3292SA712wn76figs-metonymy0I will establish his kingdom

Here “his kingdom” represents his power to rule. Alternate translation: “I will make him to be a very powerful king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3302SA713rz89figs-metonymy0a house for my name

Here “name” refers to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “a permanent dwelling for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3312SA713nmu3figs-metonymy0I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever

Here “throne” represents the persons power to rule as king. Alternate translation: “I will make his rule over Israel to last forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3322SA714n2sv0I will be a father to him, and he will be my son

The prophecy in 7:12-14 refers to Solomon, Davids son. But, aspects of the prophecy will be fulfilled by Jesus. So, here it is best to translate the words “father” and “son” with your normal words for a biological father and son.

3332SA715hg5v0General Information:

Yahweh finishes describing his promises to King David through the prophet Nathan.

3342SA715h75jfigs-abstractnouns0But my covenant faithfulness will not leave him, as I took it from Saul

The word “faithfulness” is an abstract noun that can be stated as “faithfully loving.” Alternate translation: “I will never stop faithfully loving him as I stopped loving Saul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

3352SA715a6sgfigs-quotations0from before you

If in 2 Samuel 7:8 and 2 Samuel 7:9 you translated the direct quotations as indirect quotation, then here you may need to translate “you” as “David” or “him” or “his” as in the UST. Alternate translation: “from before David. Davids house…before him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

3362SA716q3bdfigs-quotations0Your house…before you. Your throne

If in 2 Samuel 7:8 and 2 Samuel 7:9 you translated the direct quotations as indirect quotation, then here you may need to translate “you” as “David” or “him” or “his” as in the UST. Alternate translation: “Davids house…before him. His throne” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])

3372SA716t2rkfigs-parallelism0Your house and kingdom will be confirmed forever before you. Your throne will be established forever.

These two sentences have similar meanings and emphasize that Davids dynasty will last forever. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

3382SA716y1vvfigs-doublet0Your house and kingdom will be confirmed forever before you

Here the word “house” represents Davids descendants, who will rule as kings. Here “kingdom” means about the same thing as “house.” This can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You will live to see me establish your family and their rule over the people of Israel forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3392SA716bu2wfigs-activepassive0Your throne will be established forever

Here “throne” represents the power to rule as king. Alternate translation: “I will cause your descendants to rule over Israel forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3402SA717mei70all these words

“all these things.” This refers to what Yahweh had said.

3412SA717m93t0he told him about the entire vision

“he told him about everything Yahweh revealed to him”

3422SA718nf24figs-rquestion0Who am I, Yahweh God, and what is my family that you have brought me to this point?

David asks this question to express the deep emotion he felt from hearing Yahwehs proclamation. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “My family and I are not worthy of this honor, Yahweh God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3432SA719tj8jfigs-metaphor0in your sight

Here sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “in your judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3442SA719r9infigs-123person0your servants family

Here David refers to himself as “your servant.” This can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “my family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

3452SA719uvu1figs-metaphor0for a great while to come

This speaks about time as if it were something that travels and arrives somewhere. Alternate translation: “and what will happen to them in the future” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3462SA719btd7figs-123person0your servant

Here David refers to himself as “your servant.” This can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

3472SA720sd87figs-rquestion0What more can I, David, say to you?

David uses this question to emphasize that he has nothing left to say to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “There is nothing more I can say to you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3482SA721d51g0For your words sake

“Because of what you promised to do”

3492SA721wy8w0to fulfill your own purpose

“to accomplish what you planned to do”

3502SA721mia3figs-123person0to your servant

David refers to himself as “your servant.” It can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

3512SA722s9d3figs-idiom0as we have heard with our own ears

The phrase “with our own ears” is used for emphasis. Alternate translation: “as we ourselves have heard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

3522SA722eu9yfigs-exclusive0as we have heard

Here “we” refers to David and the nation of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

3532SA723gt3cfigs-rquestion0What nation is like your people Israel, the one nation on earth whom you, God, went and rescued for yourself?

David uses a question emphasize that there is no other nation like Israel. Alternate translation: “There is no nation like your people Israel, the one nation on earth whom you, God, went and rescued for yourself.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3542SA723u6gxfigs-metonymy0to make a name for yourself

Here “name” represents Yahwehs reputation. Alternate translation: “to make all people know who you are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3552SA723gpj6figs-metonymy0for your land

Here “land” represents the people. Alternate translation: “for your people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3562SA723y68yfigs-metonymy0You drove out nations

Here “nations” represents the people groups that were living in Canaan. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3572SA724hmw10General Information:

David continues to talk to Yahweh.

3582SA725s7y80So now

Here “now” does not mean “at this moment,” but is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.

3592SA725wp22figs-activepassive0may the promise that you made concerning your servant and his family be established forever

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “may you do what you promised to me and my family, and may your promise never change” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3602SA725i7rzfigs-123person0your servant and his family

David is speaking about himself in the third person. This can be stated in the first person. Alternate translation: “me and my family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

3612SA726yq4vfigs-metonymy0May your name be forever great

Here “name” represents Yahwehs reputation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3622SA726tv8xfigs-metonymy0the house of me, David, your servant

Here “house” represents family. Alternate translation: “my family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3632SA726r53afigs-activepassive0is established before you

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “is secure because of you” or “continues because of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3642SA727i375figs-123person0to your servant that you will build him a house

David refers to himself as “your servant.” Alternate translation: “to me that you will build me a house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

3652SA727l4ynfigs-metonymy0that you will build him a house

Here the metonym “house” refers to Davids ancestors continuing on as the rulers of Israel. In 2 Samuel 7:4 Yahweh asked David if he would be the one to build a house for Yahweh. There “house” represented a temple. If your language has a word that can express both ideas, use it here and in 7:4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3662SA727fs5tfigs-metonymy0house

Here “house” represents Davids family. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3672SA728ie540Now

This does not mean “at this moment,” but is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.

3682SA728pvq10your words are trustworthy

“I trust what you say”

3692SA729n6ikfigs-activepassive0with your blessing your servants house will be blessed forever

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “you will continue to bless my family forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3702SA729k3a5figs-123person0your servants house

Here David refers to himself as “your servant.” Alternate translation: “my house” or “my family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

3712SA8introhc4j0

2 Samuel 08 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter returns to the theme of the expansion of Davids kingdom.

Special concepts in this chapter

God enabled victory

God enabled David to conquer all the surrounding nations. Much of the loot and tribute David received, he saved for the temple that his son would build.

3722SA81drj7figs-synecdoche0David attacked

Here David represents his soldiers. Alternate translation: “David and his soldiers attacked” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

3732SA82xbr2figs-synecdoche0Then he defeated

Here “he” refers to David who represents his soldiers. Alternate translation: “Then they defeated” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

3742SA82tcx60measured their men with a line…He measured off two lines to put to death, and one full line to keep alive

Here the “line” is a “rope.” David had the soldiers lie down on the ground to be measured and sorted into three groups. The men in two groups were killed, and in the third, they were allowed to live.

3752SA83r73afigs-synecdoche0David then defeated Hadadezer

Here both “David” and “Hadadezer” represent their armies. Alternate translation: “David and his army then defeated the army of Hadadezer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

3762SA83y7aftranslate-names0Hadadezer…Rehob

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

3772SA83met2translate-names0Zobah

This is the name of a region in Aram. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

3782SA83r3d20to recover his rule

“to regain control over a region” or “to recapture a region”

3792SA84f43etranslate-numbers01,700 chariots

“one thousand seven hundred chariots” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

3802SA84d1tetranslate-numbers0twenty thousand footmen

“20,000 footmen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

3812SA84cc6y0David hamstrung

This is a practice where the tendons in the backs of the legs are cut so that the horses cannot run.

3822SA84b5pr0reserved enough

“set aside enough” or “saved enough”

3832SA84izr7translate-numbers0a hundred chariots

“100 chariots” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

3842SA85u7vwfigs-synecdoche0David killed

Here David represents his soldiers. Alternate translation: “David and his soldiers killed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

3852SA85il6utranslate-numbers0twenty-two thousand Aramean men

“22,000 Aramean men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

3862SA86ph450put garrisons in Aram

“ordered large groups of his soldiers to remain in Aram”

3872SA87ft9efigs-metonymy0David took

Here “David” is probably a metonym for his soldiers. Alternate translation: “Davids soldiers took” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3882SA88qtw6figs-metonymy0King David took

Here “David” is probably a metonym for his soldiers. Alternate translation: “King Davids soldiers took” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

3892SA88nu2qtranslate-names0Tebah and Berothai

These are the names of places. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

3902SA89t4entranslate-names0Tou

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

3912SA89le1qtranslate-names0Hamath

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

3922SA89l3defigs-synecdoche0David had defeated

Here “David” is a metonym for his army. Alternate translation: “Davids army had defeated” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

3932SA810yiq3translate-names0Tou…Hadoram

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

3942SA812cjj30and Amalek

“and the Amalekites”

3952SA812d7vv0the plundered goods

These are the valuable items that soldiers take from the people they defeated.

3962SA812z5x60Hadadezer son of Rehob, the king of Zobah

See how you translated these names in 2 Samuel 8:3.

3972SA813hrc2figs-metonymy0Davids name was well known

Here “name” refers to Davids reputation. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “David was very famous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3982SA813c9s7translate-names0Valley of Salt

This is the name of a place. Its exact location is unknown. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

3992SA813th6rtranslate-numbers0eighteen thousand men

“18,000 men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

4002SA814gc6u0He placed garrisons throughout all of Edom

“He ordered groups of his soldiers to remain in areas throughout all of Edom”

4012SA816r8xj0Joab…Zeruiah

See how you translated these names in 2 Samuel 2:13.

4022SA816d81qfigs-explicit0Ahilud was recorder

A recorder was a person who spoke to the people and told them the kings announcements. Alternate translation: “Ahilud was the herald” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4032SA816nig1translate-names0Ahilud

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4042SA817k3p5translate-names0Ahitub…Ahimelech…Seraiah

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4052SA818gm1ftranslate-names0Benaiah…Jehoiada

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4062SA818xxs8translate-names0Kerethites…Pelethites

These are names of people-groups. These people were Davids bodyguards. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4072SA9introlwh60

2 Samuel 09 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter is another interruption to the story of David expanding his kingdom. David is concerned with fulfilling his oath to Jonathans descendants.

Special concepts in this chapter

Davids vow

David determined to fulfill his vow to Jonathan to care for Jonathans descendants. He found Jonathans son and told him he would treat him as if he was one of his sons. He restored all of Sauls property to him and had him eat every day at the kings table. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/vow]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Rhetorical question and metaphor

Jonathans son expressed his surprise and feeling of unworthiness with a rhetorical question: “What is your servant, that you should look with favor on such a dead dog as I am?” and by a metaphor comparing himself to “a dead dog.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4082SA91t1g10for Jonathans sake

“because of my love for Jonathan”

4092SA91cy220Jonathans sake

Jonathan was Sauls son and Davids best friend.

4102SA92id7atranslate-names0Ziba

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4112SA92ura20I am your servant

Ziba calls himself “your servant” to show great respect to David.

4122SA93j5la0I may show the kindness of God

The abstract noun “kindness” can be stated as “kind.” Alternate translation: “I may be kind as I promised God I would be”

4132SA93u7bafigs-metonymy0who is lame in his feet

“whose feet are damaged.” The word “feet” here refers to the ability to walk. Alternate translation: “who is unable to walk” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4142SA94ee6atranslate-names0Machir…Ammiel

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4152SA94st1rtranslate-names0Lo Debar

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4162SA95tj7ufigs-ellipsis0King David sent

It is understood that David sent messengers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

4172SA96fp3x0Mephibosheth

See how you translated this in 2 Samuel 4:4.

4182SA96wni4figs-go0came to David

The word “came” can be translated as “went.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

4192SA96huu60I am your servant

Mephibosheth refers to himself as “your servant” to show great honor to David.

4202SA97fe5j0for Jonathan your fathers sake

“because I loved your father, Jonathan”

4212SA97zy8zfigs-metonymy0you will always eat at my table

Here “my table” represents being together with David or in his presence. Eating with the king at his table was a great honor. Alternate translation: “you will always eat with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4222SA98fvp8figs-rquestion0What is your servant, that you should look with favor on such a dead dog as I am?

This rhetorical question shows that Mephibosheth understands that he is not important enough for the king to take care of him. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “I am like a dead dog. I do not deserve for you to be kind to me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

4232SA98j13efigs-metaphor0such a dead dog

Here Mephibosheth represents the line of Saul, and he compares himself to a “dead dog.” Dogs were feral animals, not cared for, and of little importance. A dead dog would be considered even less important. Alternate translation: “such a person like me who is worthless as a dead dog” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4242SA910cb8wfigs-metonymy0must always eat at my table

Here “my table” represents being together with David or in his presence. Eating with the king at his table was a great honor. Alternate translation: “must always eat with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4252SA910ae24writing-background0Now Ziba…servants

Here “now” makes a break in the main story line. The narrator gives background information about Ziba. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

4262SA910tgt5translate-numbers0fifteen sons and twenty servants

“15 sons and 20 servants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

4272SA911fwy9figs-123person0Your servant will do all that my master the king commands his servant

Ziba refers to himself as “your servant” and refers to David as “my master.” Alternate translation: “I, your servant will do all that you, my king, command me to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

4282SA912eu17translate-names0Mika

This is the name of the son of Mephibosheth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4292SA912u3qrfigs-metonymy0All who lived in the house of Ziba

Here “house” represents Zibas family. Alternate translation: “All of Zibas family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4302SA913caj8figs-metonymy0he always ate at the kings table

Here “table” represents being together with David or in his presence. Eating with the king at his table was a great honor. Alternate translation: “he always ate with the king at his table” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4312SA913du2gfigs-metonymy0though he was lame in both his feet

“thouge both of his feet were damaged.” Here “feet” represents the ability to walk. Alternate translation: “though he was unable to walk” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4322SA10introabca0

2 Samuel 10 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The chapter records the last expansion of Davids kingdom. This chapter is also the beginning of a section dealing with the war between Israel and Ammon.

Special concepts in this chapter

Shame

It was apparently the cause of shame or embarrassment in ancient Ammon to have their beards shaved off or to have their garments cut off. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphor

The Ammon people used a metaphor comparing themselves to a bad smell: “they had become a stench to David” when they realized they had made David very angry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4332SA101g3zstranslate-names0Hanun

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4342SA102k9r2translate-names0Hanun…Nahash

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4352SA103r4atfigs-rquestion0Do you really think that…you?

The leaders use a question to suggest to the king that he should not trust David. Alternate translation: “You are wrong to think that…you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

4362SA103zys40to spy

to secretly learn information about someone else

4372SA103gmb8figs-rquestion0Has not David…overthrow it?

The leaders use a question to suggest to the king that he should not trust David. Alternate translation: “You need to know that David…overthrow it.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

4382SA103d8ecfigs-metonymy0in order to overthrow it

Here “it” refers to the city which represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “in order to conquer us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4392SA103bm5t0the city

Here “the city” refers to Rabbah, the capital city of the Ammonites.

4402SA104g9mafigs-explicit0shaved off half their beards

This act was meant as an insult to humiliate the men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4412SA105jt3xfigs-idiom0were deeply ashamed

Here “deeply” is an idiom that means “very.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

4422SA105v21lfigs-ellipsis0then return

It is understood that they should return to Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

4432SA106v8sifigs-metaphor0they had become a stench to David

The phrase “become a stench” is a metaphor for “they had become offensive.” Alternate translation: “they had become offensive like a bad smell to David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4442SA106t6tctranslate-names0Beth Rehob…Zobah…Maacah…Tob

These are the names of places. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4452SA106gk6ytranslate-numbers0twenty thousand…a thousand…twelve thousand

“20,000…1,000…12,000” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

4462SA108u7sj0to their city gate

Here “the city” refers to Rabbah, the capital city of the Ammonites.

4472SA109p5qe0General Information:

The battle with the Arameans and Ammon continues.

4482SA1010ka2a0The rest of his people he put into the hand of Abishai his brother

“He put Abishai his brother in charge of the rest of the army”

4492SA1011i9k30General Information:

Joab gets the army ready for battle.

4502SA1011nlq4figs-synecdoche0for me, then you, Abishai, must rescue me

Here “me” refers to Joab. Joab and Abishai represents themselves and their armies. Alternate translation: “for us, then you, Abishai, and your army must rescue us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

4512SA1014q6spfigs-synecdoche0from Abishai

Here Abishai represents himself and his soldiers. Alternate translation: “from Abishai and his soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

4522SA1014d64c0into the city

Here “the city” refers to Rabbah, the capital city of the Ammonites.

4532SA1014v8x90went back to Jerusalem

“returned to Jerusalem”

4542SA1015rg85figs-activepassive0When the Arameans saw that they were being defeated by Israel

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “when the Arameans realized that the Israelites were defeating them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4552SA1016yd3itranslate-names0Hadarezer…Shobak

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4562SA1016sle10from beyond the Euphrates River

This means the east side of the Euphrates River.

4572SA1016nik5figs-go0They came to Helam

Here “came to” can be translated as “went to” or “gathered at” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

4582SA1016rhn4translate-names0Helam

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4592SA1017pz1sfigs-activepassive0When David was told this

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “When David heard about this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4602SA1017vk7afigs-metonymy0gathered all Israel together

Here “Israel” represents the army of Israel. Alternate translation: “assembled all the army of Israel together” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4612SA1017ism80Helam

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 10:16.

4622SA1017ln59figs-synecdoche0against David and fought him

Here David represents himself and his soldiers. Alternate translation: “against David and his soldiers and fought them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

4632SA1018tev3figs-synecdoche0David killed

Here “David” is a synecdoche for himself and his soldiers. Alternate translation: “David and his soldiers killed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

4642SA1018uc7ztranslate-numbers0seven hundred…forty thousand

“700…40,000” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

4652SA1018zwc8figs-activepassive0Shobak the commander of their army was wounded and died there

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The Israelites wounded Shobak the commander of the Aramean army, and he died there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4662SA1018s2lg0Shobak

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 10:16.

4672SA1019s2mk0Hadarezer

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 10:16.

4682SA1019dzd4figs-activepassive0saw that they were defeated by Israel

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “realized that the Israelites had defeated them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4692SA11introabcb0

2 Samuel 11 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter begins a new section of Davids life. God punished David by allowing his family to have many problems.

Special concepts in this chapter

Davids adultery and the murder of Uriah

The army of Israel defeated the army of Ammon and then they besieged Ammons capital while David stayed in Jerusalem. One day, David saw a beautiful woman, named Bathsheba, bathing. He committed adultery with her. When she became pregnant, David tried to cover up his sin. When this did not work, he had her husband killed in battle. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])

4702SA111eqn9writing-newevent0It came about in the springtime

“It happened in the springtime.” This introduces a new event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

4712SA111jf4r0at the time

“at the time of year”

4722SA111a4dsfigs-explicit0David sent out Joab, his servants, and all the army of Israel

David sent them out to war. This can be stated clearly. Also, the word “his” refers to David. Alternate translation: “David sent Joab, his servants, and all the army of Israel to war” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4732SA111qac90the army of Ammon

“the Ammonite army”

4742SA111myy2translate-names0Rabbah

This is the name of a city. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4752SA112wi9ywriting-newevent0So it came about

“So it happened” or “So it came to pass.” The author uses this phrase to introduce the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

4762SA112qi78figs-explicit0a woman who was bathing

The woman was not on the roof, she would have been bathing outside in the courtyard of her house. Alternate translation: “a woman who was bathing in the courtyard of her house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4772SA113yv7gfigs-idiom0So David sent

Here the word “sent” means that David sent a messenger. Alternate translation: “So David sent a messenger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

4782SA113r92kfigs-metonymy0he asked people who would know about the woman

David was trying to find out who the woman was. The word “he” refers to David, but is a metonym for the messenger that David sent. The messenger was to ask the people for information about her. Alternate translation: “the messenger asked the people who knew her about who she was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4792SA113ht5yfigs-rquestion0Is not this Bathsheba…and is she not the wife of Uriah the Hittite?

