1SA front intro z2ar 0 # Introduction to 1 Samuel<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of 1 Samuel<br><br>1. Samuel as judge over Israel (1:1–7:17)<br> * Samuel as a child (1:1–3:21)<br> * Shiloh priesthood; the fall and death of Eli the priest (4:1–22)<br> * The ark of God and the war with the Philistines (5:1–6:21)<br> * Mizpah; Samuel’s rule over Israel (7:1–17)<br>1. Saul and Samuel (8:1–15:35)<br> * Samuel lets the people seek a king (8:1–22)<br> * Saul anointed king (9:1–10:27)<br> * Battle and victory over the Ammonites (11:1–15)<br> * Samuel’s farewell (12:1–25)<br> * Saul’s weakness and failures (13:1–15:35)<br>1. David and his conflicts with Saul (16:1–31:13)<br> * God’s choice of David to be king (16:1–23)<br> * David fights Goliath (17:1–58)<br> * Saul’s jealousy of David; David and Jonathan (18:1–20:42)<br> * David in the wilderness; David in Philistia (21:1–30:31)<br> * Death of Saul (31:1–13)<br><br>### What is the Book of 1 Samuel about?<br><br>The Book of 1 Samuel is about Samuel, Saul, and David. Samuel was the last of the judges over Israel. Saul was the first king of Israel. Much of the book is about how Saul became king, then how he later sinned against God and died. God chose David to be king after Saul. This book shows how God protected David when Saul tried to kill him.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators can use the traditional title “1 Samuel” or “First Samuel.” Or, translators may consider a clearer title such as “The First Book About Samuel, Saul, and David.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>### What is the purpose of the Book of 1 Samuel?<br><br>The purpose of 1 Samuel is to give an account of the events leading up to David becoming king of Israel. In 1 Samuel, the twelve tribes of Israel unite under the first king of Israel, Saul. But Saul does not obey Yahweh’s commands. So God uses Samuel to choose David as a king who will trust and obey Yahweh.<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of 1 Samuel?<br><br>It is uncertain who wrote 1 Samuel. It may have been someone alive soon after King Solomon died. When Solomon died, the kingdom of Israel split into two kingdoms. The author probably lived in the southern kingdom of Judah. A descendant of David continued to rule over the southern kingdom. The author may have written 1 Samuel to defend David’s right to be king. This would prove that David’s descendant was the rightful king of God’s people.<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### Who is “Yahweh’s anointed”?<br><br>The writer of 1 Samuel often speaks of “Yahweh’s anointed.” This refers to the one whom Yahweh chose to be the king of his people. Also, the phrase “Yahweh’s anointed” would make later readers think about the future descendant of David who would become king of God’s people. This person who Yahweh chose would be known as the Messiah. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/anoint]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/peopleofgod]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]])<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### What are curses, as found in 1 Samuel and elsewhere?<br><br>A curse is a strong statement a person makes to cause bad things to happen to the person or thing being cursed. A curse usually has this pattern: “May God do so to you, and even more, if you hide anything from me of all the words that he spoke to you” (1 Sam. 3:17). Other instances of curses in 1 and 2 Samuel are found in 1 Sam 14:44; 20:13; 25:22; 2 Sam 3:9, 35; and 19:13. The translator should represent a curse in the project language in as strong a way as possible.<br><br>### How is the name “Israel” used in the Bible?<br><br>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. T
1SA 1 intro cj3l 0 # 1 Samuel 1 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter introduces Samuel. It is the beginning of the section 1, Samuel chapters 1-7, which tell about Samuel, the religious leader of Israel.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Two wives<br>This was a common practice in the ancient Near East. It was against the law of Moses. The men of Israel would have sinned if they married more than one woman. This type of marriage always creates problems because of jealousy. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/jealous]])<br><br>### “Pay his vow”<br>It was customary for Israelites to promise God to make a sacrifice to him if God answered special prayers. Making such a sacrifice was called paying one’s vow. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/vow]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Idioms<br><br>When Hannah wanted to assure Eli she was telling the truth, she used the idiom “as you live.” This is a type of oath formula meaning “I promise you I am telling the truth.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])<br><br>The author also uses the phrase “call to mind.” This is a common idiom meaning “remember.”
1SA 1 1 xa1t translate-names הָרָמָתַ֛יִם 1 the Ramathaim This is the name of a small village possibly located eight kilometers northwest of Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 1 1 mwm2 translate-names צוֹפִ֖ים 1 the Zuphites The phrase **the Zuphites** refers to the people group that descended from Zuph. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 1 1 hizk translate-names אֶפְרָ֑יִם 1 Ephraim Here, **Ephraim** refers to the land that was allotted to the people belonging to the Israelite tribe of Ephraim (see Joshua 16:1-9).(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 1 1 cjl8 translate-names אֶ֠לְקָנָה…יְרֹחָ֧ם…אֱלִיה֛וּא…תֹּ֥חוּ…צ֖וּף 1 was Elkanah … Jeroham … Elihu … Tohu … Zuph These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 1 1 x8xp translate-names אֶפְרָתִֽי 1 an Ephraimite Here, **Ephraimite** refers to anyone living in the territory of Ephraim. <br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 1 2 roc0 writing-pronouns וְלוֹ֙ 1 And for him The pronoun **him** refers to Elkanah. <br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1SA 1 3 zzb5 writing-pronouns הָאִ֨ישׁ הַה֤וּא 1 that man The word **that** in the phrase **that man** is a demonstrative pronoun which refers to Elkanah. Alternate translation: “the man Elkanah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1SA 1 3 kws9 figs-go וְעָלָה֩ 1 And…went up Here, **went up** indicates that in order to reach Shiloh, Elkanah had to travel from a lower location to a higher location because Shiloh was located in a mountainous region. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])
1SA 1 3 j91i מִיָּמִ֣ים׀ יָמִ֔ימָה 1 from days to days The expression **days to days** is a Hebrew idiom. Alternate translation: “year by year” or “annually” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 1 3 w8se translate-names עֵלִ֗י…חָפְנִי֙…וּפִ֣נְחָ֔ס 1 Eli, Hophni and Phinehas These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 1 4 imlh מָנֽוֹת 1 portions Here, **portions** refers to portions of meat. See UST. <br>Alternate translation: “meat portions” or “portions of meat”
1SA 1 4 emtw writing-background וְנָתַ֞ן 1 that he gave Beginning here and continuing until the middle of verse 7, the author provides background information and explains what took place repeatedly year after year. The author does this to help readers better understand the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1SA 1 5 xq4v translate-names וּלְחַנָּ֕ה 1 But to Hannah **Hannah** is a woman’s name. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 1:2](../01/02.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 1 5 k5i7 מָנָ֥ה אַחַ֖ת אַפָּ֑יִם 1 one portion of two faces The phrase, **one portion of two faces** could mean: (1) Elkanah gave Hannah a double portion. Alternate translation: “a double portion” (2) Elkanah gave Hannah especially desirable portions of meat. Alternate translation: “a special portion”
1SA 1 5 b7ri figs-euphemism סָגַ֥ר רַחְמָֽהּ 1 had shut her womb The phrase **shut her womb** is used figuratively to mean that Yahweh had not allowed Hannah to become pregnant. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use a phrase that would be most natural in your language. Alternative translation: “made her barren” or “prevented her from becoming pregnant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1SA 1 5 cg80 translate-unknown מָנָ֥ה 1 portion Here, **portion** refers to the portion of meat that God let the people eat from the animal which they sacrificed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1SA 1 6 f5cg grammar-connect-logic-result וְכִֽעֲסַ֤תָּה צָֽרָתָהּ֙ גַּם־כַּ֔עַס בַּעֲב֖וּר הַרְּעִמָ֑הּ 1 And her rival would provoke her, even with provocation in order to cause her to thunder This means that Peninnah would intentionally seek ways to humiliate and mock Hannah so that she would feel emotionally disturbed and be greatly troubled in spirit. you could translate this in a way that would be most natural in your language. Alternate translation: “And Peninnah would intentionally provoke Hannah severely, for the purpose of hurting her feelings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1SA 1 6 lrs0 figs-abstractnouns וְכִֽעֲסַ֤תָּה צָֽרָתָהּ֙ גַּם־כַּ֔עַס 1 And her rival would provoke her, even with provocation The word **provocation** is an abstract noun. If it would be more natural in your language you may translate this word using a verb phrase or adjective. Alternate translation: “And Peninnah would intentionally provoke Hannah severely” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)
1SA 1 6 mw8a צָֽרָתָהּ֙ 1 her rival Here, **her rival** refers to Hannah’s rival Peninnah. It is probable that Elkanah took Peninnah as his second wife after Hannah was unable to bear children so that he could have offspring by Penninah. This would result in Hannah and Peninnah viewing each other as rivals. you could use a word or phrase that would be most natural in your language. Alternate translation: “his second wife” or“her co-wife”
1SA 1 6 gq73 figs-simile הַרְּעִמָ֑הּ 1 cause her to thunder The phrase **cause her to thunder** is a figurative way of saying that Peninnah’s actions caused Hannah to be greatly irritated or troubled. The point of this comparison is that Peninnah would cause Hannah to be greatly bothered and disrupted in a way that is similar to the sky being disrupted to the point of thundering. you could communicate this in a way which would be most natural in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1SA 1 6 wy2z בְּעַ֥ד רַחְמָֽהּ 1 shut up her womb The phrase **shut up her womb** is a used figuratively to mean that Yahweh had not allowed Hannah to become pregnant. You can use a phrase that would be most natural in your language.<br>Alternative translation: “made her barren” or “prevented her from becoming pregnant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1SA 1 7 bzk3 figs-go עֲלֹתָהּ֙ 1 she went up Here, **went up** indicates that in order to reach Shiloh, Elkanah had to travel from a lower location to a higher location because Shiloh was located in a mountainous region. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 1:3](../01/03.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])
1SA 1 7 x38f writing-pronouns עֲלֹתָהּ֙ 1 she went up Here, **she** refers to Hannah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1SA 1 8 nz4v figs-rquestion לָ֣מֶה תִבְכִּ֗י וְלָ֨מֶה֙ לֹ֣א תֹֽאכְלִ֔י וְלָ֖מֶה יֵרַ֣ע לְבָבֵ֑ךְ הֲל֤וֹא אָֽנֹכִי֙ ט֣וֹב לָ֔ךְ מֵעֲשָׂרָ֖ה בָּנִֽים 1 why do you weep? And why do you not eat? And why is your heart displeased? Am I not better to you than ten sons These rhetorical questions can be translated as statements, If your readers would misunderstand this. Alternate translation: “you should not weep. You should eat, and your heart should be glad because I am better to you than ten sons!” or “you have little reason for sadness. I favor you and that should be enough.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 1 8 tt3y figs-hyperbole הֲל֤וֹא אָֽנֹכִי֙ ט֣וֹב לָ֔ךְ מֵעֲשָׂרָ֖ה בָּנִֽים 1 Am I not better to you than ten sons Elkanah is intentionally exaggerating to emphasize what he wants Hannah to understand. Alternate translation: “Am I not better to you than any son could be” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1SA 1 9 kgv8 figs-explicit וַתָּ֣קָם חַנָּ֔ה אַחֲרֵ֛י 1 And Hannah rose up after Here, implicit information can be made explicit. This could mean: (1) Hannah’s tent was next to the tabernacle tent. (2) Hannah walked from her tent to the tabernacle to pray. Alternate translation: “Hannah rose up and went to the house of Yahweh to pray after” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 1 9 hic6 translate-names וְעֵלִ֣י 1 Now Eli **Now** is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here, the author tells about a new person in the story. This person is the priest **Eli**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 1 9 qdl6 translate-unknown הֵיכַ֥ל 1 the temple Here, **the temple** was actually a tent, but it was where the people worshiped, so it is translated as **temple** here. You could use an equivalent word or phrase to describe **temple** in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1SA 1 10 b85f figs-explicit וְהִ֖יא מָ֣רַת נָ֑פֶשׁ וַתִּתְפַּלֵּ֥ל עַל־יְהוָ֖ה וּבָכֹ֥ה תִבְכֶּֽה 1 And she was bitter of spirit, and she prayed to Yahweh and wept abundantly. Hannah prayed to Yahweh because she was greatly grieved because she was not able to have any children and because Peninnah regularly ridiculed her. If your readers would misunderstand this you could state this explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 1 10 k0z1 figs-simile מָ֣רַת נָ֑פֶשׁ 1 was bitter of spirit The phrase **bitter of spirit** is a simile. The point of this comparison is that Hannah’s emotional state was very unpleasant and undesirable, comparable to the unpleasant experience of eating something very bitter tasting. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “was greatly distressed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1SA 1 11 hzpb figs-explicit וַתִּדֹּ֨ר נֶ֜דֶר 1 And she vowed a vow The phrase **vowed a vow** is a way of saying that Hannah made a promise. If your readers would misunderstand this you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “made a promise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 1 11 vqab writing-quotations וַתֹּאמַ֗ר 1 and said Here, **and said** is introducing the authors quotation of Hannah’s prayer. Consider natural ways of introducing direct quotations in your language. Alternate translation: “and this is what she prayed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1SA 1 11 peh3 writing-quotations יְהוָ֨ה צְבָא֜וֹת אִם־רָאֹ֥ה תִרְאֶ֣ה׀ בָּעֳנִ֣י אֲמָתֶ֗ךָ וּזְכַרְתַּ֨נִי֙ וְלֹֽא־תִשְׁכַּ֣ח אֶת־אֲמָתֶ֔ךָ וְנָתַתָּ֥ה לַאֲמָתְךָ֖ זֶ֣רַע אֲנָשִׁ֑ים וּנְתַתִּ֤יו לַֽיהוָה֙ כָּל־יְמֵ֣י חַיָּ֔יו וּמוֹרָ֖ה לֹא־יַעֲלֶ֥ה עַל־רֹאשֽׁוֹ 1 “Yahweh of hosts, if you will indeed look on the affliction of your female servant and remember me, and not forget your female servant, and give to your female servant a seed of men, then I will give him to Yahweh all the days of his life, and a razor will not go up on his head.” This portion is the authors quotation of Hannah’s prayer to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1SA 1 11 ri9r figs-abstractnouns בָּעֳנִ֣י אֲמָתֶ֗ךָ 1 on the affliction of your female servant The abstract noun **affliction** can be translated as a verbal phrase. This could mean: (1) Hannah’s emotional suffering because she was unable to become pregnant. Alternate translation: “on how I am suffering because I cannot become pregnant” (2) Hannah’s emotional suffering because of Peninnah’s frequent insults and taunts. Alternate translation: “on how that woman is afflicting me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 1 11 ee3h figs-doublet וּזְכַרְתַּ֨נִי֙ וְלֹֽא־תִשְׁכַּ֣ח 1 and remember me, and not forget These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could combine these two phrases. Alternate translation: “and indeed remember” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1SA 1 11 m3wr figs-hyperbole וּזְכַרְתַּ֨נִי֙ וְלֹֽא־תִשְׁכַּ֣ח 1 and remember me, and not forget Hannah does not actually think that Yahweh is unaware of her situation or has forgotten about it. Rather, this is an emphatic and urgent way of asking Yahweh to act on her behalf by answering her prayer for a son. Alternate translation: “and give heed to, and act on behalf of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1SA 1 11 y3ce וּנְתַתִּ֤יו 1 then I will give him This portion of Hannah’s prayer begins her promise to Yahweh. She tells Yahweh that if he gives her, her request for a son, she will dedicate the child to Yahweh all the days of his life and not give him a haircut. She begins her promise with the phrase **then I will give**. If your language has a specific way that it would introduce a promise in this context, you may consider using it here if it would be natural in your language. Alternative translation: “then I promise I will give him”
1SA 1 12 q3g7 figs-idiom כִּ֣י הִרְבְּתָ֔ה לְהִתְפַּלֵּ֖ל 1 when she increased to pray The phrase **increased to pray** is a Hebrew idiom. It means that Hannah was continuing in prayer, or making her prayers many. It is used here to show that Hannah was praying for a long time. Alternate translation: “when she continued praying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 1 12 ddxz figs-idiom לִפְנֵ֣י 1 before the face of The phrase **before the face of** is a Hebrew idiom. It is used to show that something takes place in front of or in the presence of someone or something else. It is used here to show that Hannah was praying in the presence of Yahweh. Use the term or phrase in your language that would most naturally communicate that something takes place in front of someone or in the presence of someone. Alternate translation: “in the presence of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 1 12 js4q translate-names וְעֵלִ֖י 1 that Eli **Eli** was the chief priest, so he was in the tabernacle of God and in charge of it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 1 13 ne47 grammar-connect-logic-goal וְחַנָּ֗ה הִ֚יא מְדַבֶּ֣רֶת עַל־לִבָּ֔הּ רַ֚ק שְׂפָתֶ֣יהָ נָּע֔וֹת וְקוֹלָ֖הּ לֹ֣א יִשָּׁמֵ֑עַ וַיַּחְשְׁבֶ֥הָ עֵלִ֖י לְשִׁכֹּרָֽה 1 Now Hannah, she was speaking to her heart, only her lips were quivering and her voice was not heard. So Eli thought of her as drunk. If it would be misunderstood in you language, you could arrange the order of events in a way that is most natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Now Hannah was silently praying. And Eli assumed that she was drunk, because she was not making any sound, only her lips were moving” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1SA 1 13 sw9f figs-metaphor מְדַבֶּ֣רֶת עַל־לִבָּ֔הּ 1 was speaking to her heart Here, **heart** is used figuratively. Use the term or phrase that would be most natural in your language. If you do not have a figurative way to express this in your language you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
1SA 1 14 m16w figs-rquestion עַד־מָתַ֖י תִּשְׁתַּכָּרִ֑ין 1 Until when will you make yourself drunk Eli is stating this in the form of a question for emphasis. If it would be helpful in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or as an exclamation. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 1 15 dcnb writing-politeness אֲדֹנִ֔י 1 my master The phrase **my master** is a way of politely or respectfully addressing someone. If you have an equivalent term or phrase in your language, consider using that. Alternate translation: “my lord” or “sir” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness]])
1SA 1 15 qnz5 figs-idiom קְשַׁת־ר֨וּחַ֙ 1 difficult of spirit The phrase **difficult of spirit** is a Hebrew idiom. Alternative translation: “troubled of spirit” or “very unhappy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 1 15 fzi6 figs-idiom וָאֶשְׁפֹּ֥ךְ אֶת־נַפְשִׁ֖י 1 but I have been pouring out my soul The phrase **pouring out** refers to emptying the contents of what is inside something. Here it is used figuratively, and so the phrase **pouring out my soul** means telling Yahweh one’s troubles or deepest emotions. If it would be helpful in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but I have been telling my troubles” or “but I have been telling my deepest emotions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 1 15 irvy figs-idiom לִפְנֵ֥י 1 before the face of The phrase **before the face of** is a Hebrew idiom. It is used to show that something takes place in front of or in the presence of someone or something else. It is used here to show that Hannah was praying in the presence of Yahweh. Use the term or phrase in your language that would most naturally communicate that something takes place in front of someone or in the presence of someone. Alternate translation: “in the presence of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 1 16 a5rz figs-123person אֲמָ֣תְךָ֔ 1 your female servant Hannah speaks of herself in the third person to show humility. If your readers would misunderstand this you may use a first person pronoun here. Alternate translation: “me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1SA 1 16 wxf5 writing-politeness אֲמָ֣תְךָ֔ 1 your female servant Here, Hannah calls herself Eli’s **female servant** as a humble way of showing respect. Hannah was not actually Eli’s servant. If you have an equivalent term or phrase in your language consider using it here if it would be natural. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness]])
1SA 1 16 lf9r figs-abstractnouns מֵרֹ֥ב שִׂיחִ֛י וְכַעְסִ֖י 1 from the abundance of my complaint and my provocation Here, Hannah tells Eli why she is praying the way that she is. Hannah uses three abstract nouns, **abundance,** **complaint,* and **provocation.** If your readers would misunderstand this you could translate these using verbs, adjectives, or adverbs. Alternate translation: “because I am very troubled, and my rival has greatly provoked me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 1 18 sl27 figs-123person 0 Let your servant find Hannah speaks of herself in the second person to show respect for Eli, the head priest. This can be stated in the first person. Alternate translation: “Let me, your servant, find” or “Let me find” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1SA 1 18 tu8x figs-metonymy 0 find favor in your eyes Here “find favor” is an idiom that means be approved of or that he is pleased with her. Here the eyes are a metonym for sight, and seeing represents judging or deciding the value of something. Alternate translation: “evaluated me and approve” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 1 18 us1u figs-synecdoche 0 ate; her face was Here “her face” represents Hannah herself. You can make this a separate sentence, if needed. Alternate translation: “ate. She was” or “ate. People could see that she was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 1 19 rw2y figs-euphemism 0 Elkanah knew Hannah This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “Elkanah had sexual relations with Hannah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1SA 1 19 r2kg 0 remembered her God knew what was happening to Hannah; he had not forgotten her. See how you translated similar words in [1 Samuel 1:11](../01/11.md).
1SA 1 21 v7jy figs-metonymy 0 his house The word “house” is a metonym for the people who lived in the house. Alternate translation: “his family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 1 22 n9zg 0 is weaned stops drinking milk and starts eating only solid food
1SA 1 22 ui7y 0 he may appear before Yahweh and live there forever Hannah had promised God that she would allow Samuel to live and work with Eli the priest in the temple ([1 Samuel 1:11](../01/11.md)).
