2SA front intro bs9v 0 # Introduction to 2 Samuel<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of 2 Samuel<br><br>1. The first years of David’s reign (1:1–7:29)<br> * Saul is killed; David is kind to Ishbosheth (1:1–4:12)<br> * David defeats the Philistines (5:1–25)<br> * Victories, the ark, the house of God (6:1–7:29)<br>1. David extends his rule to all the Promised Land (8:1–10:19)<br>1. David’s sin with Bathsheba (11:1–12:31)<br>1. Amnon and Tamar; Absalom kills Amnon (13:1–14:33)<br>1. The later years of David’s reign (15:1–24:25)<br> * Absalom rebels and is killed (15:1–18:33)<br> * David’s kingdom restored (19:1–20:26)<br> * Famine and warfare (21:1–14)<br> * David’s song of praise (22:1–23:7)<br> * David’s mighty men (23:8–39)<br> * Yahweh judges David’s sin of numbering the people; the plague stopped (24:1–25)<br><br>### What is the Book of 2 Samuel about?<br><br>This book is about David ruling as king over Israel. He first ruled over the tribe of Judah for seven years. Then the other eleven tribes agreed to have him become their king. He ruled over all Israel for thirty-three years.<br><br>Throughout this time, David led his army to fight foreign enemies who attacked Israel. However, he struggled the most against someone in his own family. Absalom, his son, rebelled and fought against him ([2 Samuel 13-19](../13/01.md)).<br><br>The Book of 2 Samuel also tells about when David sinned greatly. He slept with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah the Hittite. When she became pregnant, David arranged for Uriah to be killed in battle. David and all Israel suffered much because of David’s sin. However, the writer also tells of Yahweh repeatedly showing David grace and love after David repented of his sin.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators can use the traditional title “2 Samuel,” or “Second Samuel.” Or translators may consider a clearer title such as “The Second Book about Samuel, Saul, and David.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>### What was the purpose of the Book of 2 Samuel?<br><br>The Book of 2 Samuel begins where 1 Samuel ended. The writer continues to show how the tribes of Israel unite under the first kings of Israel. The Book of 2 Samuel centers around David as the king Yahweh chose to lead Israel.<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of 2 Samuel?<br><br>It is uncertain who wrote 2 Samuel. It may have been someone alive soon after King Solomon died. When Solomon died, the kingdom of Israel split into two kingdoms. The author probably lived in the southern kingdom of Judah. A descendant of David continued to rule over the southern kingdom. The author may have written 2 Samuel to defend 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>### What covenant had its beginning in the Book of 2 Samuel?<br><br>In 2 Samuel 7, Yahweh made a covenant with David. God promised to make a descendant of David rule forever over Israel. Christians believe that Jesus Christ fulfills this covenant. Jesus was a descendant of David. Jesus is the true “anointed one,” the person God chose to be king forever. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]])<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### Why does the book refer to someone being addressed indirectly?<br><br>David frequently refers to himself as “your servant” when he speaks to King Saul. He also calls Saul “my master.” Indirectly addressing a person in this way can be difficult to translate. It is intended to show that the speaker submits to the one being addressed. English sometimes uses the address “sir” or “ma’am” in this way.<br><br>### Can I translate this book before 1 Samuel?<br><br>The Book of 1 Samuel should be translated before 2 Samuel, since 2 Samuel continues from where 1 Samuel ends.<br><br>### How is the name “Israel” used in the Bible?<br><br>The n
2SA 1 intro la44 0 # 2 Samuel 1 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 1:19-27.<br><br>This chapter continues the material from 1 Samuel.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### David’s funeral song<br>David praised Saul and Jonathan as great warriors and Jonathan as his dearest friend.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Synecdoche<br>David used two figures of speech to express that Jonathan and Saul were great warriors: “the bow of Jonathan did not turn back, and the sword of Saul did not return empty.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 1 2 vci9 translate-ordinal 0 On the third day “After three days” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-ordinal]])
2SA 1 2 v6vv translate-symaction 0 with his clothes torn and with dirt on his head In this culture, tearing one’s own clothes and putting dirt on one’s head was an act of mourning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 1 2 js3t translate-symaction 0 he lay facedown on the ground and prostrated himself This was an act of showing submission to David, who was now the king of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 1 6 g386 figs-euphemism 0 Saul was leaning on his spear This could mean: (1) Saul was weak and using the spear to support himself or (2) Saul was attempting to kill himself by falling on his own spear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 1 8 x88n figs-quotations 0 He said to me, ‘Who are you?’ I answered him, ‘I am an Amalekite.’ These direct quotations could be stated as indirect speech. Alternate translation: “He asked me who I was, and I told him that I am an Amalekite” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
2SA 1 9 t8ly figs-personification 0 great suffering has taken hold of me Saul’s suffering is spoken of as something terrible that has grabbed hold of him. Alternate translation: “I am suffering terribly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2SA 1 9 he7b figs-idiom 0 life is still in me This idiom means he is still alive. Alternate translation: “I am still alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 1 11 lzf2 translate-symaction 0 David tore his clothes … the men with him did the same David and his men tore their clothes as a sign of mourning for the death of King Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 1 12 j5yt figs-parallelism 0 for the people of Yahweh, and for the house of Israel Both statements mean basically same thing. The word “house” is a metonym that represents the descendants of Israel. But, both “people” and “house” probably are a synecdoche representing the soldiers of Israel. Alternate translation: “for the Israelite soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 1 12 v2al 0 Yahweh This is the name of God that he revealed to his people in the Old Testament. See the translationWord page about Yahweh concerning how to translate this.
2SA 1 12 h78c figs-euphemism 0 they had fallen by the sword Here “fallen” is a polite way of referring to being killed. Also, “sword” represents a battle. This here means “had been killed.” Alternate translation: “they had died in battle” or “enemies had killed them in battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 1 13 tje8 0 Where are you from? The man had already stated that he is an Amalekite in [2 Samuel 1:8](../01/08.md). David apparently asks the man to confirm this because of the serious judgment that David was going to pronounce on the man.
2SA 1 14 f3mp figs-rquestion 0 Why were you not afraid to kill Yahweh’s anointed … hand? This rhetorical question is used to rebuke the man. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should have feared Yahweh and not killed his anointed … hand!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 1 14 gdq9 0 Yahweh’s anointed king This refers to Saul.
2SA 1 14 llc8 figs-metonymy 0 with your own hand This phrase refers to doing something yourself. Alternate translation: “yourself” or “personally” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 1 15 k3ww figs-idiom 0 struck him down This idiom means “killed him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 1 16 sv2e figs-metonymy 0 Your blood is on your head Here “blood” is a metonym that implies “shed blood” and is associated with death. Here “your head” is a synecdoche referring to the man and means that he is responsible. Alternate translation: “You are responsible for your own death” or “You have caused your own death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 1 16 e596 figs-synecdoche 0 your own mouth has testified against you Here “your own mouth” refers to the man himself. Alternate translation: “you have testified against yourself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 1 17 k1zm 0 General Information: David sings a song of mourning for Saul and Jonathan.
2SA 1 18 xw5d 0 Song of the Bow This was the title of the song.
2SA 1 18 rz25 writing-background 0 which has been written in the Book of Jashar This is background information added to tell the reader what happened to the song in the future. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
2SA 1 18 h5m5 translate-names 0 the Book of Jashar The word “Jashar” means “upright.” Alternate translation: “the Book of the Upright” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 1 19 bch8 figs-metonymy 0 Your glory, Israel, is dead “Your glory” refers to Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 1 19 luf3 figs-metonymy 0 the mighty The phrase “the mighty” refers to both Saul and Jonathan. This nominal adjective is plural, and can be stated as “the mighty ones.”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
2SA 1 19 v53l figs-euphemism 0 have fallen The word “fallen” here means “died.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 1 20 as79 figs-parallelism 0 Do not tell it in Gath … do not proclaim it in the streets of Ashkelon These two phrases mean the same thing and are repeated as part of the poetry of the song. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 1 20 new3 0 Gath … Ashkelon Gath and Ashkelon are two of the Philistines’ major cities. The Philistines killed Saul and Jonathan.
2SA 1 20 m8lh figs-parallelism 0 so that the daughters of the Philistines may not rejoice … so that the daughters of the uncircumcised may not celebrate These two phrases mean the same thing and are repeated as part of the poetry of the song. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 1 20 kk6n figs-metonymy 0 the daughters of the uncircumcised This phrase refers to people who do not follow Yahweh, such as the Philistines. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 1 21 yma7 figs-apostrophe 0 Mountains of Gilboa David speaks directly to the “Mountains of Gilboa” as if they were listening to his song. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
2SA 1 21 k9a4 0 let there not be dew or rain on you David curses the ground where King Saul died in the battle. This was out of reverence for Saul, who was God’s anointed king.
2SA 1 21 nbh3 figs-metonymy 0 the shield of the mighty was defiled The “mighty” here refers to Saul. The shield was defiled because it fell on the ground, and because the king’s blood was shed on it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 1 21 bh3a 0 The shield of Saul is no longer anointed with oil Saul’s shield was made of leather. To care for the shield, it was rubbed with oil. Alternate translation: “No one will care for Saul’s shield anymore”
2SA 1 22 i5nk figs-parallelism 0 From the blood of those who have been killed, from the bodies of the mighty, the bow of Jonathan did not turn back, and the sword of Saul did not return empty Saul and Jonathan are shown here to have been fierce and valiant warriors. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 1 22 px2s figs-personification 0 the sword of Saul did not return empty Saul’s sword is spoken of as if it were a living thing that could return on its own. Rather than return empty, it was carrying the blood of Saul’s enemies that it killed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
2SA 1 23 zvc3 0 in their death they were not separated The phrase “were not separated” is used to emphasize that they were always together. Alternate translation: “even in death they were together”
2SA 1 23 k29g figs-metaphor 0 They were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions. Saul and Jonathan were spoken of as if they were faster than eagles and stronger than lions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 1 24 b7wi figs-parallelism 0 who clothed you in scarlet as well as jewels, and who put ornaments of gold on your clothing “who provided you nice clothes and jewelry.” These two phrases share similar meanings that describe providing the women with expensive, attractive clothing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 1 25 lw46 0 How the mighty have fallen in the midst of the battle This phrase is repeated in verse 27 to emphasize that Israel’s best warriors are dead. Alternate translation: “The mighty men have died in battle”
2SA 1 25 s578 figs-nominaladj 0 the mighty Here “mighty” is plural and may refer to only Saul and Jonathan, or to all of the soldiers of Israel. Alternate translation: “the mighty warriors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
2SA 1 25 ap6l figs-euphemism 0 have fallen This is a polite way to say “have died.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 1 25 l3rx figs-activepassive 0 Jonathan is 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: “Jonathan has died in battle” or “The enemy has killed Jonathan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 1 25 i3z2 figs-apostrophe 0 on your high places David continues to address this part of the song to the mountains of Gilboa as he started in [2 Samuel 1:21](../01/21.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
2SA 1 26 eg6m 0 my brother Jonathan Here “brother” is used in the sense of a very close friend.
2SA 1 26 l4ln 0 Your love to me was wonderful, exceeding the love of women Here “love” is used in the sense of friendship and loyalty. Jonathan’s loyalty to David was even greater than the loyalty a woman has for her husband and children.
2SA 2 intro k322 0 # 2 Samuel 2 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter begins the story of the civil war between Saul’s son and David.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Civil war<br>There was a civil war in Israel. David was made king of Judah and Saul’s uncle (Abner) made Saul’s son (Ishbosheth) king of the rest of Israel. When they fought each other, Abner killed Joab’s brother, but David’s army was victorious.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical question<br>Abner finally stopped the battle with a rhetorical question to David’s army. “Must the sword devour forever?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 2 1 ncw1 0 go up to one of the cities of Judah At this time David was in the city of Ziklag. David used the phrase “go up” because Ziklag was lower in elevation than Judah. Alternate translation: “travel to one of the cities of Judah”
2SA 2 2 x7ln 0 David went up with his two wives At this time David was in the city of Ziklag. The narrator uses the phrase “went up” because Ziklag was lower in elevation than Hebron. Alternate translation: “David traveled to Hebron with his two wives”
2SA 2 4 jw8k translate-symaction 0 anointed David king In this symbolic act, they poured oil on David’s head to show that he was selected to be the king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 2 4 gc4b 0 the house of Judah Here “house” is used in the sense of “tribe.” Alternate translation: “the tribe of Judah”
2SA 2 7 ss4u figs-synecdoche 0 let your hands be strong Here “hands” refers to the people of Jabesh Gilead. Alternate translation: “be strong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 2 7 c3td translate-symaction 0 anointed me king In this symbolic act, they poured oil on David’s head to show that he was selected to be the king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 2 10 fb37 figs-idiom 0 the house of Judah followed David Obeying David’s rule is spoken of as “following” him. Alternate translation: “the tribe of Judah obeyed David as their king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 2 10 kz8s 0 house of Judah Here “house” is used to mean “tribe.”