This question gives information and can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “This is Bathsheba…and she is the wife of Uriah the Hittite.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

4802SA114s4dnfigs-metonymy0took her

David actually sent messengers, and they took her and brought her to him. Alternate translation: “they brought her to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4812SA114x8kffigs-metonymy0she came in to him

She came into his palace and into his bedroom. Alternate translation: “she came into the place where he was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4822SA114qka3figs-euphemism0he lay with her

This is a polite way of saying that he had sexual relations with her. You may need to use a different euphemism in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

4832SA114n2gg0menstruation

the time when a woman bleeds from her womb

4842SA115e4v5figs-idiom0she sent and told David; she said, “I am pregnant.”

Here the word “sent” means that she sent a messenger to tell David that she was pregnant. Alternate translation: “she sent a messenger to David, and the messenger told David that she was pregnant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

4852SA116bds8figs-idiom0Then David sent

Here the word “sent” means that David sent a messenger. Alternate translation: “Then David sent a messenger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

4862SA117vjr7figs-idiom0how Joab was, how the army was doing, and how the war was going

David was asking if Joab and the army were well and about the progress of the war. Alternate translation: “if Joab was well, if other soldiers were well, and how the war was progressing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

4872SA118qzu2figs-idiom0Go down to your house

Possible meanings for the phrase “go down” are (1) Uriahs house was located at a lower elevation than the kings palace or (2) Uriahs house was of lesser importance than the kings palace. Alternate translation: “Go to your house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

4882SA118f1ghfigs-metonymy0wash your feet

This phrase is a metonym for returning home to rest for the night after working all day. Alternate translation: “rest for the night” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4892SA118s4b9figs-metonymy0the king sent a gift for Uriah

David sent someone to bring the gift to Uriah. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “the king sent someone to take a gift to Uriah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4902SA119fp1u0his master

The word “his” refers to Uriah and the word “master” refers to David.

4912SA1110p5tgfigs-rquestion0Have you not come from a journey? Why did you not go down to your house?

This rhetorical question is used to show Davids surprise that Uriah did not visit his wife. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “After coming from such a long journey, you should have gone down to your house.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

4922SA1111t1wrfigs-synecdoche0Israel and Judah

This refers to their armies. Alternate translation: “the armies of Israel and Judah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

4932SA1111w65kfigs-rquestion0How then can I go into my house…with my wife?

This rhetorical question is used to emphasize Uriahs refusal to visit his wife and can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “It would be wrong for me to go into my house…with my wife while the other soldiers in my army are in danger.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4942SA1111k6b2figs-euphemism0to lie with my wife

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “to have sexual relations with my wife” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

4952SA1111ww5lfigs-simile0As sure as you are alive, I will not do this

Uriah swears a strong promise that he will not go home to his wife as long as the rest of the soldiers are at war. He makes this promise by comparing the truth of his promise to the certainty that the king was alive. Alternate translation: “I solemnly promise that I will not do this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

4962SA1113a9yz0he ate and drank before him

“Uriah ate and drank with David”

4972SA1113xex1figs-idiom0down to his house

Possible meanings of the word “down” are (1) Uriahs house was located at a lower elevation than the kings palace or (2) Uriahs house was of lesser importance than the kings palace. See how you translated the similar phrase “down to your house” in 2 Samuel 11:8. Alternate translation: “to his house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

4982SA1114c9uzfigs-synecdoche0sent it by the hand of Uriah

The phrase “the hand of Uriah” refers to Uriah himself. Alternate translation: “sent Uriah himself to deliver it to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

4992SA1115r9ph0very front of the most intense battle

“very front of the battle line where the fighting is the worst”

5002SA1115z3us0withdraw from him

“command the soldiers to back away from him”

5012SA1115sac70he may be hit and killed

“he may be wounded and killed”

5022SA1116di6wfigs-abstractnouns0the siege upon the city

The word “siege” can be expressed with the verbs “surround” and “attack.” Alternate translation: “his army surround and attack the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

5032SA1117x2mtfigs-euphemism0some of the soldiers of David fell

The word “fell” is a polite way to refer to the soldiers being killed. Alternate translation: “Davids soldiers were killed” or “they killed some of Davids soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

5042SA1117s5r9figs-activepassive0and Uriah the Hittite was also killed there

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “including Uriah the Hittite” or “and the men of the city also killed Uriah the Hittite” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

5052SA1118g9kwfigs-metonymy0Joab sent word to David

The phrase “sent word” means that he sent a messenger to give a report. Alternate translation: “Joab sent a messenger to David to give a report” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5062SA1120a8wjfigs-rquestion0Why did you go so near…from the wall?

Joab says that David may rebuke him by asking these rhetorical questions. These questions may be written as statements. Alternate translation: “You should not have gone so near to the city to fight. You should have known that they would shoot from the wall.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

5072SA1120n65ufigs-explicit0shoot from the wall

This refers to men of the city shooting arrows down at their enemy from the top of the city wall. Alternate translation: “shoot arrows at you from the top of the city wall” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5082SA1121h8q7figs-rquestion0Who killed Abimelech son of Jerub-Besheth?

Joab says that David may rebuke him by asking these rhetorical questions. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Remember how Abimelech son of Jerub-Besheth was killed!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

5092SA1121h97rtranslate-names0Abimelech son of Jerub-Besheth

This is the name of a man. His father is also know by the name Gideon. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

5102SA1121uf4wfigs-rquestion0Did not a woman cast an upper millstone on him from the wall, so that he died at Thebez?

Joab says that David may rebuke him by asking these rhetorical questions. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Remember he died at Thebez when a woman cast an upper millstone on him from the top of the wall.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

5112SA1121zx1s0millstone

a heavy stone that would roll, used to crush grain for making bread

5122SA1121g9p70from the wall

“from the top of the city wall”

5132SA1121q6dztranslate-names0Thebez

This is the name of a city. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

5142SA1121p6i4figs-rquestion0Why did you go so near the wall?

Joab says that David may rebuke him by asking these rhetorical questions. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not have gone so near the wall!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

5152SA1123ax3f0the gate

“the city gate”

5162SA1124jnl20their shooters shot

“their shooters shot arrows”

5172SA1124ay8nfigs-activepassive0some of the kings servants were killed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they killed some of the kings servants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

5182SA1124ych30kings servants

Here “servants” refers to soldiers, not slaves, because soldiers were servants of the king.

5192SA1124bf6ffigs-activepassive0your servant Uriah the Hittite was killed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they killed your servant Uriah the Hittite” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

5202SA1125v2pbfigs-metonymy0for the sword devours one as well as another

Here “the sword” refers to a person who kills someone with sword. Also, killing someone with a sword is spoken of as if the sword were “eating” the people. Alternate translation: “for one man can be killed by a sword the same as another man” or “for any man can die in battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5212SA1125mk7a0Make your battle even stronger

“Fight even stronger”

5222SA1126gx4sfigs-metaphor0she lamented deeply

Here the author speaks of her lamenting very much as if it were deep inside her. Alternate translation: “she lamented very much” or “she lamented greatly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5232SA1127d34z0sorrow

a deep feeling of sadness caused by suffering, disappointment or misfortune

5242SA1127d21wfigs-idiom0David sent and took her home

Here the word “sent” means that he sent a messenger to get her and bring her to him. Alternate translation: “David sent a messenger to her to bring her home” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5252SA1127cq8x0displeased Yahweh

“saddened Yahweh” or “angered Yahweh”

5262SA12introabcc0

2 Samuel 12 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This is the final expansion of Davids kingdom and records the end of the war with Ammon.

Special concepts in this chapter

Davids punishment

God sent a prophet to confront David. He said that because David had Uriah killed, there would always be killing in his family and that the baby conceived with Bathsheba would die. David prayed that the baby be allowed to live, but the infant died. Bathsheba then had another son, who was named Solomon. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])

5272SA123jfa80ewe lamb

a female lamb

5282SA123wd4gfigs-simile0was like a daughter to him

This refers to the closeness of this man and his little lamb. Alternate translation: “he loved it as much as if it were one of his daughters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

5292SA124vv6b0ewe lamb

a young, female sheep

5302SA124c763figs-explicit0for his visitor

It was for his visitor to eat. Alternate translation: “for his visitor to eat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5312SA125tm95figs-metaphor0David was hot with anger against

Here the author describes how David was very angry as if his body were physically hot because of his anger. Alternate translation: “David became furious with” or “David became very angry with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5322SA125v4ka0he raged to Nathan

This means that David spoke angrily to Nathan.

5332SA125gd2wfigs-explicit0As Yahweh lives

This expresses that David was swearing an oath or serious promise. Alternate translation: “I declare, as surely as Yahweh lives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5342SA125r45bfigs-idiom0to be put to death

This means to be killed. Also, that can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “to be killed” or “to die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

5352SA126m494translate-numbers0He must pay back the lamb four times over

The amount the rich man was required to pay back to the poor man was to be four times what the little lamb cost. “He must pay the poor man four times the price of the lamb” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5362SA126l1te0pity

to feel sadness and love for someone who is suffering or hurt or not loved

5372SA127x85zfigs-metonymy0out of the hand of Saul

Here the word “hand” refers to control. Alternate translation: “out of Sauls control” or “from Sauls control” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5382SA128ty2vfigs-metaphor0your masters wives into your arms

Here Yahweh describes David having his masters wives as his own wives, by saying that they are “in his arms.” Alternate translation: “your masters wives as your own” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5392SA128v7tcfigs-metaphor0I also gave you the house of Israel and Judah

Here Yahweh speaks of how he gave David his authority as king over Israel and Judah as if he gave him the houses of Israel and Judah as a gift. The phrase “the house of” means “the people of.” Alternate translation: “I also gave you authority as king over the people of Israel and Judah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5402SA128sr3v0if that had been too little

“if I had not given you enough”

5412SA129nb14figs-rquestion0So why have you despised…Yahweh, so as to do what is evil in his sight?

This rhetorical question is used to rebuke David. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not have despised…Yahweh and should not have done what is evil in his sight!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

5422SA129ctt1figs-metaphor0what is evil in his sight

Here “sight” refers to Yahwehs thoughts or opinion. Alternate translation: “what he considers to be evil” or “what is evil in Yahwehs judgement” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5432SA129iy29figs-metonymy0You have struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword

David did not kill Uriah himself, rather he arranged for him to be killed in battle. The phrase “with the sword” represents how Uriah died in battle. Alternate translation: “You have arranged for Uriah the Hittite to die in battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5442SA129n595figs-metonymy0You killed him with the sword of the army of Ammon

David did not kill Uriah himself, rather he arranged for him to be killed in battle when Israel was fighting against Ammon. The phrase “with the sword” refers to how he died in battle. Alternate translation: “You arranged for him to die in battle against the army of Ammon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5452SA1210t13vfigs-metonymy0the sword will never leave your house

Here the word “sword” refers to people dying in war. Also, Davids “house” refers to his descendants. Alternate translation: “some of your descendants will always die in battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5462SA1211zbq2figs-metonymy0out of your own house

Here Davids “house” refers to his family. Alternate translation: “from among your own family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5472SA1211d9zafigs-synecdoche0Before your own eyes

Here David is referred to by his eyes to emphasize what he would see. Alternate translation: “While you are watching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

5482SA1211bc2jfigs-euphemism0he will lie with your wives

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “he will have sexual relations with your wives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

5492SA1211br6xfigs-metaphor0in broad daylight

“in full daylight.” The idea of doing something “openly” or in a way that people are fully aware of what is happening is often spoken about as being done in the “daylight.” Alternate translation: “openly” or “and everyone will see what is happening” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5502SA1212cy920committed your sin

“sinned”

5512SA1212g9jffigs-metonymy0before all Israel

This phrase speaks of the people of Israel knowing about what has happened to his wives as if they all actually witnessed it happening. Alternate translation: “before all the people of Israel” or “and all the people of Israel will know about it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5522SA1213u54jfigs-metaphor0passed over

Yahweh has forgiven David of his sin. This is spoken of here as Yahweh passing over his sin as if it were something that he walked by and disregarded. Alternate translation: “forgiven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5532SA1213zze1figs-activepassive0You will not be killed

This can be stated in active form. Sometimes men died because of their sins, but he will not die because of his sin with the woman. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “You will not die” or “you will not die because of this sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5542SA1214m7z50despised

to strongly dislike or hate someone or something

5552SA1214vm9hfigs-idiom0the child who is born to you

The phrase “born to you” means that it is Davids baby. Alternate translation: “your child who will be born” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

5562SA1215z3d2figs-metaphor0Yahweh attacked the child that…and he was very sick

Here the author speaks of Yahweh causing the baby to become sick as Yahweh attacking the child. Alternate translation: “Yahweh afflicted the child that…and he was very sick” or “Yahweh caused the baby that…to become very sick” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5572SA1215eh1xfigs-idiom0the child that Uriahs wife bore to David

This means that she gave birth to a child and that David was his father. Alternate translation: “Davids child, who Uriahs wife gave birth to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

5582SA1216t71m0implored

to beg or pray with strong desire

5592SA1216k5zufigs-explicit0went inside

David went into his room when he was alone. Alternate translation: “went inside his room” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5602SA1217dyf70to raise him up from the floor

“and urged him to get up from the floor”

5612SA1218cbe10It came about

“It happened”

5622SA1218f2jxfigs-synecdoche0he did not listen to our voice

The servants are referred to here by their voices to emphasize that they were speaking. Alternate translation: “he did not listen to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

5632SA1218ueh7figs-explicit0the seventh day

“day 7.” This refers to the seventh day after the baby was born. Alternate translation: “the seventh day after he was born” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

5642SA1218j2pi0Look

This is used to get peoples attention. Alternate translation: “Listen”

5652SA1218sz9xfigs-rquestion0What might he do to himself if we tell him that the boy is dead?!

The servants ask this rhetorical question to express their fear. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “We are afraid that he may harm himself if we tell him that the boy is dead!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

5662SA1219s1tv0were whispering together

“were speaking very quietly to each other”

5672SA1219mh6l0David perceived

“David understood”

5682SA1220aa4t0David arose

“David got up”

5692SA1221nx6q0General Information:

These verses contain rhetorical questions that emphasize that David realizes that Yahweh has allowed this to happen.

5702SA1222p2zafigs-rquestion0Who knows whether or not Yahweh will be gracious to me, that the child may live?

David asked this rhetorical question to empathize that no one knew if Yahweh would let the child live. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one knows whether or not Yahweh will be gracious to me so that the child may live.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

5712SA1223pf4kfigs-rquestion0But now he is dead, so why should I fast?

David asks this rhetorical question to empathize that he no longer has a reason to fast. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Now that he is dead it would be of no use to fast any longer.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

5722SA1223cc5pfigs-rquestion0Can I bring him back again?

David asks this rhetorical question to empathize that the boy cannot come back to life. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “I cannot bring him back to life.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

5732SA1223qs7pfigs-explicit0I will go to him

David implies that he will go to where his child is when he dies. Alternate translation: “When I die I will go to where he is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

5742SA1224f8utfigs-doublet0went in to her and lay with her

Both the phrase “went in to her” and the phrase “lay with her” refer to David having sexual relations with Bathsheba and emphasize what they did. Alternate translation: “had sexual relations with her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

5752SA1225m6cefigs-metonymy0he sent word through Nathan the prophet

Here “word” refers to a message that Yahweh told Nathan to tell David. Alternate translation: “he sent Nathan to tell him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5762SA1225rd3rtranslate-names0Jedidiah

This is another name for Davids son Solomon, which Yahweh chose for him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

5772SA1226jf3tfigs-synecdoche0Joab fought…he captured

Here the author says “Joab” but he is referring to Joab and his soldiers who fought with him. Alternate translation: “Joab and his soldiers fought…they captured” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

5782SA1226ar6mfigs-metonymy0Rabbah

Fighting against this city literally means to fight against the people of Rabbah. Translate the name the same as you did in 2 Samuel 11:1. Alternate translation: “the people of Rabbah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5792SA1227ip2q0So Joab sent messengers to David and said

“So Joab sent messengers to David to say to him”

5802SA1227c6aufigs-metaphor0have taken the citys water supply

“Taking” a place or landmark means to take control of it. Alternate translation: “have taken control of the citys water supply” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5812SA1227n5s7figs-synecdoche0I have fought…I have taken

Here Joab speaks of himself when he is actually referring to himself and his soldiers. Alternate translation: “My soldiers and I have fought…my soldier and I have taken” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

5822SA1228ue9dfigs-synecdoche0if I take

Here Joab speaks of himself when he is actually referring to himself and his soldiers. Alternate translation: “if my soldiers and I take” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

5832SA1228ej7ufigs-idiom0camp against

This means to surround and attack. Alternate translation: “besiege” or “surround” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

5842SA1228zt5kfigs-metaphor0take it…take the city

“Taking” a place or landmark means to take control of it. Alternate translation: “take control of it…take control of the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

5852SA1228gj9rfigs-activepassive0it will be named

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people will name it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

5862SA1229z74sfigs-synecdoche0he fought

Here the author speaks of David when he is actually referring to David and his soldiers. Alternate translation: “David and his soldiers fought” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

5872SA1230n7vbtranslate-bweight0a talent

This may be written in modern weights. Alternate translation: “about 33 kilograms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

5882SA1230t9em0a precious stone

a rare gemstone such as a diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald, or opal

5892SA1230nw9jfigs-activepassive0The crown was placed on Davids own head

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “They placed the crown on Davids own head” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

5902SA1230wz14figs-metonymy0he brought out

Here the author speaks of David when he is actually referring to Davids soldiers. Alternate translation: “they brought out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5912SA1230g4xl0plunder

valuable things taken from a defeated enemy

5922SA1230nq3u0large quantities

“large amounts”

5932SA1231a3vvfigs-metonymy0He brought out the people

David did not bring out the people himself; he commanded his soldiers to bring them out. Alternate translation: “David commanded his soldiers to bring out the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5942SA1231ya1w0saws, iron picks, and axes

These are tools to cut wood or break up the ground.

5952SA1231tl3i0brick kilns

ovens where bricks are dried and hardened

5962SA1231ew58figs-metonymy0all the cities of the people of Ammon

This refers to the people in the cities. Alternate translation: “all the people of the cites of Ammon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

5972SA13introabcd0

2 Samuel 13 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter begins the story about the difficulties and killings in Davids family. Davids sin caused these problems in his family. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])

Special concepts in this chapter

Amnon raped Absaloms sister

Amnon raped Absaloms sister, who was his own half-sister. David did nothing to punish him and Davids lack of action caused significant problems in his family and in Israel. This eventually caused Solomon to become king, even though he was not the oldest son.

5982SA131e2tiwriting-newevent0It came about after this

“It happened after this.” This phrase is used to introduce a new event to the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

5992SA131tup10half-sister

Amnon and Tamar shared the same father but not the same mother.

6002SA131fj5k0full sister

Absalom and Tamar shared the same father and mother.

6012SA132fmq1figs-explicit0Amnon was so frustrated that he became sick because of his sister Tamar

Amnon was frustrated because he desired to sleep with his sister Tamar. Alternate translation: “Amnon was so frustrated with desire for his sister Tamar that he felt sick” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6022SA133rz6ptranslate-names0Jonadab son of Shimeah, Davids brother

These are the names of men. Shimeah was Davids brother. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

6032SA133knc50shrewd

crafty or deceptive

6042SA134qef90depressed

in an emotional state of extreme unhappiness

6052SA134s99ufigs-ellipsis0Will you not tell me?