1SA 1 26 r835 writing-oathformula חֵ֥י נַפְשְׁךָ֖ 1 As your spirit is alive The phrase **As your spirit is alive** is an oath formula. If you have a term or phrase that would be most natural in your language to express an oath in this context, consider using that. Alternative translation: (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula]])
1SA 1 26 lrs1 writing-politeness בִּ֣י אֲדֹנִ֔י 1 Please, my master The phrase **Please, my master** is a respectful way of addressing someone of higher status. Use the term or phrase that would be most natural in your language for addressing someone of higher status in this context. If your language has a specific way that a woman would address a man of higher status consider using that. Alternate translation: “Please, sir” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-politeness]])
1SA 1 27 m76r figs-abstractnouns 0 has given me my petition which I asked of him The noun “petition” refers to a formal request for another person to do something. It can be translated with a verb. The idiom “to give a petition” means to do what the person requests. Alternate translation: “has agreed to do what I solemnly requested that he do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 1 28 fp77 figs-activepassive 0 he is lent to Yahweh This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “I am loaning him to Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 1 28 f1d4 figs-synecdoche 0 he worshiped Yahweh This could mean: (1) “He” refers to Elkanah or (2) “he” is a synecdoche referring to both Elkanah and his family. Alternate translation: “Elkanah and his family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 2 intro fe7v 0 # 1 Samuel 2 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with Hannah’s poetic prayer in 2:1-10 .<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Hannah’s song of praise to God<br><br>This song is about how God protects the weak and strengthens them. He humbles the rich, provides for the poor, and defeats his enemies.<br><br>### Eli’s Sons<br><br>Eli, the chief priest, had two sons. They were ungodly priests who continually sinned and did not honor God. Eli corrected them but they did not listen. A prophet warned Eli that God would stop his family from being priests and his sons would both die on the same day. At the same time, Samuel was growing up and serving God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>This chapter has many figures of speech because the first part of the chapter is a song and the last part of the chapter is a prophecy. Songs and prophecy tend to have many figures of speech.<br><br>### Synecdoches<br><br>“My heart” and “my mouth” are synecdoches referencing the speaker. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])<br><br>### Metonymies<br><br>Body parts are often used to stand for activities involving that part of the body. “The feet of his faithful people” is a metonym meaning what they are doing or where they are going. Place names are often used for people in that place such as “the ends of the earth” meaning the people living in the ends of the earth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])<br><br>### Metaphors<br><br>Hannah used many military metaphors: “rock,” representing protection; “the bows of the mighty men are broken,” representing military defeat; “the horn of his anointed,” representing the power of the one that God has chosen to be king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>God used three rhetorical questions to correct and condemn Eli. “Did I not reveal myself to the house of your ancestor, when they were in Egypt in bondage to Pharaoh’s house?” “Why then do you scorn my offerings that I required in the place where I live?” “Why do you honor your sons above me by making yourselves fat with the best of every offering of my people Israel?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 2 1 s8ym figs-metaphor 0 My horn is exalted A horn is a symbol of strength. Alternate translation: “I am now strong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 2 2 v6e5 figs-parallelism 0 Hannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1SA 2 2 tvt6 figs-metaphor 0 there is no rock like our God This is another way of saying that God is strong and faithful. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 2 3 k2up figs-parallelism 0 Hannah continues to recite a song to Yahweh. She speaks as if other people were listening to her. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1SA 2 3 tzn5 figs-activepassive 0 by him actions are weighed If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he weighs people’s actions” or “he understands why people act as they do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 2 4 rd1s 0 The bow of the mighty men are broken This could mean: (1) the bows themselves are broken or (2) the men who carry the bows are prevented from acting. Alternate translation: “Mighty bowmen are kept from acting”
1SA 2 4 re5w figs-activepassive 0 The bow of the mighty men are broken If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh breaks the bows of the mighty men” or “Yahweh can make even the strongest of people weak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 2 4 nr6l figs-metaphor 0 those who stumble put on strength like a belt This metaphor means they will no longer stumble, but their strength will remain with them as tightly as a belt. Alternate translation: “he will make those who stumble strong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 2 6 wy38 figs-merism 0 Yahweh kills … brings to life … brings down … raises up Yahweh is in control of everything. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1SA 2 7 p7gh figs-merism 0 makes some people poor … some rich … humbles … lifts up Yahweh is in control of everything. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1SA 2 8 x5qk figs-metaphor 0 out of the dust … from the ash heap These are metaphors for the lowest position in society. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 2 9 qa5r figs-metonymy 0 guard the feet of his faithful people Here “feet” is a metonym for the way a person walks, which in turn is a metaphor for the way a person decides how to live his life. Alternate translation: “keep his faithful people from making foolish decisions” or “enable his faithful people to make wise decisions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 2 9 c576 figs-euphemism 0 the wicked will be put to silence in darkness This polite way of saying that Yahweh will kill the wicked can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will put the wicked to silence in darkness” or “Yahweh will put the wicked in the dark and silent world of the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1SA 2 9 tij9 figs-idiom 0 the wicked will be put to silence The words “be put to silence” are an idiom for “be made silent.” If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will make them silent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 2 10 k6zw figs-activepassive 0 Those who oppose Yahweh will be broken If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will break those who oppose him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 2 10 q5jv figs-idiom 0 broken to pieces This idiom means “defeated.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 2 10 zja3 figs-idiom 0 the ends of the earth This is an idiom that means everywhere. Alternate translation: “the whole earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 2 10 ui4d figs-metaphor 0 exalt the horn of his anointed A horn is a symbol of strength. See how you translated similar words in [1 Samuel 2:1](../02/01.md). Alternate translation: “he will make the leader he has chosen stronger than his enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 2 10 zv7z figs-metaphor 0 his anointed This speaks of the person that Yahweh chose and empowered for his purposes as if Yahweh had anointed the person with oil. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the one he has anointed” or “the one he has chosen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 2 12 q8jj 0 General Information: When people would offer animals as sacrifices, they would first burn the animal’s fat and then boil the meat and eat it.
1SA 2 14 pa2z 0 into the pan, or kettle, or cauldron, or pot These are containers in which food could be cooked. If your language does not have separate words for these items it can be stated more generally. Alternate translation: “into whatever the people were cooking the meat in”
1SA 2 15 q7b6 0 General Information: When people would offer animals as sacrifices, they would first burn the animal’s fat and then boil the meat, give some to the priest, and eat the rest.
1SA 2 15 j2my figs-explicit 0 they burned The person who actually did the burning can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “the man who was sacrificing took his sacrifice to the priests and the priests burned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 2 20 tc3y 0 because of the request she made of Yahweh Hannah had asked Yahweh for a baby and promised him that she would give the baby to serve in the temple.
1SA 2 21 k1xe 0 before Yahweh This means where Yahweh could see him and Samuel could learn about Yahweh.
1SA 2 22 lbj3 figs-euphemism 0 they were lying with the women This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “they were having sexual relations with the women” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1SA 2 23 tv62 figs-rquestion 0 Why do you do such things? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “It is terrible that you do such things!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 2 25 lkz7 figs-rquestion 0 who will speak for him? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “there is certainly no one who can speak for him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 2 25 cvx3 figs-synecdoche 0 the voice of their father Here the father’s “voice” represents the father. Alternate translation: “their father” or “what their father said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 2 27 f6z6 0 man of God This phrase usually means a prophet of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “a man who hears and tells words from God”
1SA 2 27 r882 figs-rquestion 0 Did I not reveal myself … house? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should know that I revealed myself … house.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 2 27 k8sr figs-metonymy 0 the house of your ancestor The word “house” is a metonym for the people who lived in the house. Alternate translation: “the family of your ancestor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 2 28 vv14 figs-metonymy 0 to wear an ephod before me The words “wear an ephod” are a metonym for the work of the priests who wear the ephod. Alternate translation: “to do what I had commanded the priests to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 2 29 rx55 figs-rquestion 0 Why, then, do you scorn my sacrifices … live? This rhetorical question is a rebuke. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not scorn my sacrifices … where I live.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 2 29 en93 0 making yourselves fat with the best of every offering The best part of the offering was to be burned up as an offering to Yahweh, but the priests were eating it.
1SA 2 30 b5d5 figs-metonymy 0 the house of your ancestor The word “house” is a metonym for the people who lived in the house. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 2:27](../02/27.md). Alternate translation: “the family of your ancestor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 2 30 url1 figs-idiom 0 should walk before me This is an idiom that means “live in obedience to me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 2 30 hd3e figs-irony 0 those who despise me will be lightly esteemed The words “lightly esteemed” is an ironic euphemism for “greatly despised.” If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will lightly esteem those who despise me” or “I will greatly despise those who despise me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 2 31 h1ax figs-euphemism 0 I will cut off your strength and the strength of your father’s house The words “cut off … strength” are probably a euphemism for the death of strong, young men; the words “your father’s house” are a metonym for “your family.” Alternate translation: “I will kill you and all strong, young male descendants in your family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 2 35 vaw9 figs-idiom 0 I will raise up … a faithful priest This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “I will cause a man to become priest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 2 35 bg77 figs-idiom 0 I will build him a sure house Here “house” is an idiom used for “descendants.” Alternate translation: “I will ensure that he always has a descendant who serves as high priest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 2 36 y912 figs-synecdoche 0 so I can eat a piece of bread Here “piece of bread” is used for “food. “Alternate translation: “so I can have something to eat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 3 intro riy2 0 # 1 Samuel 3 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### God speaks to Samuel<br><br>God spoke at night to Samuel when he was a small boy, telling him that he would punish Eli’s family. As Samuel grew up, God gave him many messages. People came from all over Israel to find out what God had to say.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metonymy<br><br>In order to show respect when talking to God, Samuel calls himself “your servant” when referring to himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])<br><br>### Idioms<br><br>One characteristic of prophecy is the use of figures of speech. In this passage there are two idioms: “ears will shake,” meaning “will shock everyone who hears” and “carry out,” meaning “do.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])<br><br>In order to be sure Samuel would tell him the whole truth, Eli used the standard formula for a curse: “may God do to you, and even more, if,” meaning “God will punish severely if the person does what the curse says he will do.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/curse]])
1SA 3 3 vl1e 0 The lamp of God This is the seven-candle lampstand in the holy place of the tabernacle that burned every day and through the night until it was empty.
1SA 3 3 vv3t 0 the temple of Yahweh The “temple” was actually a tent, but it was where the people worshiped, so it is best to translate the word as “temple” here. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 1:9](../01/09.md).
1SA 3 6 mt8g figs-metaphor 0 my son Eli was not Samuel’s true father. Eli speaks as if he were Samuel’s father to show Samuel that he is not angry but that Samuel needs to listen to him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 3 7 s4pa figs-activepassive 0 nor had any message from Yahweh ever been revealed to him If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “nor had Yahweh ever revealed any message to him” or “and Yahweh had never revealed any message to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 3 9 m2t2 figs-pronouns 0 your servant is Eli tells Samuel to speak to Yahweh as if Samuel were another person so that Samuel would show respect to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I am” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 3 10 tcr3 0 Yahweh came and stood This could mean: (1) Yahweh actually appeared and stood before Samuel or (2) Yahweh made his presence known to Samuel.
1SA 3 10 z33m figs-pronouns 0 your servant is Samuel speaks to Yahweh as if Samuel were another person to show respect to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I am” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 3 11 huj9 figs-idiom 0 at which the ears of everyone who hears it will tingle Here “ears … will tingle” is an idiom that means everyone will be shocked by what they hear. Alternate translation: “that will shock everyone who hears it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 3 11 z6qj 0 tingle This means to feel like someone is gently poking with small, sharp objects, usually because of the cold or because someone has slapped that body part with their hand.
1SA 3 12 z75y figs-merism 0 from beginning to end This is a merism for completeness. Alternate translation: “absolutely everything” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1SA 3 14 x5qu figs-activepassive 0 the sins of his house will never be atoned for by sacrifice or offering This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “there is no sacrifice or offering that anyone can offer that will atone for the sins of his house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 3 15 ma13 0 the house of Yahweh The “house” was actually a tent, but it would be best to translate “house” here.
1SA 3 16 p47b figs-metaphor 0 my son Eli was not Samuel’s true father. Eli speaks as if he were Samuel’s father to show Samuel that he is not angry but that Samuel needs to answer him. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 1:6](../01/06.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 3 17 s4uq figs-idiom 0 May God do so to you, and even more This is an idiom to emphasize how serious Eli is. Alternate translation: “May God punish you the same way he said he will punish me, and even more” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 3 19 rz12 figs-metaphor 0 he let none of his prophetic words fall to the ground Here messages that do not come true are spoken of as if they fell to the ground. This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “he made all the things he prophesied happen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1SA 3 20 q8cs figs-merism 0 from Dan to Beersheba This is a merism for “in every part of the land.” Alternate translation: “from one end of the land to the other” or “from Dan in the very north to Beersheba in the very south” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1SA 3 20 v6xm figs-activepassive 0 Samuel was appointed If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Yahweh had appointed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 4 intro a7dh 0 # 1 Samuel 4 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>### The Ark of the Covenant in Philistine country<br><br>This chapter begins a new section on the Ark and the Philistines. It recounts two battles between Israel and the Philistines. In both battles, Israel was badly defeated and, in the second, the Ark was captured.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The Ark is captured<br><br>The Philistine army invaded Israel, and Israel’s army went to fight them but was defeated. Israel decided that if they took the Ark into the next battle, God would cause them to win. When Eli’s sons took the Ark into the next battle and the Philistines won the battle, they killed Eli’s two sons and captured the Ark. When Eli heard the Ark was captured, he fell over, broke his neck, and died. Hearing this news, his daughter-in-law named her baby “the glory has departed.”<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical Question<br><br>The Philistines expressed their fear using a rhetorical question: “Who will protect us from the strength of this mighty God?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 4 2 in3q figs-activepassive 0 Israel was defeated by the Philistines, who killed This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “the Philistines defeated the Israelites and killed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 4 2 c78l translate-numbers 0 about four thousand men Here the number four thousand is a round number. There may have been a few more than that or a few less than that. The word “about” shows that it is not an exact number. Alternate translation: “about 4,000 men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
1SA 4 3 d9z9 0 Why has Yahweh defeated us today before the Philistines? Let us bring … enemies The elders truly did not know why Yahweh had defeated them, but they wrongly thought they knew how to make sure it did not happen again, by bringing the ark to be with them.
1SA 4 4 s4ks figs-explicit 0 who sits above the cherubim You may need to make explicit that the cherubim are those on the lid of the ark of the covenant. The biblical writers often spoke of the ark of the covenant as if it were Yahweh’s footstool upon which he rested his feet as he sat on his throne in heaven above. Alternate translation: “who sits on his throne above the cherubim on the ark of the covenant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 4 5 ym2q figs-explicit 0 When the ark of the covenant of Yahweh came into the camp “When the people carried the ark of the covenant of Yahweh into the camp” Some languages may need to add understood information to make the meaning clear. Alternate translation: “The people, along with Hophni and Phinehas, picked up the ark of the covenant of Yahweh and carried it into the camp. When the people carried the ark into the camp” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 4 7 hw97 0 they said … They said “they said to themselves … They said to each other” or “they said to each other … They said to each other.” The second clause clearly refers to what the Philistines said to each other. The first clause probably refers to what they thought, though it could also refer to what they said to each other. If possible, avoid stating who was spoken to.
1SA 4 7 n37y figs-pronouns 0 A god has come The Philistines worshiped many gods, so they probably believed that one of those gods, or one whom they did not worship, had come into the camp. Another possible meaning is that they were speaking the proper name of the God of Israel: “Yahweh has come.” Because 4:8 speaks of “gods,” some translations read, “Gods have come,” that is, “It is gods who have come.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 4 8 xaq3 figs-rquestion 0 Who will protect us from the strength of these mighty gods? This rhetorical question is an expression of deep fear. It can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “There is no one who can protect us from these mighty gods.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 4 8 rx6y figs-pronouns 0 these mighty gods … the gods who attacked Because the word “god” (or “God”) in 4:7 is singular, many translations read “this mighty god … the god who attacked,” referring to any one of many possible gods, or “this mighty God … the God who attacked,” using the proper name of the God of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 4 10 bt9k figs-activepassive 0 Israel was defeated If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Also, “Israel” refers to the army of Israel. Alternate translation: “they defeated the army of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 4 11 s6sx figs-activepassive 0 The ark of God was taken If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The Philistines also took the ark of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 4 12 x321 0 clothes torn and earth on his head This is a way to express deep mourning in Israelite culture.
1SA 4 13 tx5e figs-idiom 0 his heart trembled with concern This is an idiom which means he was very fearful or terribly concerned about something. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 4 16 c94p figs-metaphor 0 my son Eli was not the other man’s true father. Eli speaks as if he were the man’s father to show the man that he is not angry but that the man needs to answer him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 4 17 q67g 0 Israel fled from the Philistines This is a general statement about what happened. The rest of the man’s words give details.
1SA 4 17 knm8 0 Also, there has been … people. Also, your two sons Alternate translation: “I will now tell you something worse … I will now tell you something worse” or “Not only has there been … people, but your two sons”
1SA 4 17 b1fy figs-activepassive 0 the ark of God has been taken If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the Philistines have taken the ark of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 4 18 gqt1 figs-activepassive 0 His neck was broken If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “His neck broke because he fell” or “He broke his neck when he fell” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 4 19 px5m figs-activepassive 0 the ark of God was captured If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the Philistines had captured the ark of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 4 21 eja5 translate-names 0 Ichabod The name is actually a phrase that means “no glory.” The name of a person sometimes reveals information about the person, place, or thing it refers to. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 4 21 b2am figs-activepassive 0 for the ark of God had been captured If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “for the Philistines had captured the ark of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 4 22 pea3 figs-activepassive 0 the ark of God has been captured If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “because the Philistines have captured the ark of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 5 intro qnq6 0 # 1 Samuel 5 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>The story of the Ark of the Covenant in Philistia continues.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The Ark in the Philistine Cities<br><br>The Philistines took the Ark of God to Ashdod and put it in their idol temple, but their idol fell down in front of the Ark and the people got sick with bubonic plague. They took it to Gath next, and the people of Gath began dying of the plague. When they took the Ark to Ekron, the people of Ekron were afraid of it too and did not want it there. Finally they decided to send it back to Israel. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/temple]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Idioms<br><br>There are two slightly different idioms used in the same way: the “hand was heavy” and the “hand was hard.” Both idioms mean “was severely punished.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 5 1 r22j 0 Now This word marks the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a word or phrase that does the same, you could use it here.
1SA 5 1 j9ri 0 ark of God See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 3:3](../03/03.md). This is the a same as the “ark of the covenant of Yahweh” in [1 Samuel 4:3](../04/03.md).
1SA 5 3 z1gy figs-explicit 0 Dagon had fallen facedown on the ground The reader should understand that Yahweh had caused the statue to fall on its face during the night. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 5 4 jsj6 0 Dagon had fallen The reader should understand that Yahweh had caused Dagon to fall.
1SA 5 4 fww1 0 The head of Dagon and both of his hands were lying cut off It was as if Yahweh were a soldier who had defeated his enemy and cut off the enemy’s head and hands.
1SA 5 5 l4ma writing-background 0 This is why, even today The writer is about to give some background information separate from the main story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1SA 5 6 uhg9 figs-metonymy 0 both Ashdod and its territories The name of the town is a metonym for the people living in the town. “both the people of Ashdod and the people in the land surrounding Ashdod” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 5 7 l6t8 0 ark of the God of Israel See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 3:3](../03/03.md). This is the a same as the “ark of the covenant of Yahweh” in [1 Samuel 4:3](../04/03.md).
1SA 5 9 b7z1 figs-idiom 0 Yahweh’s hand was against This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “Yahweh punished” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 5 9 buz5 figs-merism 0 both small and great This could mean: (1) this is a merism that refers to age. Alternate translation: “men of all ages” or (2) this is a merism that refers social class. Alternate translation: “from the poorest and weakest men to the richest and most powerful men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1SA 5 9 sxg1 0 tumors This could mean: (1) painful swelling under the skin or (2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 5:6](../05/06.md)
1SA 5 10 gk7m figs-explicit 0 cried out Why they cried out can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “cried out in fear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 5 11 cb8i 0 the ark of the God of Israel See how you translated similar words in [1 Samuel 3:3](../03/03.md). This is the a same as the “ark of the covenant of Yahweh” in [1 Samuel 4:3](../04/03.md).
1SA 5 11 s7pb 0 the God of Israel This could mean: (1) they were speaking the proper name of the God of Israel or (2) they believed that Israel worshiped one of many gods, “the god of Israel.” See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 5:7](../05/07.md).
1SA 5 11 se4g 0 there was a deathly panic throughout the city Alternate translation: “people all over the city were afraid that they were going to die”
1SA 5 11 vn4h figs-metonymy 0 the hand of God was very heavy there The hand is a metonym for God punishing the people. “Yahweh was punishing the people there very severely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 5 12 u8uu 0 tumors This could mean: (1) painful swelling under the skin or (2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 5:6](../05/06.md).
1SA 5 12 vm1y figs-metonymy 0 the cry of the city went up to the heavens The word “city” is a metonym for the people of the city. This could mean: (1) the words “went up to the heavens” is an idiom for “was very great.” Alternate translation: “the people of the city cried out very loudly” or (2) the words “the heavens” is a metonym for the people’s gods. Alternate translation: “the people of the city cried out to their gods” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 6 intro z9kg 0 # 1 Samuel 6 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter ends the story of the Ark of the Covenant among the Philistines.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The Philistines send the Ark back to Israel<br><br>The Philistine leaders asked their priests what they should do with the Ark. The priests said to send it off with an offering. The Philistines put the Ark on a cart drawn by cows and let them go wherever they wanted to go. The cows went straight toward Israel. When some people peeked into the Ark, God killed them. Because of this, the people sent the Ark to Kiriath Jearim.
1SA 6 3 gg7q 0 the God of Israel This could mean: (1) they were speaking the proper name of the God of Israel or (2) they believed that Israel worshiped one of many gods, “the god of Israel.” See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 5:7](../05/07.md).
1SA 6 3 nl22 figs-idiom 0 by all means send him a guilt offering The words “by all means” are a forceful way of saying something. Alternate translation: “you must send a guilt offering” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 6 3 r6j5 figs-you 0 you The pronoun “you” is plural, referring to all of the Philistines. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1SA 6 3 g77h figs-metonymy 0 why his hand has not been lifted off of you Here “hand” is a metonym used to represent God’s power to afflict or discipline. Alternate translation: “why he has not relieved your suffering” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 6 4 ej9d 0 tumors This could mean: (1) painful swelling under the skin or (2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 5:6](../05/06.md).
1SA 6 5 jv13 0 tumors This could mean: (1) painful swelling under the skin or (2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 5:6](../05/06.md).
1SA 6 5 fu6m 0 the God of Israel This could mean: (1) they were speaking the proper name of the God of Israel or (2) they believed that Israel worshiped one of many gods, “the god of Israel.” See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 5:7](../05/07.md).
1SA 6 5 yp97 figs-metonymy 0 lift his hand from you, from your gods, and from your land Here “hand” is a metonym used to represent God’s power to afflict or discipline. Alternate translation: “stop punishing you, your gods and your land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 6 6 ix9s figs-rquestion 0 Why should you harden your hearts, as the Egyptians and Pharaoh hardened their hearts? The priests and diviners use a rhetorical question to urge the Philistines to think very seriously about what will happen if they refuse to obey God. This can be translated as a warning. Alternate translation: “Do not be stubborn like the Egyptians and Pharaoh were!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 6 6 txz5 figs-idiom 0 harden your hearts This is an idiom that means to be stubborn or unwilling to obey God. Alternate translation: “refuse to obey God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 6 6 qg9r figs-rquestion 0 did not the Egyptians send away the people, and they left? This is another rhetorical question used to remind the Philistines how the Egyptians finally sent the Israelites out of Egypt so that God would stop afflicting the Egyptians. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “remember that the Egyptians sent the Israelites out of Egypt.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 6 9 n756 0 if it goes … to Beth Shemesh, then it is Yahweh It is unlikely that the cows would choose to wander to Beth Shemesh when their calves are back in the Philistine area.
1SA 6 11 h2re 0 tumors This could mean: (1) painful swelling under the skin or (2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 5:6](../05/06.md).
1SA 6 12 d3ub 0 The cows went straight in the direction of Beth Shemesh Nursing cows would normally return to their calves, but these cows went to Beth Shemesh.
1SA 6 12 iv94 0 lowing as they went Lowing is the noise cows make with their voices.
1SA 6 12 kpn8 0 they did not turn aside either to the right or to the left Alternate translation: “they did not wander off of the highway.” This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “they stayed on the highway” or “they went straight ahead”
1SA 6 13 ha2r 0 Now The writer is introducing a new part of the story. If your language has a way of marking the beginning of a new part of the story, you could use it here.
1SA 6 13 teg5 0 people of Beth Shemesh These were Israelites.
1SA 6 14 dx59 0 A great stone was there The people used this stone as an altar when they offered the cows as sacrifices.
1SA 6 15 u7kn 0 The Levites took down the ark of Yahweh This actually happened before they chopped the cart into firewood to use in offering the cows to Yahweh.
1SA 6 15 km1p 0 The Levites took down the ark According to the law of Moses, only the Levites were permitted to handle the ark.