2SA 2 16 ni8p figs-euphemism 0 they fell down together This is a polite way of saying they died. Alternate translation: “they both died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 2 16 x416 translate-names 0 Helkath Hazzurim This is a name given to remind people what happened there. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 2 17 gm4c figs-explicit 0 The battle was very severe that day It may be helpful to explicitly state that this was the large battle that followed the contest of the young men. Alternate translation: “Then the others started to fight also. It was a very fierce battle that day” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 2 18 n11n figs-simile 0 Asahel was swift in his feet like a wild gazelle Here Asahel is compared to a gazelle, an animal that runs very fast. Alternate translation: “Asahel could run very fast” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 2 19 j8wb 0 followed him without turning away in any direction Here “without turning away” is stated in negative form to emphasize how closely he followed Abner’s path. Alternate translation: “followed him wherever he went”
2SA 2 21 ck9f figs-euphemism 0 seize one of the young men and take his armor Abner was asking Asahel to kill and plunder another younger soldier who would not be as dangerous as Abner. He did not want to kill Asahel. Alternate translation: “fight with another soldier and take his equipment as plunder” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 2 22 mpv8 figs-rquestion 0 Why should I strike you to the ground? This rhetorical question is used to warn Asahel of the danger he faced. “Strike to the ground” is a polite way of saying “to kill.” Alternate translation: “I do not wish to kill you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 2 22 k44v figs-rquestion 0 How then could I hold up my face to Joab, your brother? This rhetorical question emphasizes that Abner does not want to fight and kill Asahel because it would destroy Abner’s relationship with Joab. Here “hold up my face to Joab” is an idiom that means that he would be too ashamed to look at Joab. Alternate translation: “I would be too ashamed to look at your brother, Joab” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 2 23 y5pa 0 turn aside This means to “halt” or “stop chasing.”
2SA 2 23 eb53 figs-explicit 0 the blunt end of his spear This refers to the handle, which is not sharp or designed to pierce anything. It can be implied that Abner was only trying to stop Asahel from following him, and did not intend to kill him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 2 24 dk79 translate-names 0 Abishai This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 2 26 bju9 figs-rquestion 0 Must the sword devour forever? This rhetorical question emphasizes that the battle had already continued too long. Here “sword” refers to the fighting. The killing in the battle is spoken of as if a wild animal was eating the soldiers. Alternate translation: “We do not need to keep using our swords to fight and kill each other.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 2 26 ukm3 figs-rquestion 0 Do you not know it will be bitter in the end? This rhetorical question is used to force Joab to acknowledge that continued fighting could only result in more suffering. Here “bitter” is a euphemism for the terrible suffering that would occur. Alternate translation: “You know very well that there will be a terrible result if this continues!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 2 26 e6un figs-rquestion 0 How long will it be before you tell your men to stop pursuing their brothers? This rhetorical question is intended to convince Joab to stop fighting their fellow Israelites. Here “brother” is used to represent the members of the nation of Israel. Alternate translation: “Stop this now so that Israelites will not have to kill each other!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 2 27 yh65 0 Just as God lives This is a very strong vow. Alternate translation: “With God as my witness” or “God will affirm that I mean what I say”
2SA 2 27 gze5 figs-hypo 0 if you had not said that … pursued their brothers until the morning This hypothetical statement tells what might have happened if Abner had not spoken wisely to Joab. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
2SA 2 28 qt3n figs-explicit 0 blew the trumpet Trumpets were used to signal orders to the armies across great distances. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 2 28 zk88 figs-synecdoche 0 did not pursue Israel Here “Israel” refers to the Israelite soldiers. Alternate translation: “did not continue to chase the Israelite soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 3 intro ka39 0 # 2 Samuel 3 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter records the first attempt to end the civil war.<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 3:33-34.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>David never wanted to hurt Saul’s family. Isbosheth criticized Abner and Abner became angry. He decided to help David become king of all of Israel. Abner came and made a treaty with David. As he left, Joab arrived and told him he wanted to talk to him and he murdered Abner. David was very unhappy that Abner had been killed.
2SA 3 1 sq7q writing-background 0 Now This word is used here to mark a break in the main story line. Here Samuel gives information about the war between David and the supporters of Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
2SA 3 1 lag1 figs-metaphor 0 grew stronger and stronger This metaphor means the number of people supporting David increased. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 3 1 dju3 figs-metaphor 0 grew weaker and weaker This metaphor means the number of people supporting Saul’s family decreased. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 3 2 w7d8 figs-activepassive 0 Sons were born 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: “David’s wives gave birth to six sons” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 3 3 j96y translate-numbers 0 second son … third These two sons were born after the “firstborn” (verse 2). This is the numerical order of David’s sons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2SA 3 3 hxl2 translate-names 0 Abigail … Maacah These are women’s names. They are the wives of David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 3 3 hy1j translate-names 0 Kileab … Nabal … Talmai These are men’s names. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 3 4 m8yp translate-numbers 0 fourth son … fifth son This is the numerical order of David’s sons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2SA 3 4 d5td translate-names 0 Adonijah … Shephatiah These are the names of David’s sons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 3 4 ai9y translate-names 0 Haggith … Abital These are names of David’s wives. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 3 5 nky8 translate-numbers 0 the sixth This is the numerical order of David’s sons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2SA 3 5 n4tz translate-names 0 Ithream This is the name of one of David’s sons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 3 5 ujk6 translate-names 0 Eglah This is the name of one of David’s wives. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 3 6 vrd9 writing-newevent 0 It came about This introduces a new event in the story of the struggle between David’s supporters and Saul’s family. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
2SA 3 6 n8iu 0 house of Saul This refers to Saul’s family and supporters who assumed control of his estate after he died.
2SA 3 6 ahk2 figs-metaphor 0 Abner made himself strong in the house of Saul Abner’s increasing power over Saul’s family is spoken of as if he became physically stronger. Alternate translation: “Abner gained more power over the family and supporters of Saul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 3 7 y6er figs-rquestion 0 Why have you gone in to my father’s concubine? Ishbosheth asked this question to rebuke Abner who was acting like he was the king. Alternate translation: “You did not have the right to go in to father’s concubine!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 3 7 x31p figs-euphemism 0 gone in to This is a euphemism for sexual relations. Alternate translation: “had sexual relations with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 3 8 jcd6 figs-rquestion 0 Am I a dog’s head that belongs to Judah? This question is used by Abner as an angry denial of Ishbosheth’s accusation. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “I am not a traitor working for David!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 3 8 rjr7 figs-metaphor 0 Am I a dog’s head that belongs to Judah? Abner speaks of himself as the head of a dog, which the Israelites considered to be loyal to anyone who fed them. Here “belongs to Judah” implies that Abner’s loyalty is to Judah, to which David belonged, and not to Saul’s house. Alternate translation: “Am I a traitor for Judah?” or “I am not a traitor working for David!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 3 8 jb39 figs-metonymy 0 into the hand of David Here “hand” represents the power to defeat. Alternate translation: “to be defeated by David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 3 8 lub9 figs-rquestion 0 But now you accuse me of an offense concerning this woman? Abner asks this question to rebuke Ishbosheth. It is unclear if Abner actually slept with Rizpah, or if he was falsely accused. This could mean: (1) Abner was guilty. Alternate translation: “You should not be upset that I slept with this woman!” or (2) Abner was not guilty. Alternate translation: “You should not think that I have slept with this woman!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 3 9 a45s 0 May God do so to me … and more also, if I do not This is the form of a solemn vow in that time. Abner is asking God to judge him severely if he does not keep his vow. Your language may have a way of expressing vows. Alternate translation: “I am asking God to punish me if I do not”
2SA 3 10 h7qr 0 the house of Saul Here “house” refers to Saul’s family and supporters who survived Saul’s death. Alternate translation: “the family and supporters of Saul”
2SA 3 12 y24c translate-textvariants 0 to David Some versions add “when he was at Hebron” and others do not. You may want to add the phrase if it is present in your national version. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
2SA 3 12 alc7 figs-rquestion 0 Whose land is this? The original text of this question is not clear. This could mean: (1) Abner had the power to give the land to David. Alternate translation: “This land is mine!” or (2) David is chosen by God to rule the land: Alternate translation: “This land rightfully belongs to you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 3 12 mm4s figs-metonymy 0 my hand is with you Here “hand” represents Abner’s assistance that he is offering to David. Alternate translation: “I will assist you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 3 13 r77z figs-synecdoche 0 you cannot see my face unless you first bring Michal David is stating the condition under which he will meet Abner. Here “face” refers to David himself. Alternate translation: “you cannot see me unless you bring Michal to me first” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 3 13 mks3 translate-names 0 Michal This is the name of a daughter of Saul. She was David’s first wife. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 3 14 x49c translate-numbers 0 one hundred Philistine foreskins This represents the number of men David killed so that Saul would allow him to marry Michal. These men are represented here by their “foreskins.” The “foreskin” is the fold of skin that covers the male reproductive organ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 3 15 ch63 figs-explicit 0 took her from her husband Paltiel was Michal’s second husband. Saul gave her to him after David fled from Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 3 18 iac5 figs-metonymy 0 By the hand of my servant David Here “hand” refers to David’s power to defeat the Philistines. Alternate translation: “I will empower my servant David and” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 3 18 c3te figs-metonymy 0 the hand of the Philistines Here “hand” refers to power over Israel. Alternate translation: “the power of the Philistines” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 3 18 d2l2 figs-metonymy 0 the hand of all their enemies Here “hand” refers to power over Israel. Alternate translation: “the power of all of their enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 3 19 qv92 figs-metonymy 0 the people of Benjamin … the whole house of Benjamin Both of these statements refer to the descendants of Benjamin, who were one of the tribes of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 3 23 d2r8 translate-names 0 Ner This is a man’s name. He is the grandfather of Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 3 24 nzs6 figs-rquestion 0 What have you done? Joab asks this question to rebuke David for letting Abner go in peace. Alternate translation: “You should not have done this!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 3 24 ia9h figs-rquestion 0 Why have you sent him away, and he is gone? Joab asks this question to rebuke David for letting Abner escape. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Abner was here and you let him leave!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 3 25 c3xz figs-rquestion 0 Do you not know … everything you are doing? Joab asks this question to convince David that Abner is plotting against David. Alternate translation: “Surely you know … everything you are doing.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 3 26 v16b translate-names 0 well of Sirah “Sirah” is the name of a place where the well was located. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 3 27 w3m9 0 the middle of the gate This refers to one of the gates in the city wall at Hebron. As the UST implies, city gates were constructed as part of buildings set into the city walls. Inside the passageway were doors leading to side rooms, where guests could be received and business and judicial proceedings could be conducted. It was probably in one of these rooms that Joab murdered Abner.
2SA 3 27 us2y figs-metonymy 0 the blood of Asahel Here “blood” is associated with the death of Asahel. Alternate translation: “the death of Asahel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 3 28 esw1 figs-metonymy 0 the blood of Abner Here “blood” refers to violent death. See how you translated a similar phrase in [2 Samuel 3:27](../03/27.md). Alternate translation: “the death of Abner” or “the murder of Abner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 3 29 h3l1 figs-metaphor 0 fall on the head of Joab and on all his father’s house This phrase means the results of the guilt will happen to Joab and his family as if something heavy had collapsed on them. Alternate translation: “always cause suffering for Joab and for all his father’s house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 3 29 vz8z figs-metonymy 0 all his father’s house Here “house” refers to descendants. Alternate translation: “all the descendants of Joab’s father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 3 29 l3jd figs-metonymy 0 May there never fail to be This double negative emphasizes that there will always be someone with the problems listed. Alternate translation: “May there always be” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 3 29 lvn8 figs-metonymy 0 is killed by the sword Here “sword” refers to violent death. Alternate translation: “dies violently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 3 31 g9pr translate-symaction 0 Tear your clothes, put on sackcloth These were symbolic actions to demonstrate their grief and sadness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 3 32 d6g4 figs-doublet 0 The king wept and cried loudly The words “wept” and “cried loudly” mean basically the same thing and emphasize how much David mourned for Abner. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2SA 3 33 aq3l figs-rquestion 0 Should Abner die as a fool dies? This rhetorical question is used to emphasize that his death was not fair. Alternate translation: “Abner should not have died in disgrace!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 3 34 b11c figs-parallelism 0 Your hands were not bound. Your feet were not shackled These two sentences express similar ideas. They can be combined into one sentence. Alternate translation: “You were in no way a criminal in prison” or “You were completely innocent of doing wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 3 34 ni42 figs-activepassive 0 Your hands were not bound 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 had tied your hands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 3 34 uia7 figs-activepassive 0 Your feet were not shackled 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 had attached your feet to chains” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 3 34 im2l figs-metonymy 0 the sons of injustice This refers to people who are unjust or wicked. Alternate translation: “wicked men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 3 35 zt2v figs-hyperbole 0 All the people came This deliberate exaggeration is used to show that the nation of Israel wanted to take care of David in his grief. Alternate translation: “Many people came” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2SA 3 35 s8g2 0 May God do so to me, and more also, if This is the form of a solemn vow in that time. David is asking God to judge him severely if he eats anything before sunset. Your language many have a way of expressing vows. Alternate translation: “I am asking God to punish me if”
2SA 3 38 z5pr figs-rquestion 0 Do you not know that a prince and a great man has fallen this day in Israel? This rhetorical question is used to show how much David respected Abner. Here “fallen” is a euphemism that means “died.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “It is certainly true that a great prince has died today in Israel!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 3 38 wxn9 figs-hendiadys 0 a prince and a great man These two phrases both refer to Abner. Alternate translation: “a great prince” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
2SA 4 intro hm82 0 # 2 Samuel 4 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>While the end of the civil war occurs in this chapter, David still only reigned over Judah (1-4).<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### David and Ishbosheth<br>David never sought revenge against Saul’s family. When two men snuck into Ishbosheth’s room, cut off his head and brought it to David, David had them killed for killing an innocent man. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/avenge]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br>When two men brought Ishbosheth’s head to David and expected to get a reward for it, David condemned them with the rhetorical question: “should I not now require his blood from your hand, and remove you from the earth?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/condemn]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/reward]])
2SA 4 1 jnb3 figs-synecdoche 0 his hands became weak In this phrase “his hands” represents Ishbosheth himself. Alternate translation: “Ishbosheth became weak” or “Ishbosheth lost all strength” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 4 2 uag2 writing-participants 0 Now Saul’s son had two men This introduces the men Baanah and Rechab into the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])
2SA 4 2 d6gi writing-background 0 for Beeroth is also considered part of Benjamin Here the author begins to provide background information about Beeroth for the reader. The area of Beeroth was part of the land that belonged to the tribe of Benjamin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
2SA 4 2 c93q translate-names 0 Beeroth This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 4 3 uyh4 writing-background 0 and the Beerothites fled to Gittaim and have been living there until this very time Here the author finishes providing background information about Beeroth for the reader. The area of Beeroth was part of the land that belonged to the tribe of Benjamin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
2SA 4 3 qq9m translate-names 0 Gittaim This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 4 4 th4j writing-background 0 General Information: This verse pauses the main story to provide background information about Mephibosheth, a descendent of Saul through Jonathan instead of through Ishbosheth. Mephibosheth will become an important character later in the book. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])
2SA 4 4 rav8 0 crippled in his feet This phrase means “unable to walk.”