It is understood that he is asking him about his depression, which can be stated clearly. Also, this rhetorical question is a request for Jehonadab to tell him why he is depressed. It may be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Will you not tell me why you are depressed?” or “Please, tell me why you are depressed.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

6062SA135qen40Jonadab

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 13:3.

6072SA135xjs4figs-idiom0eat it from her hand

This is probably a request for her to serve food to him personally. He probably did not want her to put the food in his mouth. Alternate translation: “have her serve it to me herself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

6082SA136tsl3figs-idiom0I may eat from her hand

This is probably a request for her to serve food to him personally. He probably did not expect her to put the food in his mouth. Alternate translation: “she may serve it to me to eat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

6092SA136n1c20pretended to be sick

This means he gave a false appearance of being ill.

6102SA136a3i8figs-metonymy0for my sickness in front of me

The food is not for his sickness, but rather it is for him, because he is sick. The phrase “in front of me” is a request for Tamar to prepare the food in his presence. Alternate translation: “in front of me because I am sick” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

6112SA137we8hfigs-metonymy0David sent word

This means that he sent a messenger to speak to Tamar. Alternate translation: “David sent a messenger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

6122SA138k69t0dough

a thick mixture of flour and liquid used for baking

6132SA138di8s0kneaded

used her hands to mix the dough

6142SA138l12vfigs-idiom0in his sight

This means that Tamar made the bread in front of him. Alternate translation: “in front of him” or “in his presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

6152SA139cwh1figs-idiom0So everyone went out from him

To “go out from someone” means to leave them. Alternate translation: “So everyone left him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

6162SA1310y3b4figs-idiom0that I may eat from your hand

This is a request for Tamar to serve the food to him personally. Alternate translation: “and serve it to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

6172SA1311c79ffigs-euphemism0lie with me

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “have sexual relations with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

6182SA1312rly8figs-ellipsis0do not force me

She is referring to having sexual relations with him. Alternate translation: “do not force me to have sexual relations with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

6192SA1312fd8t0appalling

very shameful

6202SA1313dwl70General Information:

Tamar continues to talk to Amnon.

6212SA1313j8jbfigs-rquestion0How could I be rid of my shame?

Tamar asks this rhetorical question to emphasize how much shame she would have if she slept with him. Tamar speaks of getting rid of her shame as if it were an enemy or a tormentor that she needed to escape from. Alternate translation: “If you do this, I would have to endure shame everywhere I go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

6222SA1314ras3figs-euphemism0he lay with her

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “he had sexual relations with her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

6232SA1316zc24figs-abstractnouns0Because this great evil of making me leave is even worse

The abstract noun “this great evil” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “It would be very evil to make me leave! It would be even worse” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

6242SA1317au8lfigs-explicit0bolt the door after her

This means to lock the door so that she will not be able to come back in again. Alternate translation: “lock the door so that she cannot come back in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6252SA1318c6tefigs-explicit0bolted the door after her

This means to lock the door so that she will not be able to come back in again. Alternate translation: “locked the door so that she could not go back in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6262SA1319i3wttranslate-symaction0put ashes on her head and tore her robe. She put her hands on her head

These are acts of mourning and grief in the Israelite culture. Alternate translation: “put ashes on her head and tore her robe to show that she was very sad. Then to show her grief, she put her hands on her head” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

6272SA1320w3wpfigs-euphemism0Has Amnon your brother been with you?

This is a polite way to ask is Amnon has had sexual relations with her. Alternate translation: “Has Amnon your brother slept with you?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

6282SA1320ffu3figs-idiom0keep quiet

This means to not tell anyone about something. Alternate translation: “do not tell anyone about this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

6292SA1320ce3afigs-idiom0Do not take this thing to heart

The phrase “take something to heart” means “to worry about it.” Alternate translation: “Do not worry about what has happened” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

6302SA1320m1az0So Tamar remained alone

This means that she did not marry.

6312SA1322j3li0said nothing

“did not speak”

6322SA1323q5hhwriting-newevent0It came about after two full years

This explains that two whole years has passed and introduces the next event in the story line. The phrase “full years” means that they are complete years. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

6332SA1323qef50shearers

These are people who cut the wool from sheep.

6342SA1323am6ltranslate-names0Baal Hazor

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

6352SA1324e8ml0Look now

This is a phrase used to draw someones attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen”

6362SA1324wmj80your servant

Absalom is calling himself “your servant” to show respect.

6372SA1324uq3x0has sheep shearers

It was customary for people in Israel to have a party after they had sheared their sheep.

6382SA1324tav80may the king

Although he is talking to his father the king, he calls him “the king” instead of “you” to show respect for him.

6392SA1326b7e90please let my brother Amnon go with us

The oldest son could often represent his father in Israelite culture. Amnon was Davids oldest son.

6402SA1326ep6f0Why should Amnon go with you?

David knew that Amnon was not Absaloms friend.

6412SA1327kd8kfigs-metaphor0Absalom pressed David

Here the author speaks of Absalom urging David to let Amnon come as if he were putting physical pressure on him. Alternate translation: “Absalom begged David for Amnon to come” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

6422SA1327w3csfigs-synecdoche0all the kings sons

This does not include Absalom and Amnon who is dead. It includes the rest of the sons that the king allowed to go to the celebration. Alternate translation: “the rest of the kings sons” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

6432SA1328yfb3figs-explicit0Do not be afraid

This implies that they do not need to be afraid of the consequences for killing Amnon. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Do not be afraid that you will be blamed for killing the kings son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6442SA1328ev94figs-rquestion0Have I not commanded you?

Absalom asks this rhetorical question to emphasize that he will be blamed for killing Amnon because he is commanding them. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “I have commanded you to do this.” or “I will be the one guilty for killing him because I have commanded you to do this.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6452SA1328fa5ufigs-ellipsis0not commanded you

What Absalom has commanded them to do may be stated in the question. Alternate translation: “not commanded you to kill him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

6462SA1329jr7q0every man

This refers to the kings sons who left the celebration.

6472SA1330jr55writing-newevent0So it came about

“It happened that.” This phrase is used here to introduce the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

6482SA1330x2s30on the road

“travelling along the road”

6492SA1330hpn8figs-metonymy0that the news came to David saying

Here it says that the news came, when really someone came and told David the news. Alternate translation: “that someone came and reported the news to David saying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

6502SA1331l6aw0Then the king arose

“Then the king stood up”

6512SA1331a8qptranslate-symaction0tore his clothes, and lay on the floor

He did these things to show that he was extremely sad. Alternate translation: “tore his clothes, and threw himself on the floor grieving” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

6522SA1331a62gtranslate-symaction0with their clothes torn

They did this to show their sadness and to mourn with their king. Alternate translation: “and tore their clothes, mourning with the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

6532SA1332a6vi0Jonadab…Shimeah

See how you translated these mens names in 2 Samuel 13:3.

6542SA1332dsh20Let not my master believe

“My master, do not believe”

6552SA1332ev3e0my master

Jonadab calls David “my master” to show respect.

6562SA1332a8f7figs-euphemism0Amnon violated his sister

This is a polite way of saying that Amnon raped his sister. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

6572SA1333qjg10let not my master the king

“my master the king, do not”

6582SA1333cf2yfigs-idiom0take this report to heart

The phrase “take something to heart” means “to worry about it.” Alternate translation: “worry about this report” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

6592SA1334rh5bfigs-idiom0keeping watch

This means that the servant was watching for enemies while guarding at the city wall. Alternate translation: “who was guarding” or “who was guarding at the city wall” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

6602SA1334j8lafigs-metaphor0raised his eyes

Here the servant looking up at something is spoken of as if he lifted up his eyes. Alternate translation: “looked up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

6612SA1336r5i8writing-newevent0So it came about

This phrase is used to introduce the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

6622SA1336r9gzfigs-metaphor0raised their voices

Here the sons crying out is spoken of as if their voices were something they lifted into the sky. Alternate translation: “cried out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

6632SA1337dqp1translate-names0Talmai…Ammihud

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

6642SA1337wxs30for his son

“for his son Amnon”

6652SA1338pbz90where he was for three years

“where he stayed for three years”

6662SA1339ky6ufigs-synecdoche0The mind of King David longed

Here David is referred to by his mind to emphasize his thoughts. Alternate translation: “King David longed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

6672SA1339t9kb0for he was comforted concerning Amnon and his death

“because he was no longer grieving about Amnon being dead.” This refers to three years after Absalom fled to Geshur.

6682SA14introabce0

2 Samuel 14 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Reconciliation

David missed his son, Absalom, who was in exile. Joab summons a wise woman to reconcile David and Absalom. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reconcile]])

Important figures of speech used in this chapter

Parable

The wise woman uses a type of parable to convince David that his actions were wrong. He treated a stranger worse than he treated his own son. This hypothetical situation was intended to convict David of his sin. She uses Davids own words against him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])

6692SA141c5gz0Now

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here the author tells about a new person in the story.

6702SA141zlp20Zeruiah

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 2:13.

6712SA141nt9e0perceived

This means Joab discerned or understood what David was thinking.

6722SA142g3b4figs-metonymy0sent word to Tekoa and had a wise woman brought

This means that Joab sent someone with a message to Tekoa and had him bring back a woman to him. This can be written in active form. Alternate translation: “sent someone with a message to Tokoa and had him bring a wise woman back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

6732SA142t4f8translate-names0Tekoa

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

6742SA142rm87figs-nominaladj0the dead

This refers to someone who has died, not dead people in general. Alternate translation: “someone who has died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

6752SA144an12translate-symaction0she lay facedown on the ground

She did this to show her respect and submission to the king. Alternate translation: “she showed her respect to the king by laying facedown on the ground” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

6762SA146ij2w0One struck the other

“One of my sons hit the other son with something”

6772SA147jb470the whole clan

“my entire family”

6782SA147aq9y0your servant

To show respect for the king the woman refers to herself as “your servant.”

6792SA147fj59figs-idiom0put him to death

This is an idiom which means to kill. Alternate translation: “kill him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

6802SA147hhk3figs-explicit0they would also destroy the heir

If they put the guilty brother to death there would not be a son left to inherit the familys possessions. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “if they did this, they would be destroying our familys heir” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6812SA147vfb2figs-metaphor0Thus they will put out the burning coal that I have left

Here the woman refers to her only living son as if he were a burning piece of coal. She speaks of the men killing her son as stopping the coals burning. Alternate translation: “In this way they will kill the only child I have left” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

6822SA147vk75figs-doublenegatives0they will leave for my husband neither name nor descendant

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “they will not leave for my husband name or descendant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

6832SA147jl3jfigs-metonymy0neither name nor descendant

This refers to a son to carry on the familys name into the next generation. Alternate translation: “no son to preserve our familys name” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

6842SA147xe940on the surface of the earth

“on the earth.” This descriptive phrase emphasizes that the family line would not continue on earth after the husband died. “The surface of the earth” refers to the ground on which people walk.

6852SA148w2wrfigs-activepassive0I will command something to be done for you

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I will take care of this matter for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

6862SA149sev70Tekoa

Translate the name of this place the same as you did in 2 Samuel 14:2.

6872SA149gz85figs-explicit0may the guilt be on me and on my fathers family

This means that if people say that the king was wrong for helping the womans family that the king should not be guilty. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “if anyone blames you for helping our family, may my family be considered guilty instead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6882SA149e186figs-metonymy0The king and his throne

Here the word “throne” refers to anyone who later becomes king in Davids place. Alternate translation: “The king and his descendants” or “The king and his family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

6892SA149uik4figs-explicit0are guiltless

“are innocent.” This implies that in the future if anyone accuses the king of wrongdoing, he will be innocent in the matter. Alternate translation: “will be innocent regarding the matter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6902SA1410fz7hfigs-synecdoche0says anything to you

Here speaking threats is spoken of as speaking in general. Alternate translation: “threatens you” or “speaks threats to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

6912SA1410pq9jfigs-metaphor0he will not touch you anymore

Here David speaks of a person not threatening or hurting her, by saying that the person would not touch her. It is implied that David will not allow the person threatening her to bother her again. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “I will make sure he does not threaten you again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6922SA1411jfs2figs-idiom0Please, may the king call to mind Yahweh your God

Possible meanings are (1) The phrase “call to mind” is an idiom meaning to pray. Alternate translation: “Please, pray to Yahweh your God” or (2) Here “call to mind” means to remember and it is implied that after he remembers Yahweh he will promise in his name. Alternate translation: “Please promise in the name of Yahweh your God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6932SA1411xm1ufigs-explicit0the avenger of blood

This refers to the man who wants to avenge the death of the dead brother. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “the man who wants to avenge my sons brothers death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6942SA1411ez620destroy anyone further

“cause anyone else to die.” This is in addition to the brother who already died.

6952SA1411yv760that they will not destroy my son

“that they will not kill my son” or “that they will not execute my son”

6962SA1411vgi3figs-simile0As Yahweh lives

Often people would make promises and compare how surely they would fulfil their promise to how surely Yahweh is alive. Alternate translation: “I promise you, as surely as Yahweh lives” or “In Yahwehs name I promise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

6972SA1411d9l6figs-hyperbole0not one hair of your son will fall to the ground

The means that her son will not be harmed, which is exaggerated by saying that he will not lose even a single hair. Alternate translation: “your son will be completely safe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

6982SA1412l1s30your servant

To show respect for the king the woman refers to herself as “your servant.”

6992SA1412hy2e0speak a further word to

“talk about something else to.” The woman is requesting to speak to the king about another topic.

7002SA1412mw9sfigs-idiom0Speak on

This is an idiom. The king was giving her permission to continue speaking. Alternate translation: “You may speak to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

7012SA1413ia2lfigs-rquestion0Why then have you devised such a thing against the people of God?

The woman asks this rhetorical question to rebuke David for how he has treated Absalom. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “What you have just said proved that you did wrong.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

7022SA1413t35u0the king is like someone who is guilty

The woman compares the king to someone who is guilty to suggest that he is guilty without saying it directly. Alternate translation: “the king has declared himself guilty”

7032SA1413f3ci0his banished son

“his son whom he banished”

7042SA1414ll3pfigs-simile0For we all must die, and we are like water spilled on the ground…up again

Here the woman speaks of a person dying as if they were water being spilled on the ground. Alternate translation: “We all must die, and after we die we cannot be brought back to life again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

7052SA1414f5lffigs-explicit0God…finds a way for those who were driven away to be restored

The woman is implying that David should bring his son back to himself. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “God brings back someone whom he has driven away and you should do the same for your son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7062SA1415hm99figs-ellipsis0because the people have made me afraid

The understood information may be supplied. Alternate translation: “because the people have made me afraid that I have come” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

7072SA1415nkn70your servant

To show respect for the king the woman refers to herself as “your servant”

7082SA1416x4utfigs-metonymy0from the hand of the man

This phrase is an idiom. Also, “the hand” is a metonym referring to the mans control. Alternate translation: “out of the control of the man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7092SA1417pn2s0the word of my master the king

“the message of my master the king”

7102SA1417nm7gfigs-simile0for as an angel of God, so is my master…from evil

Here David, the king, is compared to an “angel of God.” Alternate translation: “for the king is like an angel of God because they both know how to tell good from evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

7112SA1418u2d4figs-litotes0Please do not hide from me anything that I will ask you

The negative form here is used for emphasis and can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: “Please tell me the truth about everything I ask you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

7122SA1419p42hfigs-metonymy0Is not the hand of Joab with you in all this

Here the word “hand” refers to Joabs influence. Alternate translation: “Has not Joab influenced you in all this” or “Did Joab send you here to speak these things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7132SA1419uz25figs-idiom0As you live

“As surely as you are alive.” Here the woman compares the certainty of what David has said to the certainty that he is alive, to emphasize how true his statement is. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

7142SA1419q69gfigs-metaphor0no one can escape to the right hand…the king has spoken

Here the woman describes the difficulty of speaking to the king and keeping him from finding out the truth by comparing it to a person not being about to escape in any direction. Alternate translation: “no one can keep you from knowing the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

7152SA1419vyl1figs-merism0to the right hand or to the left

The expression gives two extremes and means “anywhere.” Alternate translation: “anywhere at all” or “anywhere” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

7162SA1420yvt60My master is wise

“My master the king is wise”

7172SA1420j2lmfigs-simile0is wise, like the wisdom of an angel of God

The woman compares Davids wisdom to the wisdom of an angel to emphasize how very wise he is. Alternate translation: “you are very wise, like an angel of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

7182SA1421n8azfigs-explicit0So the king said to Joab

It is implied that the king had Joab brought before him so that he could speak to him. The full meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “Then the king summoned Joab and said to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7192SA1421g87y0Look now

This phrase is used to draw someones attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen”

7202SA1421r58jfigs-explicit0this thing

This refers to what Joab wants the king to do. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “what you want me to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7212SA1422n6a2translate-symaction0Joab lay facedown on the ground

Joab did this to honor the king and show his gratitude. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

7222SA1422qd1b0your servant

To show respect for the king Joab refers to himself as “your servant.”

7232SA1422f6n4figs-idiom0I have found favor in your eyes

The phrase “found favor” is an idiom which means to be approved of by someone. Also, “eyes” is a metonym for sight, and sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “you are pleased with me” or “you have approved of me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

7242SA1422x4g10in that the king

“because the king”

7252SA1422gl130the king has performed the request of his servant

“you have done what I asked you to do”

7262SA1424i98kfigs-synecdoche0but he may not see my face…the kings face

Here the word “face” refers to the king himself. Alternate translation: “but he may not see me…the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

7272SA1425u9cdwriting-background0Now

This word marks a break in the main story line. This new section gives background information for the part of the story that follows. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

7282SA1425fb8bfigs-activepassive0there was no one praised for his handsomeness more than Absalom

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people praised Absalom for his handsomeness more than they praised anyone else” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

7292SA1425m4bk0handsomeness

good and pleasing appearance, especially of the face

7302SA1425tiv6figs-merism0From the sole of his foot to the top of his head there was no blemish in him

This means the whole person was without blemish. Alternate translation: “There were no blemishes on any part of his body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

7312SA1426j4bdtranslate-bweight0two hundred shekels

This can be written in modern units. Alternate translation: “two and a half kilograms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])

7322SA1426a94i0the weight of the kings standard

The king had weights that determined the standard weight of the shekel and other weights and measurements.