1SA 6 15 lq8f 0 the box that was with it, where the golden figures were Alternate translation: “the box containing the gold models of the rats and the tumors”
1SA 6 16 ke9z 0 the five rulers of the Philistines Alternate translation: “the five Philistine kings”
1SA 6 17 rf99 0 tumors This could mean: (1) painful swelling under the skin or (2) hemorrhoids. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 5:6](../05/06.md).
1SA 6 18 jy47 figs-personification 0 The great stone … remains a witness The stone is referred to as if it is a person who can see. Alternate translation: “The great stone … is still there, and people remember what happened on it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1SA 6 18 z1wl translate-names 0 Joshua This is a man’s name. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 6 18 i2ln translate-names 0 the Bethshemite This is what a person from Beth Shemesh is called. Alternate translation: “from Beth Shemesh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 6 18 ksv7 0 to this day to the time at which the writer wrote the book
1SA 6 19 gl4f 0 they had looked into the ark The ark was so holy that no one was permitted to look inside it. Only the priests were allowed to even see the ark.
1SA 6 20 zwk1 figs-rquestion 0 Who is able to stand before Yahweh, this holy God? This could mean: (1) this is a rhetorical question that expresses the people’s fear of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “There is no one who can resist Yahweh because he is so holy!” or (2) this is a question asking for information. The phrase “stand before Yahweh” may refer to priests who serve Yahweh. It is implied that the people were looking for a priest whom Yahweh would permit to handle the ark. Alternate translation: “Is there a priest among us who serves this holy God, Yahweh, and is able to handle this ark?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 6 20 bc1z figs-explicit 0 To whom will the ark go up from us? This is a question asking for information. It is implied that the people want Yahweh and the ark to go somewhere else so he will not punish them again. Alternate translation: “Where can we send this ark so that Yahweh will not punish us again?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 7 intro hd2a 0 # 1 Samuel 7 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter completes the section on Samuel leading Israel.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Israel begins to worship Yahweh again<br><br>Samuel told the people to get rid of all their idols and worship Yahweh alone. The people were obedient. When the Philistines heard the Israelites were all gathered together, the Philistines attacked, but God defeated them. There was a time of peace during which Samuel settled disputes between the people as the judges had done before.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Idioms<br><br>Whenever Samuel spoke to a group of people, he used many idioms: “to turn to” means “to worship”; “with your whole heart” means “completely”; and “rescue from the hand” means “rescued from the power.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 7 3 iz8m figs-metonymy 0 the entire house of Israel The word “house” is a metonym for the people who live in the house and their descendants. Alternate translation: “all of the descendants of Israel” or “all of the Israelite people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 7 3 yb5d figs-idiom 0 return to Yahweh with your whole heart Here “with your whole heart” is an idiom that means to be completely devoted to something. Alternate translation: “become completely devoted to worshiping and obeying Yahweh only” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 7 6 a817 figs-explicit 0 drew water and poured it out before Yahweh This could mean: (1) the people denied themselves water as part of fasting or (2) they got water out of a stream or well and poured it on the ground as an outward sign of being sorry for their sin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 7 7 ey3d figs-explicit 0 the rulers of the Philistines attacked Israel It can be stated plainly that it was the army and not the rulers by themselves who attacked Israel. Alternate translation: “the Philistine rulers led their army and attacked Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 7 8 n5ch figs-metonymy 0 save us from the hand of the Philistines The “hand” is a metonym for the power of the person. Alternate translation: “save us from the Philistine army” or “keep the Philistine army from harming us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 7 9 b1zp 0 nursing lamb a lamb that is still drinking its mother’s milk
1SA 7 10 k1nw 0 As Samuel … they were routed before Israel This begins to explain what the writer means by “Yahweh answered him” in ([1 Samuel 7:9](../07/09.md)).
1SA 7 10 cd8j figs-idiom 0 threw them into confusion The word “confusion” here is used as a casual way of saying the Philistines were unable to think clearly. Alternate translation: “made them unable to think clearly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 7 10 k6pl figs-activepassive 0 they were routed before Israel This can be translated in active form. This could mean: (1) “Yahweh routed them before Israel” or (2) “Israel routed them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 7 12 wsp2 0 took a stone and set it The Israelites and other peoples in that land would place a large stone where important events had happened as a reminder of God’s help.
1SA 7 13 tts1 0 So the Philistines were subdued The writer has just finished telling how the Philistines were subdued. If your language has a way of marking the end of a description, you could use it here.
1SA 7 13 xt6p figs-activepassive 0 the Philistines were subdued This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh subdued the Philistines” or “Yahweh kept the Philistines from causing harm” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 7 13 xr1h 0 they did not enter the border of Israel The Philistines did not enter Israel’s border to attack them.
1SA 7 13 lb3d figs-metonymy 0 The hand of Yahweh was against the Philistines The word “hand” is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: “Yahweh used his power against the Philistines” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 7 14 li9a figs-activepassive 0 The towns … from Israel were restored to Israel If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This could mean: (1) Here “Israel” refers to the “land” of Israel. “Yahweh restored to the land of Israel the towns … from Israel” or (2) “Israel” is a metonym for the people who live there. Alternate translation: “the people of Israel were able to reclaim the towns … from Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 8 intro ek6j 0 # 1 Samuel 8 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br>### Saul and Samuel<br><br>The section including chapters 8-16 begins a new part of the story. The people wanted a king, and God chose Saul, the man the people wanted, to be their king. He was not the king Yahweh wanted.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The people want a king<br><br>When Samuel was old, he appointed his sons to be judges. They were corrupt and took bribes, so the people came and asked Samuel to appoint a king for them. Samuel asked God, who gave them a king but warned them what a king would be like. Despite Samuel’s warning that a king would oppress them, the people still wanted a king. This was sinful because they were rejecting God as their king. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/appoint]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/oppress]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])
1SA 8 3 d1qv figs-metaphor 0 chased after dishonest gain The writer speaks of money that people would give Samuel’s sons as if it were a person or animal running away from Samuel’s sons, and he speaks of Samuel’s sons as if they were physically chasing that person or animal. Alternate translation: “they worked hard to gain money by being dishonest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 8 5 rx69 figs-idiom 0 do not walk in your ways The way a person lives is spoken of as walking on a path. Alternate translation: “do not do the things you do” or “do not do what is just the way you do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 8 5 qj8f 0 Appoint for us a king to judge us like all the nations This could mean: (1) “Appoint for us a king like the kings of all the nations so that he can judge us” or (2) “Appoint for us a king who will judge us the way the kings of the nations judge them”
1SA 8 6 z6je 0 But it displeased Samuel … Give us a king to judge us Samuel was unhappy that the people did not just want him to remove his corrupt sons and to appoint honest judges, but they wanted a king to rule over them like other countries had.
1SA 8 7 lz95 figs-metonymy 0 Obey the voice of the people Here “the voice” is a metonym for the will or the desire of the people. Alternate translation: “Do what the people say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 8 7 a4k7 0 but they have rejected me Yahweh knew that the people were not just rejecting corrupt judges, but they were rejecting Yahweh as their king.
1SA 8 8 xfk7 0 I brought them out of Egypt This refers to Yahweh freeing the Israelites from slavery in Egypt many years before.
1SA 8 11 ah6l figs-abstractnouns 0 This will be the practice of the king who will reign over you If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **practice**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “This is how the king who will reign over you will act” or “This is what the king who will reign over you will do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 8 15 bsk5 translate-fraction 0 a tenth of your grain They will have to divide their grain into ten equal parts and give one of those parts to the king’s officers and servants. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])
1SA 8 15 l9c7 translate-fraction 0 a tenth … of your vineyards They will have to divide the wine that they produce in their vineyards into ten equal parts and give one of those parts to the king’s officers and servants. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])
1SA 8 17 yl2b translate-fraction 0 the tenth of your flocks They will have to divide their flocks into ten equal parts and give one of those parts to the king’s officers and servants. See how you translated “tenth” in [1 Samuel 8:15](../08/15.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])
1SA 8 18 l9mn 0 you will cry out This could mean: (1) the people will ask Yahweh to rescue them from the king or (2) the people will ask the king to stop treating them so badly .
1SA 8 21 mk43 figs-synecdoche 0 he repeated them in the ears of Yahweh Here “the ears of Yahweh” refers to Yahweh. Samuel prayed to Yahweh repeating all that the people said. Alternate translation: “he repeated them to Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 8 22 d8pw figs-metonymy 0 Obey their voice Here the metonym “their voice” refers to the will of the people. Alternate translation: “Obey the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 8 22 s4b6 0 cause someone to be king for them “make someone king over them.” Use the common term in your language for making someone king.
1SA 9 intro kus3 0 # 1 Samuel 9 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br>### Samuel chooses Saul to be their king<br><br>When the donkeys of Saul’s father strayed away, Saul went looking for them. When he could not find them, he asked Samuel to ask God where they were. Samuel said the donkeys had been found. He invited Saul as the guest of honor to a feast and gave him a place to sleep for the night.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>Saul uses two rhetorical questions to convince Samuel he is not important: “Am not I a Benjamite, from the smallest of the tribes of Israel? Is not my clan the least of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 9 1 y487 writing-background 0 General Information: If your language has a way of telling the reader that the writer is giving background information in these verses, you could use it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1SA 9 1 sxy3 translate-names 0 Kish … Abiel … Zeror … Bekorath … Aphiah These are names of the men of Saul’s family line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 9 1 q9zb 0 Benjamite A Benjamite is someone who belongs to the tribe of Benjamin.
1SA 9 2 b5il 0 handsome someone who looks good
1SA 9 2 vg77 0 From his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the people The other tall people in Israel did not even come up to his shoulders.
1SA 9 3 cd5a 0 Now The writer has ended the background information that began in ([1 Samuel 9:1](../09/01.md)) and starts a new main part of the story.
1SA 9 4 z5qc translate-names 0 the hill country of Ephraim … the land of Shalishah … the land of Shaalim … the land of the Benjamites These are all areas in Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 9 4 kh3y 0 did not find them … they were not there … did not find them The words “them” and “they” all refer to the donkeys.
1SA 9 6 vuh9 0 man of God This phrase usually means a prophet of Yahweh. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 2:27](../02/27.md). Alternate translation: “a man who hears and tells words from God”
1SA 9 7 mnj1 0 man of God This phrase usually means a prophet of Yahweh. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 2:27](../02/27.md). Alternate translation: “a man who hears and tells words from God”
1SA 9 8 hwa8 translate-bmoney 0 one-fourth of a shekel “1/4 of a shekel.” A shekel is a type of money used in the Old Testament. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])
1SA 9 9 d7ht writing-background 0 Formerly in Israel … seer This is cultural information added by the Hebrew author. If it is not natural in your language to state this information here, it can be moved to the end of verse 11. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1SA 9 12 lk9k 0 the people are sacrificing today These are likely the feast or first-fruit sacrifices, not the sin sacrifices, which must be held at the tabernacle.
1SA 9 14 uw7s 0 to go up to the high place This is a place that the people had designated as holy to make sacrifices and offerings to Yahweh. The writer writes as though it were outside the wall that was around the city.
1SA 9 15 uxs4 writing-background 0 General Information: The writer stops telling the story and gives background information so the reader can understand what happens next. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1SA 9 16 gzr8 figs-euphemism 0 you will anoint him to be prince The term prince is used here instead of king. This is the man whom God has chosen to be king of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1SA 9 16 d7jm figs-metonymy 0 from the hand of the Philistines Here the word “hand” is a metonym for control. Alternate translation: “from the control of the Philistines” or “so the Philistines will no longer control them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 9 20 fdy4 figs-rquestion 0 Then on whom are all the desires of Israel set? Is it not on you and all your father’s house? These questions are an expression of deep conviction that Saul is the one whom Yahweh wants to be the king that the Israelites are looking for. The questions can be translated as statements. Alternate translation: “You should know that it is on you that all the desires of Israel are set. They are set on you and your father’s family.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 9 21 z2ng figs-rquestion 0 Am not I a Benjamite … of Israel? Is not my clan … Benjamin? Why then have you spoken to me in this manner? Saul is expressing surprise because Benjamin was the smallest tribe in Israel, and other Israelites considered the tribe unimportant. Also, Benjamites considered the clan of which Saul was a member as unimportant. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the idea behind these questionsas statements. Alternate translation: “I am from the tribe of Benjamin, the least important of all tribes. And my clan is the least important clan in our tribe. I do not understand why you are saying that the Israelite people want me and my family to do something important.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 9 22 wn3v 0 the hall The writer assumes that the reader knows that near the place where they would offer sacrifices there was a large building in which people would eat together.
1SA 9 22 rw25 0 head place This is the seat of honor.
1SA 9 24 v2sc 0 Then Samuel said In the original language it is not clear who is speaking. It is possible that the cook is speaking to Saul. Alternate translation: “Then the cook said”
1SA 9 25 i36v 0 on the rooftop This is a normal place for family and guests to eat, visit, and sleep. It tends to be cooler in the evening and at night than the inside of the house.
1SA 9 26 r8sh figs-explicit 0 Samuel called to Saul on the rooftop and said What Saul was doing on the rooftop can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “while Saul was sleeping on the rooftop, Samuel called to him and said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 9 27 yp6k 0 ahead of us”—and he went ahead—”but you must stay It is possible that Samuel speaks all of these words. Alternate translation: “ahead of us, and when he has gone ahead, you must stay”
1SA 10 intro abca 0 # 1 Samuel 10 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This is the first chapter about King Saul.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br>### Saul as the New King<br>Samuel told Saul that God had chosen him to be king, and on the way home he would meet some prophets. Saul would then begin prophesying and God would give him the Holy Spirit to help him to know what to do. Samuel told everyone to come to Mizpah where he announced that God had chosen Saul to be their king. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holyspirit]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>This chapter uses rhetorical questions to express different ideas: to state a fact (“Has not Yahweh anointed you to be a ruler over his inheritance?”), to express surprise (“And who is their father?”), to say he is someone very special (“Do you see the man that Yahweh has chosen?”), and to express contempt (“How can this man save us?”). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>### Idioms<br><br>Samuel frequently uses idioms when prophesying: “going to God” means “going to worship God”; “take it from their hands” means “accept their gift”; “rush upon you” means “control you”; “hand finds to do” means “what you think you should do”; “God is with you” means “God is directing you”; “another heart” means “a different way of thinking”; “came to pass” means “happened”; “before Yahweh” means “to do work for Yahweh”; and “hearts God had touched” means “God had made them want to help Saul.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 10 1 y1dk 0 took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head In Israelite culture, when a prophet poured oil on someone’s head, that person received a blessing from Yahweh.
1SA 10 1 m8gx figs-rquestion 0 Has not Yahweh anointed you to be a ruler over his inheritance? Samuel knows the answer to his question. He is reminding Saul that Yahweh has chosen him to be king of Israel. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has certainly anointed you to be a ruler over his inheritance.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 10 4 my71 figs-synecdoche 0 take from their hands The hands are a synecdoche for the person. “take from them” or “accept” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 10 5 ha8h translate-unknown 0 tambourine This is a musical instrument with a head like a drum that can be hit and with pieces of metal around the side that sound when the instrument is shaken. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1SA 10 6 q8hj figs-idiom 0 The Spirit of Yahweh will rush upon you The phrase “rush upon” means that Yahweh’s Spirit will influence Saul. In this case it means it means he will make Saul prophesy and act like a different person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 10 7 drt6 figs-personification 0 do whatever your hand finds to do Here Samuel speaks of Saul’s hand as if it were a person trying to find things. Alternate translation: “do whatever you think is right to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1SA 10 9 ifw6 figs-idiom 0 God gave him another heart God enabled Samuel to think differently from the way he had thought before. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 10 10 lyd4 figs-personification 0 the Spirit of God rushed upon him Samuel speaks as if the Spirit of Yahweh were a person running up to Saul and taking complete control of him. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 10:6](../10/06.md). Alternate translation: “the Spirit of Yahweh took complete control of him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1SA 10 11 myw8 figs-rquestion 0 What has happened to the son of Kish? This could mean: (1) the people are asking for information or (2) this is a rhetorical question that means Saul is not important. Alternate translation: “Kish is not an important person, so it cannot be true that his son has become a prophet!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 10 12 g5tt figs-rquestion 0 Then who is their father? This man uses a rhetorical question to remind people that being a prophet has nothing to do with who one’s parents are. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “It does not matter who the parents of these other prophets are. What matters is that, amazingly, Saul is speaking messages from God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 10 12 v7kp writing-proverbs 0 Because of this, it became a saying, “Is Saul also one of the prophets?” This became a proverb among the Israelites. Apparently people said this to express surprise when a person unexpectedly did something that he had not done before. The implied meaning of the question can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “And that is why, when people cannot believe some report, they think about what happened to Saul and say, ‘Is Saul really one of the prophets?’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-proverbs]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 10 14 kwk6 0 Then Saul’s uncle said to him Alternate translation: “Then the brother of Saul’s father said to Saul”
1SA 10 16 t8y5 0 he did not tell him about the matter of the kingdom Alternate translation: “Saul did not tell his uncle that God had appointed him to be the king of Israel”
1SA 10 18 j92a figs-metonymy 0 I brought up Israel out of Egypt The name “Israel” is a metonym for the people of Israel. “I brought the people of Israel out of Egypt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 10 18 yy7r figs-metonymy 0 the hand of the Egyptians … the hand of all the kingdoms The word “hand” is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: “the power of the Egyptians … the power of all the kingdoms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 10 19 r9bd 0 Set a king over us Alternate translation: “Give us a king to rule us”
1SA 10 19 ut8y 0 present yourselves before Yahweh by your tribes and by your clans Alternate translation: “gather together by tribes and clans and come to stand before Yahweh”
1SA 10 20 qbp1 figs-activepassive 0 the tribe of Benjamin was chosen This can be translated in active form. It is probably best not to say how the people knew whom Yahweh had chosen. Alternate translation: “Yahweh chose the tribe of Benjamin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 10 21 f8p3 figs-activepassive 0 the clan of the Matrites was chosen … Saul son of Kish was chosen This can be translated in active form. It is probably best not to say how the people knew whom Yahweh had chosen. Alternate translation: “Yahweh chose the clan of the Matrites … Yahweh chose Saul son of Kish” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 10 23 ab3b 0 he was taller than any of the people from his shoulders upward The other tall people in Israel did not even come up to his shoulders. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 9:2](../09/02.md).
1SA 10 25 v52k figs-abstractnouns 0 the customs and rules of kingship If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **kingship**, you can express the same idea with a noun clause. Alternate translation: “the customs and rules that a king would be required to follow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 10 26 re4y figs-idiom 0 whose hearts God had touched God touching a person’s heart is an idiom that means God put something in their mind or moved them to do something. Alternate translation: “who wanted to go with Saul because God had changed their thinking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 10 27 u77f figs-rquestion 0 How can this man save us? This is a rhetorical question that is used to express sarcasm. Alternate translation: “This man has no power to save us!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 11 intro abcb 0 # 1 Samuel 11 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter continues the story of King Saul by telling of his first victory in war.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br>### Saul rescues the people of Jabesh Gilead<br><br>Nahash, king of the Ammonites, and his army surrounded the Israeli town of Jabesh Gilead. When the city’s leaders asked for peace terms, Nahash demanded the right to poke out one eye of every man in order to show Israel their weakness. When Saul heard this, he called for all of Israel to help save this city. Many people came to help Saul’s army. Israel was victorious and everyone wanted Saul as their king. At this time, Israel was not a truly unified country, even though it is often spoken of as one country. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Idioms<br><br>The idioms in this chapter explain the effect God has on his people: “rushed upon him” means “empowered him”; “terror … fell” means “they became afraid”; “as one man” means “they all agreed”; and “put to death” means “kill.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 11 1 q5a1 translate-names 0 Nahash This is a man from Ammon, a descendent of Lot, Abraham’s nephew. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 11 6 xw9g 0 the Spirit of God rushed upon him The phrase “rushed upon” means Yahweh’s Spirit influenced Saul. In this case he enabled Saul to cause the people to fearfully respect him as their king and to join his army. See how you translated a similar phrase in [1 Samuel 10:6](../10/06.md).
1SA 11 7 j26n 0 does not come out after Saul was calling all the men of Israel to come fight against Nahash and the Ammonites.
1SA 11 7 wi7p 0 Then the terror of Yahweh fell on the people Yahweh enabled people to fearfully respect Saul as their king. The result was that the men rallied together with Saul at Bezek.
1SA 11 8 r5l1 translate-names 0 Bezek This is the name of a town near Jabesh Gilead. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 11 8 zr4f translate-numbers 0 the people of Israel were three hundred thousand, and the men of Judah thirty thousand “the people of Israel were 300,000, and the men of Judah were 30,000” ( See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
1SA 11 9 gxn1 0 They said to the messengers “They” refers to Samuel and Saul.
1SA 11 15 y7hb 0 There they sacrificed peace offerings before Yahweh Part of Samuel’s service to Yahweh is to offer sacrifices even though he is not from the line of Aaron or Levi.
1SA 12 intro abcc 0 # 1 Samuel 12 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Samuel’s farewell address<br>This chapter serves as a type of farewell address. This is a way for leaders to give instructions to their followers before they leave or die. Samuel first established his holiness before calling on the people to repent of their desire to have a king. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>It is common in Scripture to use Israel’s history to show how faithful God has been. This gives the readers evidence to trust in Yahweh in their current situation. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])
1SA 12 2 jw1v figs-idiom 0 the king walking before you … I have walked before you These expressions mean that people can actually see the kind of lives Saul and Samuel are living. Alternate translation: “the king’s life was seen … My life was seen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 12 3 y8su figs-explicit 0 Here I am; testify against me before Yahweh and before his anointed one By this statement, Samuel is challenging the people to speak up if he has done anything wrong to anyone. Alternate translation: “I stand in front of you now. I ask you to speak in front of Yahweh and his anointed king if I have done you any wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 12 3 zf3n figs-rquestion 0 Whose ox have I taken? Whose donkey have I taken? Samuel uses rhetorical questions to remind the people that he has never stolen their animals. Alternate translation: “I have never stolen a prized animal from anyone.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 12 3 ui7w figs-rquestion 0 Whom have I defrauded? Samuel uses another rhetorical question to say he has always been honest. Alternate translation: “I have never cheated or bribed any man.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 12 3 xi9r 0 Testify against me, and I will restore it to you Alternate translation: “If I have done any of these evil things, speak now, and I will pay back what I owe. I will make right any wrong”
1SA 12 4 w6u5 figs-euphemism 0 from any man’s hand This phrase means what a person possesses or what they have done to obtain favor from others. This is a polite way of saying he has not stolen, nor has he given or taken bribes. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1SA 12 5 s4uv figs-euphemism 0 in my hand This phrase means what a person possesses or what they have done to obtain favor from others. This is a polite way of saying he has not stolen, nor has he given or taken bribes. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1SA 12 7 p1jp 0 all of the righteous deeds of Yahweh Samuel is calling their attention to the history of Yahweh’s dealing with Israel, which has been filled with goodness and purpose.
1SA 12 10 s6ua 0 They cried out to Yahweh “They” refers to the nation of Israel.
