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It is the beginning of the section 1 Samuel 1-7 which tells about Samuel, the religious leader of Israel. + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### Two wives +This was a common practice in the ancient Near East. It was against the law of Moses. The men of Israel would have sinned if they married more than one woman. This type of marriage always creates problems because of jealousy. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/jealous]]) + +#### "Pay his vow" +It was customary for Israelites to promise God to make a sacrifice to him if God answered special prayers. Making such a sacrifice was called paying one's vow. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/vow]]) + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Idioms + +When Hannah wanted to assure Eli she was telling the truth, she used the idiom "as you live." This is a type of oath formula meaning "I promise you I am telling the truth." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-idiom]]) + +The author also uses the phrase "call to mind." This is a common idiom meaning "remember." + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 1:1](./01.md)__ +* __[1 Samuel intro](../front/intro.md)__ + +__| [>>](../02/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/02/intro.md b/1sa/02/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..e511957 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/02/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,42 @@ +# 1 Samuel 02 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +Some translations set poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to show that it is poetry. The ULB does this with Hannah's poetic prayer in 2:1-10 . + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### Hannah's song of praise to God + +This song is about how God protects the weak and strengthens them. He humbles the rich, provides for the poor, and defeats his enemies. + +#### Eli's Sons + +Eli, the chief priest, had two sons. They were ungodly priests who continually sinned and did not honor God. Eli corrected them but they did not listen. A prophet warned Eli that God would stop his family from being priests and his sons would both die on the same day. At the same time, Samuel was growing up and serving God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]]) + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +This chapter has many figures of speech because the first part of the chapter is a song and the last part of the chapter is a prophecy. Songs and prophecy tend to have many figures of speech. + +#### Synecdoches + +"My heart" and "my mouth" are synecdoches referencing the speaker. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-synecdoche]]) + +#### Metonymies + +Body parts are often used to stand for activities involving that part of the body. "The feet of his faithful people" is a metonym meaning what they are doing or where they are going. Place names are often used for people in that place such as "the ends of the earth" meaning the people living in the ends of the earth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metonymy]]) + +#### Metaphors + +Hannah used many military metaphors: "rock," representing protection; "the bows of the mighty men are broken," representing military defeat; "the horn of his anointed," representing the power of the one that God has chosen to be king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metaphor]]) + +#### Rhetorical questions + +God used three rhetorical questions to correct and condemn Eli. "Did I not reveal myself to the house of your ancestor, when they were in Egypt in bondage to Pharaoh's house?" "Why then do you scorn my offerings that I required in the place where I live?" "Why do you honor your sons above me by making yourselves fat with the best of every offering of my people Israel?" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-rquestion]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 02:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../01/intro.md) | [>>](../03/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/03/intro.md b/1sa/03/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..b59c6b2 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/03/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,26 @@ +# 1 Samuel 03 General Notes + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### God speaks to Samuel + +God spoke at night to Samuel when he was a small boy, telling him that he would punish Eli's family. As Samuel grew up, God gave him many messages. People came from all over Israel to find out what God had to say. + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Metonymy + +In order to show respect when talking to God, Samuel calls himself "your servant" when referring to himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metonymy]]) + +#### Idioms + +One characteristic of prophecy is the use of figures of speech. In this passage there are two idioms: "ears will shake," meaning "will shock everyone who hears" and "carry out," meaning "do." (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-idiom]]) + +In order to be sure Samuel would tell him the whole truth, Eli used the standard formula for a curse: "may God do to you, and even more, if," meaning "God will punish severely if the person does what the curse says he will do." (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/curse]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 03:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../02/intro.md) | [>>](../04/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/04/intro.md b/1sa/04/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..bee3a51 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/04/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,26 @@ +# 1 Samuel 04 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +#### The Ark of the Covenant in Philistine country + +This chapter begins a new section on the Ark and the Philistines. It recounts two battles between Israel and the Philistines. In both battles, Israel was badly defeated and, in the second, the Ark was captured. + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### The Ark is captured + +The Philistine army invaded Israel, and Israel's army went to fight them but was defeated. Israel decided that if they took the Ark into the next battle, God would cause them to win. When Eli's sons took the Ark into the next battle and the Philistines won the battle, they killed Eli's two sons and captured the Ark. When Eli heard the Ark was captured, he fell over, broke his neck, and died. Hearing this news, his daughter-in-law named her baby "the glory has departed." + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Rhetorical Question + +The Philistines expressed their fear using a rhetorical question: "Who will protect us from the strength of this mighty God?" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-rquestion]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 04:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../03/intro.md) | [>>](../05/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/05/intro.md b/1sa/05/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6237709 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/05/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,24 @@ +# 1 Samuel 05 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +The story of the Ark of the Covenant in Philistia continues. + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### The Ark in the Philistine Cities + +The Philistines took the Ark of God to Ashdod and put it in their idol temple, but their idol fell down in front of the Ark and the people got sick with bubonic plague. They took it to Gath next, and the people of Gath began dying of the plague. When they took the Ark to Ekron, the people of Ekron were afraid of it too and did not want it there. Finally they decided to send it back to Israel. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/temple]]) + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Idioms + +There are two slightly different idioms used in the same way: the "hand was heavy" and the "hand was hard." Both idioms mean "was severely punished." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-idiom]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 05:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../04/intro.md) | [>>](../06/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/06/intro.md b/1sa/06/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c1cf4aa --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/06/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ +# 1 Samuel 06 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +This chapter ends the story of the Ark of the Covenant among the Philistines. + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### The Philistines send the Ark back to Israel + +The Philistine leaders asked their priests what they should do with the Ark. The priests said to send it off with an offering. The Philistines put the Ark on a cart drawn by cows and let them go wherever they wanted to go. The cows went straight toward Israel. When some people peeked into the Ark, God killed them. Because of this, the people sent the Ark to Kiriath Jearim. + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 06:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../05/intro.md) | [>>](../07/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/07/intro.md b/1sa/07/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..38ac9bb --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/07/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,24 @@ +# 1 Samuel 07 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +This chapter completes the section on Samuel leading Israel. + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### Israel begins to worship Yahweh again + +Samuel told the people to get rid of all their idols and worship Yahweh alone. The people were obedient. When the Philistines heard the Israelites were all gathered together, the Philistines attacked, but God defeated them. There was a time of peace during which Samuel settled disputes between the people as the judges had done before. + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Idioms + +Whenever Samuel spoke to a group of people, he used many idioms: "to turn to" means "to worship"; "with your whole heart" means "completely"; and "rescue from the hand" means "rescued from the power." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-idiom]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 07:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../06/intro.md) | [>>](../08/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/08/intro.md b/1sa/08/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5ae2522 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/08/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,19 @@ +# 1 Samuel 08 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting +#### Saul and Samuel + +The section including chapters 8-16 begins a new part of the story. The people wanted a king, and God chose Saul, the man the people wanted, to be their king. He was not the king Yahweh wanted. + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### The people want a king + +When Samuel was old, he appointed his sons to be judges. They were corrupt and took bribes, so the people came and asked Samuel to appoint a king for them. Samuel asked God, who gave them a king but warned them what a king would be like. Despite Samuel's warning that a king would oppress them, the people still wanted a king. This was sinful because they were rejecting God as their king. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/appoint]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/oppress]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 08:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../07/intro.md) | [>>](../09/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/09/intro.md b/1sa/09/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..9a724c4 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/09/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,19 @@ +# 1 Samuel 09 General Notes + +### Special concepts in this chapter +#### Samuel chooses Saul to be their king + +When the donkeys of Saul's father strayed away, Saul went looking for them. When he could not find them, he asked Samuel to ask God where they were. Samuel said the donkeys had been found. He invited Saul as the guest of honor to a feast and gave him a place to sleep for the night. + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Rhetorical questions + +Saul uses two rhetorical questions to convince Samuel he is not important: "Am not I a Benjamite, from the smallest of the tribes of Israel? Is not my clan the least of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin?" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-rquestion]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 09:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../08/intro.md) | [>>](../10/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/10/intro.md b/1sa/10/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..afc8708 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/10/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,26 @@ +# 1 Samuel 10 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +This is the first chapter about King Saul. + +### Special concepts in this chapter +#### Saul as the New King +Samuel told Saul that God had chosen him to be king, and on the way home he would meet some prophets. Saul would then begin prophesying and God would give him the Holy Spirit to help him to know what to do. Samuel told everyone to come to Mizpah where he announced that God had chosen Saul to be their king. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holyspirit]]) + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Rhetorical questions + +This chapter uses rhetorical questions to express different ideas: to state a fact ("Has not Yahweh anointed you to be a ruler over his inheritance?"), to express surprise ("And who is their father?"), to say he is someone very special ("Do you see the man that Yahweh has chosen?"), and to express contempt ("How can this man save us?"). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-rquestion]]) + +#### Idioms + +Samuel frequently uses idioms when prophesying: "going to God" means "going to worship God"; "take it from their hands" means "accept their gift"; "rush upon you" means "control you"; "hand finds to do" means "what you think you should do"; "God is with you" means "God is directing you"; "another heart" means "a different way of thinking"; "came to pass" means "happened"; "before Yahweh" means "to do work for Yahweh"; and "hearts God had touched" means "God had made them want to help Saul." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-idiom]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 10:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../09/intro.md) | [>>](../11/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/11/intro.md b/1sa/11/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..b7f151d --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/11/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,23 @@ +# 1 Samuel 11 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +This chapter continues the story of King Saul by telling of his first victory in war. + +### Special concepts in this chapter +#### Saul rescues the people of Jabesh Gilead + +Nahash, king of the Ammonites, and his army surrounded the Israeli town of Jabesh Gilead. When the city's leaders asked for peace terms, Nahash demanded the right to poke out one eye of every man in order to show Israel their weakness. When Saul heard this, he called for all of Israel to help save this city. Many people came to help Saul's army. Israel was victorious and everyone wanted Saul as their king. At this time, Israel was not a truly unified country, even though it is often spoken of as one country. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-explicit]]) + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Idioms + +The idioms in this chapter explain the effect God has on his people: "rushed upon him" means "empowered him"; "terror ... fell" means "they became afraid"; "as one man" means "they all agreed"; and "put to death" means "kill." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-idiom]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 11:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../10/intro.md) | [>>](../12/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/12/intro.md b/1sa/12/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..2cefdd7 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/12/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,17 @@ +# 1 Samuel 12 General Notes + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### Samuel's farewell address +This chapter serves as a type of farewell address. This is a way for leaders to give instructions to their followers before they leave or die. Samuel first established his holiness before calling on the people to repent of their desire to have a king. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]]) + +### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter + +It is common in Scripture to use Israel's history to show how faithful God has been. This gives the readers evidence to trust in Yahweh in their current situation. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 12:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../11/intro.md) | [>>](../13/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/13/intro.md b/1sa/13/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..868b391 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/13/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,24 @@ +# 1 Samuel 13 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +This chapter is the beginning of a story about Jonathan's victory over the Philistines. + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### Preparation for the battle + +Saul sent most of his army home before Jonathan attacked and defeated a Philistine garrison. This attack made the Philistines very angry, and they brought a huge army into Israel and camped at the top of a hill. Most of Saul's army ran away in fear and hid from the Philistines. There are many aspects of this story that give the reader the impression that Israel was unprepared for battle. + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Hyperbole + +Wanting to express the vast number of enemy soldiers, the author uses a hyperbole: "as numerous as the sand on the seashore," meaning "too many to count." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-hyperbole]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 13:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../12/intro.md) | [>>](../14/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/14/intro.md b/1sa/14/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..86bf7a5 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/14/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,24 @@ +# 1 Samuel 14 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +This chapter completes the story of Jonathan's victory over the Philistines. + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### The battle against the Philistines + +Jonathan took his armor bearer to where the Philistines were on the top of the hill. He said God could use a few people just as easily as he could use many people to win his battles. He and his armor bearer started killing the Philistines, and suddenly the Philistines began fighting each other or running away. The rest of Israel, who had hidden, came and chased the Philistines. Even though Israel had a king, God was still in control of the nation of Israel. + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Special reference + +The people of Israel often used the term "uncircumcised" to refer to Gentiles. Here it is used to mean the Philistines. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/circumcise]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 14:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../13/intro.md) | [>>](../15/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/15/intro.md b/1sa/15/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c840695 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/15/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,25 @@ +# 1 Samuel 15 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +This is the end of the section on Saul and Samuel (8-15). + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### God wants total obedience +Samuel told Saul that God wanted him to completely destroy the Amalekite people and animals. Saul fought the Amalekites and killed all the people except the king. He destroyed the animals that were not very good but saved the best animals. Saul told Samuel he had obeyed God's command. Samuel asked him about the animals Saul had. Saul said he had saved them for a sacrifice to God. God said that obedience was better than sacrifice. Because Saul had disobeyed him, God had chosen someone else to become king. + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Idiom +"He has turned back from following me" is an idiom meaning "he has stopped obeying me." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-idiom]]) + +#### Rhetorical questions +When Saul insisted that he had obeyed God, Samuel rebuked him with these rhetorical questions: "What then is this bleating of sheep in my ears, and the lowing of the oxen that I hear?"; "Though you are little in your own sight, were you not made the head of the tribes of Israel?"; "Why then did you not obey the voice of Yahweh, but instead you seized the booty and did what was evil in the sight of Yahweh?"; and "Has Yahweh as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of Yahweh?" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-rquestion]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 15:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../14/intro.md) | [>>](../16/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/16/intro.md b/1sa/16/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..97eded9 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/16/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,23 @@ +# 1 Samuel 16 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +#### 1 Samuel 16-31 Saul and David +Chapter 16 establishes God's choice of David to be the next king. David receives the Holy Spirit to empower and guide him as the king. This chapter also records the Holy Spirit leaving Saul because of his disobedience. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holyspirit]]) + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### David chosen to be the next king +Humans judge others by what they look like, but God judges people by their true inner character. God rejected David's older brothers in favor of David, who truly loved and obeyed him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/love]]) + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Rhetorical Question +God scolds Samuel with this rhetorical question for his unwillingness to accept God's decision: "How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel?" It was wrong to mourn because it was God's punishment of Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-rquestion]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 16:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../15/intro.md) | [>>](../17/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/17/intro.md b/1sa/17/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..990e9b3 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/17/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,30 @@ +# 1 Samuel 17 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +This chapter introduced David as a soldier, a skill that will be important for the rest of his life. + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### David kills Goliath +Trust in God is more powerful than physical might or military training and equipment. David, trusting in the Lord and armed only with a sling, defeats Goliath who is well-armed and physically strong but who did not believe in Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]]) + +#### Uncircumcised + +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]]) + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Rhetorical questions +David uses rhetorical questions to state his desire to fight the giant: "What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the disgrace from Israel? Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-rquestion]]) + +His brother uses rhetorical questions to show his disdain for his younger brother, whom he thinks is pretending to be bigger than he really is: "Why did you come down here? With whom have you left those few sheep in the wilderness?" David defends himself with some questions: "What have I done now? Was it not just a question?" + +Goliath also uses a rhetorical question to show his contempt for young David: "Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?" + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 17:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../16/intro.md) | [>>](../18/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/18/intro.md b/1sa/18/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ecedb2d --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/18/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,22 @@ +# 1 Samuel 18 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +This is the first chapter of a section explaining why Saul wants to kill David. + +Some translations set poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to show that it is poetry. The ULB does this with the poetic song in 18:7. + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### Saul is jealous of David's popularity +Saul's son, Jonathan, loves David. David is successful in battling the Philistines, and Saul is happy until the women give David more attention than they give him. He fears that David will replace him as king. This is potentially confusing because the author has already established that David will be the next king. It is probably that Saul feared David would kill him in order to be the next king sooner, or that he did not really believe David would be the next king. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/love]]) + +#### Jonathan's love of David +Some scholars believe Jonathan loved David as a man loves his wife. There is no reason to translate this as if Jonathan were a homosexual. Instead, treat this as a brotherly type of love. + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 18:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../17/intro.md) | [>>](../19/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/19/intro.md b/1sa/19/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1db9937 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/19/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,13 @@ +# 1 Samuel 19 General Notes + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### God protects David +Jonathan persuades Saul not to kill David, but Saul again becomes jealous and orders his servants to bring David to him to be killed. God uses Michal to save David. David flees to Samuel and they begin prophesying. When Saul sends servants to capture David, they begin prophesying. This causes Saul to go himself and he begins to prophesy. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/jealous]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 19:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../18/intro.md) | [>>](../20/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/20/intro.md b/1sa/20/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..5ef5bb0 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/20/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ +# 1 Samuel 20 General Notes + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### Jonathan warns David +David tells Jonathan that Saul is still trying to kill him. Jonathan promises to find out if this is true. When David misses dinner two consecutive days, Saul asks about him. Jonathan says that David went home for an annual sacrifice. Saul gets angry at Jonathan, telling him he will never be king unless they kill David. Saul throws his spear at Jonathan. Jonathan warns David to run away, but first they both promise to always be friends. It was usually a king's son who became king after his death in the ancient Near East. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-explicit]]) + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Metaphor +David uses a powerful metaphor and an oath to impress Jonathan with the danger he is in: "But as truly as Yahweh lives, and as you live, there is but a step between me and death." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metaphor]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 20:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../19/intro.md) | [>>](../21/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/21/intro.md b/1sa/21/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..8c484e7 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/21/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,25 @@ +# 1 Samuel 21 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +Some translations set poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to show that it is poetry. The ULB does this with the poetic song in 21:11. + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### David and the chief priest +David visits the chief priest and lies to him about being on a special mission for the king. He asks for food, weapons, and prayer. The chief priest gives him some sacred bread and Goliath's sword and prays for him. + +#### David and the king of Gath +David flees to Gath. The advisers to the king tell him that David is almost the king of Israel. David becomes afraid of the king and pretends to be insane. + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Rhetorical questions +The king of Gath's advisers use two rhetorical questions to warn him about how dangerous David could be: "Is not this David the king of the land? Did they not sing to one another about him in dances, 'Saul has killed his thousands, and David his ten thousands?'" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-rquestion]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 21:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../20/intro.md) | [>>](../22/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/22/intro.md b/1sa/22/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..192eabb --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/22/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,20 @@ +# 1 Samuel 22 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +There are two stories in this chapter: David gathering a group of followers and Saul having all the priests and their families killed. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/priest]]) + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### David assembles a force of unhappy people +David hides in the wilderness, and people in trouble come to him. Soon he has a force of 500 men. The prophet then tells him to leave the wilderness. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]]) + +#### Saul and the chief priest's family +Doeg tells Saul that Ahimelech the priest gave David food and a sword and prayed for him. Saul accuses the priests of encouraging David to rebel. This is a serious accusation because the priests are God's representatives and are rebelling against God's king if the accusation is true. Saul has the priests and all their families killed except those who escape to David. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/highpriest]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 22:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../21/intro.md) | [>>](../23/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/23/intro.md b/1sa/23/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..a276b2f --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/23/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ +# 1 Samuel 23 General Notes + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### Saul chases David +Saul wants to kill David, but David trusts in God who keeps rescuing him. David rescues the town of Keilah from the Philistines who are stealing their harvest. Saul goes to Keilah to capture David, but David flees to the wilderness near Ziph. When David goes deeper into the wilderness, Saul follows but he has to leave to fight the Philistines who have invaded the land. Saul's pursuit of David shows that Saul cares more about killing his enemies than pleasing God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]]) + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Synecdoche +Jonathan strengthens David with a synecdoche: "For the hand of Saul my father will not find you." This helps to strengthen David's faith. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 23:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../22/intro.md) | [>>](../24/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/24/intro.md b/1sa/24/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f490a52 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/24/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,12 @@ +# 1 Samuel 24 General Notes + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +Even though Saul tries again and again to kill David, David does not avenge himself on Saul because God had chosen Saul as king. This is meant to contrast with Saul's treatment of David, the future king. Saul represents the king the people wanted, a selfish man. David is the king God wanted, a godly man. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/avenge]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/elect]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 24:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../23/intro.md) | [>>](../25/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/25/intro.md b/1sa/25/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f10b45e --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/25/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,15 @@ +# 1 Samuel 25 General Notes + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### Revenge +When David decides to kill all of the men in Nabal's household, Abigail convinces David not to avenge himself but to leave revenge to God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/avenge]]) + + + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 25:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../24/intro.md) | [>>](../26/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/26/intro.md b/1sa/26/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..42b7f7d --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/26/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,18 @@ +# 1 Samuel 26 General Notes + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### Vengeance +David has another opportunity to kill Saul but he refuses to kill the one God had chosen as king. This contrasts with Saul, who tried to find David and kill him. Saul came to admit that David was more righteous than he was because he did not kill his enemy. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/elect]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]]) + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Rhetorical question +David put his reason for not killing Saul in a rhetorical question: "Do not destroy him; for who can extend his hand against Yahweh's anointed one and be guiltless?" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-rquestion]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 26:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../25/intro.md) | [>>](../27/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/27/intro.md b/1sa/27/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d9df275 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/27/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,17 @@ +# 1 Samuel 27 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +This begins a section about David living with the Philistines. + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### David's move +David is afraid Saul will someday catch him and kill him, so he moves to the Philistine city of Gath. This is a type of exile David creates for himself out of fear. It is caused by his lack of trust in God. This is the same reason his descendants would come to be exiled. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]]) + +### Links: ###= + +* __[1 Samuel 27:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../26/intro.md) | [>>](../28/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/28/intro.md b/1sa/28/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..056a710 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/28/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,19 @@ +# 1 Samuel 28 General Notes + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### Talking to the dead + +Talking to the dead was against the law of Moses. God or the Holy Spirit left Saul because of his sin and would not help him. (See: [[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]]) + +### Important figures of speech in this chapter + +#### Rhetorical question +Samuel uses a rhetorical question to say it was useless to ask his advice since there was no way Saul could be successful with God against him: "What then do you ask me, since Yahweh has left you, and he has become your enemy?" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-rquestion]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 28:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../27/intro.md) | [>>](../29/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/29/intro.md b/1sa/29/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..251f662 --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/29/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,16 @@ +# 1 Samuel 29 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +Some translations set poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to show that it is poetry. The ULB does this with the poetic song in 29:5. + +### Other possible translation difficulties + +It is unclear whether David wanted to go into battle with the Philistines. He would have been fighting against Saul, but he also would have been fighting against Israel's soldiers. It is probably best to see that David is conflicted over this issue, but some scholars believe that David planned on turning against the Philistines in the battle. + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 29:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../28/intro.md) | [>>](../30/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/30/intro.md b/1sa/30/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d00bfed --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/30/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,13 @@ +# 1 Samuel 30 General Notes + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### David fights the Amalekites +When David and his men arrive home, they find the Amalekites have raided Ziklag and taken everything. They catch and destroy them and bring back all of their goods and families. Then David sends gifts to all the cities in Judah through which they had traveled. + +### Links: ###= + +* __[1 Samuel 30:01 Notes](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../29/intro.md) | [>>](../31/intro.md)__ + diff --git a/1sa/31/intro.md b/1sa/31/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..0f778bf --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/31/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,17 @@ +# 1 Samuel 31 General Notes + +### Structure and formatting + +This is the end of the section on Saul, but the book continues in 2 Samuel 1. + +### Special concepts in this chapter + +#### Saul's punishment +Saul receives his punishment from God: death for his disobedience and resisting the will of God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/willofgod]]) + +## Links: + +* __[1 Samuel 31:1](./01.md)__ + +__[<<](../30/intro.md) | __ + diff --git a/1sa/front/intro.md b/1sa/front/intro.