7332SA1427raf50To Absalom were born three sons and one daughter

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Absalom had three sons and one daughter”

7342SA1428p8nrfigs-synecdoche0the kings face

Here “the kings face” refers to the king himself. Alternate translation: “the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

7352SA1429nwh8figs-metonymy0Absalom sent word for Joab

Here “word” is a metonym for “a message.” This means that he sent a messenger to Joab with a request. Alternate translation: “Absalom sent a messenger to Joab asking him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7362SA1429km4zfigs-explicit0to send him to the king

It is implied that Absalom wanted Joab to come to him to see him and to intercede for him so that he would be allowed to see the king. The full meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “to come to him and to intercede for him so that he could see the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7372SA1429f1c7figs-metonymy0So Absalom sent word a second time

Here “word” is a metonym for “a message.” This means that he sent a messenger to Joab again with the same request. The full meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “So Absalom sent a messenger to Joab again with the same request” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7382SA1430g6kt0See

Here this word is used to remind people of something. Alternate translation: “As you know”

7392SA1432wb3r0Look

“Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important”

7402SA1432cr53figs-metonymy0I sent word

Here “word” is a metonym for “a message.” This means that he sent a messenger. Alternate translation: “I sent a messenger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7412SA1432ay13figs-explicit0to the king to say

The message here for the king is written as if Absalom were the speaker. Absalom was asking Joab to speak the message on his behalf. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “to say to the king on my behalf” or “to ask the king for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7422SA1432ehw7figs-synecdoche0the kings face

Here “kings face” refers to the king himself. Alternate translation: “the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

7432SA1433xix9translate-symaction0bowed low to the ground before the king

Absalom is showing respect to the king. Alternate translation: “bowed low to the ground to honor the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

7442SA1433lr12figs-explicit0the king kissed Absalom

This implies that the king forgave and restored Absalom. The full meaning of this can be made clear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

7452SA15introabcf0

2 Samuel 15 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter begins the story of Absaloms attempted revolt.

Special concepts in this chapter

Absaloms conspiracy

For four years, Absalom made many allies in an attempt to make himself king. This is why he acted as a judge for the people. Since this was all done in secret, it is called a “conspiracy.” David found out and fled with those in the army who were loyal to him.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphor

The author used the metaphor of a thief to describe how Absalom was able to win peoples loyalty: “So Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

7462SA151m44bwriting-newevent0It came about

This phrase is used to introduce the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

7472SA151a4qhtranslate-symaction0with fifty men to run before him

These men would run in front of the chariot to honor Absalom. Alternate translation: “with fifty men to run before him to honor him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

7482SA152f1j60Your servant

When a man would respond to Absaloms question he would refer to himself as “your servant” to honor Absalom.

7492SA153cl8ufigs-explicit0So Absalom would say to him

It is implied that the person told his case to Absalom. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Absalom would ask him what his problem was, and the man would then explain to Absalom why he sought justice. Absalom would then say to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7502SA153yts5figs-doublet0good and right

These words have basically the same meaning and are used together to emphasize that his case is good. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

7512SA153d3e6figs-metonymy0to hear your case

“Hearing” a case means to listen to it and to make a judgement decision over it. Alternate translation: “to judge your case” or “to oversee your case” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7522SA155n3n6translate-symaction0put out his hand and take hold of him and kiss him

This action is a friendly greeting. Alternate translation: “greet him as a friend by embracing him and kissing him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

7532SA156ty61figs-explicit0for judgment

This means that they can for the king to decide their disputes. Alternate translation: “to judge over their disputes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7542SA156xc8jfigs-metaphor0So Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel

This sentence means Absalom convinced the men to be loyal to him rather than to David. Here the author speaks of how the people became loyal to Absalom by saying that he stole their hearts. Alternate translation: “In this way, Absalom convinced the men of Israel to be loyal to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

7552SA157k1juwriting-newevent0It came about

This phrase is used to introduce the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

7562SA157u4brfigs-explicit0at the end of four years that Absalom

This refers to four years after he returned to Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “fours years after Absalom had returned to Jerusalem, he” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7572SA157z9fc0and pay a vow that I have made to Yahweh in Hebron

“to Hebron and there fulfill a vow that I have made to Yahweh”

7582SA158x8c10For your servant

Here Absalom refers to himself this way to honor the king.

7592SA159z24j0So Absalom arose

“So Absalom left”

7602SA1510k6i1figs-metonymy0throughout all the tribes of Israel

Here the places where the tribes of Israel lived are referred to as the tribes themselves. Alternate translation: “throughout the land of the tribes of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7612SA1510yb9l0the sound of the trumpet

“a trumpet being blown”

7622SA1511y3hmfigs-activepassive0who were invited

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “who he had invited” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

7632SA1511j5ty0went in their innocence

“went innocently”

7642SA1512p6pxfigs-idiom0he sent for Ahithophel

This means that he sent a messenger to go get Ahithophel and bring him back to him. Alternate translation: “he sent a messenger to go get Ahithophel who was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

7652SA1512b237translate-names0Ahithophel

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

7662SA1512v7wxtranslate-names0Giloh

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

7672SA1513wjk4figs-synecdoche0The hearts of the men of Israel are following after

Here the men are referred to by their “hearts” to emphasize their loyalty to Absalom. Alternate translation: “The men of Israel are loyal to” or “The men of Israel are following after” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

7682SA1514brg3figs-synecdoche0escape from Absalom…he will quickly…and he will bring

Here David speaks of Absalom and the men with him as “Absalom” himself because the men are following Absaloms authority. Alternate translation: “escape from Absalom and his men…he and his men will quickly…and they will bring” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

7692SA1514t8ehfigs-metonymy0attack the city with the edge of the sword

The “city” is a metonym referring to the people in the city. The “edge of the sword” is a synecdoche referring to the Israelites swords and emphasize that they killed the people in battle. Alternate translation: “will attack the people of our city and kill them with their swords” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

7702SA1514s5ikfigs-idiom0bring down disaster

This means to cause disaster to happen. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

7712SA1516hpv6figs-idiom0to keep the palace

Here the word “keep” means to care for. Alternate translation: “to care for the palace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

7722SA1517cv7pfigs-explicit0at the last house

This refers to the last house they would come to when leaving the city. Alternate translation: “at the last house as they were leaving the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7732SA1518hx7p0Kerethites…Pelethites

Translate the names of these people groups the same as you did in 2 Samuel 8:18.

7742SA1518vht50Gittites

Translate the name of this people group the same as you did in 2 Samuel 6:10.

7752SA1518tp2atranslate-numbers0six hundred men

“600 men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

7762SA1519u5p9translate-names0Ittai

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

7772SA1519n5dh0Gittite

Translate the name of this people group the same as you did in 2 Samuel 6:10.

7782SA1519k4ypfigs-rquestion0Why will you come with us?

This rhetorical question indicates that the king does not think they should go along with him. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “You do not need to go with us.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

7792SA1520dw1lfigs-rquestion0why should I make you wander all over with us?

This rhetorical question emphasizes David did not want Ittai to come. This question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not want to cause you to wander around with us.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

7802SA1520wfd5figs-hyperbole0Since you just left yesterday

Here “yesterday” is an exaggeration that emphasizes a short amount of time. Ittai the Gittite had lived there for several years. Alternate translation: “Since you have lived here only a short time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

7812SA1520e3e8figs-explicit0May loyalty and faithfulness go with you

This is a blessing that David is giving to him. Alternate translation: “May Yahweh be faithful and loyal to you always” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7822SA1521m7shfigs-simile0As Yahweh lives, and as my master the king lives

Here the speaker is making a solemn promise. He compare the certainty the he will fulfill his promise to the certainty that Yahweh and the king are alive. Alternate translation: “I solemnly promise that as surely as Yahweh and the king live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

7832SA1521q3e60your servant

Ittai refers to himself this way to honor the king.

7842SA1521u8i60whether that means living or dying

“even if I get killed supporting you”

7852SA1523y8brfigs-hyperbole0All the country wept with a loud voice

Many of the people of Israel wept loudly when they saw the king leaving. Here this is generalized by saying that the whole country wept. Alternate translation: “All the people along the road wept” or “Many of the people wept” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

7862SA1523cpg7figs-metaphor0with a loud voice

Here the many people who were weeping are spoken of as if they shared one loud voice. Alternate translation: “loudly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

7872SA1523qn5ptranslate-names0Kidron Valley

This is the name of a place near Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

7882SA1525x2mvfigs-metonymy0I find favor in the eyes of Yahweh

Here the “eyes of Yahweh” refer to Yahwehs thoughts and opinion. If you “find favor” with someone it means that they are pleased with you. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is pleased with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

7892SA1525cm5cfigs-metonymy0where he lives

“where his presence is.” The ark of the covenant symbolizes Yahwehs presence. This refers to the place where the ark is. Alternate translation: “where it is kept” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7902SA1527w3iitranslate-names0Ahimaaz

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

7912SA1527k6y60Abiathar

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 8:17.

7922SA1527sn4sfigs-rquestion0Are you not a seer?

This rhetorical question is used to rebuke Zadok and can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You will be able to find out what is happening.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

7932SA1528nvl50See

Here this word means for the listener to pay attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen”

7942SA1528a6gqfigs-metonymy0until word comes from you

This refers to him sending a messenger to the king. Alternate translation: “until you send a messenger to me to inform me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

7952SA1528g6m3figs-explicit0to inform me

Here the king implies he is to receive a message informing him about what is happening in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “to tell me what is happening in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

7962SA1530m59t0barefoot

wearing no shoes or sandals

7972SA1530hz16translate-symaction0his head covered

This is a sign of mourning and shame. Alternate translation: “his head covered in mourning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

7982SA1531e31r0Ahithophel

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 15:11.

7992SA1531a24n0conspirators

people who join together against someone else

8002SA1531e4prfigs-explicit0please turn Ahithophels advice into foolishness

David is asking Yahweh to make Ahitohphels advice foolish and useless. Alternate translation: “please let whatever advice Ahithophel gives be foolishness and unsuccessful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

8012SA1532lr8gwriting-newevent0It came about

“It happened.” This phrase marks the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

8022SA1532q4pefigs-explicit0at the top of the road

The word “top” is used here because David went up in elevation and is at the top of a hill. Alternate translation: “at the top of the hill” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

8032SA1532kgp7figs-activepassive0where God used to be worshiped

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “where people once worshiped God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

8042SA1532bxf8translate-names0Hushai

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

8052SA1532fmi7translate-names0Arkite

This is the name of a people group. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

8062SA1532jt8stranslate-symaction0with his coat torn and earth on his head

This is an act showing shame or repentance. Here the word “earth” means dirt. Alternate translation: “He had torn his clothes and put dirt on his head to show that he was very sad” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

8072SA1534xy6gfigs-explicit0you will confuse Ahithophels advice for me

David is suggest to Hushai that he oppose whatever Ahithopel advises. Alternate translation: “you can serve me by opposing Ahithophels advice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

8082SA1535fr9efigs-rquestion0Will you not have the priests Zadok and Abiathar with you?

David asks this rhetorical question to tell Hushai that he will not be alone. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Zadok and Abiathar the priests will be there to help you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

8092SA1535rkm7figs-hyperbole0whatever you hear

This is a generalization. It means all of the important and insightful things that he hears, not every single word he hears. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

8102SA1536yg9dtranslate-names0Ahimaaz…Jonathan

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

8112SA1536z36kfigs-synecdoche0by their hand

The phrase “their hand” refers to the sons and means that they were to serve as messengers. Alternate translation: “their sons to tell me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

8122SA16introabcg0

2 Samuel 16 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Absalom seeks advice from Davids advisers

Davids best adviser, Ahithophel, told Absalom to publicly seduce the concubines that David had left to take care of the palace. Because the concubines were the kings property, having sexual relations with a kings concubines implied that Absalom was now the king. This would show the people that the break with David was complete. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Simile

To show how seriously people took Ahithophels advice, the author used a [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] comparing his advice to Gods advice. “Now the advice of Ahithophel that he gave in those days was as if a man heard from the mouth of God himself.”

8132SA161uv2htranslate-names0Ziba

This is a mans name. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

8142SA161rzt40Mephibosheth

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 4:4.

8152SA161eex7translate-numbers0two hundred loaves…one hundred clusters…one hundred bunches

“200 loaves…100 clusters…100 bunches” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

8162SA161md5n0loaves of bread

“cakes of bread”

8172SA161sje60clusters of raisins…bunches of figs

These phrases refer to raisins or figs pressed together.

8182SA161ibp30raisins

dried grapes

8192SA161x3jp0a skin of wine

“a wineskin full of wine”

8202SA162j2cp0faint

tired and weak

8212SA163h7rz0your masters grandson

“Mephibosheth, your masters grandson”

8222SA163bdv90grandson

the son of ones son or daughter

8232SA163x26u0Look

Here this word is used to draw someones attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen”

8242SA163b9kvfigs-metonymy0house of Israel

This refers to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “the people of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

8252SA163fvn6figs-metaphor0will restore my fathers kingdom to me

Having a descendant of Saul being allowed to rule is spoken of as the kingdom being restored to their family. Alternate translation: “will allow me to rule the kingdom that my grandfather ruled” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

8262SA164h3df0Mephibosheth

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 4:4.

8272SA164cvm5figs-metaphor0I bow in humility to you

Ziba is not literally bowing before the king when he is speaking here. This means that he will serve the king with the same amount of humility he would be showing if he were literally bowing before him. Alternate translation: “I will humbly serve you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

8282SA164ewk1figs-idiom0Let me find favor in your eyes

The phrase “find favor” means to be approved of by someone. Also, “eyes” is a metonym for sight, and sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “I want you to be pleased with me” or “I desire you for to be pleased with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

8292SA165q8fi0Bahurim

Translate the name of this city the same as you did in 2 Samuel 3:16.

8302SA165y6uztranslate-names0Shimei…Gera

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

8312SA166j39l0in spite of

“even though there was”

8322SA166nmf80bodyguards

These are men who protect an important person.

8332SA167tj6a0villain

someone who is evil, a criminal or lawbreaker

8342SA167h2c4figs-metonymy0man of blood

Here “blood” refers to all of men he was responsible for killing in battle. Alternate translation: “murderer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

8352SA168ju1yfigs-explicit0Yahweh has repaid

Yahweh repays them by punishing them. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has punished” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

8362SA168cvt3figs-metonymy0for the blood you shed within the family of Saul

Here “blood” refer to people who were killed from Sauls family. The king was responsible for them dying. Alternate translation: “for killing many of Sauls family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

8372SA168mve3figs-explicit0in whose place you have reigned

David reigned as king over the same people whom Saul had previously reigned. Alternate translation: “in whose place you have reigned as king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

8382SA168uqf8figs-metonymy0into the hand of Absalom

Here “hand” refers to control. Alternate translation: “into the control of Absalom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

8392SA169wg1jtranslate-names0Abishai

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 2:18. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

8402SA169jz4rtranslate-names0Zeruiah

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 2:13. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

8412SA169b6wqfigs-rquestion0Why should this dead dog curse my master the king?

Abishai asked this question to express his anger at the man. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “This dead dog must not speak to the king this way.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

8422SA169p79kfigs-metaphor0this dead dog

Here the man is being described as worthless by being compared to a dead dog. Alternate translation: “this worthless man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

8432SA1610i1pmfigs-rquestion0What have I to do with you, sons of Zeruiah?

This rhetorical question is asked to correct the sons of Zeruiah. It can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not want to know what you think!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

8442SA1610wrg40Perhaps he is cursing me because

“He may be cursing me because”

8452SA1610g4rxfigs-rquestion0Who then could say to him, Why are you cursing the king?

This is said as a rhetorical question to emphasize that the answer is “no one.” This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one then can ask him, Why are you cursing the king?’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

8462SA1611y6itfigs-explicit0my son, who was born from my body

David describes his son this way to emphasize the close bond between a father and his son. Alternate translation: “my own son” or “my dear son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

8472SA1611l8bjfigs-euphemism0wants to take my life

This is a polite way to refer to killing someone. Alternate translation: “wants to kill me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

8482SA1611znl2figs-rquestion0How much more may this Benjamite now desire my ruin?

David uses this rhetorical question to express that he is not surprised that the man wants to kill him. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Of course this Benjamite desires my ruin!” or “I am not surprised this Benjamite desires my ruin as well!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

8492SA1611t9uffigs-metaphor0desire my ruin

Here David describes the mans desire to kill him as if David were something that the man wanted to ruin. Alternate translation: “desire me to be killed” or “desire to kill me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

8502SA1611tb7gfigs-idiom0Leave him alone and let him curse

Here the phrase “leave him alone” means to not stop him from what he is doing. Alternate translation: “Do not stop him from cursing me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

8512SA1612xk9rfigs-idiom0will look at

Here “looking” means “considering.” Alternate translation: “will consider” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

8522SA1612smf2figs-personification0the misery unleashed on me

Here David speaks of misery as if it were a dangerous animal that the Benjamite unleashed on him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

8532SA1613h7jk0Shimei went beside him up on the hillside

Shimei was walking parallel to David and his men, though Shimei was up higher on the hillside.

8542SA1615l6bctranslate-names0Ahithophel

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 15:12. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

8552SA1616p1gqtranslate-names0Hushai

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 15:32. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

8562SA1616d97zwriting-newevent0It came about

“It happened that.” This phrase is used to introduce the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

8572SA1616gp9vtranslate-names0Arkite

See how you translated the name of this people group in 2 Samuel 15:32. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

8582SA1617x1al0loyalty

a strong feeling of support and love

8592SA1617b4ydfigs-rquestion0Is this your loyalty to your friend? Why did you not go with him?

These rhetorical questions are asked to criticize Hushai. They can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You have been a loyal friend to David; you should have gone with him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

8602SA1618t8c40the one whom Yahweh

Hushai is referring to Absalom.

8612SA1618k7hrfigs-123person0the one whom…that is the man…with him

Here Hushai is referring to Absalom in the third person to take emphasize off of him and place it on Yahweh and the people who chose him. This can be written in second person. Alternate translation: “you are the one whom…you are the man…with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])

8622SA1619hq49figs-rquestion0what man should I serve? Should I not serve in the presence of his son?

Hushai asks these rhetorical questions to emphasize that he wants to serve Absalom. They can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “I should serve only Davids son, so I will serve in his presence.” or “I should serve you, for you are Davids son.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

8632SA1620f7w3translate-names0Ahithophel

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 15:12. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

8642SA1621d7c8figs-euphemism0Go into your fathers slave wives

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “Have sexual relations with your fathers slave wives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

8652SA1621sm7vfigs-idiom0to keep the palace

The phrase “to keep” means to take care of. Alternate translation: “to take care of the palace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

8662SA1621jx59figs-metaphor0become a stench to your father

Ahithophel speaks of Absalom offending his father as if he would become something that had a strong and offensive odor. Alternate translation: “become offensive to your father” or “greatly insulted father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

8672SA1621bu9jfigs-synecdoche0Then the hands of all who are with you will be strong

Here the people who followed Absalom are referred to by their hands. The news will strengthen the peoples loyalty to Absalom and encourage them. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “The news of this will strengthen the loyalty of all who follow you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

8682SA1622cj6n0they spread

“they set up”

8692SA1622gx92figs-euphemism0Absalom went in to his fathers slave wives

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “Absalom had sexual relations with his fathers slave wives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

8702SA1622v3ikfigs-hyperbole0in the sight of all Israel

This means that people were able to see the tent and Absalom walking in and out of the tent with the women. The phrase “all of Israel” is a generalization, for only people near the palace could see it. Alternate translation: “where the Israelites could see him go into the tent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

8712SA1623k3y9figs-simile0Now the advice of Ahithophel…was as if a man heard

Here the author compare how much people trusted Ahithophels advice with how much they would trust advice directly from God. Alternate translation: “Now people trusted the advice of Ahithophel in those days in the same way they would have trusted it if had come” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

8722SA1623qt97figs-synecdoche0as if a man heard from the mouth of God himself

Here Gods mouth represents himself and emphasizes his speech. Alternate translation: “as if God had said it with his own mouth” or “as if a man heard it spoken by God himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

8732SA1623jqr60all of Ahithophels advice was viewed by both David and Absalom

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “both David and Absalom viewed all of Ahithophels advice”

8742SA1623p2g10was viewed

“was thought of”

8752SA17introabch0

2 Samuel 17 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Confusion

Ahithophel gives good advise to Absalom, but Hushai confuses Absalom. God is using the misleading advice to protect David, his king.