1SA 12 10 k54u figs-metonymy 0 have served the Baals and the Ashtoreths Serving here is referring to acting worshipful towards the false gods. Alternate translation: “have worshiped false gods and goddesses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 12 10 rl36 figs-metonymy 0 the hand of our enemies This statement is using “hand” to refer to power. Alternate translation: “the power or control of our enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 12 11 zc87 figs-explicit 0 Yahweh sent … and gave you victory Samuel is telling the story of what God did after the people’s confession of sin and plea for help. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 12 11 uy4l translate-names 0 Jerub Baal, Bedan, Jephthah, and Samuel These are the names of some judges that God raised up. Samuel included himself in this list. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 12 13 b1z6 figs-parallelism 0 whom you have chosen, whom you have asked for These two phrases have similar meanings and emphasize that this is the king whom the people wanted. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1SA 12 14 qrk5 figs-parallelism 0 fear … serve … obey … not rebel These similar words are used to emphasize how important this is. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1SA 12 15 qw1k figs-metonymy 0 Yahweh’s hand will be against you, as it was against your ancestors This speaks of Yahweh punishing the people as his “hand” being against them. The word “hand” here represents Yahweh’s power and control. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will punish you, just as he punished your ancestors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 12 16 p8gu figs-synecdoche 0 before your eyes The word “eyes” here represents the people of the nation of Israel. Alternate translation: “out in the open where all of the nation of Israel may see” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 12 17 y9za figs-rquestion 0 Is it not the wheat harvest today? Samuel knows it is harvest time. He is using a rhetorical question to emphasize that it does not usually rain at this time so the people will know that the rain that will ruin their harvest is a judgment from Yahweh. Alternate translation: “It is harvest time and does not usually rain at this time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 12 17 kyk2 0 he may send thunder and rain Samuel is asking Yahweh to punish Israel for asking for a king by sending a rainstorm during the harvest which will ruin the grain.
1SA 12 19 ec4y 0 so that we do not die The ultimate punishment for sin is death. The nation of Israel had seen Yahweh destroy the nations that had oppressed them. They were concerned that they had become “dedicated for destruction” like those nations.
1SA 12 20 fej7 figs-explicit 0 Do not be afraid The people did evil and were afraid of God destroying them. Alternate translation: “Do not be afraid that God will be angry and destroy you because of this sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 12 22 shb6 figs-metonymy 0 For the sake of his great name Here “name” refers to the reputation of Yahweh. Alternate translation: “So that people will continue to honor and respect Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 12 23 jh36 figs-explicit 0 far be it from me that I should sin against Yahweh by ceasing to pray for you The people are filled with fear because of the rain and thunder that Yahweh sent when Samuel prayed. Some people may believe Samuel would use his prayers to harm them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 13 intro abcd 0 # 1 Samuel 13 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter is the beginning of a story about Jonathan’s victory over the Philistines.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Preparation for the battle<br><br>Saul sent most of his army home before Jonathan attacked and defeated a Philistine garrison. This attack made the Philistines very angry, and they brought a huge army into Israel and camped at the top of a hill. Most of Saul’s army ran away in fear and hid from the Philistines. There are many aspects of this story that give the reader the impression that Israel was unprepared for battle.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Hyperbole<br><br>Wanting to express the vast number of enemy soldiers, the author uses a hyperbole: “as numerous as the sand on the seashore,” meaning “too many to count.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1SA 13 1 cyx8 0 Saul was thirty years old … over Israel The text of this verse in ancient copies seems to have been mutilated, so modern versions have many different translations. They are all attempts to represent the most probable meaning of the original text.
1SA 13 3 ia2v translate-names 0 Geba This is the name of the town that the Philistine garrison was stationed in. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 13 4 m9rj 0 All Israel heard that Saul had defeated This could mean: (1) Saul was taking responsibility for Jonathan’s actions or (2) Saul was taking credit for Jonathan’s actions.
1SA 13 4 mef1 figs-metaphor 0 Israel had become a rotten smell to the Philistines The Philistines hating the Israelites is spoken of as if the Israelites had become a bad smell that offended the Philistines. Alternate translation: “the Philistines hated the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 13 4 en9q figs-activepassive 0 the soldiers were summoned together to join Saul at Gilgal If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Saul called the soldiers together to join him at Gilgal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 13 5 ilg1 figs-hyperbole 0 troops as numerous as the sand on the seashore This is an exaggeration that means a group of soldiers so large that it was difficult to count them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1SA 13 5 xgl1 translate-names 0 Michmash This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 13 5 m7kg translate-names 0 Beth Aven This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 13 6 a5jv 0 General Information: The Philistines had gathered together to fight against Israel.
1SA 13 6 p712 0 the people This phrase refers to the nation of Israel.
1SA 13 8 i6u1 figs-activepassive 0 the people were scattering from Saul If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the people had started to leave Saul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 13 11 r1c1 figs-rquestion 0 What have you done Samuel was not really asking a question, but giving a rebuke to Saul. Saul sought to defend his actions even though they were wrong. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 13 11 r1ii 0 Michmash Michmash is the name of a place. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 13:2](../13/02.md).
1SA 13 13 wtr2 0 You have not kept the command of Yahweh Saul was to wait for Samuel to come and sacrifice the burnt offering to God. He was not to perform the sacrifice himself.
1SA 13 14 v5qb figs-litotes 0 your rule will not continue This is a litotes that can be stated in the positive form. Alternate translation: “your rule will end soon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1SA 13 14 qa5w figs-metonymy 0 a man after his own heart Here “heart” represents Yahweh’s desire or will. The phrase “man after his own heart” is an idiom that means to be a person who does what Yahweh desires. Alternate translation: “a man who is the kind of person he wants” or “a man who will obey him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 13 15 rlp2 figs-idiom 0 Samuel arose and went up This is an idiom for “Samuel left and went up.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 13 19 fqi8 figs-activepassive 0 No blacksmith could be found If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “No one could find a blacksmith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 13 21 wv2t translate-bmoney 0 two-thirds of a shekel The shekel is divided into 3 parts, 2 of 3 parts are given. “2/3 of a shekel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]])
1SA 14 intro abce 0 # 1 Samuel 14 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter completes the story of Jonathan’s victory over the Philistines.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The battle against the Philistines<br><br>Jonathan took his armor bearer to where the Philistines were on the top of the hill. He said God could use a few people just as easily as he could use many people to win his battles. He and his armor bearer started killing the Philistines, and suddenly the Philistines began fighting each other or running away. The rest of Israel, who had hidden, came and chased the Philistines. Even though Israel had a king, God was still in control of the nation of Israel.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Special reference<br><br>The people of Israel often used the term “uncircumcised” to refer to Gentiles. Here it is used to mean the Philistines. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/circumcise]])
1SA 14 2 j9pi translate-names 0 that is in Migron “Migron” is the name of a place north of Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 14 2 l18h translate-numbers 0 six hundred men were with him “600 men were with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
1SA 14 3 ms8f translate-names 0 son of Ahitub (Ichabod’s brother) “Ahitub” and “Ichabod” are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 14 4 r7in translate-names 0 One rocky cliff was called Bozez A “cliff” is a rocky height with a steep drop. The cliff was well-known and given the name “Bozez.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 14 4 g7r2 translate-names 0 the other rocky cliff was called Seneh This was the name of the other cliff. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 14 6 zb4m 0 his young armor bearer This was a teenage boy who was responsible for caring for his master’s weapons of war. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 14:1](../14/01.md).
1SA 14 6 zt56 figs-doublenegatives 0 nothing can stop Yahweh from saving This double negative can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh can save” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1SA 14 6 s2bp figs-merism 0 by many or by few people These extremes also include everything in between. Alternate translation: “by any number of people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1SA 14 7 k14h figs-metonymy 0 everything that is in your heart Here “heart” refers to Jonathan’s desires. Alternate translation: “everything that you desire to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 14 10 d8qx figs-metonymy 0 has given them into our hand Here “hand” refers to the power to defeat them. Alternate translation: “will enable us to defeat them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 14 11 mw3e figs-metaphor 0 coming out of the holes where they have hidden themselves The Philistines implied that the Hebrews had been hiding in holes in the ground like animals. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 14 12 d753 figs-idiom 0 we will show you something This is an idiom that means “we will teach you a lesson.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 14 12 ead2 figs-metonymy 0 has given them into the hand of Israel Here “hand” refers to power to defeat the Philistines. Alternate translation: “will enable Israel to defeat them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 14 13 wcb3 figs-explicit 0 Jonathan climbed up on his hands and feet He did this because it was very steep. This could be made explicit. Alternate translation: “So Jonathan climbed up, using his hands and his feet because it was very steep” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 14 13 hb6a figs-activepassive 0 The Philistines were put to death before Jonathan If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Jonathan killed the Philistines” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 14 13 h93x 0 his armor bearer put some to death behind him Alternate translation: “Jonathan’s armor bearer followed him and also killed Philistine soldiers”
1SA 14 15 r2ci figs-abstractnouns 0 There was a panic in the camp, in the field, and among the people If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **panic**, you can express the same idea with a verb or as an adjective. Alternate translation: “The Philistine soldiers in the camp and in the field, and all the people with them, panicked” or “The Philistine soldiers in the camp and in the field, and all the people with them, became very afraid” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 14 15 ety8 figs-explicit 0 The earth quaked It may be helpful to state the cause. Alternate translation: “God caused the ground to shake” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 14 16 y56n translate-names 0 Gibeah This was the town where Saul was born. Translated “Gibeah” as in [1 Samuel 10:26](../10/26.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 14 16 fxf9 figs-parallelism 0 was dispersing … going here and there These two phrases share similar meanings and emphasize that the soldiers were running away in every direction. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1SA 14 18 b8k3 translate-textvariants 0 Bring the ark of God here A few versions have “ephod” here instead of “ark of God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1SA 14 19 db4u figs-idiom 0 Withdraw your hand This seems to be an idiom the means “Stop what you are doing.” Saul did not want Ahijah to continue to use the ark to ask God for direction. Alternate translation: “Do not bring the sacred chest at this time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 14 20 j27w figs-personification 0 Every Philistine’s sword was against his fellow countrymen The swords are spoken of as if they were living people. Alternate translation: “The Philistine soldiers were striking each other with their swords” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1SA 14 22 pz4l figs-explicit 0 the men of Israel who had hidden themselves in the hills This does not refer to an ambush. These soldiers were hiding because they were afraid of the Philistines. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “the Israelite soldiers who were afraid and had hidden themselves in the hills” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 14 23 y4b7 translate-names 0 Beth Aven This is a place in Israel. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 13:5](../13/05.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 14 26 y6qu figs-hyperbole 0 the honey flowed This is an exaggeration to emphasize how much honey there was in the forest. Alternate translation: “there was a lot of honey everywhere” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1SA 14 26 u6dd figs-metonymy 0 no one put his hand to his mouth Here putting one’s “hand to his mouth” is a metonym that means to eat. Alternate translation: “no one ate any” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 14 26 ll4l figs-metonymy 0 the people feared the oath The people were not afraid of the oath, but of the punishment that was associated with breaking the oath. Alternate translation: “the people were afraid of what Saul would do to them if they broke his oath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 14 27 jdr1 0 General Information: Jonathan learns of his father’s oath.
1SA 14 27 tpk8 figs-metaphor 0 bound the people with an oath Here the obligation to obey an oath is spoken of as if the people were bound with ropes. Alternate translation: “commanded that the people obey his oath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 14 27 bpc5 figs-metonymy 0 He raised his hand to his mouth Here “hand to his mouth” is a metonym that means to eat. Alternate translation: “He ate some honey” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 14 27 m3rq figs-idiom 0 his eyes brightened This idiom means that he was strengthened. Alternate translation: “he regained his strength” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 14 29 cip2 figs-metonymy 0 for the land This is a metonym that represents the nation of Israel. Alternate translation: “for Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 14 29 z3xa figs-idiom 0 my eyes have become brightened This idiom means that he was strengthened. Alternate translation: “I regained my strength” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 14 30 v75u figs-rquestion 0 How much better if the people … that they found? Jonathan uses this hypothetical question to state that the people should have been allowed to eat. This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “Our victory would have been better if the people had eaten freely today of the plunder that they took from their enemies.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1SA 14 30 m8aj 0 plunder This word refers to the things the people had taken from the battle with their enemy.
1SA 14 30 v717 0 Because now the slaughter has not been great Because the troops were not able to eat during the battle, as the day progressed, they became weaker. Because of this, they were not able to kill as many of the Philistines.
1SA 14 32 g2ur figs-explicit 0 ate them with the blood The were so hungry they did not drain the blood first before eating. This was a violation of the Law which was given to Moses for the nation of Israel. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “ate them without draining the blood first as required by the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 14 33 pqy9 figs-explicit 0 by eating with the blood This was a violation of the Law which was given to Moses for the nation of Israel. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “by eating meat without draining the blood first as required by the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 14 33 ing6 figs-hyperbole 0 You have acted unfaithfully Saul is accusing his whole army of acting unfaithfully though this is a generalization because not every soldier acted unfaithfully. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1SA 14 33 d9xa figs-explicit 0 Now, roll a big stone here to me The stone would hold the animals up and make it easier to drain the blood from them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 14 34 v1tn 0 kill them here, and eat This would allow Saul to observe if the blood was properly drained from the animals.
1SA 14 35 l562 0 General Information: Saul had told the people to bring their animals to a big stone to kill and eat.
1SA 14 35 y6xn 0 Saul built an altar to Yahweh It is unclear if Saul built this altar with the large stone that the people brought to him in [1 Samuel 14:33](../14/33.md).
1SA 14 36 vwb8 0 General Information: Saul seeks to continue the fight against the Philistines.
1SA 14 36 qd4e figs-litotes 0 let us not leave one of them alive This is stated in a negative way to emphasize the slaughter. It can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “let us kill every one of them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1SA 14 36 eu41 figs-metonymy 0 Let us approach God here Here “approaching God” is associated with asking him counsel. Alternate translation: “Let us ask God what we should do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 14 37 e4l1 figs-metonymy 0 give them into the hand of Israel Here “hand” refers to the power to defeat them. Alternate translation: “enable us to defeat them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 14 39 t91s figs-hypo 0 even if it is in Jonathan my son, he will surely die Saul stated this as a hypothetical situation because he did not believe that Jonathan was guilty. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1SA 14 39 dce3 figs-explicit 0 But none of the men among all the people answered him The people remained silent because most of them knew that Jonathan had broken Saul’s oath. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “His men knew who was guilty, but none of them said anything to Saul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 14 40 vud3 figs-hyperbole 0 Then he said to all Israel This was a generalization since only the Israelite soldiers were present. Alternate translation: “Then he said to the Israelite soldiers who were there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1SA 14 41 f92v figs-explicit 0 give the Thummim The Israelites at that time used special stones called the Urim and the Thummim to receive direction from God. Alternate translation: “Show us by means of the Thummim” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 14 41 rk8v translate-transliterate 0 Thummim This is a borrowed word from the original language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate]])
1SA 14 41 as11 figs-activepassive 0 Jonathan and Saul were taken by lot, but the army was exonerated If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “The lots indicated that either Jonathan or Saul was guilty, but the army was not guilty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 14 42 rw4a figs-activepassive 0 Then Jonathan was taken by lot If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Then the lot indicated that Jonathan was guilty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 14 44 bhu1 0 God do so and more also to me, if you do not die, Jonathan Saul makes a second foolish oath in less than one day. Alternate translation: “May God kill me if I do not kill you, Jonathan”
1SA 14 45 q95l figs-rquestion 0 Should Jonathan die, who has accomplished this great victory for Israel? Far from it! The people scold Saul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Jonathan has just accomplished this great victory for Israel. He should surely not die.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 14 45 cdg3 figs-hyperbole 0 not one hair of his head will fall to the ground This exaggeration shows how the people of Israel would protect Jonathan and keep him safe. This litotes can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: “we will protect him from any harm” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1SA 14 47 at51 0 General Information: For a brief period Saul served with great courage in defeating Israel’s enemies.
1SA 14 47 q2xh figs-metonymy 0 Israel This is a metonym that represents the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “the Israelites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 14 47 vkj9 figs-metonymy 0 Moab This refers to the people of Moab. Alternate translation: “the Moabites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 14 47 lm9l figs-metonymy 0 Edom This refers to the people of Edom. Alternate translation: “the Edomites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 14 48 kxf5 figs-metonymy 0 out of the hands The word “hand” represents control. Alternate translation: “out of the control” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 14 49 t582 0 General Information: This is background information on Saul’s family.
1SA 15 intro abcf 0 # 1 Samuel 15 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This is the end of the section on Saul and Samuel (8-15).<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### God wants total obedience<br>Samuel told Saul that God wanted him to completely destroy the Amalekite people and animals. Saul fought the Amalekites and killed all the people except the king. He destroyed the animals that were not very good but saved the best animals. Saul told Samuel he had obeyed God’s command. Samuel asked him about the animals Saul had. Saul said he had saved them for a sacrifice to God. God said that obedience was better than sacrifice. Because Saul had disobeyed him, God had chosen someone else to become king.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Idiom<br>“He has turned back from following me” is an idiom meaning “he has stopped obeying me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br>When Saul insisted that he had obeyed God, Samuel rebuked him with these rhetorical questions: “What then is this bleating of sheep in my ears, and the lowing of the oxen that I hear?”; “Though you are little in your own sight, were you not made the head of the tribes of Israel?”; “Why then did you not obey the voice of Yahweh, but instead you seized the booty and did what was evil in the sight of Yahweh?”; and “Has Yahweh as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of Yahweh?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 15 3 q1vz figs-parallelism 0 completely destroy all that they have … kill both man and woman, child and infant, ox and sheep, camel and donkey These two phrases mean the same thing. The second phrase gives specific details about what they are to destroy completely. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1SA 15 3 ik1k figs-litotes 0 Do not spare them This negative statement emphasizes the completeness of the destruction. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1SA 15 4 ppw8 translate-numbers 0 two hundred thousand men on foot, and ten thousand men of Judah “200,000 men on foot, and 10,000 men of Judah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
1SA 15 6 stl7 translate-names 0 Kenites a nomad people group that had always been friendly to the nation of Israel (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 15 8 n8xb 0 General Information: Yahweh had told Saul to destroy everything, but here Saul disobeys Yahweh’s command.
1SA 15 8 ey6y figs-synecdoche 0 he took Agag Here Saul represents himself accompanied by his army. Alternate translation: “Saul and his army took Agag” or “Saul and his army captured Agag” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 15 8 kfl9 figs-synecdoche 0 he completely destroyed all the people with the edge of the sword The “edge of the sword” represents the swords and other weapons that soldiers used in battle. Here Saul represents himself accompanied by his army. Alternate translation: “they completely destroyed all of the people with their swords” or “they killed all of the people with their swords” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 15 10 w6bp figs-idiom 0 the word of Yahweh came to Samuel, saying, The idiom “the word of Yahweh came to” is used to introduce a special message from God. Alternate translation: “Yahweh gave a message to Samuel. He said,” or “Yahweh spoke this message to Samuel:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 15 11 fu9h figs-metaphor 0 he has turned back from following me Saul not obeying Yahweh is spoken of as if Saul had physically turned away from walking behind God. Alternate translation: “he has stopped following me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 15 11 zml2 0 has not performed my commandments “has not obeyed what I commanded him to do.” Saul was to completely destroy everything and everyone. God had placed a ban on the Amalekites. But Saul permitted some livestock to live.
1SA 15 13 wpf4 0 I have fulfilled the command of Yahweh It is not clear if Saul understood that he had not fully obeyed God’s command to completely destroy the Amalekites.
1SA 15 14 kf8w 0 bleating of sheep … lowing of the oxen These are the sounds that these animals make. Your language may have different terms for these.
1SA 15 14 cme2 figs-parallelism 0 in my ears … that I hear These two phrases mean the same thing. Here “in my ears” refers to hearing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 15 15 ks4s 0 They have brought … the people spared The word “they” and the phrase “the people” here both represent Saul’s army. Saul is blaming the people rather than himself.
1SA 15 15 vin9 0 to sacrifice to Yahweh your God Saul is arguing that animals for sacrifice were an exception to Yahweh’s command to destroy everything.
1SA 15 15 a6ie 0 Yahweh your God Saul here does not describe Samuel’s God as his own God.
1SA 15 17 a18m figs-metaphor 0 in your own sight Here sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “in your own opinion” or “in your judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 15 17 a7ji figs-rquestion 0 were you not made the head of the tribes of Israel? Samuel uses this question to remind Saul of now much God had given him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Yahweh made you the ruler of the tribes of Israel!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 15 19 yu1z figs-rquestion 0 Why did you not obey … Yahweh? Samuel asks this question to rebuke Saul for disobeying Yahweh. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should have obeyed … Yahweh!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 15 19 w3n7 figs-metonymy 0 the voice of Yahweh Here “voice” refers to the commands that Yahweh spoke. Alternate translation: “the things that Yahweh commanded” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 15 19 x74v 0 but instead you seized the booty Samuel is accusing Saul of direct disobedience. Yahweh commanded Saul to completely destroy everything belonging to the Amalekites, and not to bring anything back to camp.
1SA 15 19 qxl6 figs-metaphor 0 what was evil in the sight of Yahweh Here “sight” refers to Yahweh’s thoughts or opinion. Alternate translation: “what Yahweh considers to be evil” or “what is evil in Yahweh’s judgement” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 15 20 k3f4 0 I have indeed obeyed the voice of Yahweh This is an emphatic statement. It is unclear if Saul thought this was true, or if he was simply making excuses for his sin.
1SA 15 20 j3h2 figs-metonymy 0 the voice of Yahweh Here “voice” refers to the commands that Yahweh spoke. Alternate translation: “the things that Yahweh commanded” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 15 22 dp67 figs-rquestion 0 Has Yahweh as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of Yahweh? Samuel asks this question to emphasize that obedience is much more important than sacrifice. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Yahweh does not delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying his voice!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 15 22 f8kc figs-metonymy 0 the voice of Yahweh Here “voice” refers to the commands that Yahweh spoke. Alternate translation: “the things that Yahweh commanded” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 15 22 wen9 0 Obedience is better than sacrifice God wanted Saul’s complete obedience in the destruction of the Amalekites. Nothing in the land was fit for sacrifice.
1SA 15 23 m9ce figs-abstractnouns 0 rebellion is like the sin of divination If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **rebellion**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “to rebel is as sinful as practicing divination” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 15 23 xz9b figs-abstractnouns 0 stubbornness is like wickedness and iniquity If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **stubbornness**, you can express the same idea with a verb. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **wickedness**, you can express the same idea with an adjective. Alternate translation: “being stubborn is as bad as doing wicked things and practicing iniquity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 15 24 g1fl figs-idiom 0 I have broken Yahweh’s commandment This is an idiom that means he had disobeyed the commandment. Alternate translation: “I have disobeyed what Yahweh commanded” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 15 24 t7ez 0 because I was afraid of the people This is the reason Saul gives for not obeying God. Alternate translation: “because I was afraid of the soldiers”
1SA 15 24 f7vn figs-metonymy 0 obeyed their voice Here “voice” refers to what the soldiers asked Saul to do. Alternate translation: “did what they asked” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 15 25 bb4i 0 return with me Saul and Samuel were apparently talking in private away from the other people.
1SA 15 26 qdh9 0 for you have rejected the word of Yahweh Samuel made it clear that Saul understood that he was disobeying God at the time when he spared the best animals and did not kill Agag.