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..71c7ace --- /dev/null +++ b/1sa/front/intro.md @@ -0,0 +1,62 @@ +# Introduction to 1 Samuel + +## Part 1: General Introduction + +### Outline of 1 Samuel + +1. Samuel as judge over Israel (1:1–7:17) + - Samuel as a child (1:1–3:21) + - Shiloh priesthood; the fall and death of Eli the priest (4:1–22) + - The ark of God and the war with the Philistines (5:1–6:21) + - Mizpah; Samuel's rule over Israel (7:1–17) +1. Saul and Samuel (8:1–15:35) + - Samuel lets the people seek a king (8:1–22) + - Saul anointed king (9:1–10:27) + - Battle and victory over the Ammonites (11:1–15) + - Samuel's farewell (12:1–25) + - Saul's weakness and failures (13:1–15:35) +1. David and his conflicts with Saul (16:1–31:13) + - God's choice of David to be king (16:1–23) + - David fights Goliath (17:1–58) + - Saul's jealousy of David; David and Jonathan (18:1–20:42) + - David in the wilderness; David in Philistia (21:1–30:31) + - Death of Saul (31:1–13) + +### What is the Book of 1 Samuel about? + +The Book of 1 Samuel is about Samuel, Saul, and David. Samuel was the last of the judges over Israel. Saul was the first king of Israel. Much of the book is about how Saul became king, then how he later sinned against God and died. God chose David to be king after Saul. This book shows how God protected David when Saul tried to kill him. + +### How should the title of this book be translated? + +Translators can use the traditional title "1 Samuel" or "First Samuel." Or, translators may consider a clearer title such as "The First Book About Samuel, Saul, and David." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/translate-names]]) + +### What is the purpose of the Book of 1 Samuel? + +The purpose of 1 Samuel is to give an account of the events leading up to David becoming king of Israel. In 1 Samuel, the twelve tribes of Israel unite under the first king of Israel, Saul. But Saul does not obey Yahweh's commands. So God uses Samuel to choose David as a king who will trust and obey Yahweh. + +### Who wrote the Book of 1 Samuel? + +It is uncertain who wrote 1 Samuel. It may have been someone alive soon after King Solomon died. When Solomon died, the kingdom of Israel split into two kingdoms. The author probably lived in the southern kingdom of Judah. A descendant of David continued to rule over the southern kingdom. The author may have written 1 Samuel to defend David's right to be king. This would prove that David's descendant was the rightful king of God's people. + +## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts + +### Who is "Yahweh's anointed"? + +The writer of 1 Samuel often speaks of "Yahweh's anointed." This refers to the one whom Yahweh chose to be the king of his people. Also, the phrase "Yahweh's anointed" would make later readers think about the future descendant of David who would become king of God's people. This person who Yahweh chose would be known as the Messiah. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/anoint]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/peopleofgod]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/christ]]) + +## Part 3: Important Translation Issues + +### What are curses, as found in 1 Samuel and elsewhere? + +A curse is a strong statement a person makes to cause bad things to happen to the person or thing being cursed. A curse usually has this pattern: "May God do so to you, and even more, if you hide anything from me of all the words that he spoke to you" (1 Sam. 3:17). Other instances of curses in 1 and 2 Samuel are found in 1 Sam 14:44; 20:13; 25:22; 2 Sam 3:9, 35; and 19:13. The translator should represent a curse in the project language in as strong a way as possible. + +### How is the name "Israel" used in the Bible? + +The name "Israel" is used in many different ways in the Bible. Jacob was the son of Isaac. God changed his name to Israel. The descendants of Jacob became a nation also called Israel. Eventually, the nation of Israel split into two kingdoms. The northern kingdom was named Israel. The southern kingdom was named Judah. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/israel]]) + +The Book of 1 Samuel has two references to Israel and Judah ([1 Samuel 17:52](../17/52.md), [1 Samuel 18:16](../18/16.md)). However, these references appear in the text long before the two kingdoms split apart. It seems clear that the references to Israel and Judah are in the text because the author wrote at a time after the kingdoms split. He wanted the readers to understand that all the twelve tribes had supported David. + +### What is the meaning of the phrase "to this day"? + +This phrase was used by the narrator to refer to the time when he was writing. The translator should be aware that "to this day" refers to a time already passed. He must avoid giving the impression that the present day of the translation's readers is meant. The translator might decide to say, "to this day, at the time when this is being written" or "to this day, at the time of writing." This phrase occurs in 1 Samuel 5:5; 6:18: 27:6; 30:25. + diff --git a/rut/01/intro.md b/rut/01/intro.md deleted file mode 100644 index 7523366..0000000 --- a/rut/01/intro.md +++ /dev/null @@ -1,24 +0,0 @@ -# Ruth 01 General Notes - -### Structure and formatting - -#### "It happened in the days when the judges ruled" -The events of this book occur during the period of Judges. The book is concurrent with the book of Judges. To understand the historical context of the book, the translator may wish to review the book of Judges. - -### Special concepts in this chapter - -#### Women without a husband or children -In the ancient Near East, if a woman lacked a husband or sons, she was considered to be in a dire circumstance. She would not have been able to provide for herself. This is why Naomi told her daughters to remarry. - -### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter - -#### Contrast -The actions of Ruth the Moabite are intended to contrast with the actions of Naomi the Jew. Ruth shows great faith in Naomi's god, while Naomi does not trust in Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]]) - -## Links: - -* __[Ruth 01:01 Notes](./01.md)__ -* __[Ruth intro](../front/intro.md)__ - -__| [>>](../02/intro.md)__ - diff --git a/rut/02/intro.md b/rut/02/intro.md deleted file mode 100644 index 216ef94..0000000 --- a/rut/02/intro.md +++ /dev/null @@ -1,13 +0,0 @@ -# Ruth 02 General Notes - -### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter - -#### "Do not go and glean in another field" -Boaz said this because he could not guarantee their safety in another person's field. It is assumed that not everyone was as gracious and obedient to the law of Moses as Boaz. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-explicit]]) - -## Links: - -* __[Ruth 02:01 Notes](./01.md)__ - -__[<<](../01/intro.md) | [>>](../03/intro.md)__ - diff --git a/rut/03/intro.md b/rut/03/intro.md deleted file mode 100644 index 8f23dff..0000000 --- a/rut/03/intro.md +++ /dev/null @@ -1,18 +0,0 @@ -# Ruth 03 General Notes - -### Special concepts in this chapter - -#### Boaz's integrity -Boaz showed great integrity in this chapter by not having sexual relations with Ruth. He was also concerned with how people would see Ruth if they caught her in this position. Boaz's character is important for this story. - -### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter - -#### "So that things may go well for you" -Naomi attempted to make Ruth desirable to Boaz so that he would want to marry her. Even though she was a Gentile by birth, Boaz could marry her because she was, by marriage, Naomi's daughter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-explicit]]) - -## Links: - -* __[Ruth 03:01 Notes](./01.md)__ - -__[<<](../02/intro.md) | [>>](../04/intro.md)__ - diff --git a/rut/04/intro.md b/rut/04/intro.md deleted file mode 100644 index 24d8427..0000000 --- a/rut/04/intro.md +++ /dev/null @@ -1,20 +0,0 @@ -# Ruth 04 General Notes - -### Special concepts in this chapter - -#### King David -Despite being a Moabitess, Ruth became an ancestor of David. David was Israel's greatest king. It is shocking a Gentile would become a part of such an important lineage. She had great faith in Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]]) - -### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter - -#### "You must also take Ruth the Moabitess" -Because Naomi had no son, her daughter-in-law Ruth needed to be provided for. Therefore, the relative who wanted to use her land had to also help Ruth to have a son who would come to provide for her. - -#### "This was the custom in former times" -This is a comment made by the writer of the text. He functions as a narrator in this instance. It indicates that there was a considerable period of time between the events that occurred and the time they were written down. -## Links: - -* __[Ruth 04:01 Notes](./01.md)__ - -__[<<](../03/intro.md) | __ - diff --git a/rut/front/intro.md b/rut/front/intro.md deleted file mode 100644 index 91977d5..0000000 --- a/rut/front/intro.md +++ /dev/null @@ -1,60 +0,0 @@ -# Introduction to Ruth - -## Part 1: General Introduction - -### Outline of Ruth - -1. How Ruth came to Bethlehem with Naomi (1:1–22) -1. Boaz helps Ruth as she gleans (2:1–23) -1. Boaz and Ruth at the threshing floor (3:1–18) -1. How Ruth became the wife of Boaz (4:1–16) -1. Obed born to Ruth and Boaz; the genealogy of David (4:13–22) - -### What is the Book of Ruth about? - -This book is about a non-Israelite woman named Ruth. It tells how she came to join the people of Yahweh. The book also explains how Ruth became an ancestor of King David. - -### How should the title of this book be translated? - -This book traditionally has the title "Ruth" because she is the main person in it. Translators can use a title such as "The Book about Ruth." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/translate-names]]) - -### When did the events in the Book of Ruth occur? - -The story of Ruth is set during the time when there were "judges" in Israel. These were men and women whom God chose to help the Israelites defeat their enemies. These leaders usually continued to help the people by deciding disputes among them. They also helped them make important decisions. Many of these leaders served all the people of Israel, but some of them may have served only certain tribes. - -## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts - -### Why does Scripture include a book about a woman from the foreign land of Moab? - -In a period when Israel was often unfaithful to Yahweh, a woman from Moab shows great faith in him. The Israelites' frequent lack of faith in Yahweh is contrasted with the faith of this woman from a foreign land. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]]) - -### What important marriage custom is found in the Book of Ruth? - -Israelites practiced what is called "levirate marriage." This was a custom for the closest male relative to provide for a childless widow by marrying her. Any children born to them were to be regarded as children of the dead man. They did this so that the dead man would still have descendants. If the closest relative did not marry the woman, another relative could. - -### What was a "kinsman-redeemer"? - -A person's close relative or relatives were expected to act as "kinsmen-redeemers" (2:20 ULB) for him or her. They were responsible to provide for a relative in need. They were also responsible to practice "levirate marriage." In the Book of Ruth, Boaz is one such kinsman-redeemer. - -### What was "gleaning" in the Book of Ruth? - -Poor people were allowed to follow after the men who harvested a field. These "gleaners" picked up sheaves of grain that the harvesters missed or dropped. In this way, poor people were able to find some food. Ruth became a gleaner in a field belonging to Boaz. - -### What is covenant faithfulness or covenant loyalty? - -A covenant is a formal, binding agreement between two parties that one or both parties must fulfill. Covenant faithfulness or covenant loyalty is when a person does what they said they would do, according to a covenant they had with someone else. God promised that he would love and be faithful to the Israelites. The Israelites were to do the same toward him and toward each other. - -The Book of Ruth shows that what kinsmen-redeemers do for their relatives are part of Israel's duties in God's covenant with them. The story of Boaz, Ruth and Naomi gives good examples to all of Israel of the good effects of covenant faithfulness. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenantfaith]]) - -### What function did city gates have in the ancient Near East? - -City gates in the time of Boaz were natural meeting places for the city elders. Elders were honored men who decided business matters and legal matters together. The city walls were large, perhaps two to three meters in width. Therefore the gateway opening provided a shady area for public meetings. For this reason, Boaz and the other elders sat in the gateway. - -Some English Bible versions speak of Boaz sitting "at" the city gate. It may be best for translators to make clear that Boaz sat "in" the city gateway. - -## Part 3: Important Translation Issues - -### How does the Book of Ruth change from one topic to another topic? - -The Book of Ruth often changes to new topics or new parts of the story. The ULB uses various words to indicate these changes, such as "so," "then," and "now." Translators should use the ways most natural in their own languages to signal these changes. -