8762SA171jz1qtranslate-names0Ahithophel

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 15:12. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

8772SA171y3kltranslate-numbers0twelve thousand men

“12,000 men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

8782SA171xpm70arise and

“begin to”

8792SA172p8re0come on

“come to”

8802SA172ukx7figs-doublet0weary and weak

These words mean basically the same thing and are used together to emphasize how weak David was. Alternate translation: “weak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

8812SA172si3kfigs-abstractnouns0will surprise him with fear

Here the word “fear” can be expressed with the adjective “afraid.” Alternate translation: “will surprise him and make him afraid” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

8822SA172txi8figs-explicit0I will attack only the king

It is implied that he intends to kill the king. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “I will kill only the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

8832SA173b53bfigs-explicit0bring back all the people

This refers to all of the people who were with David. Alternate translation: “bring back all of the people who were with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

8842SA173b385figs-simile0like a bride coming to her husband

Here Ahithophel speaks of the peoples happiness by comparing it to a brides happiness. Alternate translation: “and they will come happily, like a bride is happy when she comes to her husband” or “and they will come happily” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

8852SA173fwq6figs-idiom0be at peace

This means to have peace or to live peacefully. Alternate translation: “live peacefully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

8862SA173d16gfigs-metonymy0under you

This refers to being under the kings authority. Alternate translation: “under your authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

8872SA175b9n40Hushai the Arkite

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 15:32.

8882SA176lw7i0Ahithophel

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 15:12.

8892SA178w2fufigs-simile0they are like a bear robbed of her cubs

The anger of the soldiers here is being compared to that of a mother bear who cubs are taken from her. Alternate translation: “they are angry, like a mother bear whose cubs have been take from her” or “they are very angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

8902SA178ytp80a bear

a large furry animal that walks on four legs and has sharp claws and teeth

8912SA178q99gfigs-explicit0is a man of war

This means that his has fought in many battles and knows well the ways of war. Alternate translation: “has fought in many battles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

8922SA179vwd20Look

Here this word is used to draw someones attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen”

8932SA179kc650pit

a deep hole in the ground

8942SA179v2xpfigs-ellipsis0or in some other place

This is another place he may be hiding. Alternate translation: “or hidden in some other place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

8952SA179d2whfigs-activepassive0when some of your men have been killed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “when his soldiers kill some of your men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

8962SA179f1q8figs-abstractnouns0A slaughter has taken place among the soldiers who follow Absalom

The noun “slaughter” means an event where many people are brutally killed. This can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “Many of the soldiers who follow Absalom have been slaughtered” or “The enemy soldiers have killed many of the soldiers who follow Absalom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

8972SA1710g7blfigs-synecdoche0whose hearts are like the heart of a lion

Here the soldiers are refers to by their “hearts.” Also, their strong bravery is compared to that of a lions. Alternate translation: “who are as brave as lions” or “who are very brave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

8982SA1711sm9pfigs-activepassive0that all Israel should be gathered together to you

This can be stated in active form. Also, here “all Israel” represents only the Israelite soldiers. Alternate translation: “that you should gather together all of the Israelite soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

8992SA1711jz3gfigs-merism0from Dan to Beersheba

This phrase means from the northern border of Israel to the southern border. Alternate translation: “from the whole nation of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

9002SA1711vl1ffigs-hyperbole0as numerous as the sands that are by the sea

This is an exaggeration where all the grains of sand on a beach are compared to the number of Israelite soldiers. Alternate translation: “so many that they can barely be counted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

9012SA1711lbr4figs-idiom0that you go to battle in person

The phrase “in person” means to go yourself and not send someone else instead. Alternate translation: “then lead them yourself into battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

9022SA1712v92hfigs-idiom0come on him

This means to purposefully go to where he is and then to attack. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

9032SA1712rys8figs-simile0we will cover him as the dew falls on the ground

Absaloms army is described as covering Davids army like the dew covers the ground in the morning. Alternate translation: “we will overwhelm and completely defeat Davids army” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

9042SA1712k6bm0dew

the fog or misty cloud of water that can fall onto the ground during the night, covering the ground and leaving it wet in the morning

9052SA1712jdy3figs-litotes0We will not leave even one of his men…alive

This negative sentence is used for emphasis and can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: “We will kill every one of his men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

9062SA1712dwr7figs-rpronouns0him himself

Both these words refer to David. Alternate translation: “David himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

9072SA1713cez7figs-synecdoche0then all Israel

This refers to Israels soldiers, not to all of Israel. Alternate translation: “then all of our soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

9082SA1713v4rxfigs-explicit0will bring ropes to that city and we will drag it into the river

This means that the soldiers would tear down the city walls and drag the pieces to river. Alternate translation: “will destroy the city and drag the stones to the river with ropes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

9092SA1713ua57figs-hyperbole0until there is no longer even a small stone found there

This is an exaggeration to describe how completely they will destroy the city. The would not literally sweep away every small stone from the city. Alternate translation: “until the city is completely destroyed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

9102SA1714vg6q0Hushai the Arkite

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 15:32. Arkite is the name of a people group.

9112SA1714erd50Ahithophel

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 15:12.

9122SA1714j39mfigs-abstractnouns0the rejection of Ahithophels good advice

The word “rejection” can be expressed with the verb “reject.” Alternate translation: “for the men of Israel to reject Ahithophels good advice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

9132SA1714rwx8figs-idiom0to bring destruction on Absalom

To “bring” something on someone means to cause it to happen to them. Alternate translation: “to cause a disaster to happen to Absalom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

9142SA1715pp5ptranslate-names0Zadok…Abiathar

See how you translated these mens names in 2 Samuel 15:24. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9152SA1715f3ghfigs-idiom0in such and such a way

This phrase, meaning “like this,” refers to what Ahithophel advised Absalom earlier beginning in 2 Samuel 17:1. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

9162SA1716b6240the fords of the Arabah

A ford is a shallow part of a river where people can walk across. The Arabah is the land along both sides of the Jordan River.

9172SA1716u94nfigs-idiom0by all means

This means to make sure that you do something. Alternate translation: “be sure to” or “make sure that you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

9182SA1716adt3figs-metaphor0the king will be swallowed up

Here the king and his people being killed is describes as if they were “swallowed” by their enemy. Alternate translation: “the king will be killed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

9192SA1717u8z7translate-names0Jonathan…Ahimaaz

See how you translated these mens names in 2 Samuel 15:27. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9202SA1717q25nfigs-metonymy0When the message came

Here the “message” is spoken of as coming to them, when really it is the woman who came to then bringing the message. Alternate translation: “When she brought them a message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

9212SA1717h5detranslate-names0spring of Rogel

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9222SA1718q7370this time

“one time”

9232SA1718r7rcfigs-explicit0So Jonathan and Ahimaaz went away

It is implied that they found out that the young man had told Absalom about them being there. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Jonathan and Ahimaaz found out what the young man had done, so they went away” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

9242SA1718t68atranslate-names0Bahurim

This is the name of a small town. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9252SA1718fa3m0they descended

“they lowered themselves and hid”

9262SA1719j4xbtranslate-names0Jonathan…Ahimaaz

See how you translated these mens names in 2 Samuel 15:27. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9272SA1720f1dc0the woman of the house

“the mans wife”

9282SA1720n16ktranslate-names0Ahimaaz…Jonathan

See how you translated these mens names in 2 Samuel 15:27. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9292SA1721kx9mwriting-newevent0It came about

“It happened.” This phrase marks the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

9302SA1721r493figs-metonymy0cross quickly over the water

Here “the water” refers to the Jordan River. Alternate translation: “cross quickly over the river” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

9312SA1721h17rfigs-idiom0has given such and such advice

The idiom “such and such” is used in the place of information that is already know by the reader. Here it refers to what Ahithophel advised Absalom beginning in 2 Samuel 17:1. This information can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “has advised that Absalom send him with an army to attack you now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

9322SA1722l8skfigs-litotes0By morning daylight not one of them had failed to cross over the Jordan

This negative sentence is used to emphasize that they all crossed the river. It can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: “By morning daylight every one of them had crossed over the Jordan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

9332SA1723gix90Ahithophel saw

“Ahithophel knew” or “Ahithophel realized”

9342SA1723x22tfigs-activepassive0his advice had not been followed

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Absalom had not followed his advice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

9352SA1723pmh20saddled his donkey

placed a blanket or small leather seat on the donkey so he could sit on it

9362SA1723zw5jfigs-idiom0set his affairs in order

He prepared for his death by telling his family what to do after he died. Alternate translation: “he prepared for his death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

9372SA1723yg9t0In this way

“And this is how”

9382SA1723b2wafigs-activepassive0was buried

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they buried him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

9392SA1724c8zetranslate-names0Mahanaim

Translate the name of this place the same as you did in 2 Samuel 2:8. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9402SA1725dur7translate-names0Amasa…Joab…Jether…Nahash

These are the names of men. See how you translated Joab and Zeruiah (Joabs mother) in 2 Samuel 2:13. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9412SA1725v1vl0Ishmaelite

This word means that the person is descended from Ishmael. Some versions say “Israelite” here. See the footnote. You may want to choose the word that is used in the majority language Bible in your area.

9422SA1725q7fsfigs-euphemism0who went in to Abigail

This is a polite way of speaking of sexual relations. You may have to use other words in your translation. Alternate translation: “who had sexual relations with Abigail” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

9432SA1725yn85translate-names0Abigail…Zeruiah

These are the names of women. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9442SA1726p8z6translate-names0Gilead

Translate the name of this place the same as you did in 2 Samuel 2:9. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9452SA1727a88xwriting-newevent0It came about

This phrase is used to introduce the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])

9462SA1727ya8ttranslate-names0Mahanaim…Rabbah…Lo Debar…Rogelim

These are the names of cities or places. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9472SA1727sb1atranslate-names0Shobi…Nahash…Machir…Ammiel…Barzillai

These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9482SA1727g662translate-names0Ammonites…Gileadite

These are the names of people groups. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9492SA1728td280sleeping mats and blankets

A mat is something soft to sleep on, and a blanket is a cloth covering for warmth.

9502SA1728sk670flour

crushed grain made into powder and used to make bread

9512SA1728wym60roasted

cooked with dry heat

9522SA1728epx50beans

seeds that are cooked and eaten

9532SA1728s9d60lentils

a kind of seed that is cooked and eaten

9542SA1729vx1d0curds

milk that has soured and become solid

9552SA1729hpg50thirsty

in need of water or some other drink

9562SA18introabci0

2 Samuel 18 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter tells of the defeat and death of Absalom, ending this section on Absaloms rebellion.

Special concepts in this chapter

Davids mercy

David reorganized his army and sent them out to battle, but told them to be merciful to Absalom. When Davids army defeated Absaloms army, Absalom fled on a mule, but his hair caught in a tree limb and the mule ran on, leaving him hanging. One of Davids soldiers saw him and told Joab. Joab went and killed him. When David heard about this he mourned for his son, Absalom. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/mercy]])

9572SA181y2u4figs-metonymy0David counted the soldiers who were with him and appointed

David did not count all of the people himself, rather other men counted them. Alternate translation: “David commanded for the soldiers who were with him to be counted and he appointed” or “David arranged the soldiers who were with him and appointed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

9582SA181qt9xtranslate-numbers0captains of thousands and captains of hundreds

Possible meanings are (1) these numbers represent the exact amount of soldiers that these captains led. Alternate translation: “captains of 1,000 soldiers and captains of 100 soldiers” or (2) the words translated as “thousands” and “hundreds” do not represent exact numbers, but are the names of larger and smaller military divisions. Alternate translation: “captains of large military divisions and captains of smaller military divisions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

9592SA181pa960captains

A captain is a person who is in authority over a group of soldiers.

9602SA182x31qtranslate-fraction0one-third…another third

“one-third of the army…another third of the army.” A “third” is one part out of three equal parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])

9612SA182lu6ktranslate-names0Abishai…Zeruiah

See how you translated these mens names in 2 Samuel 2:18. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9622SA182xwu2translate-names0Ittai

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 15:19. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9632SA182zy14translate-names0Gittite

This refers to a person from Gath, which is a Philistine city. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9642SA182s8e1figs-explicit0I will certainly go out with you myself, too

This means that he will go out with them to battle. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “I myself will go with you to battle” or “I personally will go with you into battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

9652SA183z3p1translate-numbers0half of us

The word “half” refers to one out of two equal parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

9662SA183cmi5figs-explicit0you are worth ten thousand of us

This means that the enemy army considering killing David of greater worth than killing 10,000 of the other men. The number 10,000 here is an exaggeration used to emphasize a very great number of people. Alternate translation: “they would rather kill you than to kill 10,000 of us” or “killing you is worth more to them than killing a great number of us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

9672SA183nx5atranslate-numbers0ten thousand

“10,000” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

9682SA183r2hdfigs-explicit0that you be ready to help us from the city

David could help them from the city by advising them and sending men to help them. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “that you stay here in the city and send help to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

9692SA185idy7translate-names0Abishai

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 2:18. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9702SA185nnf5translate-names0Ittai

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 15:19. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

9712SA185jbs60Deal gently for my sake with the young man, with Absalom

“For my sake, do not harm the young man, Absalom.” The phrase “Deal gently” means to be kind to someone and not to harm them.

9722SA185s62a0my sake

“my well-being” or “my account”

9732SA186ak3cfigs-explicit0went out into the countryside against Israel

This means that they went out and fought against them in battle. Alternate translation: “went out into the countryside and fought against Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

9742SA186na7efigs-synecdoche0against Israel

Here “Israel” refers to their soldiers, not all of the Israelites. Alternate translation: “against the Israelite soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

9752SA187xa6gfigs-activepassive0The army of Israel was defeated there before the soldiers of David

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “There the soldiers of David defeated the army of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

9762SA187ef2b0a great slaughter

an event where many people are brutally killed

9772SA187qgp8translate-numbers0twenty thousand men

“20,000 men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

9782SA188ndw4figs-personification0more men were consumed by the forest than by the sword

Here “the forest” is described as if it were alive and could act. “The sword” refers to Davids soldiers who fought with swords. Alternate translation: “dangerous things in the forest killed more men than Davids soldiers killed with their swords” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

9792SA189fye9figs-explicit0Absalom happened to meet some of Davids soldiers

This is an event that happened during the battle. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “During the battle, Absalom happened to meet some of Davids soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

9802SA189ua3ffigs-metonymy0his head was caught up in the tree branches

Absalom had long hair that got caught in the tree branches. Alternate translation: “his hair was caught in the tree branches” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

9812SA189iq6e0dangling

hanging or swinging loosely

9822SA189eys50between the ground and the sky

“in the air”

9832SA1810n8930Look

Here this word is used to draw a persons attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen”

9842SA1811w13xfigs-rquestion0Why did you not strike him down to the ground?

This rhetorical question means that he should have killed him. This question can be written as a statement. The phrase “strike down” means to kill. Alternate translation: “You should have struck him down to the ground!” or “You should have killed him immediately!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

9852SA1811aik2translate-bmoney0ten silver shekels

This can be written in modern units. Alternate translation: “ten silver coins” or “110 grams of silver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]])

9862SA1811xu840belt

This is a special belt that shows people that someone is a great soldier and should be honored.

9872SA1812m6urtranslate-bmoney0a thousand silver shekels

“1,000 silver shekels.” This can be stated in modern units. Alternate translation: “1,000 silver coins” or “11 kilograms of silver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

9882SA1812y75lfigs-idiom0would not have reached out my hand against the kings son

The phrase “reached out my hand” means to attack. Alternate translation: “would not have attacked the kings son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

9892SA1812c6jefigs-idiom0No one must touch

Here “touching” refers to “harming.” Alternate translation: “No none must harm” or “Do not harm” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

9902SA1813if8qfigs-abstractnouns0a falsehood

The word “falsehood” can be expressed with a verb phrase. Also, this refers to disobeying the kings command. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “doing something that is wrong” or “by disobeying the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

9912SA1813b1r6figs-metaphor0there is nothing hidden from the king

Here the man speaks about how the king knows about almost everything that happens as if everything were a physical object he knew the location of. Alternate translation: “there is nothing that the king does not know” or “the king hears about everything that happens” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

9922SA1814jl1nfigs-explicit0I will not wait for you

Joab meant that he should not continue talking to the man. Alternate translation: “I will not waste anymore time talking to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

9932SA1814m7ubfigs-synecdoche0heart of Absalom

Here Absaloms heart refers to his chest or upper body. Alternate translation: “chest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

9942SA1815va7xfigs-synecdoche0armor

This refers to both the armor he would wear to protect himself and to his weapons. Alternate translation: “armor and weapons” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

9952SA1816f9zafigs-explicit0Then Joab blew the trumpet, and the army returned from pursuing Israel, for Joab held back the army

This describes what Joab commanded by blowing the trumpet. Alternate translation: “Then Joab blew the trumpet to call back the army, and the army returned from pursuing Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

9962SA1816ji7kfigs-synecdoche0returned from pursuing Israel

Here “Israel” refers to the Israelite army. Alternate translation: “returned from pursuing the Israelite army” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

9972SA1817st6r0They took Absalom and threw him

“They took Absaloms body and threw it”

9982SA1817d3n5figs-explicit0they buried his body under a very large pile of stones

After putting his body in the pit they covered it with a pile of stones. This can be stated more clearly. Alternate translation: “they covered his body with a huge pile of stones” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

9992SA1817b87lfigs-synecdoche0while all Israel fled

Here “all Israel” refers to the Israelite soldiers. The word “fled” means “ran away.” Alternate translation: “while all the Israelite soldiers ran away” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

10002SA1818s18qtranslate-names0the Kings Valley

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10012SA1818j9s8figs-metonymy0to carry along the memory of my name

Absalom uses the phrase “my name” to refer to himself and his family line. Alternate translation: “to carry on my family name, by which people would remember me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

10022SA1818tg1pfigs-activepassive0so it is called Absaloms Monument to this very day

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so people called it Absaloms Monument from that day on” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

10032SA1818h1qh0to this very day

This refers to the present time when this book of the Bible was written.

10042SA1819md2ptranslate-names0Ahimaaz

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 15:27. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10052SA1819qby5figs-metaphor0run to the king with the good news

Here Ahimaaz speaks of running to go and tell the king the good news as if the good news were a object that he were carrying. Alternate translation: “run to tell the king the good news” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

10062SA1819jyg5figs-metonymy0the hand of his enemies

Here “hand” refers to control. Alternate translation: “the control of his enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

10072SA1820qeg40the bearer of news

“the one who tells the news”

10082SA1820v56vfigs-explicit0you will bear no news

This refers to not bearing the news to the king. Alternate translation: “you will not tell the news to the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

10092SA1821q3lf0tell the king what you have seen

Joab is telling him to go and tell the king about the news of the battle.

10102SA1824zqb50Now

This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line and the beginning of a new part of the story.

10112SA1824t7w3figs-metaphor0raised his eyes

Here the watchman looking to see something is spoken of as if he lifted up his eyes. Alternate translation: “looked out beyond the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

10122SA1825r6brfigs-metaphor0there is news in his mouth

Here the king speaks of the man having a message as if the news were an object sitting in his mouth. Alternate translation: “he has news to tell us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

10132SA1827zpr6figs-simile0I think the running of the man in front is like the running of Ahimaaz son of Zadok

The watchman compares the way the man ran to the way Ahimaaz runs to suggest that it may be him. Alternate translation: “I think the man running in front is Ahimaaz son Zadok, because he runs like Ahimaaz” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

10142SA1828ft3gtranslate-symaction0He bowed himself before the king with his face to the ground

He did this to honor the king. Alternate translation: “He bowed himself before the king with his face to the ground to honor the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

10152SA1828qm8v0Blessed be Yahweh

“Praise Yahweh.” Here “bless” means to praise.

10162SA1828e5kyfigs-metaphor0the men who lifted up their hand against my master the king

Here Ahimaaz speaks of the men opposing the king as if they were raising their hands before him. Alternate translation: “the men who opposed and fought against my master the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

10172SA1829l8s80a great disturbance

This means that people were acting as though things were not right.