1SA 15 26 h622 figs-explicit 0 rejected the word of Yahweh “rejected Yahweh’s command” or “rejected Yahweh’s message.” This means that he refused to obey Yahweh’s command. Alternate translation: “refused to obey Yahweh’s command” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 15 27 jy4w figs-explicit 0 Saul took hold of the hem of his robe Saul did this to try to stop Samuel from leaving. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “Saul tried to stop him by grabbing the edge of Samuel’s robe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 15 28 m2mh figs-explicit 0 Yahweh has torn the kingdom of Israel This refers back to when Saul tore Samuel’s robe in [1 Samuel 15:27](../15/27.md). This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “Just as you tore my robe, Yahweh has torn the kingdom of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 15 29 el2n figs-idiom 0 the Strength of Israel Here Yahweh is referred to as “the Strength of Israel” because he gives strength to the Israelites. Alternate translation: “Yahweh, who is the strength of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 15 29 f3ca figs-litotes 0 will not lie nor change his mind This is stated as a negative to emphasize that God tells the truth. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “will always tell the truth and do what he says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1SA 15 29 lt8w figs-metonymy 0 his mind This refers to his thoughts and decisions. Alternate translation: “what he has decided to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 15 29 cud6 figs-litotes 0 he is not a man, that he should change his mind This is stated as a negative to emphasize that God is trustworthy. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “he is God, and will do what he says he will do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1SA 15 30 x7z1 0 But please honor me now before the elders Saul may have been more interested in being honored by the people than in actually worshipping God.
1SA 15 30 ruq1 figs-metonymy 0 before the elders of my people and before Israel Here “Israel” refers to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “before the people of Israel and the elders who lead them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 15 31 evb6 0 So Samuel turned again after Saul This implies that Samuel changed his mind, and that they went together to where the people were. Alternate translation: “So Samuel finally agreed to do that, and they went together back to where the people were”
1SA 15 32 u9hs figs-idiom 0 Surely the bitterness of death has past This idiom appears to mean that Agag no longer thought he would be killed. Alternate translation: “Surely I am no longer in danger or dying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 15 33 dqu4 figs-parallelism 0 As your sword has made women childless, so shall your mother be childless among women Both of these phrases have similar meaning and may be intended to be in poetic form. Alternate translation: “Since you have killed people, you will also be killed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1SA 15 33 z9kf figs-euphemism 0 made women childless, so shall your mother be childless This is a polite way of referring to killing people. Alternate translation: “killed the sons of other women, so shall I kill your mother’s son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1SA 15 33 lwq9 0 Then Samuel chopped Agag to pieces Samuel is the one who completed this task that Yahweh commanded Saul to do. Alternate translation: “Then Samuel cut Agag into pieces with his sword”
1SA 16 intro abcg 0 # 1 Samuel 16 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>### 1 Samuel 16-31 Saul and David<br>Chapter 16 establishes God’s choice of David to be the next king. David receives the Holy Spirit to empower and guide him as the king. This chapter also records the Holy Spirit leaving Saul because of his disobedience. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holyspirit]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### David chosen to be the next king<br>Humans judge others by what they look like, but God judges people by their true inner character. God rejected David’s older brothers in favor of David, who truly loved and obeyed him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/love]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical Question<br>God scolds Samuel with this rhetorical question for his unwillingness to accept God’s decision: “How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel?” It was wrong to mourn because it was God’s punishment of Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 16 1 ib7t figs-rquestion 0 How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel? This rhetorical question is a rebuke from God and can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “Stop mourning that I rejected Saul from being king over Israel.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 16 1 aav1 0 Fill your horn with oil The term “horn” was sometimes used to refer to a “flask” that was shaped like a horn and was used for holding water or oil. A flask of oil was used for anointing a king.
1SA 16 2 msu1 figs-rquestion 0 How can I go? Samuel uses a question to emphasize that he is worried about going to Bethlehem. Alternate translation: “I cannot go!” or “I am afraid to go.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 16 2 a4gl figs-ellipsis 0 with you and say You can state the understood information. Alternate translation: “with you to Bethlehem and say to the people there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1SA 16 2 t5yc figs-quotesinquotes 0 say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to Yahweh.’ This has a quotation within a quotation. The direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “say to the people there that you have come to sacrifice to Yahweh.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1SA 16 4 ead8 figs-explicit 0 The elders of the city were trembling as they came to meet him It seems the elders were trembling because they were worried that Samuel came to rebuke them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 16 5 tt5t figs-ellipsis 0 In peace This can be stated as a complete sentence. Alternate translation: “Yes, I have come in peace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1SA 16 5 a67l 0 to set … apart To set someone apart means to get that person ready for Yahweh’s purposes by making sure that person is ritually clean according to the law of Moses.
1SA 16 6 jj6a 0 When they came Here “they” refers to Jesse and his sons.
1SA 16 6 tns5 0 he looked at Eliab Here “he” refers to Samuel.
1SA 16 6 ug8f translate-names 0 Eliab This is the name of Jesse’s oldest son. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 16 6 lj9m 0 standing before him Here “him” refers to Yahweh.
1SA 16 7 hbc3 figs-metaphor 0 Yahweh does not see as man sees Here “see” means to evaluate something. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 16 7 v16l figs-123person 0 For Yahweh does not see … Yahweh looks Yahweh is speaking about himself in the third person. Alternate translation: “For I, Yahweh, do not see … I, Yahweh, look” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1SA 16 9 ex3x figs-ellipsis 0 Jesse then made Shammah pass by It is understood that Shammah passed by Samuel. Alternate translation: “Jesse then made Shammah pass before Samuel” or “Jesse then told Shammah to go to Samuel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1SA 16 9 xzq5 translate-names 0 Shammah This is the name of one of Jesse’s sons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 16 11 r1tl figs-ellipsis 0 we will not sit down It is understood that they were waiting to sit down and eat. Alternate translation: “we will not sit down to eat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1SA 16 12 ie4h 0 Now … appearance The word “Now” is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here the narrator tells about a new person in the story.
1SA 16 12 ev69 0 this son was ruddy The word “ruddy” means David was healthy looking.
1SA 16 13 gsz8 0 the horn of oil The term “horn” was sometimes used to refer to a “flask” that was shaped like a horn and was used for holding water or oil. A flask of oil was used for anointing a king. See how you translated a similar phrase in [1 Samuel 16:1](../16/01.md).
1SA 16 13 r2qg figs-explicit 0 Samuel rose up and went It is implied that he rose up after they sat down to eat. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 16 13 e73i 0 The Spirit of Yahweh rushed on David The phrase “rushed on” means Yahweh’s Spirit influenced David. In this case it means he enabled David to fulfill whatever Yahweh wanted him to do. See how you translated a similar phrase in [1 Samuel 10:6](../10/06.md).
1SA 16 14 thd3 0 harmful spirit This may refer to either a “spirit that causes trouble” or an “evil spirit.”
1SA 16 16 y7wp figs-123person 0 Let our master now command The servants refer to Saul in the third person as “our master.” Alternate translation: “We ask that you, our master, command” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1SA 16 16 qwf8 figs-123person 0 command your servants who are before you to look The servants refer to themselves in the third person as “your servants.” Alternate translation: “command us, your servants who attend to you, to look” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1SA 16 21 i2aj figs-abstractnouns 0 entered his service If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **service**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “began to serve him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 16 22 mk1a figs-idiom 0 Let David stand before me Here “stand before me” is an idiom that means to continue in Saul’s service. Alternate translation: “Let David stay in my service” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 16 22 b5l4 figs-metonymy 0 he has found favor in my eyes Here “eyes” are a metonym for sight, and “my sight” represents how Saul judges or evaluates David. Alternate translation: “he has found favor in my judgment” or “I am pleased with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 16 23 c6ip 0 harmful spirit Here “harmful spirit” may refer to either a “spirit that causes trouble” or an “evil spirit.” See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 16:14](../16/14.md).
1SA 16 23 pxe5 figs-activepassive 0 Saul would be refreshed and well If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the music would refresh Saul and make him well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 17 intro abch 0 # 1 Samuel 17 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter introduced David as a soldier, a skill that will be important for the rest of his life.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### David kills Goliath<br>Trust in God is more powerful than physical might or military training and equipment. David, trusting in the Lord and armed only with a sling, defeats Goliath who is well-armed and physically strong but who did not believe in Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]])<br><br>### Uncircumcised<br><br>The people of Israel often used the term “uncircumcised” to refer to Gentiles. Here it is used to describe the Philistines. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/circumcise]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br>David uses rhetorical questions to state his desire to fight the giant: “What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the disgrace from Israel? Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>His brother uses rhetorical questions to show his disdain for his younger brother, whom he thinks is pretending to be bigger than he really is: “Why did you come down here? With whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness?” David defends himself with some questions: “What have I done now? Was it not just a question?”<br><br>Goliath also uses a rhetorical question to show his contempt for young David: “Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?”
1SA 17 4 q4bx translate-bdistance 0 six cubits and a span A cubit is a unit of measurement equal to about 46 centimeters. A span is a unit of measurement equal to about 23 centimeters. Alternate translation: “about 3 meters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bdistance]])
1SA 17 5 n5rl figs-activepassive 0 he was armed with a coat of chainmail A “coat of chainmail” is a flexible piece of body armor covered with protective scales or small plates. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he protected himself by wearing a coat of chainmail” or “he wore a coat of chainmail” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 17 5 c1ze translate-bweight 0 five thousand shekels A shekel is a unit of weight equal to about 11 grams. Alternate translation: “about 55 kilograms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])
1SA 17 6 g2bi 0 a javelin of bronze A “javelin” is a small spear that is meant to be thrown.
1SA 17 7 ww8c translate-bweight 0 six hundred shekels of iron A shekel is a unit of weight equal to about 11 grams. Alternate translation: “about 7 kilograms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])
1SA 17 8 xz35 figs-rquestion 0 Why have you come out to draw up for battle? “Why have you come to fight in battle against us?” Goliath uses this question to mock the Israelites. Alternate translation: “You are fools if you think you can fight in battle against us!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 17 8 sj9b figs-rquestion 0 Am not I a Philistine, and are you not servants of Saul? Goliath uses this question to mock the Israelites. When he says that he is a Philistine, he is implying that he is strong. Alternate translation: “I am a great Philistine, and you are merely servants of Saul.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 17 11 su45 figs-doublet 0 they were discouraged and greatly afraid The words “discouraged” and “greatly afraid” mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of their fear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1SA 17 12 pz4w 0 He had eight sons “He” refers to Jesse.
1SA 17 12 apl3 figs-parallelism 0 Jesse was an old man … very old among men The two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1SA 17 13 a3gr 0 second to him Abinadab, and the third Shammah “Abinadab the second born, and Shammah the third born.” This phrase shows birth order.
1SA 17 14 kp25 figs-explicit 0 The three oldest The implied information is that these are the sons of Jesse. Alternate translation: “The three oldest sons of Jesse” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 17 16 wi92 translate-numbers 0 For forty days “For 40 days” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
1SA 17 17 t66s translate-bvolume 0 ephah An ephah is a unit of measurement equal to about 22 liters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bvolume]])
1SA 17 18 n9tr translate-numbers 0 the captain of their thousand “the captain of your brothers’ thousand.” This could mean: (1) the word “thousand” represents the exact amount of soldiers that this captain led. Alternate translation: “the captain of your brothers’ unit of 1,000 soldiers” or (2) the word translated as “thousand” does not represent exact number, but is the name of a large military division. Alternate translation: “the captain of your brothers’ military division” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
1SA 17 19 fa7e translate-names 0 the Valley of Elah This is the name of a place. See how you translated it in [1 Samuel 17:2](../17/02.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 17 25 nx3g figs-rquestion 0 Have you seen this man who has come up? The soldiers were saying this to draw one another’s attention to the man Goliath. Alternate translation: “Look at this man who has come up!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 17 25 i1j1 figs-explicit 0 The king This refers to the king of Israel. Alternate translation: “Our king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 17 25 h9r9 0 his daughter This refers to the king’s daughter.
1SA 17 25 d62y figs-metonymy 0 will make his father’s house free from taxation in Israel The word “house” refers to the household or family. Alternate translation: “will no longer require his family to pay taxes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 17 26 ys91 figs-abstractnouns 0 takes away the disgrace from Israel This can be expressed with the verb “disgrace.” Alternate translation: “stops Israel from being disgraced” or “stops him from disgracing Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 17 26 vrc8 figs-rquestion 0 Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God? David said this to show his anger that this Philistine was defying God’s army. Alternate translation: “This uncircumcised Philistine certainly has no power that he should defy the armies of the living God!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 17 28 tmc9 figs-metaphor 0 Eliab’s anger was kindled against David Here anger is spoken of as if it were a fire that could be kindled. Alternate translation: “Eliab became angry with David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 17 28 f8iy figs-rquestion 0 Why did you come down here? Eliab uses this question to show that he is angry that David came down. He was probably implying that David did not have a good reason for coming. Alternate translation: “You had no good reason to come here” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 17 28 k8hg figs-rquestion 0 With whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness? Eliab uses this question to insult David by making his work seem unimportant and by accusing him of not taking care of his father’s sheep. Alternate translation: “You simply had the responsibility of watching over a few sheep in the wilderness. You could not even carry out that simple responsibility!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 17 28 aj1w figs-parallelism 0 your pride, and the mischief in your heart These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are combined for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1SA 17 29 m8dz figs-rquestion 0 What have I done now? Was it not just a question? David used these questions to express his frustration and to justify himself. Alternate translation: “I have done nothing wrong. I was only asking a question!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 17 30 yyw8 0 He turned away from him “He” refers to David and the word “him” refers to Eliab.
1SA 17 31 q448 figs-activepassive 0 When the words that David said were heard If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “When the soldiers heard what David said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 17 32 h5di figs-metonymy 0 Let no man’s heart fail The heart failing represents being terrified and losing confidence. Alternate translation: “Do not let anyone be terrified” or “Do not let anyone lose their confidence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 17 32 h1gz figs-123person 0 your servant will go David spoke of himself as “your servant” to show respect to Saul. Alternate translation: “I, your servant, will go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1SA 17 34 ing5 figs-123person 0 Your servant used to keep his father’s sheep David spoke of himself as “your servant” to show respect to Saul. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 17:32](../17/32.md). Alternate translation: “I, your servant, used to keep my father’s sheep” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1SA 17 35 n7yn 0 chased after him and attacked him Here “him” refers to the lion or bear. Some languages would use the word “it” instead of “him.”
1SA 17 35 nu94 0 rescued it out of his mouth Here “it” refers to the lamb.
1SA 17 35 tq7y figs-idiom 0 he rose up against me Here “rose up against” is an idiom that refers to attacking. Alternate translation: “it attacked me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 17 35 n1vn 0 caught him by his beard The “beard” refers to the lion’s mane or the hair on the bear’s face.
1SA 17 36 q3g3 0 This uncircumcised Philistine This phrase is an insult and indicates that Goliath does not belong to the living God. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 17:26](../17/26.md).
1SA 17 36 dhp4 0 will be like one of them David is saying that he will be able to kill the Philistine just as he was able to kill the lion and bear.
1SA 17 37 hb63 figs-metonymy 0 from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear Bears and lions use their paws when they attack, so the word “paw” represents the attack. Alternate translation: “from the attack of the lion and from the attack of the bear” or “from the lion and the bear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 17 37 p2u2 figs-metonymy 0 the hand of this Philistine The Philistine’s hand represents his power in fighting. Alternate translation: “the power of this Philistine” or “the Philistine” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 17 43 tz3r figs-metaphor 0 Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks? Here a dog represents a small animal that a person can easily kill. The word “sticks” refers to David’s staff and shows Goliath’s opinion that it is not a good weapon. Goliath uses this question to accuse David of insulting him. Alternate translation: “You insult me by coming at me with mere sticks as if I were just a dog!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 17 44 cc8i figs-metaphor 0 I will give your flesh to the birds of the heavens and to the beasts of the field Goliath speaks of killing David and leaving his body on the ground for the animals to eat it as if he were to give David’s body to the animals. Alternate translation: “I will kill you, and the birds of the heavens and the beasts of the field will eat your body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 17 45 aq63 figs-metonymy 0 in the name of Yahweh Here “name” represents God’s power or authority. Alternate translation: “with the power of Yahweh” or “with the authority of Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 17 46 mcz7 figs-metaphor 0 I will give the dead bodies … to the birds … and to the wild beasts of the earth David speaks of leading the Israelites in killing the Philistines and leaving their bodies on the ground for the animals to eat them as if he were to give their bodies to the animals. Alternate translation: “We Israelites will kill the Philistine army, and the birds of the heavens and the wild beasts of the earth will eat them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 17 46 h6s8 figs-metonymy 0 all the earth may know The word “earth” refers to the people on earth. Alternate translation: “all the people of the earth may know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 17 47 mfy6 figs-metonymy 0 Yahweh does not give victory with sword or spear Swords and spears are examples of battle weapons. They represent human ways of fighting. Alternate translation: “The victory that Yahweh gives does not depend on sword and spear” or “when Yahweh gives us victory, he does not depend on how we fight” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 17 47 duh1 figs-metonymy 0 the battle is Yahweh’s Winning the battle is spoken of as owning the battle. Alternate translation: “Yahweh always wins the battle” or “the victory belongs to Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 17 47 n39p figs-metonymy 0 he will give you into our hand Giving the Philistines into Israel’s hand represents helping Israel to defeat the Philistines in battle. Alternate translation: “he will help us defeat you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 17 50 kd4h 0 David defeated … He hit … killed … There was no sword in David’s hand Verse 50 is a summary of David’s amazing victory over Goliath. The details about how he hit and killed Goliath are in [1 Samuel 17:49](../17/49.md) and 17:51. Some languages do not use summary statements like this. In those situations, translators may restructure the verses as they are in the UST.
1SA 17 51 k64x 0 took his sword “took the Philistine’s sword.” Here the word “his” refers to Goliath.
1SA 17 52 c1ad figs-explicit 0 The dead Philistines lay along the way to Shaaraim It can be stated clearly that the Israelites were killing the Philistines as they chased them. Alternate translation: “And they killed the Philistines as they chased them, and the bodies of the dead Philistines were on the ground along the way to Shaaraim” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 17 55 wk2v figs-events 0 When Saul saw David The conversation in 17:55-56 happened before David killed Goliath. Alternate translation: “When Saul had seen David” or “Earlier when Saul saw David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-events]])
1SA 18 intro abci 0 # 1 Samuel 18 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This is the first chapter of a section explaining why Saul wants to kill David.<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetic song in 18:7.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Saul is jealous of David’s popularity<br>Saul’s son, Jonathan, loves David. David is successful in battling the Philistines, and Saul is happy until the women give David more attention than they give him. He fears that David will replace him as king. This is potentially confusing because the author has already established that David will be the next king. It is probably that Saul feared David would kill him in order to be the next king sooner, or that he did not really believe David would be the next king. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/love]])<br><br>### Jonathan’s love of David<br>Some scholars believe Jonathan loved David as a man loves his wife. There is no reason to translate this as if Jonathan were a homosexual. Instead, treat this as a brotherly type of love.
1SA 18 1 w8c4 figs-metaphor 0 the soul of Jonathan was bound to the soul of David Very close friendship is spoken of as if it were binding together the souls of two people. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Jonathan felt a strong affection towards David” or “Jonathan committed himself to David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 18 1 k383 figs-synecdoche 0 Jonathan loved him as his own soul Here “loved” refers to the love between friends, not romantic love. The word “soul” represents the person or the person’s life. Alternate translation: “Jonathan loved David as much as he loved himself” or “Jonathan loved David as he loved his own life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 18 3 l8pd figs-synecdoche 0 Jonathan loved him as his own soul Here “loved” refers to the love between friends, not romantic love. The word “soul” represents the person or the person’s life. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 18:1](../18/01.md). Alternate translation: “Jonathan loved David as much as he loved himself” or “Jonathan loved David as he loved his own life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 18 5 w4mv figs-metaphor 0 This was pleasing in the eyes of all the people and also in the sight of Saul’s servants The phrases “in the eyes of” and “in the sight of” mean the same thing. The opinion of the people is spoken of as something that they view as either good or bad. Alternate translation: “This was pleasing in the opinions of all the people and of Saul’s servants” or “This pleased all the people and Saul’s servants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 18 6 v9fv figs-hyperbole 0 from all the cities of Israel This is generalization that emphasizes the great number of women who came from many cities. Alternate translation: “from many of the cities throughout Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1SA 18 6 k1rh 0 with tambourines, with joy, and with musical instruments Alternate translation: “joyfully playing tambourines and other musical instruments”
1SA 18 6 qct5 0 with tambourines A “tambourine” is a small handheld drum.
1SA 18 7 ii5a figs-ellipsis 0 David his ten thousands The verb may be supplied from the previous line. Alternate translation: “David has killed his ten thousands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1SA 18 8 xi13 figs-rquestion 0 What more can he have but the monarchy? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “The only thing left for him to have is the kingship.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 18 10 iyh1 0 a harmful spirit from God Here “harmful spirit” may refer to either “a spirit that causes trouble” or “an evil spirit.” See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 16:15](../16/15.md).
1SA 18 10 c8qe 0 a harmful spirit from God rushed upon Saul The phrase “rushed upon” means the harmful spirit influenced Saul. In this case it means it caused Saul to be troubled and act crazy. See how you translated a similar phrase in [1 Samuel 10:6](../10/06.md).
1SA 18 13 uwr1 translate-numbers 0 a commander of a thousand This could mean: (1) the word “thousand” represents the exact amount of soldiers that he would lead. Alternate translation: “a commander of 1,000 soldiers” or (2) the word translated as “thousand” does not represent exact number, but is the name of a large military division. Alternate translation: “a commander of a large military division” See how you translated a similar phrase in [1 Samuel 17:18](../17/18.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
1SA 18 13 zlq6 figs-idiom 0 David went out and came in before the people Here “the people” refers to the soldiers under David’s command. The phrases “went out” and “came in” are idioms that refer to leading the people into battle and leading them home from battle. Alternate translation: “David led his soldiers into battle and led them home from battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 18 15 cml9 figs-idiom 0 he stood in awe of him Here “stood in awe” is an idiom that means to fear. Alternate translation: “he feared David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 18 16 bgb3 figs-metonymy 0 all Israel and Judah loved David Here “Israel and Judah” represent the people of all of the tribes. Alternate translation: “all the people in Israel and Judah loved David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 18 16 c9ce figs-idiom 0 went out and came in before them The phrases “went out” and “came in” are idioms that refer to leading the people into battle and leading them home from battle. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 18:13](../18/13.md). Alternate translation: “led his soldiers into battle and led them home from battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 18 17 ptz6 figs-metaphor 0 Let not my hand be on him, but let the hand of the Philistines be on him Harming someone is spoken of as if it were placing one’s hand on that person. Here, Saul is referring to killing David. Alternate translation: “I will not be the one to kill him; I will let the Philistines kill him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1SA 18 18 ij43 figs-rquestion 0 Who am I, and who are my relatives, or my father’s clan in Israel … to the king? David uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that he is not worthy of being Saul’s son-in-law. Alternate translation: “I am nobody and neither my relatives nor my father’s family are important enough in Israel … to the king.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 18 19 imc2 figs-activepassive 0 when Merab, Saul’s daughter, should have been given to David If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “when Saul should have given his daughter Merab to David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 18 19 vdc5 figs-activepassive 0 she was given to Adriel If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Saul gave her to Adriel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 18 20 vz4x 0 They told Saul Here “they” refers to people who found out about Michal’s feelings, not to David and Michal.