2SA 4 4 as76 translate-numbers 0 five years old This was the age of Jonathan’s son at the time of his father’s death. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2SA 4 4 xl1z translate-names 0 Mephibosheth This is the name of Jonathan’s young son, the grandson of Saul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 4 8 n1gd figs-idiom 0 sought your life This idiom means “was trying to kill you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 4 9 c7l9 figs-idiom 0 As Yahweh lives This is one of the strongest oaths David could swear, as Yahweh is the witness. Alternate translation: “I swear on the life of Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 4 9 qe3v figs-synecdoche 0 who delivered my life Here “life” refers to David himself. This means that Yahweh has kept David alive. Alternate translation: “who rescued me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 4 11 ve2r figs-rquestion 0 How much more … should I not now require his blood from your hand, and remove you from the earth? This question is used to show that the men had committed an especially serious crime. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You are even more guilty! It is my duty to require his blood from your hand and to remove you from the earth.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 4 11 pl52 figs-metonymy 0 require his blood from your hand The phrase “his blood” represents the life of Ishbosheth. Here “from your hand” represents Rechab and Baanah, the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, introduced in [2 Samuel 4:5](./05.md). Alternate translation: “hold you responsible for the death of Ishbosheth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 4 12 b1ep translate-symaction 0 cut off their hands and feet and hung them up These were symbolic actions to show contempt for the men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 4 12 a16g translate-symaction 0 they took the head of Ishbosheth and buried it in the grave This was a symbolic act to honor Ishbosheth. This could be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “they honored Ishbosheth by burying his head in the grave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 5 intro jv2a 0 # 2 Samuel 5 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This records the beginning of the kingdom’s expansion.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### David conquers Jerusalem<br>David brought the combined army to Jerusalem and conquered it by going in through the water shaft. He enlarged the city and strengthened the defenses, and made it his capital. Jerusalem is an important place in the plans of God.<br><br>### David consulting God<br>David always consulted God before fighting a battle. The Philistines invaded Israel trying to capture David. David asked God if he should attack the Philistines, and God said yes; so he defeated them. They invaded again and God told him to attack them from the rear and he defeated them again.
2SA 5 1 qs6r figs-idiom 0 we are your flesh and bone This phrase means “a relative.” Alternate translation: “we are related to you” or “we are of the same family” - (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 5 2 h5dx writing-background 0 In the recent past This is historical information. Saul had been their king before David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
2SA 5 2 fr5e figs-parallelism 0 You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become ruler over Israel These two clauses mean basically the same thing and emphasize that Yahweh had chosen David to be king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 5 2 rcd5 figs-metaphor 0 You will shepherd my people Israel Here ruling over the people is spoken of as shepherding them. Alternate translation: “You will care for my people Israel” or “You will rule over my people Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 5 3 ep1q translate-symaction 0 They anointed David king over Israel To “anoint” is a symbolic act to show that they recognized that God had chosen David as king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 5 6 j73y 0 You will not come here except to be turned away by the blind and the lame This can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: “If you come here, even the blind and the lame will be able to turn you away”
2SA 5 6 m16b figs-nominaladj 0 the blind and the lame Here “the blind” and “the lame” are nominal adjectives. Alternate translation: “those people who cannot see and those who cannot walk” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
2SA 5 8 c5p9 0 David said, “Those who attack the Jebusites David was speaking to his soldiers. Alternate translation: “David said to his soldiers, ‘Those who want to get rid of the Jebus people”
2SA 5 8 z3vc figs-metonymy 0 The ‘blind and the lame’ This could mean: (1) this refers to people who are truly lame and blind or (2) this is a metonym that speaks about the Jebusites inside the city of Jerusalem as if they were all weak and handicapped. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 5 13 d3s6 figs-activepassive 0 more sons and daughters were born 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: “he had more sons and daughters” or “they bore him more sons and daughters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 5 14 lw16 figs-activepassive 0 who were born 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: “that his wives bore for him” or “he had” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 5 17 y7vu figs-activepassive 0 David had been anointed as king over 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. Alternate translation: “Israel had anointed David as king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 5 17 w75r figs-hyperbole 0 they all went out looking for him Here “all” is a generalization that means the Philistine army. Alternate translation: “the Philistine army went looking for him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2SA 5 20 n37i figs-simile 0 Yahweh has burst through my enemies before me like a bursting flood of water Here David speaks of the victory that Yahweh brought as if it were a flood of water that overflowed its banks and covered the land, causing destruction. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has overwhelmed my enemies like a flood overwhelms the land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 5 22 ipp2 0 the Philistines came up again They “came up” because the Philistines lived at a lower elevation than David’s stronghold.
2SA 5 23 lzk7 translate-names 0 balsam woods “Balsam” here is a type of tree, and the “woods” describe many balsam trees growing together. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 5 24 vp29 figs-123person 0 When you hear … Yahweh will have gone out before you to attack the army of the Philistines This is the continuation of Yahweh’s instruction to David that began in [2 Samuel 5:23](../05/23.md). Yahweh here speaks of himself in the third person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2SA 5 24 ccz2 figs-metaphor 0 When you hear the sound of marching in the wind blowing through the balsam treetops This speaks of the sound of the leaves rustling as wind blows through them as if it were the sound of marching. Alternate translation: “When the wind blowing through the tops of the balsam trees sounds like men marching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 6 intro aen5 0 # 2 Samuel 6 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem<br>David organized a procession with many musical instruments to bring the ark to Jerusalem. They put it on a cart; but when the oxen stumbled, Uzzah reached out to steady it so it would not fall. God killed him for touching the ark. David was angry at God for killing Uzzah and was afraid to bring the ark any further. Uzzah died because the ark was perfectly holy. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])<br><br>### Dancing<br>David danced for joy in front of the ark. His wife, Michal, criticized David for uncovering himself as he danced, but David did not care. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/joy]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Irony<br>Michal criticized David by using irony: “How honored the king of Israel was today, who undressed himself today before the eyes of the slave girls among his servants, like one of the crude fellows who shamelessly undresses himself!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
2SA 6 1 prk3 0 Now This word marks a new part of the story.
2SA 6 1 dz26 figs-metonymy 0 all the chosen men of Israel This metonym represents the army of the nation of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 6 2 bci3 figs-explicit 0 from Baalah in Judah to bring up from there the ark of God It is implied that they are taking the ark to Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “from Baalah in Judah to take to Jerusalem the ark of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 6 2 vy3h 0 to bring up from there the ark of God Jerusalem was higher than almost any other place in Israel, so it was normal for Israelites to speak of going up to Jerusalem and going down from it.
2SA 6 2 pkw6 0 which is called by the name of Yahweh of hosts Yahweh’s name was written on the ark.
2SA 6 2 ima6 figs-explicit 0 who sits enthroned over the cherubim You may need to make explicit that the cherubim are those on the lid of the ark of the covenant. The biblical writers often spoke of the ark of the covenant as if it were 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]])
2SA 6 5 h1vh figs-metonymy 0 all the house of Israel This metonym represents the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “all the other Israelites with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 6 5 g4xk translate-unknown 0 tambourines A tambourine is a musical instrument like the head of a drum with pieces of metal around the side that sound when the instrument is shaken or hit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
2SA 6 5 tc14 translate-unknown 0 rattles musical instruments with many small, hard objects inside a hard shell, making rhythmic noise when shaken (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
2SA 6 5 d3bq translate-unknown 0 cymbals two thin, round metal plates that are hit together to make a loud sound (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
2SA 6 6 ju6g translate-names 0 Nakon This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 6 7 yht6 figs-metaphor 0 anger of Yahweh burned Here the “anger of Yahweh” is spoken of as if it were fire. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 6 7 b8dy figs-explicit 0 for his sin It was a sin for Uzzah to touch the ark because Yahweh had commanded that no one should touch the ark. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 6 8 e8lq translate-names 0 Perez Uzzah This is the name of a place. Translator may add a footnote that says, “The name ‘Perez Uzzah’ means ‘the punishment of Uzzah.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 6 9 yx34 figs-rquestion 0 How can the ark of Yahweh come to me? David uses this question to emphasize that he is afraid to take the ark to Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “I am too afraid to bring the ark of Yahweh with me to Jerusalem.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 6 12 j7ru figs-activepassive 0 King David 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: “people told King David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 6 12 tg1q figs-metonymy 0 Obed Edom’s house Here “house” represents a family. Alternate translation: “Obed Edom and his family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 6 12 tke4 0 brought up the ark of God Jerusalem was higher than almost any other place in Israel, so it was normal for Israelites to speak of going up to Jerusalem and going down from it. Alternate translation: “moved the ark of God” or “took the ark of God”
2SA 6 12 d195 figs-go 0 brought up The word “brought” can be translated as “took.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])
2SA 6 15 td5n figs-metonymy 0 all the house of Israel Here “house” represents the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “all the other Israelites with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 6 16 jz44 0 Michal Michal was the daughter of King Saul and also David’s first wife. See how you translated this name in [2 Samuel 3:13](../03/13.md).
2SA 6 16 tjm7 figs-metonymy 0 she despised him in her heart Here “heart” represents thoughts or emotions. Alternate translation: “she looked at him with disdain” or “she sneered at him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 6 18 k4ta figs-metonymy 0 he blessed the people in the name of Yahweh of hosts To bless “in the name of Yahweh of hosts” means to bless with Yahweh’s power and authority or as his representative. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 6 20 jd22 figs-irony 0 How honored the king of Israel was today This is an ironic statement. Michal means the opposite of what she said, and she does not believe David acted honorably. Michal speaks disrespectfully to King David about his dancing attire and behavior. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
2SA 6 20 nsq4 figs-synecdoche 0 before the eyes of the slave girls Here “eyes of the slave girls” represents the slave girls. Alternate translation: “in front of the slave girls” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 6 21 pz59 figs-you 0 who chose me above your father Here “your” refers to Michal. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
2SA 6 21 a36n figs-doublet 0 over the people of Yahweh, over Israel Here “the people of Yahweh” and “Israel” mean the same thing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2SA 6 22 run9 figs-irony 0 I will be even more undignified than this David is being ironic and means the opposite of what he said. He does not believe what he did was actually undignified or that his actions in the future will be undignified. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
2SA 6 22 y1pu figs-metonymy 0 I will be humiliated in my own eyes Here “in my own eyes” represents what a person considers or thinks about something. Alternate translation: “I will consider myself humiliated” or “I will consider myself a fool” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 6 22 ifj3 figs-activepassive 0 But by these slave girls you have spoken about, I will be honored 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: “But the slave girls of whom you have spoken will honor me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 7 intro c6fb 0 # 2 Samuel 7 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This is the finishing of a small interruption about the house of God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/houseofgod]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>David wanted to honor God by building him a temple. God told David that he would not build it, but his son would build it. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/temple]])<br><br>### Covenant of David<br>God made a covenant with David that was not conditioned upon anything David or his descendants did. God promised that one of David’s descendants would rule Israel forever. Because Israel would not have a king in the future, this promise did not begin at this time. The descendant, who would rule forever, is Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/promise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]])
2SA 7 1 cu7z writing-newevent 0 It happened This phrase is used here to mark the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
2SA 7 1 r5ag figs-abstractnouns 0 given him rest from all his surrounding enemies “given him safety from all his surrounding enemies.” Here “rest” is an abstract noun. Alternate translation: “caused the enemy people groups to stop attacking Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2SA 7 2 chf8 figs-explicit 0 I am living in a house of cedar Cedar is a kind of tree that is known for its strength. If you have an equivalent type of tree in your culture, you can use that name, otherwise you can reword this. Alternate translation: “I am living in a strong, permanent house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 7 2 uvh3 figs-explicit 0 the ark of God is staying in the middle of a tent Tents are temporary dwellings. If you do not have tents in your culture, you can word this differently. Alternate translation: “the ark of God is staying in a temporary place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 7 3 q2im figs-metonymy 0 do what is in your heart Here “heart” represents the mind. Alternate translation: “do what you think you should” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 7 3 aw2n figs-idiom 0 for Yahweh is with you Here “with you” means God is helping and blessing David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 7 4 l5r9 figs-idiom 0 the word of Yahweh came to Nathan, saying: The idiom “the word of Yahweh came to” is used to introduce a special message from God. Alternate translation: “Yahweh gave a message to Nathan. He said,” or “Yahweh spoke this message to Nathan:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 7 5 ebh5 0 Go and tell David my servant, ‘This is what Yahweh says: Will you build me a house in which to live? This is the beginning of a quotation that contains quotations within it.