10182SA1830bg950Turn aside and stand here

“Move out of the way” or “Stand aside”

10192SA1831e1tffigs-idiom0rose up against

This means to oppose. Alternate translation: “opposed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

10202SA1832s9h4figs-simile0The enemies of my master the king,…should be as that young man is

The Cushite uses a comparison as a polite way to tell the king that Absalom is dead. This can be stated more directly. Alternate translation: “I would like all your enemies…to die the way that young man died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

10212SA1833la2k0was deeply unnerved

“was very unhappy” or “was trembling with grief”

10222SA19introabcj0

2 Samuel 19 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

David told to stop mourning Absalom

Joab warned David that if he continued to mourn Absalom and not thank his army, they would all desert him. So David went out to encourage the soldiers. David was both a good father and a good leader.

David made king again

This chapter record the recognition that David was the true king of Israel. It is important to remember that even though Absalom had power for a while, David never stopped being the king.

The ten tribes and Judah argue over David

The ten tribes of Israel argued with the tribe of Judah about who would bring David across the river. The men of Judah answered the ten tribes very harshly. This may foreshadow, or give a glimpse of, the future civil war that would come to divide these two groups.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Rhetorical questions

The people wanted David back as their king and expressed it in a rhetorical question: “So why are we not talking about bringing the king back?” David also used a question to persuade the people of Judah to bring him back: “You are my brothers, my flesh and bone. Why then are you the last to bring back the king?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10232SA191wl3ffigs-activepassive0Joab was told

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone told Joab” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

10242SA191ggg60Look, the king is weeping

The word “Look” is used here to draw someones attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen, the king is weeping”

10252SA192jq6ifigs-explicit0So the victory that day was turned into mourning for all the army

This means that the whole army mourned instead of celebrating. AT “So instead of celebrating victory that day, the whole army mourned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

10262SA193c8b8figs-simile0like people who are ashamed sneak away when they run from battle

The author compares the way that the soldiers had to sneak back into the city to the way that soldiers sneak away when they are running away from battle. This emphasizes that they were made to feel ashamed. Alternate translation: “in the same way that people who had run away from battle would sneak away because they were ashamed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

10272SA193z9zj0sneak

move without being seen by others

10282SA194bt57translate-symaction0The king covered his face

This is a way to express grief and mourning. Alternate translation: “The king showed his grief by covering his face” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

10292SA195ve2hfigs-synecdoche0You have shamed the faces of all your soldiers today

Here the soldiers are referred to by their face to emphasize how they would have hid their faces because of their shame” Alternate translation: “You have caused all your soldiers to hide their faces in shame today” or “You have caused all of your soldiers to be ashamed today” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

10302SA196sx3cfigs-hyperbole0nothing to you

This phrase is an exaggeration, but it expresses the very low value that David showed for the army. Alternate translation: “are worth very little to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

10312SA196si4jfigs-hypo0if Absalom had lived, and we all had died, then that would have pleased you

The speaker is giving a hypothetical situation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])

10322SA197h9b9figs-explicit0I swear by Yahweh

Joab is making a very strong oath. Alternate translation: “I swear, as surely as Yahweh is alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

10332SA197p34hfigs-doublenegatives0if you do not go, not one man will remain with you

This means that only if David went would his soldiers remain with him. Alternate translation: “only if you go will any of your men remain with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

10342SA197m2ucfigs-idiom0not one man will remain with you

This refers to them remaining loyal to him. Alternate translation: “not one man will remain loyal to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

10352SA198e6vsfigs-hyperbole0all the people were told

This is a generalization. It means most of the men. It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “many of the men who were there heard others saying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

10362SA198msv70Look, the king is sitting

The word “Look” is used here to draw someones attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen, the king is sitting”

10372SA198q8cdfigs-hyperbole0all the people

Here “the people” refer to the people who followed David. Here “all” is an generalization. It means a large number came and gathered around him. Alternate translation: “many of the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

10382SA198k5uefigs-synecdoche0So Israel fled, every man to his home

Here “Israel” refers to the Israelite soldiers who followed Absalom. Alternate translation: “And every Israelite soldier fled to his own home” or “And all of the Israelite soldiers fled to their homes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

10392SA199ypj8figs-metonymy0out of the hand of our enemies

Here “hand” means control. Alternate translation: “from under the control of our enemies” or “from our enemies control” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

10402SA199wn5afigs-metonymy0out of the hand of the Philistines

Here “hand” means control. Alternate translation: “from under the control of the Philistines” or “from the Philistines control” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

10412SA199w56dfigs-explicit0out of the land because of Absalom

This means that he had left the country fleeing from Absalom. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “out of the country fleeing from Absalom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

10422SA1910h2rqfigs-rquestion0why do you say nothing about bringing the king back?

This means they should consider bringing David back now that Absalom was dead. The question may be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “we should be talking about bringing the king back.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10432SA1910n7fv0the king

This refers to David.

10442SA1911ywv6figs-idiom0sent to Zadok and to Abiathar

This means that David sent a messenger to Zadok and Abiathar. Alternate translation: “sent a messenger to Zadok and to Abiathar” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

10452SA1911jd6qfigs-rquestion0Why are you the last to bring the king back…to bring him back to his palace?

This rhetorical question is asked to rebuke the elders in Judah. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should have been the first to favor the king and bring him back to the palace, not the people of the nation of Israel.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10462SA1911d4d9figs-abstractnouns0since the talk of all Israel favors the king, to bring

The noun “talk” can be expressed with the verb “talk” or “speak.” Alternate translation: “since all Israel speaks favorably about the king and desires to bring” or “since what the people of Israel are saying is in the kings favor, to bring” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

10472SA1911v8mvfigs-metaphor0to bring the king back to his palace

Here restoring the kings authority to rule is spoken of as bringing him back to his palace. Alternate translation: “to restore the kings authority as king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

10482SA1912si3pfigs-metaphor0You are my brothers, my flesh and bone

The king uses these to phrases to emphasize that they are closely related. Being or having the same flesh is a metaphor for belonging to the same family or tribe. Alternate translation: “You are my brothers, and we have the same flesh and bone” or “You are my brothers, my close relatives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

10492SA1912n4pufigs-rquestion0Why then are you the last to bring back the king?

This is the second rhetorical question here and it is also a rebuke for the elders of Judah. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should have been the first, not the last, to bring back the king.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10502SA1913uf92translate-names0Amasa

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 17:25. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10512SA1913h28kfigs-rquestion0Are you not my flesh and my bone?

David uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that they are related. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “You are my flesh and my bones.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10522SA1913f88hfigs-metaphor0my flesh and my bone

Here David speaks of them being related by saying that they have the same flesh and bones. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Samuel 19:12. Alternate translation: “my relative” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

10532SA1913gk6ufigs-idiom0God do so to me

This is an idiom that means for God to kill him. Alternate translation: “May God kill me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

10542SA1914g6z6figs-metonymy0he won the hearts

Here the mens loyalty is referred to as their “hearts.” Alternate translation: “he won the loyalty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

10552SA1914w82pfigs-metaphor0as one man

This speaks of the men being united in their loyalty to the king as if they were one man with the same mind. Alternate translation: “and they were united together” or “they were united in their loyalty to the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

10562SA1914a3idfigs-idiom0They sent to the king

This means that they sent a messenger to the king. Alternate translation: “They sent a messenger to the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

10572SA1916p33rtranslate-names0Gera

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10582SA1916ke2ltranslate-names0Bahurim

Translate the name of this place the same as you did in 2 Samuel 3:16. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10592SA1917kj6atranslate-names0Ziba

This is the name of a man. Translate as you did in 2 Samuel 9:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10602SA1917e34ytranslate-numbers0one thousand men…fifteen sons…twenty servants

“1,000 men…15 sons…20 servants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

10612SA1917s7u2figs-explicit0in the presence of the king

This means that the king was there and was aware of what was happening. Alternate translation: “at the place where the king was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

10622SA1919tx71figs-idiom0call to mind

This means “to remember.” Alternate translation: “remember” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

10632SA1919m7n50your servant

Here Shimei refers to himself this way to humble himself before the king and honor the king.

10642SA1919s3zcfigs-idiom0not take it to heart

“To take something to heart” means to think about something seriously or to be bothered by it. Alternate translation: “not be bothered by it” or “forget about it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

10652SA1921w2c6translate-names0Abishai

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 2:18. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10662SA1921p13vtranslate-names0Zeruiah

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 2:13. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10672SA1921yth5figs-rquestion0Should not Shimei be put to death for this, because he cursed Yahwehs anointed?

Abishai was angry at Shimei for cursing David and is suggesting that he should be killed. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Shimei should be put to death because he cursed Yahwehs anointed.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10682SA1921spv5figs-explicit0Yahwehs anointed

This refers to David. It means that he is the man that Yahweh had anointed as king. Alternate translation: “the man that Yahweh has anointed as king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

10692SA1922dn85figs-rquestion0What have I to do with you…that you should today be adversaries to me?

David uses this rhetorical question to rebuke Abishai. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “We have nothing in common with you, you sons of Zeruiah! You have no good reason to become my adversaries today.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10702SA1922s4fefigs-rquestion0Will any man be put to death today in Israel? For do I not know that today I am king over Israel?

David uses these rhetorical questions to continue rebuking Abishai. These questions can be written as statements. Alternate translation: “No person will be executed today in the nation of Israel, because today I am the one who is king over all of Israel.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10712SA1922f3kyfigs-idiom0Will any man be put to death

This phrase “put to death” means to be killed or executed. Alternate translation: “Will any man be killed” or “Will I order any man to die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

10722SA1922t2u7figs-rquestion0For do I not know that today I am king over Israel?

Possible meanings of this rhetorical question are (1) “I know that I am still king of Israel.” or (2) “Today I am the one who is king over Israel!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10732SA1924kg79translate-names0Mephibosheth

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 4:4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10742SA1924sc2i0He had not dressed his feet

“He had not cared for his feet.” Mephibosheths feet were crippled. This phrase means that he had not taken proper care of his feet.

10752SA1925zrh9figs-explicit0Why did you not go with me, Mephibosheth?

David is asking Mephibosheth why he did not go with David when David and all the people who followed him left Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “Why did you not go with me when I left Jerusalem, Mephibosheth?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

10762SA1927vh2utranslate-names0Ziba

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 9:2. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10772SA1927bk18figs-simile0my master the king is like an angel of God

Here Davids wisdom is compared to the wisdom of an angel. Alternate translation: “my master the king is as wise as an angel of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

10782SA1927jn77figs-idiom0do what is good in your eyes

This means to do what you think is right. Alternate translation: “do what you believe to be the right thing to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

10792SA1928rll4figs-metaphor0all my fathers house were dead men before my master the king

Mephibosheth speaks of how his relatives had deserved to be executed as if they had already been executed and were dead. Alternate translation: “all my fathers house deserved for my master the king to order them to be executed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

10802SA1928ww9qfigs-metonymy0my fathers house

This refers to his fathers relatives. Alternate translation: “my fathers relatives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

10812SA1928fa5bfigs-rquestion0What right therefore have I that I should still cry any more to the king?

Mephibosheth uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that he has no right to request anything from the king. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Therefore, I have no right to ask the king to do anything else for me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10822SA1929wt65figs-rquestion0Why explain anything further?

David uses this rhetorical question to tell him that he does not need to continue talking about his conflict with Ziba. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “You do not need to explain this any further.” or “You certainly do not need to say any more.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10832SA1931yk1ptranslate-names0Barzillai

See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 17:27. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10842SA1931zak8translate-names0Gileadite

See how you translated the name of this people group in 2 Samuel 17:27. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10852SA1931w1cetranslate-names0Rogelim

See how you translated the name of this place in 2 Samuel 17:27. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10862SA1931g56k0the Jordan

the Jordan River

10872SA1932ffn7translate-names0Mahanaim

See how you translated the name of this place in 2 Samuel 17:27. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10882SA1932cj9qtranslate-numbers0eighty years old

“80 years old” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

10892SA1932a2k70had furnished the king with provisions

“had provided what the king needed”

10902SA1934y2r5figs-rquestion0How many days are left in the years of my life, that I should go up with the king to Jerusalem?

Here Barzillai means that he is old and that there is no reason for him to accompany David. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “I am certainly not going to live many more years. There is no good reason for me to go up with the king to Jerusalem.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10912SA1935sy7wtranslate-numbers0eighty years old

“80 years old” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

10922SA1935n8fnfigs-rquestion0Can I distinguish between good and bad?

Barzillai uses rhetorical questions to emphasize why he does not want to go to Jerusalem. Here “good” and “bad” refer to what is desirable and what is not. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “I cannot distinguish between what is desirable and what is not.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10932SA1935d6qdfigs-rquestion0Can your servant taste what I eat or what I drink?

Barzillai uses rhetorical questions to emphasize why he does not want to go to Jerusalem. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “I cannot enjoy the taste of what I eat and drink.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10942SA1935dgv2figs-rquestion0Can I hear any more the voice of singing men and singing women?

Barzillai uses rhetorical questions to emphasize why he does not want to go to Jerusalem. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “I cannot hear well the voices of singing men and singing women.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10952SA1935f2zifigs-rquestion0Why then should your servant be a burden to my master the king?

Barzillai uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that he does not want to be a burden to the king. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Your servant should not go with you and be a burden to you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10962SA1936x8m1figs-rquestion0Why should the king repay me with such a reward?

Barzillai uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that he does not know why the king would reward him this way. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not know why the king would repay me with such a great reward” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

10972SA1937tj5t0General Information:

Barzillai asks that Kimham be allowed to take his place instead with David.

10982SA1937lt2atranslate-names0Kimham

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

10992SA1937wef7figs-explicit0by the grave of my father and my mother

This does not mean that he wants to die right next to their graves, but rather, that he wants to die in the city where they are buried. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “where my fathers and my mothers graves are” or “where my father and my mother are buried” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

11002SA1937sn5rfigs-ellipsis0Let him cross over

This refers to crossing the Jordan River. Alternate translation: “Let him cross over the Jordan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

11012SA1938sm6qfigs-explicit0Kimham will go over with me

This refers to crossing the Jordan River. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Kimham will cross the river with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

11022SA1940v221figs-ellipsis0crossed over to Gilgal

They crossed over the Jordan River. Alternate translation: “crossed over the river to Gilgal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

11032SA1940hzp40Kimham

See how you translated this name in 2 Samuel 19:37.

11042SA1940jw3n0All the army of Judah brought the king over, and also half the army of Israel

“All the army of Judah and half the army of Israel brought the king over”

11052SA1940t9rbfigs-ellipsis0brought the king over

They crossed over the Jordan River with the king. Alternate translation: “escorted the king over the river” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

11062SA1941sbd9figs-rquestion0Why have our brothers, the men of Judah…and all Davids men with him?

The men of Israel use this question to express that they feel betrayed by the people of Judah. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “It is not right that our brothers, the men of Judah, who did not support you as king, had the privilege of bringing you and your family back across the Jordan River.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

11072SA1941r7aefigs-metaphor0stolen you away

The men of Israel speak of how the men of Judah escorted the king across the river as if the king were something they stole that did not belong to them. Alternate translation: “taken you away from us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

11082SA1941hgi30the Jordan

the Jordan River

11092SA1942nu1gfigs-rquestion0Why then are you angry about this?

The men of Judah ask this rhetorical question to rebuke the men of Israel. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “But you have no reason to be upset about this.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

11102SA1942u3wjfigs-rquestion0Have we eaten anything that the king had to pay for? Has he given us any gifts?

The men of Judah ask the question to express that they have not taken anything from the king. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “The king has never paid for our food, and he has never given us any gifts.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

11112SA1943nbt3figs-explicit0we have even more right to David than you

“we have a greater claim to David than you do.” It may be helpful to state clearly what having “more right” means. Alternate translation: “we have more right to serve the king and to be with the king than you do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

11122SA1943vc2sfigs-rquestion0Why then did you despise us?

The men of Israel ask this rhetorical question to express their anger. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not have despised us!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

11132SA1943vlb7figs-rquestion0Was not our proposal to bring back our king the first to be heard?

The men of Israel ask this question to remind and rebuke the people of Judah. This can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “We were the first to suggest that we bring back the king!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

11142SA1943el5k0the words of the men of Judah were even more harsh than the words of the men of Israel

“the men of Judah spoke even more harshly than the men of Israel did”

11152SA20introabck0

2 Samuel 20 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Shebas revolt

A man named Sheba told the people of the ten tribes that David was Judahs king, but not their king. David worked hard to preserve unity in Israel after this time of division.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Idiom

Joab used an idiom “has lifted up his hand against the king, against David” meaning “revolted against David,” to explain why his army was attacking the city of Able. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

11162SA201fz8c0to be at the same place

This refers to the town of Gilgal.

11172SA201a6citranslate-names0Sheba…Bikri

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11182SA201l45ifigs-parallelism0We have no part in David, neither have we any inheritance in the son of Jesse

Both of these statements mean the same thing. Sheba is emphasizing that he and the tribes of Israel have no relationship with David. Alternate translation: “The inheritance of David and his fathers family does not belong to us” or “We are not a part of David and his fathers family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

11192SA203j97wfigs-idiom0to keep the palace

Here the phrase “to keep” means to take care of. Alternate translation: “to take care of the palace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

11202SA203e4knfigs-idiom0in a house under guard

If a house is “under guard” it means that a guard is posted at the house. Alternate translation: “in a house and put a guard there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

11212SA203ymh8figs-euphemism0he did not lie with them

This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “he did not have sexual relations with them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])

11222SA203b16ifigs-idiom0they were shut up

This means that they were not allowed to leave the house. Alternate translation: “they were shut inside the house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

11232SA203p4su0widows

These are women whose husbands have died.

11242SA204zm4ytranslate-names0Amasa

This is the commander of Davids army. See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 17:25. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11252SA206ai94translate-names0Abishai

This is another commander of Davids army. See how you translated his name in 2 Samuel 2:18. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11262SA206qm7j0do us more harm

“hurt us more”

11272SA206gm220your masters servants, my soldiers

The phrase “my soldiers” clarifies which “servants.” David refers to himself as “your master” as a formal way of speaking to someone with less authority.

11282SA206q3jp0pursue after

“chase after”

11292SA206g2i6figs-explicit0he will find fortified cities

This means that Sheba and his men will enter these cities to hide from Davids army. The word “he” represents Sheba but refers to both him and his men. Alternate translation: “he and his men will hide in fortified cities” or “he and his men will take refuge in fortified cities” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

11302SA206lm43figs-metonymy0out of our sight

Here David refers to his army by their sight to emphasize that Sheba and his men would be hidden and Davids army would be unable to capture them. Alternate translation: “from us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

11312SA207x1aitranslate-names0Kerethites…Pelethites

These are the names of people groups who helped to protect King David. See how you translated this mans name in 2 Samuel 8:18. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11322SA208kyh20When they were

“When Joab and the men of Judah were”

11332SA208g8990belt

a strip of leather or other material used to hold clothing or weapons in place

11342SA208gg8n0sheathed sword

This means the sword was in its protective covering.

11352SA208mw2cfigs-explicit0the sword fell out

Joab let the sword fall out to fool Amasa into thinking that he Joab was unarmed, so that Amasa would allow him to walk closer to him. Alternate translation: “he allowed the sword to fall on the ground so Amasa would think he was unarmed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

11362SA209cca20my cousin

Amasa was the son of the sister of Joabs mother.

11372SA209yw2u0took Amasa by the beard with his right hand to kiss him

This was a common way for men to greet one another.