1SA 18 21 dd2e figs-metaphor 0 that the hand of the Philistines may be against him Harming someone is spoken of as if it were placing one’s hand on that person. Here, Saul is referring to killing David. See how you translated a similar phrase in [1 Samuel 18:17](../18/17.md). Alternate translation: “so that the Philistines may kill him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1SA 18 23 eps5 figs-rquestion 0 Is it a small matter to you to be the king’s son-in-law, since I am a poor man, and lightly esteemed? David asks this rhetorical question to emphasize that he is not worthy to be the king’s son-in-law. Alternate translation: “It is a great matter to be the king’s son-in-law, and I am too poor and unimportant for that.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 18 25 a18a figs-ellipsis 0 The king does not desire any price for the bride except a hundred foreskins The verb for the second phrase may be supplied from the first. Alternate translation: “The king does not desire any price for the bride; he desires only that you bring to him 100 foreskins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
1SA 18 25 x1iw 0 foreskins The foreskin is a fold of skin on a man’s private part that is removed during circumcision.
1SA 18 25 wjv8 figs-activepassive 0 to be avenged from the king’s enemies If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to get revenge on the king’s enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 18 25 a2us figs-euphemism 0 to make David fall by the hand of the Philistines Here “fall” means to die. The phrase “by the hand” is an idiom that tells us the means by which something will happen, in this case, David will be killed by the Philistines. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “to have the Philistines kill David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 18 27 f14u translate-numbers 0 two hundred Philistines This can be rendered numerically. Alternate translation: “200 Philistines” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
1SA 18 28 rjc2 figs-doublet 0 Saul saw, and he knew Here the words “saw” and “knew” share similar meanings and emphasize that Saul knew with certainty. Alternate translation: “Saul recognized” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1SA 18 28 ct4a 0 Michal, Saul’s daughter, loved him Here “loved” means she had romantic feelings for David.
1SA 18 30 z7de figs-metonymy 0 so that his name was highly regarded Here “name” is a metonym for David. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “so that people greatly respected David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 19 intro abcj 0 # 1 Samuel 19 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### God protects David<br>Jonathan persuades Saul not to kill David, but Saul again becomes jealous and orders his servants to bring David to him to be killed. God uses Michal to save David. David flees to Samuel and they begin prophesying. When Saul sends servants to capture David, they begin prophesying. This causes Saul to go himself and he begins to prophesy. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/jealous]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])
1SA 19 4 rf2u figs-pronouns 0 Do not let the king sin against his servant Jonathan speaks as if Saul is another person to show Saul that Jonathan respects Saul. Alternate translation: “Do not sin against your servant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 19 5 z29d figs-idiom 0 he took his life in his hand Here “life in his hand” is an idiom that refers to risking his life. Alternate translation: “he risked his life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 19 5 q7ya figs-rquestion 0 Why would you sin against innocent blood by killing David for no reason? Jonathan asks this question to rebuke Saul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not sin against innocent blood and kill David without cause.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 19 5 ep2k figs-metonymy 0 sin against innocent blood Here “blood” is a metonym for the life of an innocent person. Alternate translation: “commit the sin of murder” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 19 6 mg7b figs-activepassive 0 he will not be put to death If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “I will not put him to death” or “I will not kill him” or “I will certainly keep him alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 19 7 zv18 0 he was in his presence David was in Saul’s presence.
1SA 19 9 bfj9 0 A harmful spirit from Yahweh Here “harmful spirit” may refer to either “a spirit that causes trouble” or “an evil spirit.” See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 16:14](../16/14.md).
1SA 19 11 zcu4 figs-idiom 0 If you do not save your life Here “save your life” is an idiom that refers to escape. Alternate translation: “If you do not escape” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 19 11 www7 figs-activepassive 0 you will be killed If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “someone will kill you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 19 12 rx5e 0 General Information: Michal helps David escape King Saul. She uses a household idol to make David’s bed look like he is sleeping in it.
1SA 19 13 pt3r 0 she put a pillow of goats’ hair at its head, and covered it with the clothes This could mean: (1) the head of the idol was lying on the goat’s hair pillow and Michal dressed the idol in David’s clothes or (2) Michal used David’s clothes as a blanket to completely cover the idol and made the “pillow” of goat’s hair look like David’s hair sticking out from under the blanket of clothes.
1SA 19 14 er9p 0 she said Here “she” refers to Michal.
1SA 19 15 uu8k figs-explicit 0 Bring him up to me in the bed The reason why the men thought David was in bed can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “If he really is too sick to come to me, bring me the bed with him in it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 19 16 gw7d 0 pillow of goats’ hair See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 19:13](../19/13.md).
1SA 19 16 mmv5 0 behold The word “behold” here shows that the messengers were surprised by what they saw.
1SA 19 17 gw6j figs-rquestion 0 Why have you deceived me and let my enemy go, so that he has escaped? This could mean: (1) Saul really wants to know why Michal did what she did or (2) Saul uses this question to rebuke Michal. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not have deceived me and let my enemy go, so that he has escaped.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 19 17 g47n figs-rquestion 0 Let me go. Why should I kill you? Although David did not actually say this, Michal tells Saul that David threatened her with this question. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I will kill you if you do not help me to escape.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 19 19 v5b7 figs-activepassive 0 It was told to Saul If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Someone told Saul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 19 20 a8aj figs-metonymy 0 standing as head over them Here “head” refers to a position of authority. Alternate translation: “acting as their leader” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 19 21 nrq8 figs-activepassive 0 When Saul was told this If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “When someone told Saul this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 19 24 tj4i writing-proverbs 0 This is why they ask, “Is Saul also among the prophets?” This became a proverb among the Israelites. Apparently people said this to express surprise when a person unexpectedly did something that he had not done before. The implied meaning of the question can be stated explicitly. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 10:12](../10/12.md). Alternate translation: “That is the reason that when people see someone doing something that is very unexpected, they say, ‘Is Saul also a prophet?’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-proverbs]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 19 24 knd8 0 they ask Here “they” refers to people in general. The question became a proverb among the people.
1SA 20 intro abck 0 # 1 Samuel 20 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Jonathan warns David<br>David tells Jonathan that Saul is still trying to kill him. Jonathan promises to find out if this is true. When David misses dinner two consecutive days, Saul asks about him. Jonathan says that David went home for an annual sacrifice. Saul gets angry at Jonathan, telling him he will never be king unless they kill David. Saul throws his spear at Jonathan. Jonathan warns David to run away, but first they both promise to always be friends. It was usually a king’s son who became king after his death in the ancient Near East. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br>David uses a powerful metaphor and an oath to impress Jonathan with the danger he is in: “But as truly as Yahweh lives, and as you live, there is but a step between me and death.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 20 1 tia6 figs-parallelism 0 What have I done? What is my iniquity? What is my sin before your father, that he seeks to take my life? These three questions mean basically the same thing. David uses them to emphasize that he has done nothing wrong to Saul. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I have done nothing wrong. I have not committed any iniquity. I have not sinned against your father. He has no reason to take my life.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 20 1 g2ib figs-idiom 0 that he seeks to take my life? Here “take my life” is an idiom for “kill me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 20 2 e1je figs-idiom 0 Far from it Here “far from it” is an idiom that refers to that it is not true. Alternate translation: “This is certainly not true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 20 2 jbn3 figs-merism 0 nothing either great or small The words “great or small” include everything in between. Alternate translation: “nothing at all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1SA 20 2 w2w8 figs-rquestion 0 Why should my father hide this thing from me? Jonathan uses this question to emphasize that Saul would have told him if he planned to kill David. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “My father has no reason to hide this thing from me!” or “If this thing were true, my father would certainly let me know!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 20 3 kn7z figs-metaphor 0 I have found favor in your eyes Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “I have pleased you” or “you consider me favorably” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 20 3 t6cz figs-activepassive 0 he will be grieved If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “this will grieve him” or “he will be very sad” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 20 3 thq7 figs-idiom 0 there is but a step between me and death Here “step between me and death” is an idiom that refers to being very close to death. Alternate translation: “I am very close to death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 20 7 x3iw figs-pronouns 0 your servant will have peace David speaks of himself as if he were another person to show that he respects Jonathan. Alternate translation: “I, your servant, will have peace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 20 8 avp9 figs-pronouns 0 with your servant … have brought your servant David speak of himself in the third person as a form of humility. Alternate translation: “with me, your servant … have brought me, your servant” or “with me … have brought me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 20 8 ap89 figs-explicit 0 you have brought your servant into a covenant of Yahweh with you What it was that the two men agreed on can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “Yahweh heard you when you made a solemn agreement with me that you and I will always be good friends” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 20 8 hbz6 figs-rquestion 0 for why then should you bring me to your father? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “then there would be no reason for you to bring me to your father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 20 9 ge5b figs-idiom 0 Far be it from you! This is an idiom that means it will never happen to you. Alternate translation: “This will never happen to you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 20 9 lt9v figs-rquestion 0 would I not tell you? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I would certainly tell you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 20 12 y3r1 figs-rquestion 0 will I not then send to you and make it known to you? Jonathan uses this question to emphasize that he will tell David if Saul intends to harm him. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “then I will certainly send to you and make it known to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 20 13 yn8n figs-idiom 0 may Yahweh do to Jonathan and more also This is an idiom. Jonathan uses this oath for emphasis and speaks of himself as if he were another person. Alternate translation: “may Yahweh do to me whatever harm my father intends to do to you, and even more than that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 20 14 az7y figs-rquestion 0 will you not show me the covenant faithfulness of Yahweh, that I may not die? Jonathan asks this question to confirm that David will do this. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “please show me the covenant faithfulness of Yahweh, that I may not die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 20 14 q324 figs-abstractnouns 0 show me the covenant faithfulness of Yahweh The abstract noun **faithfulness** can be stated as **faithful**. Here, **of Yahweh** could mean: (1) “be faithful to me as Yahweh is faithful” or (2) “be faithful to me as Yahweh requires” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 20 16 n5b7 figs-metonymy 0 house of David The word “house” is a metonym for the people who live in the house. Alternate translation: “David’s family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 20 16 wvm6 figs-synecdoche 0 May Yahweh require an accounting from the hand of the enemies of David The hand is a synecdoche for the person. This could mean: (1) “May Yahweh use David’s enemies to punish David if David breaks this promise” or (2) “May Yahweh destroy the enemies of David.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 20 17 l3uj figs-synecdoche 0 he loved him as he loved his own soul Here “his own soul” refers to himself. Alternate translation: “Jonathan loved David as much as he loved himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 20 18 f5bi figs-activepassive 0 You will be missed If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “My father will miss you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 20 19 ki6m figs-idiom 0 when the business was in hand Here “business was in hand” is an idiom that refers to when everything happened. Alternate translation: “when everything happened” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 20 19 h78l translate-names 0 the stone Ezel “Ezel” was the name of the stone. Alternate translation: “the stone that people call Ezel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 20 23 r1jg 0 see, Yahweh This could mean: (1) “we know that Yahweh” or (2) “pay attention because this is important: Yahweh.”
1SA 20 23 hmt6 0 Yahweh is between you and me This could mean: (1) “Yahweh is a witness between you and me” or “Yahweh will be watching how we treat each other” or (2) “May Yahweh be a witness between you and me” or “May Yahweh watch how we treat each other”
1SA 20 25 upz8 translate-manuscripts 0 Jonathan stood up Some ancient copies have “Jonathan sat across from him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-manuscripts]])
1SA 20 26 j8dr 0 He is not clean; surely he is not clean According to the law of Moses, a person who is ceremonially unclean is not to participate in the feast until the priest declares that he is clean. Saul repeats this phrase as if he is trying to convince himself.
1SA 20 29 h84j figs-metaphor 0 if I have found favor in your eyes Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 20:3](../20/03.md). Alternate translation: “I have pleased you” or “you consider me favorably” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 20 29 j146 figs-pronouns 0 the king’s table Jonathan speaks of Saul as if he is another person to show that he respects Saul. Alternate translation: “your table” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 20 30 yn6q figs-metonymy 0 Saul’s anger burned against Jonathan Here “anger burned” is a metonym that refers to becoming very angry. Alternate translation: “Saul became very angry with Jonathan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 20 30 vv24 figs-idiom 0 You son of a perverse, rebellious woman! This is an idiom. Saul uses this phrase as a harsh rebuke to Jonathan and his concern for David. Alternate translation: “You stupid son of a prostitute” or “You stupid traitor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 20 30 yr6n figs-rquestion 0 Do I not know that you have chosen the son of Jesse … mother’s nakedness? Saul uses this question to emphasize that he knows that Jonathan and David are friends. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I know that you have chosen the son of Jesse … mother’s nakedness.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 20 30 g94g figs-idiom 0 to the shame of your mother’s nakedness Here “mother’s nakedness” is an idiom that refers to the mother who gave birth to you. Alternate translation: “to the shame of your mother who gave birth to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 20 31 zl6b figs-activepassive 0 neither you nor your kingdom will be established If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you will not become king and will not establish your kingdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 20 32 ux46 figs-rquestion 0 For what reason should he be put to death? What has he done? Jonathan is trying to get Saul to think carefully about what he is doing. This can be translated as a statement, and the words “should he be put to death” can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “You have no good reason to put him to death. He has done nothing wrong.” or “You have no good reason to kill him. He has done nothing wrong.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 20 34 uth1 translate-ordinal 0 the second day of the month This “second” is an ordinal number which refers to two. Alternate translation: “the second day of the new moon festival” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])
1SA 20 34 brk4 figs-activepassive 0 he was grieved over David If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he was grieving over David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 20 37 d85z figs-rquestion 0 Is not the arrow beyond you? Jonathan uses this question to emphasize that the arrow is farther ahead of the young man. The uses of litotes also emphasizes this. The rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should know that the arrow is beyond you.” or “The arrow is far beyond you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1SA 20 41 pg9k 0 lay facedown on the ground, and bowed himself three times. David bowed before Jonathan, who was still the King’s son, worthy of such respect. Also, this was the last time David met with Jonathan.
1SA 20 42 t28c 0 May Yahweh be between you and me This could mean: (1) “Yahweh is a witness between you and me” or “Yahweh will be watching how we treat each other” or (2) “May Yahweh be a witness between you and me” or “May Yahweh watch how we treat each other.” See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 20:23](../20/23.md).
1SA 21 intro abcl 0 # 1 Samuel 21 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetic song in 21:11.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### David and the chief priest<br>David visits the chief priest and lies to him about being on a special mission for the king. He asks for food, weapons, and prayer. The chief priest gives him some sacred bread and Goliath’s sword and prays for him.<br><br>### David and the king of Gath<br>David flees to Gath. The advisers to the king tell him that David is almost the king of Israel. David becomes afraid of the king and pretends to be insane.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br>The king of Gath’s advisers use two rhetorical questions to warn him about how dangerous David could be: “Is not this David the king of the land? Did they not sing to one another about him in dances, ‘Saul has killed his thousands, and David his ten thousands?’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 21 2 lr5b 0 on a mission Alternate translation: “to do work for him”
1SA 21 2 hbb3 0 I have directed the young men to a certain place Alternate translation: “I have told the young men to go to another place, and I will meet them there later”
1SA 21 3 q67h figs-metonymy 0 what do you have on hand? Here “on hand” is a metonym meaning “available.” Alternate translation: “What food do you have that you can give me?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 21 4 a4hh figs-ellipsis 0 if the young men have kept themselves from women This can be translated as a complete sentence. Alternate translation: “Your men may eat it if they have not slept with women recently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1SA 21 5 u5gt figs-activepassive 0 women have been kept from us This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “we have kept ourselves from women” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 21 5 n9cf translate-numbers 0 three days “3 days” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
1SA 21 5 xaa6 figs-activepassive 0 The things belonging to the men have been set apart This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “The men have set what belongs to them apart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 21 5 hx9a figs-activepassive 0 How much more today will what they have be set apart This is a statement, not a question. It can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “It is especially true today that they will set apart what they have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 21 6 u4vn figs-activepassive 0 the bread that was set apart This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “the bread that the priests had set apart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 21 6 vbr7 figs-activepassive 0 which was removed from before Yahweh, in order to put This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “which the priests had removed from before Yahweh so that they could put” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 21 7 tmz8 figs-activepassive 0 detained before Yahweh This could mean: (1) Doeg had some religious work regarding Yahweh to do there. Alternate translation: “for some work before Yahweh” or (2) Yahweh detained Doeg there. Alternate translation: “because Yahweh had detained him there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 21 7 z642 figs-explicit 0 Doeg … herdsmen You may need to say clearly that Doeg saw what David did. Alternate translation: “Doeg … herdsmen, and he saw what Ahimelech did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 21 8 xr45 figs-metonymy 0 Now is there not here on hand any spear or sword? Here “on hand” is a metonym meaning “available.” See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 21:3](../21/03.md). Alternate translation: “Do you have a spear or sword that you can give me?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 21 11 zg9d figs-hyperbole 0 Is not this David, the king of the land? They were probably exaggerating when they said that David was king of the land. They used this question to imply that David was a powerful enemy and Achish should not let him stay there. Alternate translation: “You know that this is David, who is as dangerous as the king of the land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 21 11 sc99 figs-rquestion 0 Did they not sing to one another about him in dances, ‘Saul … thousands?’ If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You know that when the people of the land were dancing, they sang to each other about him, ‘Saul … thousands.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 21 12 rqg7 figs-metonymy 0 David took these words to heart Here “took … to heart” is a metonym to think seriously about what was said. Alternate translation: “David thought seriously about what the servants said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 21 13 ai6n figs-synecdoche 0 in their hands Here “hands” are a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “in their presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 21 14 w6kd figs-rquestion 0 Why have you brought him to me? This could mean: (1) Achish demands that his servants explain why they have brought David to him or (2) Achish is scolding them with a rhetorical question. Alternate translation: “You should have known not to bring him to me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 21 15 kl34 figs-rquestion 0 Do I lack madmen, so that you have brought this fellow to behave like one in my presence? This rhetorical question is a rebuke. Alternate translation: “There are enough madmen here who waste my time. You should not have brought this fellow to behave like one in my presence.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 21 15 k152 figs-rquestion 0 Will this fellow really come into my house? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Do not allow this fellow to enter my house.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 22 intro abcm 0 # 1 Samuel 22 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>There are two stories in this chapter: David gathering a group of followers and Saul having all the priests and their families killed. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/priest]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### David assembles a force of unhappy people<br>David hides in the wilderness, and people in trouble come to him. Soon he has a force of 500 men. The prophet then tells him to leave the wilderness. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])<br><br>### Saul and the chief priest’s family<br>Doeg tells Saul that Ahimelech the priest gave David food and a sword and prayed for him. Saul accuses the priests of encouraging David to rebel. This is a serious accusation because the priests are God’s representatives and are rebelling against God’s king if the accusation is true. Saul has the priests and all their families killed except those who escape to David. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/highpriest]])
1SA 22 2 x1s9 figs-hyperbole 0 Everyone who was in distress … everyone who was discontented This is a generalization. Alternate translation: “Many people who were distressed … many people who were unhappy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1SA 22 3 p6t8 0 go out with you David wanted his parents to live with the king of Moab so that King Saul would not be able to harm them. Translators can express his basic meaning by using the ideas of “come to stay with you,” “stay with you,” or “live here with you,” as in the UST.
1SA 22 6 jvw8 figs-activepassive 0 David had been discovered, along with the men who were with him Saul was most interested in David, so the writer mentions the other men separately. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone had discovered where David and all the men who were with him were hiding” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 22 6 yk86 translate-unknown 0 the tamarisk tree This is a type of tree. Alternate translation: “a large shade tree” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1SA 22 6 bpn2 0 in Ramah Ramah is the name of a place in Gibeah. The name means “high place.” This could mean: (1) it refers here to the place called Ramah, or (2) it refers to any high place. Alternate translation: “on a hill”
1SA 22 7 h9sv figs-rquestion 0 Will the son of Jesse give every one of you fields and vineyards? Saul uses a question to emphasize that David, who is from the tribe of Judah, does not desire to do this for the people of the tribe of Benjamin. Alternate translation: “The son of Jesse will not give you fields or vineyards.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 22 7 ft1b figs-explicit 0 Will the son of Jesse give The time when he will give can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “When the son of Jesse becomes king, will he give” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 22 7 p8rr figs-rquestion 0 Will he make you all captains of thousands and captains of hundreds Saul uses a question to emphasize that David, who is from the tribe of Judah, does not desire to do this for the people of the tribe of Benjamin. Alternate translation: “He will not make you captains of thousands and captains of hundreds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 22 7 hy7f figs-explicit 0 Will he make you all captains You may need to make explicit when he will make them captains. Alternate translation: “When he becomes king, will he make you all captains” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 22 7 ktw6 translate-numbers 0 captains of thousands and captains of hundreds This could mean: (1) these numbers represent the exact amount of soldiers that these captains led. Alternate translation: “captains of 1,000 soldiers and captains of 100 soldiers” or (2) the words translated as “thousands” and “hundreds” do not represent exact numbers, but are the names of larger and smaller military divisions. Alternate translation: “captains of large military divisions and captains of smaller military divisions” See how you translated a similar phrase in [1 Samuel 17:18](../17/18.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
1SA 22 8 r9wd 0 Connecting Statement: This continues what Saul said to his servants.