2SA 7 5 kj3l figs-rquestion 0 Will you build me a house in which to live? Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that David is not the one to build a house for Yahweh. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You will not build a house for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 7 5 j3s5 0 build me a house Here “house” means a temple. In 7:11 Yahweh will say that he will build a house for David. There “house” means a family. If your language has a word that can express both ideas, use it here and in 7:11.
2SA 7 7 t5dj figs-quotesinquotes 0 did I ever say anything to any of Israel’s leaders whom I appointed to shepherd my people Israel, saying, “Why have you not built me a house of cedar?” This has a quotation within a quotation. The direct quotation can be stated as an indirect quotation. Alternate translation: “did I ever ask any of Israel’s leaders, whom I appointed to shepherd my people Israel, why they had not built me a house of cedar?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
2SA 7 7 azt9 figs-rquestion 0 did I ever say anything to any of Israel’s leaders Yahweh uses a question to emphasize that he never asked any of Israel’s leaders to build him a house. Alternate translation: “I never said anything to any of Israel’s leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 7 7 vnx2 figs-metaphor 0 whom I appointed to shepherd my people Israel Those who are leaders of the people of Israel are spoken of as if they were shepherds and the people were sheep. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 7 7 kek6 figs-rquestion 0 Why have you not built me a house of cedar? If Yahweh had asked the leaders this question, he would have been using a question to scold them for not building him a house of cedar. But, Yahweh said previously that he did not ask them this question. Alternate translation: “You should have built me a house of cedar.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 7 8 xsx1 figs-quotesinquotes 0 tell my servant David, ‘This is what Yahweh of hosts says: I took you … so that you would be ruler over my people Israel. This has quotations within quotations. It may be necessary to translate the direct quotations as indirect quotations as in the UST. Alternate translation: “tell my servant David that I took him … so that he would be ruler over my people Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
2SA 7 8 dae2 figs-metonymy 0 I took you from the pasture David’s job as a shepherd is referred to by the place he watched his sheep. Alternate translation: “I took you from your job as a shepherd” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 7 9 euh7 figs-quotesinquotes 0 I have been with you wherever you went. I have cut off all your enemies from before you. Now I will make your name great, like the names of the great ones of the earth This continues the quotations within quotations. It may be necessary to translate the direct quotations as indirect quotations as in the UST. Alternate translation: “I have been with him wherever he went. I have cut off all his enemies from before him. Now I will make his name great, like the name of the great ones of the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
2SA 7 9 arz6 figs-idiom 0 I have been with you Here “with you” means that Yahweh has helped and blessed David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 7 9 pbz4 figs-metaphor 0 I have cut off all your enemies Yahweh destroying David’s enemies is spoken of as if Yahweh cut them off, as one would cut a piece of cloth or cut a branch from a tree. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 7 9 g9f5 figs-metonymy 0 make your name great Here “name” represents a person’s reputation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 7 9 vtf6 0 the great ones The phrase “great ones” means famous persons.
2SA 7 10 etx1 figs-metaphor 0 will plant them there Yahweh causing the people to live in the land permanently and securely is spoken of as if he would plant them in the land. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 7 10 kax4 figs-activepassive 0 be troubled no more 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 will ever trouble them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 7 11 d6c8 0 I commanded judges After the people of Israel entered the land of Canaan and before they had kings to rule them, God appointed leaders called “judges” to lead them in times of trouble.
2SA 7 11 gat9 figs-idiom 0 to be over my people Israel To be in authority is referred to as being over someone. Alternate translation: “to rule my people Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 7 11 cyy5 figs-quotesinquotes 0 Now I will give you rest from all your enemies … declare to you that I will make you a house If in [2 Samuel 7:8](../07/08.md) and [2 Samuel 7:9](../07/09.md) you translated the direct quotations as indirect quotation, then here you may need to translate “you” as “him” or “his.” Alternate translation: “Now I will give him rest from all his enemies … declare to him that I will make him a house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotesinquotes]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
2SA 7 11 a1aw figs-abstractnouns 0 I will give you rest from all your enemies “I will give you safety from all your enemies.” Here “rest” is an abstract noun. Alternate translation: “I will make all your enemies stop attacking you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2SA 7 11 ax6w figs-metonymy 0 I will make you a house Here the metonym “house” refers to David’s ancestors continuing on as the rulers of Israel. In [2 Samuel 7:4](../07/04.md) Yahweh asked David if he would be the one to build a house for Yahweh. There “house” represented a temple. If your language has a word that can express both ideas, use it here and in 7:4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 7 12 bvq2 figs-parallelism 0 When your days are fulfilled and you lie down with your fathers These two phrases have similar meanings and are combined for emphasis. They both are polite ways to refer to death and dying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 7 12 zh5i figs-metaphor 0 I will raise up a descendant after you Yahweh appointing David’s descendant is spoken of as if Yahweh would raise or lift him up. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 7 12 n1u2 figs-idiom 0 one who will come out from your body This is an idiom that means the person will be David’s descendant. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 7 12 wn76 figs-metonymy 0 I will establish his kingdom Here “his kingdom” represents his power to rule. Alternate translation: “I will make him to be a very powerful king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 7 13 rz89 figs-metonymy 0 a house for my name Here “name” refers to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “a permanent dwelling for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 7 13 nmu3 figs-metonymy 0 I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever Here “throne” represents the person’s power to rule as king. Alternate translation: “I will make his rule over Israel to last forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 7 14 n2sv 0 I will be a father to him, and he will be my son The prophecy in 7:12-14 refers to Solomon, David’s son. But, aspects of the prophecy will be fulfilled by Jesus. So, here it is best to translate the words “father” and “son” with your normal words for a biological father and son.
2SA 7 15 h75j figs-abstractnouns 0 But my covenant faithfulness will not leave him, as I took it from Saul The word “faithfulness” is an abstract noun that can be stated as “faithfully loving.” Alternate translation: “I will never stop faithfully loving him as I stopped loving Saul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2SA 7 15 a6sg figs-quotations 0 from before you If in [2 Samuel 7:8](../07/08.md) and [2 Samuel 7:9](../07/09.md) you translated the direct quotations as indirect quotation, then here you may need to translate “you” as “David” or “him” or “his” as in the UST. Alternate translation: “from before David. David’s house … before him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
2SA 7 16 q3bd figs-quotations 0 Your house … before you. Your throne If in [2 Samuel 7:8](../07/08.md) and [2 Samuel 7:9](../07/09.md) you translated the direct quotations as indirect quotation, then here you may need to translate “you” as “David” or “him” or “his” as in the UST. Alternate translation: “David’s house … before him. His throne” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
2SA 7 16 t2rk figs-parallelism 0 Your house and kingdom will be confirmed forever before you. Your throne will be established forever. These two sentences have similar meanings and emphasize that David’s dynasty will last forever. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 7 16 y1vv figs-doublet 0 Your house and kingdom will be confirmed forever before you Here the word “house” represents David’s descendants, who will rule as kings. Here “kingdom” means about the same thing as “house.” This can also be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You will live to see me establish your family and their rule over the people of Israel forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 7 16 bu2w figs-activepassive 0 Your throne will be established forever Here “throne” represents the power to rule as king. Alternate translation: “I will cause your descendants to rule over Israel forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 7 17 mei7 0 all these words “all these things.” This refers to what Yahweh had said.
2SA 7 18 nf24 figs-rquestion 0 Who am I, Yahweh God, and what is my family that you have brought me to this point? David asks this question to express the deep emotion he felt from hearing Yahweh’s proclamation. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “My family and I are not worthy of this honor, Yahweh God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 7 19 tj8j figs-metaphor 0 in your sight Here sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “in your judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 7 19 r9in figs-123person 0 your servant’s family Here David refers to himself as “your servant.” This can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “my family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2SA 7 19 uvu1 figs-metaphor 0 for a great while to come This speaks about time as if it were something that travels and arrives somewhere. Alternate translation: “and what will happen to them in the future” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 7 19 btd7 figs-123person 0 your servant Here David refers to himself as “your servant.” This can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2SA 7 20 sd87 figs-rquestion 0 What more can I, David, say to you? David uses this question to emphasize that he has nothing left to say to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “There is nothing more I can say to you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 7 21 mia3 figs-123person 0 to your servant David refers to himself as “your servant.” It can be stated in first person. Alternate translation: “to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2SA 7 22 s9d3 figs-idiom 0 as we have heard with our own ears The phrase “with our own ears” is used for emphasis. Alternate translation: “as we ourselves have heard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 7 22 eu9y figs-exclusive 0 as we have heard Here “we” refers to David and the nation of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2SA 7 23 gt3c figs-rquestion 0 What nation is like your people Israel, the one nation on earth whom you, God, went and rescued for yourself? David uses a question emphasize that there is no other nation like Israel. Alternate translation: “There is no nation like your people Israel, the one nation on earth whom you, God, went and rescued for yourself.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 7 23 u6gx figs-metonymy 0 to make a name for yourself Here “name” represents Yahweh’s reputation. Alternate translation: “to make all people know who you are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 7 23 gpj6 figs-metonymy 0 for your land Here “land” represents the people. Alternate translation: “for your people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 7 23 y68y figs-metonymy 0 You drove out nations Here “nations” represents the people groups that were living in Canaan. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 7 25 s7y8 0 So now Here “now” does not mean “at this moment,” but is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.
2SA 7 25 wp22 figs-activepassive 0 may the promise that you made concerning your servant and his family be established forever 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: “may you do what you promised to me and my family, and may your promise never change” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 7 25 i7rz figs-123person 0 your servant and his family David is speaking about himself in the third person. This can be stated in the first person. Alternate translation: “me and my family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2SA 7 26 yq4v figs-metonymy 0 May your name be forever great Here “name” represents Yahweh’s reputation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 7 26 tv8x figs-metonymy 0 the house of me, David, your servant Here “house” represents family. Alternate translation: “my family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 7 26 r53a figs-activepassive 0 is established before you 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: “is secure because of you” or “continues because of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 7 27 i375 figs-123person 0 to your servant that you will build him a house David refers to himself as “your servant.” Alternate translation: “to me that you will build me a house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2SA 7 27 l4yn figs-metonymy 0 that you will build him a house Here the metonym “house” refers to David’s ancestors continuing on as the rulers of Israel. In [2 Samuel 7:4](../07/04.md) Yahweh asked David if he would be the one to build a house for Yahweh. There “house” represented a temple. If your language has a word that can express both ideas, use it here and in 7:4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 7 27 fs5t figs-metonymy 0 house Here “house” represents David’s family. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 7 28 ie54 0 Now This does not mean “at this moment,” but is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.
2SA 7 29 n6ik figs-activepassive 0 with your blessing your servant’s house will be blessed forever 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 continue to bless my family forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 7 29 k3a5 figs-123person 0 your servant’s house Here David refers to himself as “your servant.” Alternate translation: “my house” or “my family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2SA 8 intro hc4j 0 # 2 Samuel 8 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter returns to the theme of the expansion of David’s kingdom.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### God enabled victory<br>God enabled David to conquer all the surrounding nations. Much of the loot and tribute David received, he saved for the temple that his son would build.
2SA 8 1 drj7 figs-synecdoche 0 David attacked Here David represents his soldiers. Alternate translation: “David and his soldiers attacked” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 8 2 xbr2 figs-synecdoche 0 Then he defeated Here “he” refers to David who represents his soldiers. Alternate translation: “Then they defeated” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 8 2 tcx6 0 measured their men with a line … He measured off two lines to put to death, and one full line to keep alive Here the “line” is a “rope.” David had the soldiers lie down on the ground to be measured and sorted into three groups. The men in two groups were killed, and in the third, they were allowed to live.