11382SA2010e6120dagger

a short sword that is easy to hide and was often used for close-in fighting and assassinations

11392SA2010pd2k0bowels spilled

“intestines spilled”

11402SA2011m94gfigs-idiom0he who is for David

To be “for” someone means to support them. Alternate translation: “he who supports David” or “he who is loyal to David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

11412SA2012dp5tfigs-explicit0Amasa lay wallowing in his blood

“Amasa lay squirming in his blood.” Amasa may have still been alive and rolling in his blood, but he was probably dead by this time. It is described this way to show how gruesome his body looked. Alternate translation: “Amasa lay dead in his blood” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

11422SA2012r75kfigs-explicit0all the people stood still…came by him stood still

This means they stopped walking and were staring at Amasas dead body. Alternate translation: “all the people stood still staring at the dead body…came by him stood still, staring at his dead body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

11432SA2012rgl80he carried Amasa

“he carried Amasas body”

11442SA2013y3pdfigs-activepassive0After Amasa was taken off the road

This may be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “After the man took Amasa off the road” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

11452SA2013x48efigs-abstractnouns0in pursuit of

This abstract noun can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “pursuing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

11462SA2014ppx4figs-synecdoche0Sheba passed through

Here “Sheba” refers to both him and his army. Alternate translation: “Sheba and his army” or “Sheba and his men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

11472SA2014b6n5translate-names0Abel Beth Maacah

Both Abel and Beth Maacah names refer to the same place and may be combined. It is a city near the tribe of Dan. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11482SA2014k4pwtranslate-names0of the Bikrites

This is the name of a people group. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11492SA2014ig390also pursued Sheba

“also followed Sheba”

11502SA2015u7dg0They caught up with him

“Joab and the soldiers caught up with him”

11512SA2015t6t20against the city against the wall

“against the city wall”

11522SA2015n7h9figs-explicit0battered the wall to knock it down

This means that they used a battering ram to knock down the wall. A battering ram was a cut tree or large log with a sharpened end or an end covered in metal. It was held by several men who would pound the end against a wall. Alternate translation: “used a battering ram to knock down the wall” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

11532SA2016k1s40Listen, please listen

The repetition of “Listen” strengthens the womans plea.

11542SA2017a5x50Listen to the words of your servant

The woman refers to herself as “your servant.” This is a polite way to speak to someone with greater authority.

11552SA2018xv3v0that advice would end the matter

“that advice would solve the problem”

11562SA2019l2ybfigs-ellipsis0most peaceful and faithful in Israel

This describes the cities. Alternate translation: “most peaceful and faithful cities in Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

11572SA2019vb6kfigs-metaphor0city that is a mother in Israel

This speaks of the importance of this city among the nation of Israel as if it were a well respected mother. Alternate translation: “city that everyone in Israel respects like they would their mother” or “city that is very important and that Israel respects” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

11582SA2019f7wffigs-rquestion0Why do you want to swallow up the inheritance of Yahweh?

Here the woman uses a rhetorical question to suggest to Joab what they should not do. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not destroy the city that is Yahwehs inheritance!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

11592SA2019h83gfigs-metaphor0swallow up

Here the woman speaks of the army destroying the city as if the city were food to be swallowed. Alternate translation: “destroy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

11602SA2019v31sfigs-metonymy0the inheritance of Yahweh

Here the city is referred to as Yahwehs inheritance to emphasize that it belongs to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “a city that belongs to Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

11612SA2020kn3jfigs-idiom0Far be it, far be it from me, that I should

He repeats this phrase to emphasize that this is something he would never do. Alternate translation: “Truly, truly, I would never” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

11622SA2020u14ufigs-ellipsis0that I should swallow up or destroy

This refers to destroying the city. This may be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “that I should swallow up or destroy your city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

11632SA2020lh3jfigs-doublet0swallow up or destroy

Both of these phrases means to destroy. In the first phrase “destroying” is spoken of as if it were “swallowing.” These may be combined. Alternate translation: “ruin or destroy the city” or “destroy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

11642SA2021bq5hfigs-idiom0has lifted up his hand against

This means to rebel and fight against someone. Alternate translation: “has opposed” or “is rebelling against” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

11652SA2021vu8hfigs-idiom0Give up him alone

Joab is asking for the people of the city to release Sheba to him. Alternate translation: “Hand this man over to us” or “Give this man to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

11662SA2021rt99figs-synecdoche0I will withdraw from the city

Here the “I” refers to both Joab and his soldiers. Alternate translation: “We will withdraw from the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

11672SA2021tda3figs-activepassive0His head will be thrown

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “We will throw his head” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

11682SA2022p855figs-explicit0Then the woman went to all the people in her wisdom

This means that the woman acted wisely and spoke to her people about what they should do. Alternate translation: “Then the wise woman spoke to all the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

11692SA2022l63y0every man to his home

“every man went to his own home”

11702SA2023ail7writing-background0Now

“Now” marks a break in the main story line. This new section gives background information about the men who served King David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

11712SA2023bu9zfigs-idiom0Joab was over…Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over

The phrase “was over” refers to having authority over a group of people. Alternate translation: “Joab had authority over…Benaiah son of Jehoiada had authority over” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

11722SA2023di2dtranslate-names0Benaiah…Jehoiada

Translate the names of these men the same as you did in 2 Samuel 8:18. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11732SA2023s3i1translate-names0Kerethites…Pelethites

Translate the names of these people groups the same as you did in 2 Samuel 8:18. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11742SA2024hw6ffigs-idiom0Adoniram was over

The phrase “was over” refers to having authority over a group of people. Alternate translation: “Adoniram had authority over” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

11752SA2024qv95translate-names0Adoniram

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11762SA2024rx8x0the men who did forced labor

“the slave workers”

11772SA2024hbx2translate-names0Jehoshaphat…Ahilud

Translate the names of these men the same as you did in 2 Samuel 8:16. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11782SA2025pjz3translate-names0Sheva

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11792SA2026w67itranslate-names0Ira

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11802SA2026qk9atranslate-names0Jairite

This is the name of a people group. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11812SA21introabcl0

2 Samuel 21 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Special concepts in this chapter

Famine caused by a broken oath

When Israel first conquered the land, they promised not to kill the people of Gibeon. When Saul tried to kill them all, God caused a famine in Israel. David made amends with the people of Gideon and the famine ended. David also kept his vow to Jonathans sons. This helps to show the wisdom of king David. Although these people were not Israelites, they believed in Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/promise]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/vow]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]])

Wisdom, grace and justice

David is seen to have many great qualities in this chapter. These were qualities important for a king of Israel: wisdom, grace and justice. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]])

11822SA211yc9zfigs-synecdoche0sought the face of Yahweh

Here “face” is a synecdoche for Yahwehs presence. This means David prayed to Yahweh for an answer about the famine. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

11832SA211f1fs0because of Saul and his murderous family

Saul had killed many Gibeonites, and Sauls descendants are guilty because of this sin.

11842SA212j82wwriting-background0Now

Here “Now” marks a break in the main story line. This gives background information about the Gibeonites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])

11852SA213r66cfigs-parallelism0What should I do for you? How can I make atonement…promises?

These two sentences have similar meanings. Alternate translation: “What can I do to remove this sin, so that you may bless the people of Yahweh, who inherit his goodness and promises?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

11862SA214xp8q0It is not a matter of silver or gold

“Money will not solve the problem”

11872SA215tq7e0who schemed against us

“who made plans against us”

11882SA216hce6figs-activepassive0let seven men from his descendants be handed over to us

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “allow your men to give seven of his descendants to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

11892SA216ac940we will hang them

“we will execute them by hanging”

11902SA216gb8q0in Gibeah of Saul

Saul was from the town of Gibeah.

11912SA216s77ufigs-activepassive0the one chosen by Yahweh

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the one whom Yahweh chose” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

11922SA217u6860Mephibosheth

Mephibosheth was the son of Jonathan. See how you translated his name in 2 Samuel 4:4.

11932SA218nz4w0Rizpah…Aiah

Rizpah was a woman and her father was Aiah. See how you translated these names in 2 Samuel 3:7.

11942SA218vnv4translate-names0Armoni and Mephibosheth…Adriel…Barzillai

These are names of men. This is not the same Mephibosheth as the son of Jonathan. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11952SA218ab2b0Merab

This is the name of a woman. See how you translated it in 2 Samuel 3:13.

11962SA218p5t5translate-names0Meholathite

This is the name of a people group. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

11972SA219ji6tfigs-metonymy0He handed them over into the hands of the Gibeonites

Here “the hands of the Gibeonites” represents the Gibeonite peoples control. Alternate translation: “He gave them to the Gibeonites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

11982SA219uyb2figs-activepassive0They were put to death

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “The Gibeonites put them to death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

11992SA2110vaz50Rizpah…Aiah

Rizpah was a woman and her father was Aiah. See how you translated these names in 2 Samuel 3:7.

12002SA2111hs9efigs-activepassive0It was told to David

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone told David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

12012SA2112z1rv0Jabesh Gilead

Jabesh is a town in the region of Gilead. See how you translated this in 2 Samuel 2:4.

12022SA2112vw7s0the public square

This is an area near the city gate where people did various kinds of business.

12032SA2112nd8dtranslate-names0Beth Shan

This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

12042SA2112ku3i0Gilboa

See how you translated the name of this place in 2 Samuel 1:6.

12052SA2113n7jifigs-activepassive0who had been hanged

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “whom the Gibeonites executed by hanging” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

12062SA2114ai2ftranslate-names0Zela

This is the name of a town in Benjamin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

12072SA2114bga5translate-names0Kish

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

12082SA2114kw3r0his father

“Sauls father”

12092SA2116d7sbtranslate-names0Ishbi-Benob

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

12102SA2116b31ktranslate-bweight0three hundred shekels

“300 shekels.” This is about 3.4 kilograms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

12112SA2117e49h0Abishai son of Zeruiah

Abishai and Zeruiah are names of men. See how you translated these names in 2 Samuel 2:18.

12122SA2117d893figs-metaphor0you do not put out the lamp of Israel

The “lamp of Israel” is a metaphor that refers to Davids leadership and the idea that if David were to die, the people of Israel would have no clear direction. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12132SA2118i8h80It came about after this that

This phrase marks the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.

12142SA2118ei1htranslate-names0Gob

This is the name of a town. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

12152SA2118zih5translate-names0Sibbekai…Saph

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

12162SA2118zz7etranslate-names0Hushathite…Rephaim

These are names of people groups. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

12172SA2118g7p1translate-names0Rephaim

This people group was known for its giant warriors. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

12182SA2119pv8stranslate-textvariants0Elhanan son of Jair the Bethlehemite killed Goliath the Gittite

Some versions translate this as “Elhanan son of Jair the Bethlehemite killed the brother of Goliath the Gittite.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])

12192SA2119xl44translate-names0Elhanan son of Jair…Goliath

These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

12202SA2119x5yptranslate-names0Bethlehemite…Gittite

These are names of people groups. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

12212SA2119b7w9figs-simile0whose spear was like a weavers beam

When a person was weaving a cloth he would run the threads through hooks attached to large sticks called a “weavers beam.” This means Goliaths spear was larger than a normal spear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

12222SA2120nqr4translate-numbers0twenty-four in number

“24 fingers and toes altogether” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

12232SA2120cka4translate-names0Rephaim

This people group was known for its giant warriors. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

12242SA2121j56utranslate-names0Jonathan son of Shimeah

These are names of men. Shimeah was Davids brother. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

12252SA2122mqg8figs-idiom0they were killed by the hand of David and by the hand of his soldiers

Here “by the hand of” means “through” or “by.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “David and his soldiers killed them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

12262SA22introabcm0

2 Samuel 22 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetic song in 22:2-51.

Special concepts in this chapter

God rescued David

God rescued David when he thought he would die. He protected David, fought against his enemies, and enabled him to defeat his enemies.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphor

David uses many metaphors to express his trust in Gods protection: “my rock, my fortress, my shield, the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge.” He used other metaphors to express his hopelessness: “the waves of death surrounded me,” “the rushing waters of worthlessness overwhelmed me,” “the cords of sheol surrounded me;” “the snares of death trapped me,” and “the surging water.” He also used metaphors for the victory God gave him: “I can run over a barricade” and “by my God I can leap over a wall.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])

12272SA221vx4yfigs-parallelism0General Information:

Davids song to Yahweh starts. He uses parallelism to emphasize what he is saying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

12282SA221sh9l0out of the hand of all his enemies, and out of the hand of Saul

This is a progression from enemies in general to one specific enemy of David, King Saul.

12292SA221gzu9figs-metonymy0out of the hand of

This metonym means “out of the power of.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

12302SA222t5y8figs-metaphor0Yahweh is my rock, my fortress

This metaphor shows a progression from a part, “rock,” to the whole, “fortress.” A fortress is built of many large rocks. This means Yahweh has the strength to protect his people from harm. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12312SA223e7pgfigs-parallelism0General Information:

Davids song to Yahweh continues. He uses parallelism to emphasize what he is saying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

12322SA223h8pdfigs-metaphor0God is my rock…He is my shield, the horn of my salvation, my stronghold

All of these metaphors are symbols of Gods strength and power. They emphasize Gods ability to protect and save his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12332SA224v4upfigs-activepassive0who is worthy to be praised

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “who is worthy to receive praise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

12342SA224p1jcfigs-activepassive0I will be saved from my enemies

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he will save me from my enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

12352SA225fm3wfigs-parallelism0General Information:

Davids song to Yahweh continues. He uses parallelism to emphasize what he is saying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

12362SA225xvj7figs-metaphor0For the waves of death surrounded me, the rushing waters of destruction overwhelmed me

David compares the wicked men who wanted to kill him to flood waters that are about to drown him. These sentences have similar meanings and are used for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

12372SA225p6bv0the rushing waters of destruction

This is a picture of fast-flowing flood waters that destroy everything in their path.

12382SA226d6kafigs-personification0The cords of Sheol surrounded me; the snares of death trapped me

David speaks about death and Sheol as if they are people who are trying to trap him as a hunter traps an animal. These phrases have similar meanings and are used for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

12392SA227iv59figs-parallelism0General Information:

Davids song to Yahweh continues. He uses parallelism to emphasize what he is saying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

12402SA227m7xw0In my distress

“In my great trouble”

12412SA227dv160he heard my voice from his temple

David is referring to the heavenly temple where Yahweh dwells. The earthly temple has not yet been built.

12422SA227v2zxfigs-metonymy0my call for help went into his ears

Here the metonym “his ears” refers to Yahweh and his hearing of Davids call for help. Alternate translation: “he heard my prayer for help” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

12432SA227w8tsfigs-personification0his ears

David speaks of Yahweh as if he had ears. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

12442SA228by1efigs-parallelism0General Information:

Davids song to Yahweh continues. He uses parallelism to emphasize what he is saying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

12452SA228ai6gfigs-metaphor0Then the earth shook

This is Yahwehs response to Davids cry for help from his enemies (1 Samuel 22:7). David uses the imagery of the earth shaking to emphasize Yahwehs terrible anger. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12462SA228gxt8figs-merism0earth shook…heavens trembled

David speaks of the two extremes to include everything in creation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

12472SA228x6xlfigs-activepassive0and were shaken, because God was angry

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “because Gods anger shook them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

12482SA229qf19figs-metaphor0were ignited by it

This is Yahwehs response to Davids cry for help from his enemies (1 Samuel 22:7). David uses the imagery of fire coming from Yahweh to emphasize Yahwehs terrible anger. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12492SA229c8xqfigs-personification0his nostrils…his mouth

David speaks of Yahweh as if he had these humans parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

12502SA229cq54figs-metaphor0Coals were ignited by it

Here Yahwehs anger is compared to fire, which causes coals to ignite and burn. Alternate translation: “The flame from his mouth set coals on fire” or “He also sent burning coals from his mouth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12512SA2210e2j2figs-parallelism0General Information:

Davids song to Yahweh continues. He uses parallelism to emphasize what he is saying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

12522SA2210f5ymfigs-metaphor0He opened the heavens

David describes Yahwehs way of saving David from his enemies as a storm cloud gathering over a place. This emphasizes Gods power and his anger. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12532SA2210pg86figs-personification0under his feet

David speaks of God as having feet like humans. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

12542SA2211r4l7figs-activepassive0He was seen on the wings of the wind

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “He appeared on the wings of the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

12552SA2211gmc9figs-metaphor0the wings of the wind

This expression speaks of the wind as if it were a bird. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12562SA2212mit5figs-metaphor0rain clouds in the skies

David describes Yahwehs way of saving David from his enemies as a storm cloud gathering over a place. This emphasizes Gods power and his anger. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12572SA2212ee39figs-metaphor0He made darkness a tent around him

Here the darkness Yahweh creates is compared to a tent which hides him completely. Alternate translation: “He hid himself in the darkness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12582SA2213x4bffigs-parallelism0General Information:

Davids song to Yahweh continues. He uses parallelism to emphasize what he is saying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

12592SA2213t9570From the lightning before him coals of fire fell

Possible meanings are (1) “Out of his bright light he sent burning coals” or (2) “From his brightness he sent lightning”

12602SA2213g4lkfigs-metaphor0From the lightning before him

David continues describing Yahweh, whom he compares to a storm, coming to save him from his enemies. This emphasizes Gods power and anger towards Davids enemies. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12612SA2214d4htfigs-personification0The Most High shouted.

David describes Yahweh doing these actions a person would do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

12622SA2215h783figs-personification0He shot arrows

David describes Yahweh doing these actions a person would do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

12632SA2215i235figs-metaphor0He shot arrows…lightning bolts

David compares the lightning from Yahwehs storm to arrows that a soldier would use. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12642SA2215rg2nfigs-metaphor0lightning bolts and dispersed them

David continues describing Yahweh, whom he compares to a storm, coming to save him from his enemies. This emphasizes Gods power and anger towards Davids enemies. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12652SA2216hl1sfigs-parallelism0General Information:

This continues Davids song to Yahweh. He uses parallelism to emphasize what he is saying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

12662SA2216za11figs-metaphor0Then the channels of the sea were seen…breath of his nostrils

When Yahweh shouted in his attack against Davids enemies, it is compared to his power to create upheaval in the deepest parts of the ocean and the earth. This shows his great power and fierce anger. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

12672SA2216dcq2figs-activepassive0the channels of the sea were seen

This means that the sea water moved and the ocean floor was visible. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “People could see the channels of the sea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

12682SA2216it2c0the channels of the sea

the deepest part of the sea, from which the Hebrews believed was where the water in the sea came

12692SA2216kcr5figs-activepassive0the foundations of the world were laid bare at the rebuke of Yahweh, at the blast of the breath of his nostrils

David compares Yahwehs anger to turbulent movements of the ground. “This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Yahwehs rebuke, the breath of his nostrils, laid bare the foundations of the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

12702SA2217a1rhfigs-parallelism0General Information:

This continues Davids song to Yahweh. He uses parallelism to emphasize what he is saying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

12712SA2217kw87figs-metaphor0out of the surging water

David compares his enemies to a flood that threatens to drown him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12722SA2218lg3q0He rescued me from my strong enemy

Davids enemies were overwhelming. He praises God for delivering him from all his enemies.

12732SA2219p8zwfigs-parallelism0General Information:

This continues Davids song to Yahweh. He uses parallelism to emphasize what he is saying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

12742SA2219zv1u0They came against me on the day of my distress

“My enemies fought against me when I was in great trouble”

12752SA2219nty30the day of my distress

“the time of my distress”

12762SA2219v9h40but Yahweh was my support

“but Yahweh supported me” or “but Yahweh helped me”

12772SA2220yh2u0a wide open place

This refers to a place where there was no danger and his enemies could not trap him.

12782SA2221en85figs-idiom0to the measure of the cleanness of my hands

Here “cleanness of my hands” means the same as “righteousness.” Alternate translation: “because I obey his commands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12792SA2222ui5d0General Information:

David continues his song to Yahweh.