1SA 22 9 e96p translate-names 0 Doeg the Edomite This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 21:7](../21/07.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 22 9 mj61 translate-names 0 Nob … Ahimelech This is a place name and the name of a man. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 21:1](../21/01.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 22 10 p71d 0 He prayed to Yahweh that he might help him, and he gave him Ahitub prayed to Yahweh that Yahweh might help David, and Ahitub gave David
1SA 22 14 mme1 figs-rquestion 0 Who among all your servants is so faithful as David … house? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “None of your servants is as faithful as David … house.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 22 14 aui9 figs-metonymy 0 is honored in your house The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “whom your family honors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 22 15 sq72 figs-rquestion 0 Is today the first time I have prayed to God to help him? Ahimelech asks himself this question before Saul can ask it, then immediately answers it. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “This is not the first time I have prayed to God to help David.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 22 15 aw6l figs-idiom 0 Far be it from me! This idiom means “Absolutely not!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 22 15 zpx3 figs-123person 0 Do not let the king impute anything to his servant or to all the house of my father. For your servant knows nothing Ahimelech speaks of himself in the third person as the “servant.” Ahimelech also refers to Saul in the third person as “the king.” Ahimelech speaks this way to show respect to Saul. Alternate translation: “Please, King Saul, do not consider me, your servant, or anyone in the house of my father to be guilty. For I know nothing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1SA 22 15 qbw3 figs-metonymy 0 to all the house of my father Here “house” represents “family.” Alternate translation: “to all my father’s family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 22 16 kbw6 figs-metonymy 0 your father’s house The word “house” is a metonym for the family that lives in the house. Alternate translation: “your father’s family” or “your father’s descendants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 22 17 dgp5 figs-idiom 0 Turn and kill Here “Turn” means to turn around or turn away from the king. Alternate translation: “Go and kill” or “Kill” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 22 17 nr49 figs-synecdoche 0 their hand also is with David The word “hand” is a metonym for the work done with the hand. Alternate translation: “they also help David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 22 17 gd4u figs-metonymy 0 would not put out their hand to kill The word “hand” is a metonym for the work done with the hand. Alternate translation: “did not do anything to kill” or “refused to kill” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 22 18 kxa2 figs-idiom 0 Turn and kill the priests … turned and attacked the priests Here “Turn” means to turn around or turn away from the king. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 22:17](../22/17.md). Alternate translation: “Go and kill the priests … went and attacked” or “Kill the priest … attacked the priests” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 22 18 g41e figs-explicit 0 Doeg the Edomite turned and attacked … he killed This could mean: (1) Doeg killed all the priests himself or (2) the word “Doeg” is a synecdoche for Doeg and the men who went with him. Alternate translation: “Doeg the Edomite and his men turned and attacked … they killed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 22 18 lsc1 translate-names 0 Doeg the Edomite This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 21:7](../21/07.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 22 19 qi5d figs-explicit 0 He also put to the sword … he put to the sword This could mean: (1) Doeg killed all the priests himself or (2) the word “Doeg” is a synecdoche for Doeg and the men who went with him. Alternate translation: “They also put to the sword … they put to the sword” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 22 19 ru75 translate-names 0 Nob Nob is the name of a city. Here the name “Nob” represents the people of that city. Alternate translation: “the people in the city of Nob” or “the people of Nob” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 22 20 g9ps translate-names 0 Abiathar This is a man’s name. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 23 intro abcn 0 # 1 Samuel 23 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Saul chases David<br>Saul wants to kill David, but David trusts in God who keeps rescuing him. David rescues the town of Keilah from the Philistines who are stealing their harvest. Saul goes to Keilah to capture David, but David flees to the wilderness near Ziph. When David goes deeper into the wilderness, Saul follows but he has to leave to fight the Philistines who have invaded the land. Saul’s pursuit of David shows that Saul cares more about killing his enemies than pleasing God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Synecdoche<br>Jonathan strengthens David with a synecdoche: “For the hand of Saul my father will not find you.” This helps to strengthen David’s faith. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])
1SA 23 1 by75 translate-names 0 fighting against Keilah “Keilah” is the name of a town. Here “Keilah” represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “fighting against the people of Keilah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 23 3 e1kx figs-rquestion 0 How much more then if we go to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “We will be even more fearful if we go to Keilah to fight the armies of the Philistines.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 23 5 ij1x figs-synecdoche 0 went … fought … led … struck … saved The writer pays the most attention to David, so these words are all singular, though David’s men helped him do all these things. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 23 6 jj3s translate-names 0 Ahimelech This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 21:1](../21/01.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 23 7 fhu9 figs-activepassive 0 Saul was told This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone told Saul” or “They told Saul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 23 8 rz5t 0 summoned officially called. The reader should understand that Saul probably told his officials to gather the soldiers. He did not call with a loud voice to get them to come.
1SA 23 10 g8im figs-pronouns 0 your servant has indeed heard David speaks as if he were someone else to show his respect for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “I have indeed heard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 23 11 m2bi figs-pronouns 0 as your servant has heard … tell your servant David speaks as if he were someone else to show his respect for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “as I have heard … tell me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 23 11 dwu8 figs-metonymy 0 surrender me into his hand Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “give me over to Saul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 23 12 p7uu 0 David said or “David asked” or “David prayed”
1SA 23 12 w6q4 figs-metonymy 0 surrender me and my men into the hand of Saul Here “hand” represents power or control. Alternate translation: “give me and my men over to Saul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 23 13 wu5t figs-activepassive 0 It was told Saul This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone told Saul” or “They told Saul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 23 14 xlb4 translate-names 0 wilderness of Ziph This is the name of a deserted area near the city of Ziph. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 23 14 h9gh figs-metonymy 0 did not give him into his hand The word “hand” is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: “did not allow Saul to have power over David” or “did not allow Saul to do as he desired with David” or “did not allow Saul to capture David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 23 15 mvb2 figs-idiom 0 seek his life This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “try to kill him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 23 16 c2id figs-idiom 0 strengthened his hand in God This is an idiom. AT “encouraged him to trust in God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 23 17 lm7k figs-metonymy 0 For the hand of Saul my father will not find you Here “hand” is a metonym for Saul and his power. Alternate translation: “For Saul my father will not find you” or “For Saul my father will never be able to have power over you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 23 19 t8kp figs-rquestion 0 Is not David hiding among us in … Jeshimon? This rhetorical question can be translated as an exclamation. Alternate translation: “David is hiding among us in … Jeshimon!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 23 19 f1lt translate-names 0 the hill of Hakilah This is the name of a hill in the wilderness of Judah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 23 19 n8vj translate-names 0 Jeshimon This is the name of a desert area near the Dead Sea. It can also be translated as “the Judean Wilderness” or “the wasteland.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 23 20 tx3q figs-pronouns 0 surrender him into the king’s hand The word “hand” is a metonym for power. The Ziphites speak to Saul as if he were another man to show him that they respect him. Alternate translation: “give David to you so you can do whatever you desire with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 23 21 udu8 figs-activepassive 0 May you be blessed by Yahweh This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “I hope that Yahweh blesses you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 23 21 yr45 figs-abstractnouns 0 you have had compassion on me If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **compassion**, you can express the same idea with an adjective such as “kind.” Saul says this because they had told him about David and they were willing to help Saul capture David. Alternate translation: “you have been kind to me” or “you have kindly told this to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 23 22 vg7r figs-doublet 0 Learn and find out These two words mean almost the same thing and can be translated as one phrase. Alternate translation: “Know for sure” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1SA 23 22 i9bi figs-activepassive 0 It is told to me This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “People tell me” or “I have heard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 23 23 iy51 figs-idiom 0 among all the thousands of Judah This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “even if I have to arrest every man in Judah” or “among all the clans of Judah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 23 24 q42a translate-names 0 Jeshimon This is the name of a desert area near the Dead Sea. It can also be translated as “the Judean Wilderness” or “the wasteland.” See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 23:19](../23/19.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 23 24 ij6r translate-names 0 the wilderness of Maon This is the name of the deserted area around the city of Maon in southern Judah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 23 25 wnj2 figs-activepassive 0 David was told of it This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone told David that they were coming” or “David learned that they were coming” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 23 27 j8yv figs-hendiadys 0 Hurry and come The words “hurry” and “come” can be combined into one idea. Alternate translation: “Come quickly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1SA 24 intro abco 0 # 1 Samuel 24 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>Even though Saul tries again and again to kill David, David does not avenge himself on Saul because God had chosen Saul as king. This is meant to contrast with Saul’s treatment of David, the future king. Saul represents the king the people wanted, a selfish man. David is the king God wanted, a godly man. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/avenge]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/elect]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]])
1SA 24 1 li61 figs-activepassive 0 he was told This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone told him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 24 3 n5xb figs-euphemism 0 cover his feet This is a euphemism for “relieve himself” or “defecate” or “empty his intestines.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1SA 24 4 g5sy figs-idiom 0 David arose and quietly crept The word “arose” is an idiom for taking action. Alternate translation: “David took action; he quietly crept” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 24 5 c41t figs-idiom 0 David’s heart afflicted him This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “David was sad because he had done something wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 24 6 p9l3 figs-metonymy 0 to put out my hand against him The hand is a metonym for the ability to cause harm. Alternate translation: “to harm him in any way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 24 9 n22d figs-rquestion 0 Why do you listen to the men who say, ‘See, David is seeking your harm? This is a rhetorical question. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not listen to the men who say, ‘See, David is seeking to harm you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 24 10 v731 figs-synecdoche 0 your eyes have seen Here “your eyes” represent King Saul. Alternate translation: “you have seen with your own eyes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 24 10 xib3 figs-metonymy 0 put you into my hand The word “hand” is a metonym for control. Alternate translation: “put you where I could kill you or allow you to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 24 11 t3q9 0 my father Saul was not David’s real father. David calls him “father” to show that he respects Saul.
1SA 24 11 dhu3 figs-metaphor 0 there is no evil or treason in my hand David speaks as if evil and treason were physical objects he could hold in his hand. Here “hand” represents a person acting or doing something. Alternate translation: “I have done no evil deed against you, nor have I rebelled against you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 24 12 f9tq figs-metonymy 0 my hand shall not be against you The hand is a metonym for the ability to cause harm. See how you translated a similar phrase in [1 Samuel 24:6](../24/06.md). Alternate translation: “I will not harm you in any way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 24 13 wss6 figs-nominaladj 0 ancients This nominal adjective can be translated as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who lived long ago” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1SA 24 14 ng1t figs-rquestion 0 After whom has the king of Israel come out? After whom do you pursue? These rhetorical questions can be translated as statements. When David asks the questions, he knows that he will answer the questions himself. Alternate translation: “Let me tell you who the king of Israel has come out after. Let me tell you who it is that you are pursuing.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 24 14 jfp1 figs-metaphor 0 After a dead dog The words “dead dog” are a metaphor for a powerless person. This sentence can be made complete. Alternate translation: “You are pursuing a person who is as powerless as a dead dog” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1SA 24 14 u7sh figs-metaphor 0 After a flea The word “flea” is a metaphor for a person whom others do not consider important. Alternate translation: “You are pursuing a person who is as unimportant as a flea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1SA 24 15 cbv2 0 see to it, and plead my cause This could mean: (1) “do what is right, and plead my cause” or (2) “see that my cause is right and fight for me.”
1SA 24 15 g89c figs-metonymy 0 from your hand The word “hand” is a metonym for power. Alternate translation: “so that you have no power over me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 24 16 wzm1 figs-metaphor 0 my son David Saul speaks as if David were his son to show David that he loves him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 24 16 jg3p figs-metaphor 0 lifted up his voice and wept The writer writes as if a voice were something a person could lift up with his hands. Alternate translation: “wept loudly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 24 18 p931 0 for you did not kill me when Yahweh had put me at your mercy Saul acknowledges that David chose to show mercy and demonstrated his loyalty to King Saul as Yahweh’s anointed.
1SA 24 19 s8ie figs-rquestion 0 For if a man finds his enemy, will he let him go safely? A rhetorical question with the answer included in the question. Alternate translation: “For if a man finds his enemy, he will not let him go safely.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 24 19 p5v5 0 For if a man finds his enemy, will he let him go safely? Where Saul had believed David was his enemy, he learns that even though David will be king, David will not take over the throne from Saul by force, but will wait for Yahweh’s appointed time.
1SA 24 20 j61i figs-activepassive 0 the kingdom of Israel will be established in your hand If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This could mean: (1) David will cause the kingdom of Israel to prosper through his power as king. Alternate translation: “the kingdom of Israel will prosper as you rule the Israelite people” or (2) Yahweh will cause David to have complete control over the kingdom of Israel. Alternate translation: “you will have complete rule over the kingdom of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 24 20 ge3u figs-metonymy 0 in your hand The word “hand” is a metonym that represents power or control. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 24 21 lj2i 0 you will not cut off my descendants after me “you will not kill my sons and their families.” It was common for a new king who was not from the previous family line to kill off all the children of the former king to prevent any of them from challenging him for the throne.
1SA 24 21 hr5u figs-metonymy 0 you will not destroy my name out of my father’s house It is important for each family in Israel to have descendants from generation to generation carrying on the family name and land inheritance. Alternate translation: “you will not destroy my family and descendants” or “you will allow my family to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 25 intro abcp 0 # 1 Samuel 25 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Revenge<br>When David decides to kill all of the men in Nabal’s household, Abigail convinces David not to avenge himself but to leave revenge to God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/avenge]])
1SA 25 1 nvn1 figs-hyperbole 0 All Israel gathered together and mourned for him This is likely a generalization. A large number of the people of Israel were probably there, but some were probably unable to attend. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1SA 25 1 n1il 0 buried him in his house at Ramah This could mean that they buried Samuel: (1) in his home town of Ramah or (2) on his family’s land in Ramah but not physically in the house or (3) in his house in Ramah.
1SA 25 2 na8t 0 There was a man in Maon, whose possessions were in Carmel. The man was very wealthy. Some translators may need to put the ideas in these verses in a different order. Alternate translation: “There was a very wealthy man in Maon whose possessions were in Carmel.”
1SA 25 2 alm4 translate-names 0 Maon This is the name of a town. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 25 2 l859 translate-names 0 Carmel This is the name of a town. This is different from Mount Carmel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 25 3 b2de 0 The man’s name was Nabal, and the name of his wife was Abigail. The woman was intelligent and beautiful in appearance. But the man was harsh and evil in his dealings. He was a descendant of the house of Caleb. This verse give some background information about the man Nabal and his character. Some translators may need to put the ideas in this verse in a different order. Alternate translation: “Now the man was a descendant of the house of Caleb. His name was Nabal, and the name of his wife was Abigail. She was intelligent and beautiful in appearance. But the man was harsh and evil in his dealings.”
1SA 25 3 r2tp figs-metonymy 0 He was a descendant of the house of Caleb Here “house” represents family. Alternate translation: “He was a descendant of the family of Caleb” or “He was a descendant of Caleb” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 25 6 n38g figs-abstractnouns 0 Live in prosperity “I desire that you may live in prosperity.” If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **prosperity**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “I desire that you possess many good things as long as you live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 25 6 x8p8 0 Peace to you and peace to your house, and peace be to all that you have Alternate translation: “I desire that peace may come to you, your household and your possessions”
1SA 25 7 u29d 0 you have shearers “your shearers are working” or “your shearers have sheep to shear.” David wants his men to speak so that Nabal understands that his sheep were well because David’s men helped guard them.
1SA 25 7 d9si figs-litotes 0 we did them no harm, and they missed nothing David is pointing out how he and his men offered protection to Nabal’s servants and flocks. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “we kept them and all their property from harm” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1SA 25 8 yvj1 figs-metaphor 0 let my young men find favor in your eyes Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “may you be pleased with my young men” or “may you consider my young men favorably” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 25 8 kzp8 0 to your servants David was expressing respect toward Nabal by calling his men Nabal’s servants.
1SA 25 8 z6jm 0 your son David David spoke as if he were Nabal’s son to show that he respected Nabal, who was an older man.
1SA 25 10 zp6r figs-rquestion 0 Who is David, and who is the son of Jesse? Nabal used questions to emphasize that he had no reason to help Daved. These two rhetorical questions can be translated as statements. Alternate translation: “This David son of Jesse you speak of—I do not know him.” or “I do not know who this David is, so I will not do as he says. I do not know who Jesse is, so I do not care what happens to his son.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1SA 25 11 f631 0 men who come from I do not know where Alternate translation: “men when I do not know where they have come from” or “men whom I do not know”
1SA 25 12 b8ir figs-activepassive 0 that was said If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “that Nabal had said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 25 13 pbs3 figs-metonymy 0 “Every man strap on his sword.” So every man strapped on his sword. David also strapped on his sword If swords are not known in your language, you can treat “strap on his sword” as a metonym meaning to prepare for war. Alternate translation: “‘Every man, prepare for war.’ And every man prepared for war. David also prepared for war” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 25 14 y9qi figs-explicit 0 But one of the young men told Abigail, Nabal’s wife You may need to make explicit what the young man did before he spoke with Abigail. Alternate translation: “One of Nabal’s servants found out what David and his men were planning to do, so he went to Nabal’s wife Abigail” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 25 15 pr5i figs-activepassive 0 We were not harmed This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Nobody harmed us” or “We were safe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 25 15 p6bs 0 did not miss anything as long as we went with them “we did not lose anything when we were with them.” David’s men kept wild animals and other people from stealing Nabal’s flocks.
1SA 25 16 ibg5 figs-metaphor 0 They were a wall David’s men were like a wall around a city that protects the people in the city from their enemies. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 25 17 r8ec figs-activepassive 0 evil is plotted against our master The speaker is careful not to name the one plotting the evil. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “someone is plotting to do evil things to our master” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 25 17 gu63 figs-pronouns 0 our master The speaker speaks of David as if David were another person to show that he respects David. Alternate translation: “you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 25 18 av2l figs-explicit 0 loaves A loaf is like a cake. You may need to make explicit what the loaves consisted of. Alternate translation: “loaves of bread” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 25 21 h5uv writing-background 0 The writer gives background information before he continues with the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1SA 25 21 nzw1 0 Now David had said, “Surely … for good. The reader needs to understand that David had said these things before he said, “Every man strap on his sword” in [1 Samuel 25:13](../25/13.md).
1SA 25 21 vv7p 0 Now David The word “Now” shows that the writer has stopped writing about Abigail and started writing about David.
1SA 25 21 n566 figs-litotes 0 nothing was missed of all that belonged to him This can be stated positively and in active form. Alternate translation: “he still has everything that was his” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 25 22 zn6m 0 May God do so to me … belong to him The reader needs to understand that David had said these things before he said, “Every man strap on his sword” in [1 Samuel 25:13](../25/13.md).
1SA 25 22 cg4h 0 May God do so to me, David The Hebrew text has “May God strike the enemies of David,” and some versions follow this. However, the reading of the ULT follows the main Greek tradition of the Old Testament, as some other modern versions do.
1SA 25 23 l6e2 writing-background 0 The writer has finished giving background information, so he continues the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1SA 25 23 l5ga 0 lay before David facedown and bowed herself to the ground Abigail was being humble and showing that she would obey David because he was a powerful leader.
1SA 25 24 ljp8 figs-pronouns 0 my master … your servant … words of your servant “David … me … my words.” Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are two other people, to show that she respects David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 25 25 q94v figs-pronouns 0 Let not my master regard … I your servant … the young men of my master Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are other people to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: “Do not regard … I…your young men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 25 25 zwq8 figs-explicit 0 But I … did not see … whom you sent You may need to make explicit what Abigail would have done. Alternate translation: “But if I … had seen … whom you sent, I would have given them food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 25 26 tc8r figs-pronouns 0 my master … my master Abigail speaks of David as if he is another person to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: “David … you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 25 26 j55q figs-metonymy 0 avenging yourself with your own hand The hand is a metonym for what a person does with the hand. Abigail assumes that David should allow Yahweh to take vengeance for him. Alternate translation: “taking vengeance yourself instead of letting Yahweh do it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 25 26 p12k figs-explicit 0 let your enemies … be like Nabal Abigail speaks as if Yahweh has already punished Nabal. Alternate translation: “I hope that Yahweh will punish your enemies … as he will punish Nabal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
1SA 25 27 lh33 figs-activepassive 0 let this present that your servant has brought to my master be given to the young men Abigail uses the passive to show her respect for David. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “please give this present, which your servant has brought to my master, to the young men” or “please let my master give this present, which your servant has brought to my master, to the young men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 25 27 ew7h 0 this present “these gifts.” The “present” was actually many different things.
1SA 25 27 yj2z figs-pronouns 0 your servant has … my master … my master Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are two other people to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: “I have … you … you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 25 28 m9sh figs-pronouns 0 the trespass of your servant … my master … my master is Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are two other people, to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: “my trespass … you … you are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 25 28 iqt4 figs-idiom 0 Yahweh will certainly make my master a sure house Here “house” is an idiom used for “descendants.” Alternate translation: “Yahweh will ensure that my master always has a descendant who serves as king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 25 28 cd6h figs-activepassive 0 evil will not be found in you This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “no one will ever see you do any evil thing” or “you will never do anything evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 25 29 pf24 figs-metaphor 0 the life of my master will be bound in the bundle of the living by Yahweh your God Abigail speaks of David’s life as if it were a long and thin object that a person could put with other long and thin objects and then tie together into a bundle with a rope. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Yahweh your God will bind the life of my master in the bundle of the living” or “Yahweh your God will keep you alive with those who are alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 25 29 tyz3 figs-pronouns 0 the life of my master Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are two different people to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: “your life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 25 29 m3ub figs-metaphor 0 he will sling away the lives of your enemies, as from the pocket of a sling Abigail speaks of David’s enemies’ lives as if they were small objects like a stone that could be put in a sling and shot a long distance. Alternate translation: “he will kill your enemies as easily as a man slings a stone a long distance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 25 29 mm76 0 a sling a piece of animal skin with long cords at both ends in which a person can put a stone or other small, hard object and throw it a long distance
1SA 25 30 m21u figs-pronouns 0 my master Abigail speaks of David as if he is another person, to show that she respects David. Alternate translation: “you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 25 31 wg25 figs-litotes 0 This will not be a staggering burden for you—that you have poured out innocent blood, or because my master attempted to rescue himself Abigail is stating that if David chooses not to take revenge he will have a clear conscience when Yahweh makes him king of Israel. This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “You will always be glad you acted as you did-that you have not poured out innocent blood, or because my master did not attempt to rescue himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1SA 25 31 bql2 figs-pronouns 0 my master … himself … my master … your servant Abigail speaks of herself and David as if they are two other people, to show that she respects David. “you … yourself … you … me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 25 32 ze7a figs-activepassive 0 May Yahweh … be blessed, he who This can be translated in active form. This could mean: (1) “I praise Yahweh … who” or (2) “May all people praise Yahweh … who.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 25 33 xel2 figs-activepassive 0 Your wisdom is blessed and you are blessed, because This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “I thank Yahweh because he has blessed you by making you wise and because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 25 33 er78 figs-metonymy 0 with my own hand The word “hand” here is a metonym for the action taken by the hand. Alternate translation: “by my own actions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 25 34 hb7b 0 General Information: David accepts Abigail’s gifts and agrees to do as she has advised him.
1SA 25 34 wl4x figs-activepassive 0 there would certainly have not been left to Nabal so much as one male baby This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “I would not have left to Nabal even one male baby” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 25 35 d94h figs-idiom 0 received from her hand This is an idiom. Abigail did not unload all gifts from the donkeys herself. Alternate translation: “accepted all the gifts that she had brought” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 25 35 uy5n figs-metonymy 0 have listened to your voice The word “voice” is a metonym for the message the person speaks and a synecdoche for the person who speaks. Alternate translation: “have listened to what you have told me” or “will do as you have advised me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 25 37 u2tf 0 the wine had gone out of Nabal Nabal was no longer drunk and so was no longer feeling happy.
1SA 25 37 g4h6 0 his heart died within him Nabal was unable to move because was so afraid that he was no longer physically healthy, probably because he had suffered a stroke.
1SA 25 39 y8vj 0 General Information: David offers to protect Abigail by marrying her.
1SA 25 39 ir6z figs-activepassive 0 May Yahweh be blessed This can be translated in active form. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 25:32](../25/32.md). This could mean: (1) Alternate translation: “I praise Yahweh” or (2) Alternate translation: “May all people praise Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 25 39 j9hl figs-idiom 0 has taken up the cause of my insult from the hand of Nabal This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “has defended me after Nabal insulted me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 25 39 n5td figs-activepassive 0 has taken up the cause of my insult The abstract nouns “cause” and “insult” can be translated as verbs. This could mean: (1) Alternate translation: “has shown that what I was doing was right by punishing Nabal for insulting me” or (2) Alternate translation: “has acted, when Nabal insulted me, as if Nabal had insulted him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 25 39 w9kj figs-pronouns 0 has kept back his servant from evil David speaks as if he were another person to show his respect for Yahweh. Alternate translation: “has kept me back from doing evil deeds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 25 39 cq6p figs-abstractnouns 0 has turned Nabal’s evil action back on his own head If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **action**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “has done to Nabal what Nabal planned to do to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 25 39 lb46 figs-synecdoche 0 on his own head The head is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “on him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 25 39 ci9p figs-ellipsis 0 sent and spoke to Abigail, to take her to himself as wife You may make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: “sent men to speak to Abigail and tell her that David wanted to take her to be his wife” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1SA 25 41 nmv3 figs-metonymy 0 She arose, bowed herself Abigail responded by bowing. The reader should understand that she was probably already standing when the men were talking to her in [1 Samuel 25:40](../25/40.md), and so the word “arose” is a metonym for deciding to bow down. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 25 41 iqu6 figs-pronouns 0 See, your female servant is a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my master Abigail speaks as if she were another person to show that she is humble. She shows that she desires to be David’s new wife by offering to wash the feet of David’s servants. Alternate translation: “See, I will serve you, the servants of my master David, by washing your feet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 25 42 ays4 figs-explicit 0 hurried and arose, and rode You may need to make explicit what Abigail did after she arose and before she rode. Alternate translation: “quickly did what she needed to do to prepare for the journey, and then she rode” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 25 42 hv4c 0 five servant girls of hers who followed her Abigail was riding a donkey, but the servant girls were walking.