2SA 8 3 r73a figs-synecdoche 0 David then defeated Hadadezer Here both “David” and “Hadadezer” represent their armies. Alternate translation: “David and his army then defeated the army of Hadadezer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 8 5 u7vw figs-synecdoche 0 David killed Here David represents his soldiers. Alternate translation: “David and his soldiers killed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 8 7 ft9e figs-metonymy 0 David took Here “David” is probably a metonym for his soldiers. Alternate translation: “David’s soldiers took” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 8 8 qtw6 figs-metonymy 0 King David took Here “David” is probably a metonym for his soldiers. Alternate translation: “King David’s soldiers took” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 8 9 l3de figs-synecdoche 0 David had defeated Here “David” is a metonym for his army. Alternate translation: “David’s army had defeated” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 8 13 hrc2 figs-metonymy 0 David’s name was well known Here “name” refers to David’s reputation. 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: “David was very famous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 8 13 c9s7 translate-names 0 Valley of Salt This is the name of a place. Its exact location is unknown. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 8 14 gc6u 0 He placed garrisons throughout all of Edom Alternate translation: “He ordered groups of his soldiers to remain in areas throughout all of Edom”
2SA 8 16 d81q figs-explicit 0 Ahilud was recorder A recorder was a person who spoke to the people and told them the king’s announcements. Alternate translation: “Ahilud was the herald” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 8 17 k3p5 translate-names 0 Ahitub … Ahimelech … Seraiah These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 8 18 gm1f translate-names 0 Benaiah … Jehoiada These are names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 8 18 xxs8 translate-names 0 Kerethites … Pelethites These are names of people-groups. These people were David’s bodyguards. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 9 intro lwh6 0 # 2 Samuel 9 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter is another interruption to the story of David expanding his kingdom. David is concerned with fulfilling his oath to Jonathan’s descendants.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### David’s vow<br>David determined to fulfill his vow to Jonathan to care for Jonathan’s descendants. He found Jonathan’s son and told him he would treat him as if he was one of his sons. He restored all of Saul’s property to him and had him eat every day at the king’s table. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/fulfill]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/vow]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/restore]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical question and metaphor<br>Jonathan’s son expressed his surprise and feeling of unworthiness with a rhetorical question: “What is your servant, that you should look with favor on such a dead dog as I am?” and by a metaphor comparing himself to “a dead dog.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 9 3 j5la 0 I may show the kindness of God If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **kindness**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “kind.” Alternate translation: “I may be kind as I promised God I would be”
2SA 9 3 u7ba figs-metonymy 0 who is lame in his feet “whose feet are damaged.” The word “feet” here refers to the ability to walk. Alternate translation: “who is unable to walk” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 9 7 zy8z figs-metonymy 0 you will always eat at my table Here “my table” represents being together with David or in his presence. Eating with the king at his table was a great honor. Alternate translation: “you will always eat with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 9 8 fvp8 figs-rquestion 0 What is your servant, that you should look with favor on such a dead dog as I am? This rhetorical question shows that Mephibosheth understands that he is not important enough for the king to take care of him. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “I am like a dead dog. I do not deserve for you to be kind to me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 9 8 j13e figs-metaphor 0 such a dead dog Here Mephibosheth represents the line of Saul, and he compares himself to a “dead dog.” Dogs were feral animals, not cared for, and of little importance. A dead dog would be considered even less important. Alternate translation: “such a person like me who is worthless as a dead dog” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 9 10 cb8w figs-metonymy 0 must always eat at my table Here “my table” represents being together with David or in his presence. Eating with the king at his table was a great honor. Alternate translation: “must always eat with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 9 10 ae24 writing-background 0 Now Ziba … servants Here “now” makes a break in the main story line. The narrator gives background information about Ziba. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
2SA 9 10 tgt5 translate-numbers 0 fifteen sons and twenty servants “15 sons and 20 servants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2SA 9 11 fwy9 figs-123person 0 Your servant will do all that my master the king commands his servant Ziba refers to himself as “your servant” and refers to David as “my master.” Alternate translation: “I, your servant will do all that you, my king, command me to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2SA 9 12 u3qr figs-metonymy 0 All who lived in the house of Ziba Here “house” represents Ziba’s family. Alternate translation: “All of Ziba’s family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 9 13 caj8 figs-metonymy 0 he always ate at the king’s table Here “table” represents being together with David or in his presence. Eating with the king at his table was a great honor. Alternate translation: “he always ate with the king at his table” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 9 13 du2g figs-metonymy 0 though he was lame in both his feet “thouge both of his feet were damaged.” Here “feet” represents the ability to walk. Alternate translation: “though he was unable to walk” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 10 intro abca 0 # 2 Samuel 10 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>The chapter records the last expansion of David’s kingdom. This chapter is also the beginning of a section dealing with the war between Israel and Ammon.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Shame<br>It was apparently the cause of shame or embarrassment in ancient Ammon to have their beards shaved off or to have their garments cut off. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br>The Ammon people used a metaphor comparing themselves to a bad smell: “they had become a stench to David” when they realized they had made David very angry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 10 2 k9r2 translate-names 0 Hanun … Nahash These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 10 3 r4at figs-rquestion 0 Do you really think that … you? The leaders use a question to suggest to the king that he should not trust David. Alternate translation: “You are wrong to think that … you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 10 3 gmb8 figs-rquestion 0 Has not David … overthrow it? The leaders use a question to suggest to the king that he should not trust David. Alternate translation: “You need to know that David … overthrow it.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 10 3 d8ec figs-metonymy 0 in order to overthrow it Here “it” refers to the city which represents the people who live there. Alternate translation: “in order to conquer us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 10 3 bm5t 0 the city Here “the city” refers to Rabbah, the capital city of the Ammonites.
2SA 10 4 g9ma figs-explicit 0 shaved off half their beards This act was meant as an insult to humiliate the men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 10 6 v8si figs-metaphor 0 they had become a stench to David The phrase “become a stench” is a metaphor for “they had become offensive.” Alternate translation: “they had become offensive like a bad smell to David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 10 10 ka2a 0 The rest of his people he put into the hand of Abishai his brother Alternate translation: “He put Abishai his brother in charge of the rest of the army”
2SA 10 11 nlq4 figs-synecdoche 0 for me, then you, Abishai, must rescue me Here “me” refers to Joab. Joab and Abishai represents themselves and their armies. Alternate translation: “for us, then you, Abishai, and your army must rescue us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 10 14 q6sp figs-synecdoche 0 from Abishai Here Abishai represents himself and his soldiers. Alternate translation: “from Abishai and his soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 10 14 d64c 0 into the city Here “the city” refers to Rabbah, the capital city of the Ammonites.
2SA 10 15 rg85 figs-activepassive 0 When the Arameans saw that they were being defeated by 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. Alternate translation: “when the Arameans realized that the Israelites were defeating them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 10 17 pz1s figs-activepassive 0 When David 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 David heard about this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 10 17 vk7a figs-metonymy 0 gathered all Israel together Here “Israel” represents the army of Israel. Alternate translation: “assembled all the army of Israel together” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 10 17 ism8 0 Helam See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 10:16](../10/16.md).
2SA 10 17 ln59 figs-synecdoche 0 against David and fought him Here David represents himself and his soldiers. Alternate translation: “against David and his soldiers and fought them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 10 18 tev3 figs-synecdoche 0 David killed Here “David” is a synecdoche for himself and his soldiers. Alternate translation: “David and his soldiers killed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 10 18 zwc8 figs-activepassive 0 Shobak the commander of their army was wounded and died there 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 Israelites wounded Shobak the commander of the Aramean army, and he died there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 10 19 dzd4 figs-activepassive 0 saw that they were defeated by 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. Alternate translation: “realized that the Israelites had defeated them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 11 intro abcb 0 # 2 Samuel 11 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter begins a new section of David’s life. God punished David by allowing his family to have many problems.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### David’s adultery and the murder of Uriah<br>The army of Israel defeated the army of Ammon and then they besieged Ammon’s capital while David stayed in Jerusalem. One day, David saw a beautiful woman, named Bathsheba, bathing. He committed adultery with her. When she became pregnant, David tried to cover up his sin. When this did not work, he had her husband killed in battle. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])
2SA 11 1 eqn9 writing-newevent 0 It came about in the springtime “It happened in the springtime.” This introduces a new event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
2SA 11 1 a4ds figs-explicit 0 David sent out Joab, his servants, and all the army of Israel David sent them out to war. This can be stated clearly. Also, the word “his” refers to David. Alternate translation: “David sent Joab, his servants, and all the army of Israel to war” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 11 2 wi9y writing-newevent 0 So it came about “So it happened” or “So it came to pass.” The author uses this phrase to introduce the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
2SA 11 2 qi78 figs-explicit 0 a woman who was bathing The woman was not on the roof, she would have been bathing outside in the courtyard of her house. Alternate translation: “a woman who was bathing in the courtyard of her house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 11 3 yv7g figs-idiom 0 So David sent Here the word “sent” means that David sent a messenger. Alternate translation: “So David sent a messenger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 11 3 r92k figs-metonymy 0 he asked people who would know about the woman David was trying to find out who the woman was. The word “he” refers to David, but is a metonym for the messenger that David sent. The messenger was to ask the people for information about her. Alternate translation: “the messenger asked the people who knew her about who she was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 11 3 ht5y figs-rquestion 0 Is not this Bathsheba … and is she not the wife of Uriah the Hittite? This question gives information and can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “This is Bathsheba … and she is the wife of Uriah the Hittite.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 11 4 s4dn figs-metonymy 0 took her David actually sent messengers, and they took her and brought her to him. Alternate translation: “they brought her to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 11 4 x8kf figs-metonymy 0 she came in to him She came into his palace and into his bedroom. Alternate translation: “she came into the place where he was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 11 4 qka3 figs-euphemism 0 he lay with her This is a polite way of saying that he had sexual relations with her. You may need to use a different euphemism in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 11 4 n2gg 0 menstruation the time when a woman bleeds from her womb
2SA 11 5 e4v5 figs-idiom 0 she sent and told David; she said, “I am pregnant.” Here the word “sent” means that she sent a messenger to tell David that she was pregnant. Alternate translation: “she sent a messenger to David, and the messenger told David that she was pregnant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 11 6 bds8 figs-idiom 0 Then David sent Here the word “sent” means that David sent a messenger. Alternate translation: “Then David sent a messenger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 11 7 vjr7 figs-idiom 0 how Joab was, how the army was doing, and how the war was going David was asking if Joab and the army were well and about the progress of the war. Alternate translation: “if Joab was well, if other soldiers were well, and how the war was progressing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 11 8 qzu2 figs-idiom 0 Go down to your house The phrase **go down** could mean: (1) Uriah’s house was located at a lower elevation than the king’s palace or (2) Uriah’s house was of lesser importance than the king’s palace. Alternate translation: “Go to your house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 11 8 f1gh figs-metonymy 0 wash your feet This phrase is a metonym for returning home to rest for the night after working all day. Alternate translation: “rest for the night” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 11 8 s4b9 figs-metonymy 0 the king sent a gift for Uriah David sent someone to bring the gift to Uriah. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “the king sent someone to take a gift to Uriah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 11 9 fp1u 0 his master The word “his” refers to Uriah and the word “master” refers to David.
2SA 11 10 p5tg figs-rquestion 0 Have you not come from a journey? Why did you not go down to your house? This rhetorical question is used to show David’s surprise that Uriah did not visit his wife. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “After coming from such a long journey, you should have gone down to your house.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 11 11 t1wr figs-synecdoche 0 Israel and Judah This refers to their armies. Alternate translation: “the armies of Israel and Judah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 11 11 w65k figs-rquestion 0 How then can I go into my house … with my wife? This rhetorical question is used to emphasize Uriah’s refusal to visit his wife and can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “It would be wrong for me to go into my house … with my wife while the other soldiers in my army are in danger.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 11 11 k6b2 figs-euphemism 0 to lie with my wife This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “to have sexual relations with my wife” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 11 11 ww5l figs-simile 0 As sure as you are alive, I will not do this Uriah swears a strong promise that he will not go home to his wife as long as the rest of the soldiers are at war. He makes this promise by comparing the truth of his promise to the certainty that the king was alive. Alternate translation: “I solemnly promise that I will not do this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 11 13 xex1 figs-idiom 0 down to his house Possible meanings of the word **down** are: (1) Uriah’s house was located at a lower elevation than the king’s palace or (2) Uriah’s house was of lesser importance than the king’s palace. See how you translated the similar phrase “down to your house” in [2 Samuel 11:8](../11/08.md). Alternate translation: “to his house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 11 14 c9uz figs-synecdoche 0 sent it by the hand of Uriah The phrase “the hand of Uriah” refers to Uriah himself. Alternate translation: “sent Uriah himself to deliver it to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 11 16 di6w figs-abstractnouns 0 the siege upon the city The word “siege” can be expressed with the verbs “surround” and “attack.” Alternate translation: “his army surround and attack the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2SA 11 17 x2mt figs-euphemism 0 some of the soldiers of David fell The word “fell” is a polite way to refer to the soldiers being killed. Alternate translation: “David’s soldiers were killed” or “they killed some of David’s soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 11 17 s5r9 figs-activepassive 0 and Uriah the Hittite was also killed there 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: “including Uriah the Hittite” or “and the men of the city also killed Uriah the Hittite” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 11 18 g9kw figs-metonymy 0 Joab sent word to David The phrase “sent word” means that he sent a messenger to give a report. Alternate translation: “Joab sent a messenger to David to give a report” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 11 20 a8wj figs-rquestion 0 Why did you go so near … from the wall? Joab says that David may rebuke him by asking these rhetorical questions. These questions may be written as statements. Alternate translation: “You should not have gone so near to the city to fight. You should have known that they would shoot from the wall.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 11 20 n65u figs-explicit 0 shoot from the wall This refers to men of the city shooting arrows down at their enemy from the top of the city wall. Alternate translation: “shoot arrows at you from the top of the city wall” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 11 21 h8q7 figs-rquestion 0 Who killed Abimelech son of Jerub-Besheth? Joab says that David may rebuke him by asking these rhetorical questions. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Remember how Abimelech son of Jerub-Besheth was killed!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 11 21 h97r translate-names 0 Abimelech son of Jerub-Besheth This is the name of a man. His father is also know by the name Gideon. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 11 21 uf4w figs-rquestion 0 Did not a woman cast an upper millstone on him from the wall, so that he died at Thebez? Joab says that David may rebuke him by asking these rhetorical questions. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Remember he died at Thebez when a woman cast an upper millstone on him from the top of the wall.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 11 21 p6i4 figs-rquestion 0 Why did you go so near the wall? Joab says that David may rebuke him by asking these rhetorical questions. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not have gone so near the wall!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 11 24 ay8n figs-activepassive 0 some of the king’s servants were 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: “they killed some of the king’s servants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 11 24 bf6f figs-activepassive 0 your servant Uriah the Hittite was 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: “they killed your servant Uriah the Hittite” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 11 25 v2pb figs-metonymy 0 for the sword devours one as well as another Here “the sword” refers to a person who kills someone with sword. Also, killing someone with a sword is spoken of as if the sword were “eating” the people. Alternate translation: “for one man can be killed by a sword the same as another man” or “for any man can die in battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 11 26 gx4s figs-metaphor 0 she lamented deeply Here the author speaks of her lamenting very much as if it were deep inside her. Alternate translation: “she lamented very much” or “she lamented greatly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 11 27 d21w figs-idiom 0 David sent and took her home Here the word “sent” means that he sent a messenger to get her and bring her to him. Alternate translation: “David sent a messenger to her to bring her home” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 12 intro abcc 0 # 2 Samuel 12 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This is the final expansion of David’s kingdom and records the end of the war with Ammon.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### David’s punishment<br>God sent a prophet to confront David. He said that because David had Uriah killed, there would always be killing in his family and that the baby conceived with Bathsheba would die. David prayed that the baby be allowed to live, but the infant died. Bathsheba then had another son, who was named Solomon. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])