12802SA2222s7870I have kept the ways of Yahweh

Here “the ways of Yahweh” refers to how Yahweh wants his people to act. This means David has done what Yahweh commands.

12812SA2223ze3e0have been before me

This means David constantly reads and thinks about Gods decrees.

12822SA2224fv6x0General Information:

David continues his song to Yahweh.

12832SA2224j1e5figs-idiom0I have kept myself from sin

This refers to choosing not to sin against Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

12842SA2225qdu9figs-idiom0to the degree of my cleanness in his sight

Here “my cleanness” means the same as “my righteousness.” Alternate translation: “because he knows that I have done what he commands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12852SA2226s5yt0General Information:

David continues his song to Yahweh.

12862SA2227b64p0you are perverse to the twisted

Here “perverse” means to be cunning or crafty, and “twisted” means to turn away from what is good and right. This means God is wise in how he deals with wicked people.

12872SA2228p62n0General Information:

David continues his song to Yahweh.

12882SA2228yma2figs-personification0your eyes are against the proud

Here the metonym “your eyes” refers to what Yahweh sees. This means Yahweh watches the proud person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

12892SA2228b16y0you bring them down

“you destroy their pride”

12902SA2229h2zrfigs-metaphor0you are my lamp, Yahweh. Yahweh lights up my darkness

This metaphor compares Yahweh to a lamp, which means he gives David light and helps him to see when things seem hopeless. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12912SA2230i7gq0General Information:

David continues his song to Yahweh.

12922SA2230l2yd0I can run over a barricade

Here “barricade” may refer to a group of soldiers or to a stone wall. Either way it means God enables David to defeat his enemies.

12932SA2230ul6kfigs-hyperbole0I can leap over a wall

David is exaggerating to emphasize Yahwehs help. Alternate translation: “I can climb over the wall that surrounds their city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

12942SA2231gj1g0The word of Yahweh is pure

“Everything Yahweh says is true”

12952SA2231udr8figs-metonymy0He is a shield

The metaphor “a shield” emphasizes Gods power to protect his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

12962SA2232ydz20General Information:

David continues his song to Yahweh.

12972SA2232p5uafigs-rquestion0For who is God except Yahweh, and who is a rock except our God?

David uses this question to emphasize that there is no God apart from Yahweh. These may be translated as statements. Alternate translation: “Yahweh alone is God. Our God alone is a rock.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

12982SA2232d37ffigs-metaphor0who is a rock

David compares Yahweh to a rock to emphasize his strength and ability to protect his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

12992SA2233c5tv0he leads the blameless person on his path

Yahweh keeps the blameless person safe and removes anything that may harm him.

13002SA2234b4kp0General Information:

David continues his song to Yahweh.

13012SA2234wm3bfigs-simile0He makes my feet swift like a deer and places me on the high hills

Here Davids feet are compared to those of a deer using exaggeration. Yahweh gives David the strength to move quickly and provides secure places for protection and rest. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

13022SA2235n5gzfigs-synecdoche0my hands…and my arms

Both of these refer to David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

13032SA2235p7ie0to bend a bow of bronze

Only a very strong man could use a bow made from metal.

13042SA2236ks2j0General Information:

David continues his song to Yahweh.

13052SA2236ly9sfigs-metaphor0the shield of your salvation

David compares Yahwehs power to save him to a shield that protects a soldier from his enemy. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

13062SA2236ae4t0your favor

God answered Davids prayers and granted him blessings and success over his enemies.

13072SA2237p573figs-synecdoche0You have made a wide place for my feet beneath me

Yahweh has put David in a safe place where his enemies cannot trap him. Here he refers to himself by his “feet” to emphasize his ability to stand securely. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

13082SA2238y3110General Information:

David continues his song to Yahweh.

13092SA2238w4kt0pursued my enemies

“chased my enemies”

13102SA2239ax1nfigs-metaphor0I devoured them and smashed them

Here David compares himself to a wild animal. Alternate translation: “I completely destroyed them like a wild animal devouring its prey” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

13112SA2239e2qkfigs-metonymy0under my feet

Here “feet” refers to the power and control of victory over his enemies. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

13122SA2240u95h0General Information:

David continues his song to Yahweh.

13132SA2240k5cgfigs-simile0You put strength on me like a belt for battle

Here the strength that Yahweh gives is compared to a belt for battle that allowed David to do mighty things. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])

13142SA2240ea240you put under me those who rise up against me

“you helped me defeat those who fought against me”

13152SA2241p97v0the back of my enemies necks

Possible meanings are (1) David seeing the backs of the enemy as they run away or (2) David putting his foot on the back of his enemys neck after he defeats him.

13162SA2241ip4h0I annihilated

“I completely destroyed”

13172SA2242a9ti0General Information:

David continues his song to Yahweh.

13182SA2242h32w0They cried

“My enemies cried”

13192SA2242c9qg0they cried out to Yahweh, but he did not answer them

The time for Yahwehs judgment had come upon them.

13202SA2243fum1figs-simile0like dust on the ground…like mud in the streets

This means that David completely destroyed his enemies. These two phrases “like dust on the ground” and “like mud on the streets” have a similar meaning and are used for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

13212SA2244ei290General Information:

David continues his song to Yahweh.

13222SA2244th420from the disputes of my own people

This refers to those among the Israelites who rebelled against King David.

13232SA2244tjl80You have kept me as the head of nations

“You placed me as ruler over the nations.” Here “nations” refers to other nations besides Israel.

13242SA2244p5i20A people that I have not known

“A foreign people”

13252SA2245t5y6figs-activepassive0Foreigners were forced to bow to me

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Foreigners bowed down to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

13262SA2247u5bdfigs-parallelism0May my rock be praised. May God be exalted

These sentences have similar meaning and are used for emphasis. These may be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “May everyone praise my rock. May everyone exalt God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

13272SA2247xr9ufigs-metaphor0my rock…the rock

David compares Yahweh to a rock to emphasize his power to protect his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

13282SA2248z1qb0the one who brings down peoples under me

“the one who puts the people of other nations under my rule”

13292SA2249iu4b0you lifted me up above those who rose up against me

“you saved me from my enemies and gave me honor”

13302SA2249e1y30from violent men

“from those who want to harm me”

13312SA2250r7zu0General Information:

David concludes his song to Yahweh.

13322SA2250qk4dfigs-metonymy0to your name

Here the metonym “name” refers to Yahwehs reputation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

13332SA2251fz6y0he shows his covenant loyalty to his anointed one

Here David may be referring to the promises Yahweh made in 2 Samuel 7:8

13342SA23introabcn0

2 Samuel 23 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetry in 23:2-7.

2 Samuel 23:8-39 is a list of the famous people in Davids army along with some of the special deeds some of them did. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/works]])

Special concepts in this chapter

Everlasting covenant

This is a reference to the covenant God previously made with David. (See: 2 Samuel 7, [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]]).

13352SA231jk1i0Now

This marks the beginning of a new section of the book.

13362SA231lw9i0these are the last words

This refers to what David will say in 2 Samuel 23:2-7.

13372SA231hvt1figs-activepassive0the man who was highly honored, the one anointed by the God of Jacob

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the man whom the God of Jacob highly honored and anointed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

13382SA231y2lztranslate-symaction0anointed by the God of Jacob

Anointing was done by pouring oil on a persons head. This was done to choose who would serve God as king or priest. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

13392SA231khe90psalmist

This is a person who writes psalms or songs.

13402SA232ey250by me

by David

13412SA232r3yyfigs-metonymy0and his word was on my tongue

Here “on my tongue” is a metonym for David speaking. Alternate translation: “he gave me a message to speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

13422SA233il6g0General Information:

This continues Davids last words.

13432SA233c9ydfigs-parallelism0The God of Israel spoke, the Rock of Israel…me

Here the “God of Israel” is the same as the “Rock of Israel.” The two phrases say essentially the same thing. David compares God to a rock to emphasize his power to protect his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

13442SA233w218figs-parallelism0The one who rules righteously over men, who rules in the fear of God

These two sentences both say that the king will respect God and do what God wants him to do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

13452SA233a7ac0in the fear of God

“respecting God”

13462SA234er3pfigs-simile0He will be like the morning light…sunshine after rain

Here God is comparing the king to the morning light and sunshine after the rain. These are all ways of saying this king would be a delight to God and a blessing for the people. These two phrases have a similar meaning and are used for emphasis. Alternate translation: “He will be a delight to all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

13472SA235rp1i0General Information:

This continues Davids last words.

13482SA235hef3figs-rquestion0Indeed, is my family not like this before God?

Here David is saying that he agrees with God. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “My family is indeed like this before God!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

13492SA235n1ttfigs-rquestion0Has he not made…way?

David acknowledges that God has made a covenant with him. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “He has indeed made…way.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

13502SA235gq5b0ordered and sure

This means Gods covenant is properly organized and will not change so Davids family can trust it.

13512SA235r8xzfigs-rquestion0Does he not increase my salvation…desire?

David believes that God will always help him and cause him to prosper. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “He increases my salvation and gives me my every desire.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

13522SA236abg30General Information:

This concludes Davids last words.

13532SA236ic15figs-simile0But the worthless will all be like thorns to be thrown away

Here the wicked person is compared to useless thorns. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “But the wicked person is worthless and dangerous like thorns we throw away” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

13542SA236dgn80because they cannot be gathered by ones hands

“because no one can pick them up with his hands without the thorns hurting him”

13552SA237api50They must be burned up where they lie

“Where thorns are found, that is where they must be burned.” This means God will destroy wicked people.

13562SA238ck79translate-names0Jeshbaal

This is the name of a man. Other versions read Josheb Basshebeth, Jashobeam, Ishbaal, or Ishbosheth because various ancient copies have these variations. Translators may choose to say this in a footnote to their translation (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

13572SA238pka9translate-names0Hachmonite

This is the name of a people group. Alternate translation: “son of Hachmon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

13582SA238vbh7translate-numbers0eight hundred

“800” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

13592SA239lp1ntranslate-names0General Information:

This continues the list of Davids greatest soldiers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

13602SA2310lw96figs-explicit0The army returned after Eleazar

This means that the army returned after Eleazar returned from battle. Alternate translation: “The Israeli army returned to the battle field after Eleazer had already won the battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

13612SA2310jab40only to strip the bodies

“only to take what they wanted from the dead bodies of the enemies”

13622SA2311pm7mtranslate-names0General Information:

This continues the list of Davids greatest soldiers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

13632SA2311kv120a field of lentils

“a field where someone had planted lentils”

13642SA2311t6zitranslate-unknown0lentils

a flat seed, eaten like beans (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

13652SA2311dqs90the army fled

“the Israelite army ran away”

13662SA2313jyy80Three of the thirty

These are not the same three soldiers mentioned in 2 Samuel 23:8-12.

13672SA2313de7ltranslate-numbers0the thirty

“the 30” or “the thirty bravest Israelite soldiers.” The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

13682SA2313y5dbtranslate-names0cave of Adullam

“cave near the town of Adullam.” Adullam is near Bethlehem. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

13692SA2313w9u80Valley of Rephaim

This is the name of a place. See how you translated this in 2 Samuel 5:18.

13702SA2314f68v0in his stronghold

“in his protected place”

13712SA2314pej40the Philistines had established at Bethlehem

“some Philistines soldiers were controlling the village of Bethlehem”

13722SA2316r8yf0broke through the army

“fought their way through the enemy army”

13732SA2317nz91figs-rquestion0Should I drink the blood of men who have risked their lives?

David compares the water to blood because the men risked their lives to bring the water to him. He uses a question to emphasize this. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “Drinking this water would be like drinking the blood of those men who have risked their lives to bring it to me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

13742SA2318jjf70Abishai…Zeruiah

These are the names of men. Translate them as in 2 Samuel 2:18.

13752SA2318xve20captain over the three

This means Abishai was the leader of the three who went and got water for David.

13762SA2318cs6ftranslate-numbers0three hundred men

“300 men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

13772SA2318gxa6figs-activepassive0He was often mentioned along with the three soldiers

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People often mentioned him when they spoke about the three bravest men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

13782SA2319ir5cfigs-rquestion0Was he not even more famous than the three?

This question is used to emphasize how famous he was. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “He was even more famous than the three.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

13792SA2319gph90three most famous soldiers

This refers to Josheb Basshebeth, Eleazar, and Shimeah. Abishai was not as famous as these soldiers.

13802SA2320l41wtranslate-names0Kabzeel

This is the name of a city. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

13812SA2320g72h0Jehoiada

This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in 2 Samuel 8:18.

13822SA2320vqy60Ariel

This is the name of a man.

13832SA2322k95v0did these feats

“did these mighty deeds”

13842SA2322y87lfigs-activepassive0he was named alongside the three mighty men

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people praise him like they praised the three mighty men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

13852SA2322nbw70three mighty men

This refers to Josheb Basshebeth, Eleazar, and Shimeah.

13862SA2323b1dftranslate-numbers0He was more highly regarded than the thirty soldiers in general, but he was not regarded quite as highly as the three mighty men

“He was more famous than the other 30 soldiers except for the three best soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

13872SA2323l8t20his bodyguard

a group of soldiers in charge of guarding David

13882SA2324q89atranslate-names0General Information:

This is a list of Davids greatest soldiers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

13892SA2324h79dtranslate-numbers0The thirty

“The 30 very famous soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

13902SA2329f94utranslate-names0General Information:

This continues the list of Davids greatest soldiers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

13912SA2333en3jtranslate-names0General Information:

This continues the list of Davids greatest soldiers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

13922SA2337ud59translate-names0General Information:

This concludes the list of Davids greatest soldiers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

13932SA2339t6d8translate-numbers0thirty-seven in all

“there were 37 total” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

13942SA24introabco0

2 Samuel 24 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Counting soldiers

David ordered the leaders of his army to count how many men of fighting age there were. He was not supposed to do this because it showed he did not trust God. God was displeased and offered David three punishments. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])

13952SA241c86dfigs-metaphor0the anger of Yahweh was ignited against Israel

The word “ignite” means start a fire. Here Yahwehs anger is compared to that of a fire. Alternate translation: “the anger of Yahweh started to burn like a fire” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

13962SA241dq6l0he moved David against them

“he caused David to oppose them”

13972SA241x6eqfigs-explicit0Go, count Israel and Judah

In the law of Moses, God prohibited the kings of Israel from taking a census of fighting men. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

13982SA242u7bzfigs-merism0Dan to Beersheba

This phrase uses two place names Dan, in the far north, and Beersheba, in the far south, to represent the entire country. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

13992SA242fu4s0count all the people…fit for battle

This means to count all the men except those men who are either too young, too old, or physically unable to fight.

14002SA243qi23translate-numbers0multiply…hundred times

This means “produce 100 more people for every one person there is now.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

14012SA244b9zy0the kings word was final against Joab

Joab and the other commanders of King Davids army were not able to convince David to not take a census.

14022SA244c8cvfigs-synecdoche0the kings word

This phrase represents the kings command to them. Alternate translation: “what the king had commanded” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

14032SA245h1bw0They crossed

“Joab and the commanders of the army crossed”

14042SA245pt7btranslate-names0Aroer

This was a city on the northern edge of the Arnon River. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

14052SA245zpx8translate-names0Jazer

This is a town in Gad. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

14062SA246wc3ctranslate-names0Tahtim Hodshi

This may refer to the town of Kadesh in the land of the Hittite people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

14072SA248db360they had gone

“Joab and the commanders had gone”

14082SA248i1gdtranslate-numbers0nine months and twenty days

“9 months and 20 days” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

14092SA249qq680Then Joab reported the total of the count of the fighting men to the king

“Then Joab told the king the total number of men ready for battle”

14102SA249b91x0in Israel

This refers to the northern tribes of Israel.

14112SA249k78wtranslate-numbers0800,000…500,000

“eight hundred thousand…five hundred thousand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

14122SA249t1ixfigs-metonymy0who drew the sword

This metonym refers to the men who were ready to fight in the army. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

14132SA249e4ft0of Judah

This refers to the southern tribe of Judah.

14142SA2410cb8tfigs-metonymy0Davids heart afflicted him

The “heart” here is a metonym for Davids emotions and conscience. Alternate translation: “David felt guilty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

14152SA2410bvb30Now, Yahweh, take away your servants guilt

David refers to himself as “your servant.” This is a polite way to speak to someone with greater authority.

14162SA2411h1gvfigs-idiom0the word of Yahweh came to the prophet Gad, Davids seer, saying,

The idiom “the word of Yahweh came to” is used to introduce a special message from God. See how you translated this idiom in 2 Samuel 7:4. Alternate translation: “Yahweh gave a message to the prophet Gad, Davids seer. He said,” or “Yahweh spoke this message to the prophet Gad, Davids seer:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

14172SA2411a4ac0Davids seer

This means Gad was the official prophet in the royal palace.

14182SA2414q8an0I am in deep trouble

“I am in terrible trouble”

14192SA2414d6uxfigs-metonymy0Let us fall into Yahwehs hands rather than into the hand of man

Here “hands” refer to power or control. Alternate translation: “Let Yahweh and not people punish us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

14202SA2415jgc80a fixed time

This is the time God decided he would stop the plague.

14212SA2415s22ftranslate-numbers0seventy thousand

“70,000” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])

14222SA2415gt1zfigs-merism0from Dan to Beersheba

Here mentioning the city of Dan in the extreme north and the city Beersheba in the extreme south means the entire nation of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

14232SA2416tl5xfigs-metonymy0the angel reached out with his hand toward Jerusalem to destroy it

Here the metonym “hand” stands for the angels power. Alternate translation: “the angel was about to destroy the people in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

14242SA2416ap2v0Yahweh changed his mind because of the harm

This means that Yahweh stopped the evil that he was allowing the angel to do. Alternate translation: “Yahweh felt grieved about the harm”

14252SA2416x95ifigs-metonymy0Now draw back your hand

The metonym “hand” stands for the angels power. Alternate translation: “Do not harm them any longer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

14262SA2416y4estranslate-names0Araunah

This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

14272SA2416ug3p0the threshing floor

A threshing floor was a hard, flat surface where edible grain was separated from chaff.

14282SA2417c2r6figs-parallelism0I have sinned, and I have acted perversely

These phrases mean the same thing and are combined for emphasis. Alternate translation: “I have sinned terribly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

14292SA2417b9vnfigs-rquestion0But these sheep, what have they done?

David uses a question and compares the people to sheep to emphasize that they have done nothing wrong. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “These ordinary people have done nothing wrong.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

14302SA2417e2dtfigs-metonymy0Please let your hand punish me

Here the metonym “hand” refers to power. Alternate translation: “Please punish me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

14312SA2420q15atranslate-symaction0bowed to the king with his face to the ground

He was showing deep respect and honor to the king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

14322SA2421r7k9figs-activepassive0so that the plague may be removed from the people

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that Yahweh will remove this plague from the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

14332SA2422bwm7figs-metaphor0what is good in your sight

Here sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “what you think is good” or “what is good in your judgement” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

14342SA2422p54x0threshing sledges

heavy boards used to separate grain from the rest of the wheat plant

14352SA2424m1m6figs-doublenegatives0I will not offer…anything that costs me nothing

This can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: “I will only offer…something that I have paid for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

14362SA2424w2n6translate-numbers0fifty shekels

“50 shekels.” A shekel is 11 grams. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]])

14372SA2425xl51figs-metonymy0on behalf of the land

Here the metonym “land” stands for the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “on behalf of the people of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

14382SA2425lp9sfigs-activepassive0the plague on Israel was confined

This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “God confined the plague that had been on Israel” or “God took the plague away from Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])