1SA 25 43 qn8t writing-background 0 Now David had also taken Ahinoam This event took place before David married Abigail. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1SA 25 43 fx9v translate-names 0 Ahinoam This is the name of a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 25 44 t45u writing-background 0 Saul had given Michal This event took place before David married Abigail. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1SA 25 44 eld8 translate-names 0 Michal This is the name of a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 26 intro abcq 0 # 1 Samuel 26 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Vengeance<br>David has another opportunity to kill Saul but he refuses to kill the one God had chosen as king. This contrasts with Saul, who tried to find David and kill him. Saul came to admit that David was more righteous than he was because he did not kill his enemy. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/elect]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical question<br>David put his reason for not killing Saul in a rhetorical question: “Do not destroy him; for who can extend his hand against Yahweh’s anointed one and be guiltless?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 26 1 xrk7 figs-rquestion 0 Is not David hiding … Jeshimon? This rhetorical question can be translated as an exclamation. Alternate translation: “David is hiding … Jeshimon!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 26 1 x3kj translate-names 0 Jeshimon This is the name of a desert area near the Dead Sea. It can also be translated as “the Judean Wilderness” or “the wasteland.” See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 23:19](../23/19.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 26 2 xlu2 figs-idiom 0 Then Saul arose and went The word “arose” is an idiom for taking action. Alternate translation: “Then Saul took action and he went” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 26 3 x3ka translate-names 0 Jeshimon This is the name of a desert area near the Dead Sea. It can also be translated as “the Judean Wilderness” or “the wasteland.” See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 23:19](../23/19.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 26 8 m51q figs-metonymy 0 God has put your enemy into your hand Abishai speaks as if the enemy were a small object that God had put into David’s hand. The word “hand” is a metonym for the power the hand can wield. Alternate translation: “God has given you complete control over your enemy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 26 8 lze4 figs-metonymy 0 pin him to the ground with the spear This is a metonym that refers to “kill with a spear” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 26 8 n3y8 0 I will not strike him a second time Alternate translation: “I will kill him the first time I strike him” or “I will not need to strike him a second time”
1SA 26 9 ph1t figs-rquestion 0 who can extend his hand against Yahweh’s anointed one and be guiltless? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. This can also be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “No one can strike Yahweh’s anointed one and be without guilt.” or “Anyone who strikes Yahweh’s anointed one will be guilty of murder.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1SA 26 11 gt6b figs-metonymy 0 extend my hand against The hand is a metonym for the harm a hand can do. Alternate translation: “do anything to harm” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 26 11 q6ty figs-exclusive 0 let us go David includes Abishai, so the word “us” here is inclusive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1SA 26 14 qg15 figs-rquestion 0 Do you not answer, Abner? David uses a question to shame Abner into answering. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Answer me, Abner!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 26 14 i2zz 0 David shouted “David spoke as loudly as he could” so Saul and his men could hear him
1SA 26 15 e3xd figs-rquestion 0 Are not you a courageous man? David uses a question to rebuke Abner for not guarding Saul. Alternate translation: “You are a very brave man.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 26 15 it27 figs-rquestion 0 Who is like you in Israel? David uses a question to rebuke Abner for not guarding Saul. Alternate translation: “You are the greatest soldier in Israel.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 26 15 b9q7 figs-rquestion 0 Why then have you not kept watch over your master the king? This could mean: (1) this is a real question and David wants Abner to answer him or (2) this is a rhetorical question and David is rebuking Abner. Alternate translation: “Therefore you should have kept watch over your master the king!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 26 17 d5y6 figs-metaphor 0 my son Saul was not David’s true father. Saul speaks as if he were David’s father to show David that he wants David to trust and respect him as David would trust and respect his own father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 26 18 n2yf figs-rquestion 0 Why does my master pursue his servant? This could mean: (1) David really does want Saul to answer the question or (2) If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “My master has no reason to pursue his servant.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 26 18 ah3m figs-123person 0 Why does my master pursue his servant? Here David speaks of Saul in third person calling him “my master,” and he speaks of himself in third person calling himself “his servant.” David speaks this way to show respect to Saul. Alternate translation: “Why are you, my master, pursuing me, your servant?” or “Why are you pursuing me?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1SA 26 18 ljv3 figs-rquestion 0 What have I done? This could mean: (1) David really does want Saul to answer the question or (2) If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You know that I have done nothing to harm you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 26 18 q2fg figs-metonymy 0 What evil is in my hand? This speaks of evil as if it were an object that is held in the hand. Here “hand” represents a person acting or doing something. This could mean: (1) David really does want Saul to answer the question. Alternate translation: “What have I done wrong?” or (2) If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I have done nothing wrong!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 26 19 xsj9 figs-pronouns 0 you, let my master the king listen to the words of his servant David speaks as if he and the king were other people to show respect to Saul. Alternate translation: “you my king, listen to my words” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 26 19 sn5d figs-explicit 0 let him accept an offering You may need to make explicit the reason he will give an offering. Alternate translation: “I will give him an offering so he will no longer cause you to be angry with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1SA 26 19 t9dx figs-activepassive 0 may they be cursed in the sight of Yahweh This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “may Yahweh decide to punish them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 26 19 fre1 0 for they have today driven me out, that I should not cling to the inheritance of Yahweh; they have said to me, ‘Go worship other gods.’ Alternate translation: “for they have today driven me out. It is as if they want me to stop clinging to the inheritance of Yahweh. It is as if they have said to me, ‘Go worship other gods.’”
1SA 26 19 h828 0 that I should not cling to the inheritance of Yahweh Alternate translation: “so that I will no longer trust that Yahweh will give me what he has promised me”
1SA 26 20 r1qc figs-pronouns 0 the king of Israel has David speaks as if the king was another person to show respect to Saul. Alternate translation: “you have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 26 20 dm6i figs-euphemism 0 do not let my blood fall to the earth This is a polite way of saying “do not kill me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1SA 26 20 km1g figs-metaphor 0 the one flea David uses the word “flea” as a metaphor for a person, himself, who cannot do any great harm. Alternate translation: “this single flea” or “me, and I cannot harm you any more than one flea can” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 26 20 ua6e figs-simile 0 as when one hunts a partridge in the mountains Saul is chasing David as if he were hunting a valuable wild bird. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1SA 26 21 l7a6 figs-metaphor 0 my son Saul was not David’s true father. Saul speaks as if he were David’s father to show David that he wants David to trust and respect him as David would trust and respect his own father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 26 21 sy9u figs-metaphor 0 my life was precious in your eyes today Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “today you have considered my life to be very valuable” or “today you showed me that you really do respect me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 26 23 sdp3 figs-metonymy 0 Yahweh put you into my hand today The word “hand” is a metonym for the person’s power. “Yahweh gave me an opportunity to attack you today” or “Yahweh placed me where I could easily have killed you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 26 23 h11d figs-pronouns 0 his anointed David speaks as if Saul were another person to show that he respects Saul because Saul is king. Alternate translation: “the one he has chosen to be king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 26 24 wtj8 figs-metaphor 0 your life was precious in my eyes today Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. See how you translated similar words in [1 Samuel 26:21](../26/21.md). Alternate translation: “I have considered your life to be very valuable” or “I showed you today that I really do respect you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 26 24 tf9s figs-metaphor 0 so may my life be much valued in the eyes of Yahweh Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. Alternate translation: “so may Yahweh consider my life very valuable as well” or “so may Yahweh value my life as much as I have valued your life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 26 25 r7dp figs-activepassive 0 May you be blessed This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “May Yahweh bless you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 26 25 ct8y figs-metaphor 0 my son Saul was not David’s true father. Saul speaks as if he were David’s father to show David that he wants David to trust and respect him as David would trust and respect his own father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 27 intro abcr 0 # 1 Samuel 27 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This begins a section about David living with the Philistines.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### David’s move<br>David is afraid Saul will someday catch him and kill him, so he moves to the Philistine city of Gath. This is a type of exile David creates for himself out of fear. It is caused by his lack of trust in God. This is the same reason his descendants would come to be exiled. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])
1SA 27 1 vu4l figs-synecdoche 0 David said in his heart Here “his heart” is a metonym that means to himself. Alternate translation: “David thought to himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 27 1 j9tl figs-synecdoche 0 escape out of his hand The word “hand” is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “escape from him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 27 2 yjn5 translate-numbers 0 six hundred men 600 (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
1SA 27 2 y8hn translate-names 0 Achish This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 21:10](../21/10.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 27 2 ik5p translate-names 0 Maok This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 27 3 q6ib translate-names 0 Ahinoam This is the name of a woman. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 14:50](../14/50.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 27 3 f557 translate-names 0 Abigail This is the name of a woman. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 25:3](../25/03.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 27 3 qmd3 translate-names 0 Nabal This is the name of a man. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 25:3](../25/03.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 27 4 zdd9 figs-activepassive 0 Saul was told If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Someone told Saul” or “Saul heard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 27 5 zt35 figs-metaphor 0 If I have found favor in your eyes Here the eyes represent seeing, and seeing represents thoughts or judgment. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 20:3](../20/03.md). Alternate translation: “If I have pleased you” or “If you consider me favorably” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 27 5 mj6y figs-metonymy 0 let them give me a place Since Achish was the one who would “give,” this is a metonym for “please give me a place.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 27 5 as8d figs-rquestion 0 Why should your servant live in the royal city with you? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not need to live in the city with you.” or “I am not important enough to live here with you in the royal city.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 27 5 qss2 figs-pronouns 0 your servant David speaks as if he were another person to show that he respected Achish. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 27 6 d2xd translate-names 0 Ziklag This is the name of a city in the southwest part of Judah. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 27 8 k2mv figs-idiom 0 making raids on attacking and taking property many times (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 27 8 mj2i translate-names 0 Girzites A people group who apparently lived somewhere between Philistia and Egypt. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 27 8 c2xz figs-pronouns 0 as you go to Shur Here “you” is being used as an indefinite pronoun that refers to anyone. Alternate translation: “on the way most people travel to Shur” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 28 intro abcs 0 # 1 Samuel 28 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Talking to the dead<br><br>Talking to the dead was against the law of Moses. God or the Holy Spirit left Saul because of his sin and would not help him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/death]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holyspirit]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical question<br>Samuel uses a rhetorical question to say it was useless to ask his advice since there was no way Saul could be successful with God against him: “What then do you ask me, since Yahweh has left you, and he has become your enemy?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 28 2 au3y grammar-connect-words-phrases 0 So you will know … So I will The word “so” shows that the speaker agrees with what the other person has just said. Alternate translation: “Yes, I will go with you so that you will know … Very well, I will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1SA 28 2 a7g3 0 you will know what your servant can do David probably wanted Achish to think that David would kill many Israelites, but “what your servant can do” could also mean that David was planning to kill Philistines instead. Try to translate so that the reader can see both of these possible meanings.
1SA 28 2 b6jy figs-pronouns 0 your servant David speaks as if he is another person so that Achish will think David respects him. Alternate translation: “I” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 28 2 m1je figs-pronouns 0 make you The word “you” refers to David and so is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 28 3 v29c writing-background 0 Now Samuel … with spirits The writer provides background information to prepare the reader for the events that follow. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1SA 28 3 k6lf 0 banned from the land officially removed from the country or region, or prevented from entering Alternate translation: “expel from Israel”
1SA 28 3 x928 0 those who talked with the dead or with spirits The words “those who talked with the dead” translate as one word in the original language, and the words “those who … talked with spirits” also translate as one word in the original language. If your language has one word for those who talk with the dead and one word for those who talk with spirits, or if your language has only one word for those who talk with the dead and with spirits, you should use those words here.
1SA 28 5 bi99 figs-synecdoche 0 he was afraid, and his heart trembled very much These two phrases mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of his fear. Here Saul is referred to by his “heart.” Alternate translation: “he was terrified” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1SA 28 6 l97l 0 Urim The high priest carried the sacred lots called Urim and Thummin in his breastplate, in a marked pouch, next to his heart.
1SA 28 7 p66e 0 who talks with the dead These words translate as one word in the original language. If your language has one word for a person who talks to the dead, you should use it here. See how you translated similar words in [1 Samuel 28:3](../28/03.md).
1SA 28 7 iy9x translate-names 0 Endor This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 28 8 q4zi 0 Saul disguised himself … and went … to the woman by night Saul disguised himself because the way from Gilboa ([1 Samuel 28:4](../28/04.md)) to Endor ([1 Samuel 28:7](./07.md)) was through land that the Philistines were living in. He traveled all day and reached the woman after the sun had gone down.
1SA 28 9 qv53 0 those who talk with the dead or with spirits The words “those who talk with the dead” translate as one word in the original language, and the words “those who … talk with spirits” also translate as one word in the original language. If your language has one word for those who talk with the dead and one word for those who talk with spirits, or if your language has only one word for those who talk with the dead and with spirits, you should use those words here. See how you translated similar words in [1 Samuel 28:3](../28/03.md).
1SA 28 9 fdu8 figs-synecdoche 0 my life The word “life” represents the person. Alternate translation: “me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 28 17 wpr2 figs-metaphor 0 torn the kingdom out of your hand Samuel speaks as if the kingdom were a physical object that could be held in the hand and grabbed out by another person. Alternate translation: “made you so you are no longer king” or “made another person king in your place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 28 19 wl9u figs-metaphor 0 Yahweh will give Israel along with you into the hand of the Philistines Samuel speaks as if the people of Israel were a small object that Yahweh would give to the Philistines, whom he speaks of as if they were one person. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will allow the Philistines to do whatever they want to do to you and the people of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 28 19 i48b figs-euphemism 0 will be with me This is a polite way to say that Saul will die. Alternate translation: “will be dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1SA 28 19 y24l figs-metaphor 0 Yahweh will also give the army of Israel into the hand of the Philistines Samuel speaks as if the army of Israel were a small object that Yahweh would give to the Philistines, whom he speaks of as if they were one person. Alternate translation: “Yahweh will allow the Philistines to do whatever they want to do to the army of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1SA 28 20 gyg8 0 he had eaten no food all that day, neither that whole night Saul had not eaten during the night before he traveled from Gilboa ([1 Samuel 28:4](../28/04.md)) to Endor ([1 Samuel 28:7](./07.md)), nor during the day as he journeyed, nor during the night on which he visited the woman.
1SA 28 21 t8lw figs-idiom 0 I have put my life in my hand and have listened This is an idiom. “I could die because I listened” or “Someone could kill me because I listened” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 28 22 cf3l figs-pronouns 0 the voice of your woman servant The woman speaks as if she is another person to show that she respects Saul. She refers to herself by her “voice” to emphasize what she says. Alternate translation: “my voice” or “me speak to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]] or [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 29 intro abct 0 # 1 Samuel 29 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the poetic song in 29:5.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties<br><br>It is unclear whether David wanted to go into battle with the Philistines. He would have been fighting against Saul, but he also would have been fighting against Israel’s soldiers. It is probably best to see that David is conflicted over this issue, but some scholars believe that David planned on turning against the Philistines in the battle.
1SA 29 2 tq6l 0 passed on by hundreds and by thousands Alternate translation: “divided their men into groups; some groups had one hundred soldiers and some groups had one thousand soldiers”
1SA 29 2 vft1 0 David and his men passed on in the rear guard with Achish The groups of hundreds and thousands passed on first, then Achish and his helpers, and then David, his men, and the other Philistine soldiers, who were guarding Achish.
1SA 29 3 s77q figs-rquestion 0 What are these Hebrews doing here? Possible ways to translate this rhetorical question as a statement are Alternate translation: (1) “You should not have allowed these Hebrews, our enemies, to be here with us.” or (2) “Tell us who these Hebrews are.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 29 3 sj73 figs-rquestion 0 Is not this David … these years, and I have found … this day? Another possible translation is “Is not this David,…these years? I have found … this day.” The rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should know that this is David … these years. I have found … this day.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 29 3 ri13 figs-litotes 0 I have found no fault with him This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “I know of nothing that he has done wrong” or “I am very pleased with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1SA 29 4 i611 figs-synecdoche 0 He will not go down with us into battle The person here is a synecdoche for the army he commands. Alternate translation: “Do not let his army join with our army against our enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 29 4 vr1n figs-rquestion 0 For how else could he make himself acceptable to his master than by taking the heads of our own men? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Here “taking the heads” is a metonym for killing. Alternate translation: “The best way for David to make peace with his master would be by killing our soldiers!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 29 5 ce4n figs-rquestion 0 Is this not David of whom they sang one to another in dances, saying, ‘Saul … ten thousands’? If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not trust David—he is the one of whom they sang one to another in dances, saying, ‘Saul … ten thousands’!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 29 6 pw9s figs-idiom 0 As Yahweh lives This is an idiom. “As certainly as Yahweh lives” or “This is a true statement” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 29 6 tzt2 0 your going out and your coming in with me in the army is good Alternate translation: “I am happy to have you go out and come in with me and my army” or “It is good that you go everywhere with me and my army”
1SA 29 8 p5pg figs-pronouns 0 my master the king David speaks as if Achish were another person so that Achish will think David respects him. Alternate translation: “you, my master and king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
1SA 29 9 tse5 0 nevertheless, the princes Alternate translation: “even though that is true, this is more important: the princes” or “however, the princes”
1SA 30 intro abcu 0 # 1 Samuel 30 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### David fights the Amalekites<br>When David and his men arrive home, they find the Amalekites have raided Ziklag and taken everything. They catch and destroy them and bring back all of their goods and families. Then David sends gifts to all the cities in Judah through which they had traveled.
1SA 30 2 l5au 0 both small and great This could mean: (1) “both unimportant people and important people” or (2) “both physically small and physically large.”
1SA 30 3 tr67 0 their wives … sons … daughters belonging to David and his men
1SA 30 3 hh3k figs-activepassive 0 it was burned, and their wives … daughters were taken captive This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “they saw that someone had burned it and taken their wives … captive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1SA 30 6 q4yw figs-synecdoche 0 all the people were bitter in spirit The word “bitter” is a metaphor for the desire to rebel. The word “spirit” is a synecdoche for the person. Alternate translation: “all the people were ready to rebel against David” or “all the people were very unhappy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1SA 30 6 plf4 0 David strengthened himself in Yahweh, his God This could mean: (1) “David took courage because he knew Yahweh his God would help him” or (2) “Yahweh his God made David strong.”
1SA 30 8 l4pe figs-abstractnouns 0 David prayed to Yahweh for direction If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **direction**, you can express the same idea with a clause. Alternate translation: “David prayed that Yahweh would tell David what David should do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 30 10 she5 translate-numbers 0 four hundred men 400 men (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
1SA 30 10 c9v7 translate-numbers 0 two hundred 200 men (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
1SA 30 10 jle5 0 who were so weak They were tired from their own raids and now in pursuit of the Amalekites. They no longer had the strength to continue.
1SA 30 11 wy3y 0 an Egyptian in a field He was left there to die from the Amalekite raiding party.
1SA 30 15 ln2l figs-metonymy 0 you will not … betray me up into the hands of my master Here “hands” refers to control. Alternate translation: “you will not … violate the trust I have in you by allowing my master to control me again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 30 18 gv1e 0 recovered … rescued “got back … got back.” These two words translate the same Hebrew word. Your language may also have a word for a person getting his own property back from the person who stole it that is different from the word for a person getting his wife back from those who have captured her.
1SA 30 19 h16q 0 neither small nor great This could mean: (1) “neither unimportant people nor important people” or (2) “neither physically small nor physically large.” See how you translated similar words in [1 Samuel 30:2](../30/02.md).
1SA 30 21 e3fw translate-names 0 the brook Besor a small stream or creek named Besor. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 30:9](../30/09.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 30 21 l3p7 0 greeted them spoke to them in a friendly way
1SA 30 22 jt6r 0 the booty the goods they had taken from the enemy in battle. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 30:16](../30/16.md).
1SA 30 24 n8h7 figs-rquestion 0 Who will listen to you in this matter? This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement: Alternate translation: “No one will listen to you in this matter.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1SA 30 24 sv97 figs-abstractnouns 0 as the share is for anyone who goes If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **share**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “as what belongs to anyone who goes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1SA 30 28 qm9t 0 Connecting Statement: The writer continues the list that began in [1 Samuel 30:27](../30/27.md) of towns whose elders received gifts from David.
1SA 30 29 xiz3 0 Connecting Statement: The writer continues the list that began in [1 Samuel 30:27](../30/27.md) of towns whose elders received gifts from David.
1SA 30 30 re7a 0 Connecting Statement: The writer continues the list that began in [1 Samuel 30:27](../30/27.md) of towns whose elders received gifts from David.
1SA 30 31 k11c 0 Connecting Statement: The writer finishes the list that began in [1 Samuel 30:27](../30/27.md) of towns whose elders received gifts from David.
1SA 31 intro abcv 0 # 1 Samuel 31 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This is the end of the section on Saul, but the book continues in 2 Samuel 1.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Saul’s punishment<br>Saul receives his punishment from God: death for his disobedience and resisting the will of God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/willofgod]])
1SA 31 1 k1fi 0 Now the Philistines fought against Israel This battle was the result of the conflict between David and the Philistines in [1 Samuel 29:11](../29/11.md). The writer has finished telling the story of David that began in [1 Samuel 30:1](../30/01.md), and now he tells about the battle between the Israelites and the Philistines.
1SA 31 1 mg5w figs-metonymy 0 against Israel “Israel” refers to the people who live there. Alternate translation: “against the people of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 31 3 g8f6 figs-idiom 0 The battle went heavily against Saul This is an idiom. “Saul’s army began to lose the battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1SA 31 4 pe6q 0 armor bearer The armor bearer carried the large shield of his commanding officer and other weapons. He protected the commanding officer during a battle.
1SA 31 4 nl61 figs-nominaladj 0 these uncircumcised The nominal adjective “uncircumcised” can be translated as an adjective. Not being circumcised is a metonym for being foreigners. Alternate translation: “these men who have not been circumcised” or “these non-Israelite men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1SA 31 4 w39y figs-ellipsis 0 would not The ellipsis can be filled in. Alternate translation: “would not do what Saul had told him to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1SA 31 8 d9b8 translate-names 0 Mount Gilboa a mountain range overlooking the Valley of Jezreel in northern Israel, south of Nazareth (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 31 9 w7af 0 the land of the Philistines throughout Alternate translation: “all areas of the land of the Philistines”
1SA 31 9 xcw5 0 to carry the news to their idols’ temples and to the people Alternate translation: “to speak the news inside the temples and to the people”
1SA 31 10 z423 0 fastened attached, probably with a large spike or nail
1SA 31 10 qu6k translate-names 0 Beth Shan the name of a city (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 31 11 e9d6 translate-names 0 Jabesh This is the name of a town. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 11:1](../11/01.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1SA 31 13 enk8 translate-unknown 0 a tamarisk tree This is a type of tree. See how you translated this in [1 Samuel 22:6](../22/06.md). Alternate translation: “a large shade tree” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
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