2SA 12 3 wd4g figs-simile 0 was like a daughter to him This refers to the closeness of this man and his little lamb. Alternate translation: “he loved it as much as if it were one of his daughters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 12 4 c763 figs-explicit 0 for his visitor It was for his visitor to eat. Alternate translation: “for his visitor to eat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 12 5 tm95 figs-metaphor 0 David was hot with anger against Here the author describes how David was very angry as if his body were physically hot because of his anger. Alternate translation: “David became furious with” or “David became very angry with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 12 5 gd2w figs-explicit 0 As Yahweh lives This expresses that David was swearing an oath or serious promise. Alternate translation: “I declare, as surely as Yahweh lives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 12 5 r45b figs-idiom 0 to be put to death This means to be killed. Also, that can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “to be killed” or “to die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 12 6 m494 translate-numbers 0 He must pay back the lamb four times over The amount the rich man was required to pay back to the poor man was to be four times what the little lamb cost. “He must pay the poor man four times the price of the lamb” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 12 7 x85z figs-metonymy 0 out of the hand of Saul Here the word “hand” refers to control. Alternate translation: “out of Saul’s control” or “from Saul’s control” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 12 8 ty2v figs-metaphor 0 your master’s wives into your arms Here Yahweh describes David having his master’s wives as his own wives, by saying that they are “in his arms.” Alternate translation: “your master’s wives as your own” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 12 8 v7tc figs-metaphor 0 I also gave you the house of Israel and Judah Here Yahweh speaks of how he gave David his authority as king over Israel and Judah as if he gave him the houses of Israel and Judah as a gift. The phrase “the house of” means “the people of.” Alternate translation: “I also gave you authority as king over the people of Israel and Judah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 12 9 nb14 figs-rquestion 0 So why have you despised … Yahweh, so as to do what is evil in his sight? This rhetorical question is used to rebuke David. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not have despised … Yahweh and should not have done what is evil in his sight!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 12 9 ctt1 figs-metaphor 0 what is evil in his sight Here “sight” refers to Yahweh’s thoughts or opinion. Alternate translation: “what he considers to be evil” or “what is evil in Yahweh’s judgement” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 12 9 iy29 figs-metonymy 0 You have struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword David did not kill Uriah himself, rather he arranged for him to be killed in battle. The phrase “with the sword” represents how Uriah died in battle. Alternate translation: “You have arranged for Uriah the Hittite to die in battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 12 9 n595 figs-metonymy 0 You killed him with the sword of the army of Ammon David did not kill Uriah himself, rather he arranged for him to be killed in battle when Israel was fighting against Ammon. The phrase “with the sword” refers to how he died in battle. Alternate translation: “You arranged for him to die in battle against the army of Ammon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 12 10 t13v figs-metonymy 0 the sword will never leave your house Here the word “sword” refers to people dying in war. Also, David’s “house” refers to his descendants. Alternate translation: “some of your descendants will always die in battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 12 11 zbq2 figs-metonymy 0 out of your own house Here David’s “house” refers to his family. Alternate translation: “from among your own family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 12 11 d9za figs-synecdoche 0 Before your own eyes Here David is referred to by his eyes to emphasize what he would see. Alternate translation: “While you are watching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 12 11 bc2j figs-euphemism 0 he will lie with your wives This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “he will have sexual relations with your wives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 12 11 br6x figs-metaphor 0 in broad daylight “in full daylight.” The idea of doing something “openly” or in a way that people are fully aware of what is happening is often spoken about as being done in the “daylight.” Alternate translation: “openly” or “and everyone will see what is happening” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 12 12 g9jf figs-metonymy 0 before all Israel This phrase speaks of the people of Israel knowing about what has happened to his wives as if they all actually witnessed it happening. Alternate translation: “before all the people of Israel” or “and all the people of Israel will know about it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 12 13 u54j figs-metaphor 0 passed over Yahweh has forgiven David of his sin. This is spoken of here as Yahweh passing over his sin as if it were something that he walked by and disregarded. Alternate translation: “forgiven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 12 13 zze1 figs-activepassive 0 You will not 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. Sometimes men died because of their sins, but he will not die because of his sin with the woman. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “You will not die” or “you will not die because of this sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 12 14 vm9h figs-idiom 0 the child who is born to you The phrase “born to you” means that it is David’s baby. Alternate translation: “your child who will be born” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 12 15 z3d2 figs-metaphor 0 Yahweh attacked the child that … and he was very sick Here the author speaks of Yahweh causing the baby to become sick as Yahweh attacking the child. Alternate translation: “Yahweh afflicted the child that … and he was very sick” or “Yahweh caused the baby that … to become very sick” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 12 15 eh1x figs-idiom 0 the child that Uriah’s wife bore to David This means that she gave birth to a child and that David was his father. Alternate translation: “David’s child, who Uriah’s wife gave birth to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 12 16 k5zu figs-explicit 0 went inside David went into his room when he was alone. Alternate translation: “went inside his room” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 12 18 f2jx figs-synecdoche 0 he did not listen to our voice The servants are referred to here by their voices to emphasize that they were speaking. Alternate translation: “he did not listen to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 12 18 ueh7 figs-explicit 0 the seventh day “day 7.” This refers to the seventh day after the baby was born. Alternate translation: “the seventh day after he was born” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2SA 12 18 j2pi 0 Look This is used to get people’s attention. Alternate translation: “Listen”
2SA 12 18 sz9x figs-rquestion 0 What might he do to himself if we tell him that the boy is dead?! The servants ask this rhetorical question to express their fear. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “We are afraid that he may harm himself if we tell him that the boy is dead!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 12 21 nx6q 0 General Information: These verses contain rhetorical questions that emphasize that David realizes that Yahweh has allowed this to happen.
2SA 12 22 p2za figs-rquestion 0 Who knows whether or not Yahweh will be gracious to me, that the child may live? David asked this rhetorical question to empathize that no one knew if Yahweh would let the child live. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one knows whether or not Yahweh will be gracious to me so that the child may live.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 12 23 pf4k figs-rquestion 0 But now he is dead, so why should I fast? David asks this rhetorical question to empathize that he no longer has a reason to fast. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Now that he is dead it would be of no use to fast any longer.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 12 23 cc5p figs-rquestion 0 Can I bring him back again? David asks this rhetorical question to empathize that the boy cannot come back to life. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “I cannot bring him back to life.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 12 23 qs7p figs-explicit 0 I will go to him David implies that he will go to where his child is when he dies. Alternate translation: “When I die I will go to where he is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 12 24 f8ut figs-doublet 0 went in to her and lay with her Both the phrase “went in to her” and the phrase “lay with her” refer to David having sexual relations with Bathsheba and emphasize what they did. Alternate translation: “had sexual relations with her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2SA 12 25 m6ce figs-metonymy 0 he sent word through Nathan the prophet Here “word” refers to a message that Yahweh told Nathan to tell David. Alternate translation: “he sent Nathan to tell him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 12 25 rd3r translate-names 0 Jedidiah This is another name for David’s son Solomon, which Yahweh chose for him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 12 26 jf3t figs-synecdoche 0 Joab fought … he captured Here the author says “Joab” but he is referring to Joab and his soldiers who fought with him. Alternate translation: “Joab and his soldiers fought … they captured” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 12 26 ar6m figs-metonymy 0 Rabbah Fighting against this city literally means to fight against the people of Rabbah. Translate the name the same as you did in [2 Samuel 11:1](../11/01.md). Alternate translation: “the people of Rabbah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 12 27 c6au figs-metaphor 0 have taken the city’s water supply “Taking” a place or landmark means to take control of it. Alternate translation: “have taken control of the city’s water supply” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 12 27 n5s7 figs-synecdoche 0 I have fought … I have taken Here Joab speaks of himself when he is actually referring to himself and his soldiers. Alternate translation: “My soldiers and I have fought … my soldier and I have taken” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 12 28 ue9d figs-synecdoche 0 if I take Here Joab speaks of himself when he is actually referring to himself and his soldiers. Alternate translation: “if my soldiers and I take” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 12 28 ej7u figs-idiom 0 camp against This means to surround and attack. Alternate translation: “besiege” or “surround” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 12 28 zt5k figs-metaphor 0 take it … take the city “Taking” a place or landmark means to take control of it. Alternate translation: “take control of it … take control of the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 12 28 gj9r figs-activepassive 0 it will be named 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: “people will name it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 12 29 z74s figs-synecdoche 0 he fought Here the author speaks of David when he is actually referring to David and his soldiers. Alternate translation: “David and his soldiers fought” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 12 30 n7vb translate-bweight 0 a talent This may be written in modern weights. Alternate translation: “about 33 kilograms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])
2SA 12 30 nw9j figs-activepassive 0 The crown was placed on David’s own head 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: “They placed the crown on David’s own head” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 12 30 wz14 figs-metonymy 0 he brought out Here the author speaks of David when he is actually referring to David’s soldiers. Alternate translation: “they brought out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 12 31 a3vv figs-metonymy 0 He brought out the people David did not bring out the people himself; he commanded his soldiers to bring them out. Alternate translation: “David commanded his soldiers to bring out the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 12 31 ew58 figs-metonymy 0 all the cities of the people of Ammon This refers to the people in the cities. Alternate translation: “all the people of the cites of Ammon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 13 intro abcd 0 # 2 Samuel 13 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter begins the story about the difficulties and killings in David’s family. David’s sin caused these problems in his family. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Amnon raped Absalom’s sister<br>Amnon raped Absalom’s sister, who was his own half-sister. David did nothing to punish him and David’s lack of action caused significant problems in his family and in Israel. This eventually caused Solomon to become king, even though he was not the oldest son.
2SA 13 1 e2ti writing-newevent 0 It came about after this “It happened after this.” This phrase is used to introduce a new event to the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
2SA 13 2 fmq1 figs-explicit 0 Amnon was so frustrated that he became sick because of his sister Tamar Amnon was frustrated because he desired to sleep with his sister Tamar. Alternate translation: “Amnon was so frustrated with desire for his sister Tamar that he felt sick” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 13 3 rz6p translate-names 0 Jonadab son of Shimeah, David’s brother These are the names of men. Shimeah was David’s brother. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 13 4 s99u figs-ellipsis 0 Will you not tell me? It is understood that he is asking him about his depression, which can be stated clearly. Also, this rhetorical question is a request for Jehonadab to tell him why he is depressed. It may be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Will you not tell me why you are depressed?” or “Please, tell me why you are depressed.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 13 5 qen4 0 Jonadab See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 13:3](../13/03.md).
2SA 13 5 xjs4 figs-idiom 0 eat it from her hand This is probably a request for her to serve food to him personally. He probably did not want her to put the food in his mouth. Alternate translation: “have her serve it to me herself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 13 6 tsl3 figs-idiom 0 I may eat from her hand This is probably a request for her to serve food to him personally. He probably did not expect her to put the food in his mouth. Alternate translation: “she may serve it to me to eat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 13 6 a3i8 figs-metonymy 0 for my sickness in front of me The food is not for his sickness, but rather it is for him, because he is sick. The phrase “in front of me” is a request for Tamar to prepare the food in his presence. Alternate translation: “in front of me because I am sick” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 13 7 we8h figs-metonymy 0 David sent word This means that he sent a messenger to speak to Tamar. Alternate translation: “David sent a messenger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 13 8 l12v figs-idiom 0 in his sight This means that Tamar made the bread in front of him. Alternate translation: “in front of him” or “in his presence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 13 9 cwh1 figs-idiom 0 So everyone went out from him To “go out from someone” means to leave them. Alternate translation: “So everyone left him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 13 10 y3b4 figs-idiom 0 that I may eat from your hand This is a request for Tamar to serve the food to him personally. Alternate translation: “and serve it to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 13 11 c79f figs-euphemism 0 lie with me This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “have sexual relations with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 13 12 rly8 figs-ellipsis 0 do not force me She is referring to having sexual relations with him. Alternate translation: “do not force me to have sexual relations with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2SA 13 13 j8jb figs-rquestion 0 How could I be rid of my shame? Tamar asks this rhetorical question to emphasize how much shame she would have if she slept with him. Tamar speaks of getting rid of her shame as if it were an enemy or a tormentor that she needed to escape from. Alternate translation: “If you do this, I would have to endure shame everywhere I go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 13 14 ras3 figs-euphemism 0 he lay with her This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “he had sexual relations with her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 13 16 zc24 figs-abstractnouns 0 Because this great evil of making me leave is even worse If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **this great evil**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “It would be very evil to make me leave! It would be even worse” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2SA 13 17 au8l figs-explicit 0 bolt the door after her This means to lock the door so that she will not be able to come back in again. Alternate translation: “lock the door so that she cannot come back in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 13 18 c6te figs-explicit 0 bolted the door after her This means to lock the door so that she will not be able to come back in again. Alternate translation: “locked the door so that she could not go back in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 13 19 i3wt translate-symaction 0 put ashes on her head and tore her robe. She put her hands on her head These are acts of mourning and grief in the Israelite culture. Alternate translation: “put ashes on her head and tore her robe to show that she was very sad. Then to show her grief, she put her hands on her head” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 13 20 w3wp figs-euphemism 0 Has Amnon your brother been with you? This is a polite way to ask is Amnon has had sexual relations with her. Alternate translation: “Has Amnon your brother slept with you?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 13 20 ffu3 figs-idiom 0 keep quiet This means to not tell anyone about something. Alternate translation: “do not tell anyone about this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 13 20 ce3a figs-idiom 0 Do not take this thing to heart The phrase “take something to heart” means “to worry about it.” Alternate translation: “Do not worry about what has happened” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 13 23 q5hh writing-newevent 0 It came about after two full years This explains that two whole years has passed and introduces the next event in the story line. The phrase “full years” means that they are complete years. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
2SA 13 24 tav8 0 may the king Although he is talking to his father the king, he calls him “the king” instead of “you” to show respect for him.
2SA 13 26 b7e9 0 please let my brother Amnon go with us The oldest son could often represent his father in Israelite culture. Amnon was David’s oldest son.
2SA 13 26 ep6f 0 Why should Amnon go with you? David knew that Amnon was not Absalom’s friend.
2SA 13 27 kd8k figs-metaphor 0 Absalom pressed David Here the author speaks of Absalom urging David to let Amnon come as if he were putting physical pressure on him. Alternate translation: “Absalom begged David for Amnon to come” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 13 27 w3cs figs-synecdoche 0 all the king’s sons This does not include Absalom and Amnon who is dead. It includes the rest of the sons that the king allowed to go to the celebration. Alternate translation: “the rest of the king’s sons” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 13 28 yfb3 figs-explicit 0 Do not be afraid This implies that they do not need to be afraid of the consequences for killing Amnon. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Do not be afraid that you will be blamed for killing the king’s son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 13 28 ev94 figs-rquestion 0 Have I not commanded you? Absalom asks this rhetorical question to emphasize that he will be blamed for killing Amnon because he is commanding them. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “I have commanded you to do this.” or “I will be the one guilty for killing him because I have commanded you to do this.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 13 28 fa5u figs-ellipsis 0 not commanded you What Absalom has commanded them to do may be stated in the question. Alternate translation: “not commanded you to kill him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2SA 13 29 jr7q 0 every man This refers to the king’s sons who left the celebration.
2SA 13 30 jr55 writing-newevent 0 So it came about “It happened that.” This phrase is used here to introduce the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
2SA 13 30 hpn8 figs-metonymy 0 that the news came to David saying Here it says that the news came, when really someone came and told David the news. Alternate translation: “that someone came and reported the news to David saying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 13 31 a8qp translate-symaction 0 tore his clothes, and lay on the floor He did these things to show that he was extremely sad. Alternate translation: “tore his clothes, and threw himself on the floor grieving” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 13 31 a62g translate-symaction 0 with their clothes torn They did this to show their sadness and to mourn with their king. Alternate translation: “and tore their clothes, mourning with the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 13 32 a8f7 figs-euphemism 0 Amnon violated his sister This is a polite way of saying that Amnon raped his sister. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 13 33 cf2y figs-idiom 0 take this report to heart The phrase “take something to heart” means “to worry about it.” Alternate translation: “worry about this report” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 13 34 rh5b figs-idiom 0 keeping watch This means that the servant was watching for enemies while guarding at the city wall. Alternate translation: “who was guarding” or “who was guarding at the city wall” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 13 34 j8la figs-metaphor 0 raised his eyes Here the servant looking up at something is spoken of as if he lifted up his eyes. Alternate translation: “looked up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 13 36 r5i8 writing-newevent 0 So it came about This phrase is used to introduce the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
2SA 13 36 r9gz figs-metaphor 0 raised their voices Here the sons crying out is spoken of as if their voices were something they lifted into the sky. Alternate translation: “cried out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 13 39 ky6u figs-synecdoche 0 The mind of King David longed Here David is referred to by his mind to emphasize his thoughts. Alternate translation: “King David longed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 13 39 t9kb 0 for he was comforted concerning Amnon and his death “because he was no longer grieving about Amnon being dead.” This refers to three years after Absalom fled to Geshur.
2SA 14 intro abce 0 # 2 Samuel 14 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Reconciliation<br>David missed his son, Absalom, who was in exile. Joab summons a wise woman to reconcile David and Absalom. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reconcile]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech used in this chapter<br><br>### Parable<br><br>The wise woman uses a type of parable to convince David that his actions were wrong. He treated a stranger worse than he treated his own son. This hypothetical situation was intended to convict David of his sin. She uses David’s own words against him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])
2SA 14 2 g3b4 figs-metonymy 0 sent word to Tekoa and had a wise woman brought This means that Joab sent someone with a message to Tekoa and had him bring back a woman to him. This can be written in active form. Alternate translation: “sent someone with a message to Tokoa and had him bring a wise woman back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 14 2 rm87 figs-nominaladj 0 the dead This refers to someone who has died, not dead people in general. Alternate translation: “someone who has died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
2SA 14 4 an12 translate-symaction 0 she lay facedown on the ground She did this to show her respect and submission to the king. Alternate translation: “she showed her respect to the king by laying facedown on the ground” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 14 7 aq9y 0 your servant To show respect for the king the woman refers to herself as “your servant.”
2SA 14 7 fj59 figs-idiom 0 put him to death This is an idiom which means to kill. Alternate translation: “kill him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 14 7 hhk3 figs-explicit 0 they would also destroy the heir If they put the guilty brother to death there would not be a son left to inherit the family’s possessions. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “if they did this, they would be destroying our family’s heir” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 14 7 vfb2 figs-metaphor 0 Thus they will put out the burning coal that I have left Here the woman refers to her only living son as if he were a burning piece of coal. She speaks of the men killing her son as stopping the coal’s burning. Alternate translation: “In this way they will kill the only child I have left” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 14 7 vk75 figs-doublenegatives 0 they will leave for my husband neither name nor descendant This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “they will not leave for my husband name or descendant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2SA 14 7 jl3j figs-metonymy 0 neither name nor descendant This refers to a son to carry on the family’s name into the next generation. Alternate translation: “no son to preserve our family’s name” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 14 7 xe94 0 on the surface of the earth “on the earth.” This descriptive phrase emphasizes that the family line would not continue on earth after the husband died. “The surface of the earth” refers to the ground on which people walk.
2SA 14 8 w2wr figs-activepassive 0 I will command something to be done for you 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 take care of this matter for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 14 9 gz85 figs-explicit 0 may the guilt be on me and on my father’s family This means that if people say that the king was wrong for helping the woman’s family that the king should not be guilty. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “if anyone blames you for helping our family, may my family be considered guilty instead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 14 9 e186 figs-metonymy 0 The king and his throne Here the word “throne” refers to anyone who later becomes king in David’s place. Alternate translation: “The king and his descendants” or “The king and his family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 14 9 uik4 figs-explicit 0 are guiltless “are innocent.” This implies that in the future if anyone accuses the king of wrongdoing, he will be innocent in the matter. Alternate translation: “will be innocent regarding the matter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 14 10 fz7h figs-synecdoche 0 says anything to you Here speaking threats is spoken of as speaking in general. Alternate translation: “threatens you” or “speaks threats to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 14 10 pq9j figs-metaphor 0 he will not touch you anymore Here David speaks of a person not threatening or hurting her, by saying that the person would not touch her. It is implied that David will not allow the person threatening her to bother her again. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “I will make sure he does not threaten you again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 14 11 jfs2 figs-idiom 0 Please, may the king call to mind Yahweh your God This could mean: (1) The phrase “call to mind” is an idiom meaning to pray. Alternate translation: “Please, pray to Yahweh your God” or (2) Here “call to mind” means to remember and it is implied that after he remembers Yahweh he will promise in his name. Alternate translation: “Please promise in the name of Yahweh your God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 14 11 xm1u figs-explicit 0 the avenger of blood This refers to the man who wants to avenge the death of the dead brother. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “the man who wants to avenge my son’s brother’s death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 14 11 ez62 0 destroy anyone further “cause anyone else to die.” This is in addition to the brother who already died.
2SA 14 11 vgi3 figs-simile 0 As Yahweh lives Often people would make promises and compare how surely they would fulfil their promise to how surely Yahweh is alive. Alternate translation: “I promise you, as surely as Yahweh lives” or “In Yahweh’s name I promise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 14 11 d9l6 figs-hyperbole 0 not one hair of your son will fall to the ground The means that her son will not be harmed, which is exaggerated by saying that he will not lose even a single hair. Alternate translation: “your son will be completely safe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2SA 14 12 l1s3 0 your servant To show respect for the king the woman refers to herself as “your servant.”
2SA 14 12 hy2e 0 speak a further word to “talk about something else to.” The woman is requesting to speak to the king about another topic.
2SA 14 12 mw9s figs-idiom 0 Speak on This is an idiom. The king was giving her permission to continue speaking. Alternate translation: “You may speak to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 14 13 ia2l figs-rquestion 0 Why then have you devised such a thing against the people of God? The woman asks this rhetorical question to rebuke David for how he has treated Absalom. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “What you have just said proved that you did wrong.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 14 13 t35u 0 the king is like someone who is guilty The woman compares the king to someone who is guilty to suggest that he is guilty without saying it directly. Alternate translation: “the king has declared himself guilty”
2SA 14 14 ll3p figs-simile 0 For we all must die, and we are like water spilled on the ground … up again Here the woman speaks of a person dying as if they were water being spilled on the ground. Alternate translation: “We all must die, and after we die we cannot be brought back to life again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 14 14 f5lf figs-explicit 0 God … finds a way for those who were driven away to be restored The woman is implying that David should bring his son back to himself. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “God brings back someone whom he has driven away and you should do the same for your son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 14 15 hm99 figs-ellipsis 0 because the people have made me afraid The understood information may be supplied. Alternate translation: “because the people have made me afraid that I have come” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2SA 14 15 nkn7 0 your servant To show respect for the king the woman refers to herself as “your servant”
2SA 14 16 x4ut figs-metonymy 0 from the hand of the man This phrase is an idiom. Also, “the hand” is a metonym referring to the man’s control. Alternate translation: “out of the control of the man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 14 17 nm7g figs-simile 0 for as an angel of God, so is my master … from evil Here David, the king, is compared to an “angel of God.” Alternate translation: “for the king is like an angel of God because they both know how to tell good from evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 14 18 u2d4 figs-litotes 0 Please do not hide from me anything that I will ask you The negative form here is used for emphasis and can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: “Please tell me the truth about everything I ask you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
2SA 14 19 p42h figs-metonymy 0 Is not the hand of Joab with you in all this Here the word “hand” refers to Joab’s influence. Alternate translation: “Has not Joab influenced you in all this” or “Did Joab send you here to speak these things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 14 19 uz25 figs-idiom 0 As you live “As surely as you are alive.” Here the woman compares the certainty of what David has said to the certainty that he is alive, to emphasize how true his statement is. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 14 19 q69g figs-metaphor 0 no one can escape to the right hand … the king has spoken Here the woman describes the difficulty of speaking to the king and keeping him from finding out the truth by comparing it to a person not being about to escape in any direction. Alternate translation: “no one can keep you from knowing the truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 14 19 vyl1 figs-merism 0 to the right hand or to the left The expression gives two extremes and means “anywhere.” Alternate translation: “anywhere at all” or “anywhere” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
2SA 14 20 j2lm figs-simile 0 is wise, like the wisdom of an angel of God The woman compares David’s wisdom to the wisdom of an angel to emphasize how very wise he is. Alternate translation: “you are very wise, like an angel of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 14 21 n8az figs-explicit 0 So the king said to Joab It is implied that the king had Joab brought before him so that he could speak to him. The full meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “Then the king summoned Joab and said to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 14 21 g87y 0 Look now This phrase is used to draw someone’s attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen”
2SA 14 21 r58j figs-explicit 0 this thing This refers to what Joab wants the king to do. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “what you want me to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 14 22 n6a2 translate-symaction 0 Joab lay facedown on the ground Joab did this to honor the king and show his gratitude. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 14 22 f6n4 figs-idiom 0 I have found favor in your eyes The phrase “found favor” is an idiom which means to be approved of by someone. Also, “eyes” is a metonym for sight, and sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “you are pleased with me” or “you have approved of me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 14 24 i98k figs-synecdoche 0 but he may not see my face … the king’s face Here the word “face” refers to the king himself. Alternate translation: “but he may not see me … the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 14 25 u9cd writing-background 0 Now This word marks a break in the main story line. This new section gives background information for the part of the story that follows. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
2SA 14 25 fb8b figs-activepassive 0 there was no one praised for his handsomeness more than Absalom 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: “people praised Absalom for his handsomeness more than they praised anyone else” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 14 25 tiv6 figs-merism 0 From the sole of his foot to the top of his head there was no blemish in him This means the whole person was without blemish. Alternate translation: “There were no blemishes on any part of his body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
2SA 14 26 j4bd translate-bweight 0 two hundred shekels This can be written in modern units. Alternate translation: “two and a half kilograms” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]])
2SA 14 26 a94i 0 the weight of the king’s standard The king had weights that determined the standard weight of the shekel and other weights and measurements.
2SA 14 27 raf5 0 To Absalom were born three sons and one daughter 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: “Absalom had three sons and one daughter”
2SA 14 28 p8nr figs-synecdoche 0 the king’s face Here “the king’s face” refers to the king himself. Alternate translation: “the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 14 29 nwh8 figs-metonymy 0 Absalom sent word for Joab Here “word” is a metonym for “a message.” This means that he sent a messenger to Joab with a request. Alternate translation: “Absalom sent a messenger to Joab asking him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 14 29 km4z figs-explicit 0 to send him to the king It is implied that Absalom wanted Joab to come to him to see him and to intercede for him so that he would be allowed to see the king. The full meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “to come to him and to intercede for him so that he could see the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 14 29 f1c7 figs-metonymy 0 So Absalom sent word a second time Here “word” is a metonym for “a message.” This means that he sent a messenger to Joab again with the same request. The full meaning of this can be made clear. Alternate translation: “So Absalom sent a messenger to Joab again with the same request” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 14 30 g6kt 0 See Here this word is used to remind people of something. Alternate translation: “As you know”
2SA 14 32 cr53 figs-metonymy 0 I sent word Here “word” is a metonym for “a message.” This means that he sent a messenger. Alternate translation: “I sent a messenger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 14 32 ay13 figs-explicit 0 to the king to say The message here for the king is written as if Absalom were the speaker. Absalom was asking Joab to speak the message on his behalf. The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. Alternate translation: “to say to the king on my behalf” or “to ask the king for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 14 32 ehw7 figs-synecdoche 0 the king’s face Here “king’s face” refers to the king himself. Alternate translation: “the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 14 33 xix9 translate-symaction 0 bowed low to the ground before the king Absalom is showing respect to the king. Alternate translation: “bowed low to the ground to honor the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 14 33 lr12 figs-explicit 0 the king kissed Absalom This implies that the king forgave and restored Absalom. The full meaning of this can be made clear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 15 intro abcf 0 # 2 Samuel 15 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter begins the story of Absalom’s attempted revolt.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Absalom’s conspiracy<br>For four years, Absalom made many allies in an attempt to make himself king. This is why he acted as a judge for the people. Since this was all done in secret, it is called a “conspiracy.” David found out and fled with those in the army who were loyal to him.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br>The author used the metaphor of a thief to describe how Absalom was able to win people’s loyalty: “So Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 15 1 m44b writing-newevent 0 It came about This phrase is used to introduce the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
2SA 15 1 a4qh translate-symaction 0 with fifty men to run before him These men would run in front of the chariot to honor Absalom. Alternate translation: “with fifty men to run before him to honor him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 15 2 f1j6 0 Your servant When a man would respond to Absalom’s question he would refer to himself as “your servant” to honor Absalom.
2SA 15 3 cl8u figs-explicit 0 So Absalom would say to him It is implied that the person told his case to Absalom. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Absalom would ask him what his problem was, and the man would then explain to Absalom why he sought justice. Absalom would then say to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 15 3 yts5 figs-doublet 0 good and right These words have basically the same meaning and are used together to emphasize that his case is good. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2SA 15 3 d3e6 figs-metonymy 0 to hear your case “Hearing” a case means to listen to it and to make a judgement decision over it. Alternate translation: “to judge your case” or “to oversee your case” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 15 5 n3n6 translate-symaction 0 put out his hand and take hold of him and kiss him This action is a friendly greeting. Alternate translation: “greet him as a friend by embracing him and kissing him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 15 6 ty61 figs-explicit 0 for judgment This means that they can for the king to decide their disputes. Alternate translation: “to judge over their disputes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 15 6 xc8j figs-metaphor 0 So Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel This sentence means Absalom convinced the men to be loyal to him rather than to David. Here the author speaks of how the people became loyal to Absalom by saying that he stole their hearts. Alternate translation: “In this way, Absalom convinced the men of Israel to be loyal to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 15 7 k1ju writing-newevent 0 It came about This phrase is used to introduce the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
2SA 15 7 u4br figs-explicit 0 at the end of four years that Absalom This refers to four years after he returned to Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “fours years after Absalom had returned to Jerusalem, he” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 15 7 z9fc 0 and pay a vow that I have made to Yahweh in Hebron Alternate translation: “to Hebron and there fulfill a vow that I have made to Yahweh”
2SA 15 10 k6i1 figs-metonymy 0 throughout all the tribes of Israel Here the places where the tribes of Israel lived are referred to as the tribes themselves. Alternate translation: “throughout the land of the tribes of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 15 11 y3hm figs-activepassive 0 who were invited 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: “who he had invited” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 15 12 p6px figs-idiom 0 he sent for Ahithophel This means that he sent a messenger to go get Ahithophel and bring him back to him. Alternate translation: “he sent a messenger to go get Ahithophel who was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 15 13 wjk4 figs-synecdoche 0 The hearts of the men of Israel are following after Here the men are referred to by their “hearts” to emphasize their loyalty to Absalom. Alternate translation: “The men of Israel are loyal to” or “The men of Israel are following after” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 15 14 brg3 figs-synecdoche 0 escape from Absalom … he will quickly … and he will bring Here David speaks of Absalom and the men with him as “Absalom” himself because the men are following Absalom’s authority. Alternate translation: “escape from Absalom and his men … he and his men will quickly … and they will bring” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 15 14 t8eh figs-metonymy 0 attack the city with the edge of the sword The “city” is a metonym referring to the people in the city. The “edge of the sword” is a synecdoche referring to the Israelites’ swords and emphasize that they killed the people in battle. Alternate translation: “will attack the people of our city and kill them with their swords” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 15 16 hpv6 figs-idiom 0 to keep the palace Here the word “keep” means to care for. Alternate translation: “to care for the palace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 15 17 cv7p figs-explicit 0 at the last house This refers to the last house they would come to when leaving the city. Alternate translation: “at the last house as they were leaving the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 15 19 k4yp figs-rquestion 0 Why will you come with us? This rhetorical question indicates that the king does not think they should go along with him. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You do not need to go with us.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 15 20 dw1l figs-rquestion 0 why should I make you wander all over with us? This rhetorical question emphasizes David did not want Ittai to come. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not want to cause you to wander around with us.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 15 20 wfd5 figs-hyperbole 0 Since you just left yesterday Here “yesterday” is an exaggeration that emphasizes a short amount of time. Ittai the Gittite had lived there for several years. Alternate translation: “Since you have lived here only a short time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2SA 15 20 e3e8 figs-explicit 0 May loyalty and faithfulness go with you This is a blessing that David is giving to him. Alternate translation: “May Yahweh be faithful and loyal to you always” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 15 21 m7sh figs-simile 0 As Yahweh lives, and as my master the king lives Here the speaker is making a solemn promise. He compare the certainty the he will fulfill his promise to the certainty that Yahweh and the king are alive. Alternate translation: “I solemnly promise that as surely as Yahweh and the king live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 15 23 y8br figs-hyperbole 0 All the country wept with a loud voice Many of the people of Israel wept loudly when they saw the king leaving. Here this is generalized by saying that the whole country wept. Alternate translation: “All the people along the road wept” or “Many of the people wept” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2SA 15 23 cpg7 figs-metaphor 0 with a loud voice Here the many people who were weeping are spoken of as if they shared one loud voice. Alternate translation: “loudly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 15 25 x2mv figs-metonymy 0 I find favor in the eyes of Yahweh Here the “eyes of Yahweh” refer to Yahweh’s thoughts and opinion. If you “find favor” with someone it means that they are pleased with you. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is pleased with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 15 25 cm5c figs-metonymy 0 where he lives “where his presence is.” The ark of the covenant symbolizes Yahweh’s presence. This refers to the place where the ark is. Alternate translation: “where it is kept” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 15 27 k6y6 0 Abiathar See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 8:17](../08/17.md).
2SA 15 27 sn4s figs-rquestion 0 Are you not a seer? This rhetorical question is used to rebuke Zadok and can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You will be able to find out what is happening.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 15 28 nvl5 0 See Here this word means for the listener to pay attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen”
2SA 15 28 a6gq figs-metonymy 0 until word comes from you This refers to him sending a messenger to the king. Alternate translation: “until you send a messenger to me to inform me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 15 28 g6m3 figs-explicit 0 to inform me Here the king implies he is to receive a message informing him about what is happening in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “to tell me what is happening in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 15 30 hz16 translate-symaction 0 his head covered This is a sign of mourning and shame. Alternate translation: “his head covered in mourning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 15 31 e31r 0 Ahithophel See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 15:11](../15/11.md).
2SA 15 31 e4pr figs-explicit 0 please turn Ahithophel’s advice into foolishness David is asking Yahweh to make Ahitohphel’s advice foolish and useless. Alternate translation: “please let whatever advice Ahithophel gives be foolishness and unsuccessful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 15 32 lr8g writing-newevent 0 It came about “It happened.” This phrase marks the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
2SA 15 32 q4pe figs-explicit 0 at the top of the road The word “top” is used here because David went up in elevation and is at the top of a hill. Alternate translation: “at the top of the hill” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 15 32 kgp7 figs-activepassive 0 where God used to be worshiped 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: “where people once worshiped God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 15 32 jt8s translate-symaction 0 with his coat torn and earth on his head This is an act showing shame or repentance. Here the word “earth” means dirt. Alternate translation: “He had torn his clothes and put dirt on his head to show that he was very sad” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 15 34 xy6g figs-explicit 0 you will confuse Ahithophel’s advice for me David is suggest to Hushai that he oppose whatever Ahithopel advises. Alternate translation: “you can serve me by opposing Ahithophel’s advice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 15 35 fr9e figs-rquestion 0 Will you not have the priests Zadok and Abiathar with you? David asks this rhetorical question to tell Hushai that he will not be alone. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Zadok and Abiathar the priests will be there to help you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 15 35 rkm7 figs-hyperbole 0 whatever you hear This is a generalization. It means all of the important and insightful things that he hears, not every single word he hears. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2SA 15 36 z36k figs-synecdoche 0 by their hand The phrase “their hand” refers to the sons and means that they were to serve as messengers. Alternate translation: “their sons to tell me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 16 intro abcg 0 # 2 Samuel 16 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Absalom seeks advice from David’s advisers<br>David’s best adviser, Ahithophel, told Absalom to publicly seduce the concubines that David had left to take care of the palace. Because the concubines were the king’s property, having sexual relations with a king’s concubines implied that Absalom was now the king. This would show the people that the break with David was complete. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br>### Simile<br>To show how seriously people took Ahithophel’s advice, the author used a [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] comparing his advice to God’s advice. “Now the advice of Ahithophel that he gave in those days was as if a man heard from the mouth of God himself.”
2SA 16 3 bdv9 0 grandson the son of one’s son or daughter
2SA 16 3 x26u 0 Look Here this word is used to draw someone’s attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen”
2SA 16 3 b9kv figs-metonymy 0 house of Israel This refers to the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “the people of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 16 3 fvn6 figs-metaphor 0 will restore my father’s kingdom to me Having a descendant of Saul being allowed to rule is spoken of as the kingdom being restored to their family. Alternate translation: “will allow me to rule the kingdom that my grandfather ruled” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 16 4 h3df 0 Mephibosheth See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 4:4](../04/04.md).
2SA 16 4 cvm5 figs-metaphor 0 I bow in humility to you Ziba is not literally bowing before the king when he is speaking here. This means that he will serve the king with the same amount of humility he would be showing if he were literally bowing before him. Alternate translation: “I will humbly serve you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 16 4 ewk1 figs-idiom 0 Let me find favor in your eyes The phrase “find favor” means to be approved of by someone. Also, “eyes” is a metonym for sight, and sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “I want you to be pleased with me” or “I desire you for to be pleased with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 16 7 h2c4 figs-metonymy 0 man of blood Here “blood” refers to all of men he was responsible for killing in battle. Alternate translation: “murderer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 16 8 ju1y figs-explicit 0 Yahweh has repaid Yahweh repays them by punishing them. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has punished” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 16 8 cvt3 figs-metonymy 0 for the blood you shed within the family of Saul Here “blood” refer to people who were killed from Saul’s family. The king was responsible for them dying. Alternate translation: “for killing many of Saul’s family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 16 8 mve3 figs-explicit 0 in whose place you have reigned David reigned as king over the same people whom Saul had previously reigned. Alternate translation: “in whose place you have reigned as king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 16 8 uqf8 figs-metonymy 0 into the hand of Absalom Here “hand” refers to control. Alternate translation: “into the control of Absalom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 16 9 wg1j translate-names 0 Abishai See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 2:18](../02/18.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 16 9 jz4r translate-names 0 Zeruiah See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 2:13](../02/13.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 16 9 b6wq figs-rquestion 0 Why should this dead dog curse my master the king? Abishai asked this question to express his anger at the man. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “This dead dog must not speak to the king this way.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 16 9 p79k figs-metaphor 0 this dead dog Here the man is being described as worthless by being compared to a dead dog. Alternate translation: “this worthless man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 16 10 i1pm figs-rquestion 0 What have I to do with you, sons of Zeruiah? This rhetorical question is asked to correct the sons of Zeruiah. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not want to know what you think!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 16 10 g4rx figs-rquestion 0 Who then could say to him, ‘Why are you cursing the king? This is said as a rhetorical question to emphasize that the answer is “no one.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one then can ask him, ‘Why are you cursing the king?’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 16 11 y6it figs-explicit 0 my son, who was born from my body David describes his son this way to emphasize the close bond between a father and his son. Alternate translation: “my own son” or “my dear son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 16 11 l8bj figs-euphemism 0 wants to take my life This is a polite way to refer to killing someone. Alternate translation: “wants to kill me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 16 11 znl2 figs-rquestion 0 How much more may this Benjamite now desire my ruin? David uses this rhetorical question to express that he is not surprised that the man wants to kill him. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Of course this Benjamite desires my ruin!” or “I am not surprised this Benjamite desires my ruin as well!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 16 11 t9uf figs-metaphor 0 desire my ruin Here David describes the man’s desire to kill him as if David were something that the man wanted to ruin. Alternate translation: “desire me to be killed” or “desire to kill me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 16 11 tb7g figs-idiom 0 Leave him alone and let him curse Here the phrase “leave him alone” means to not stop him from what he is doing. Alternate translation: “Do not stop him from cursing me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 16 12 xk9r figs-idiom 0 will look at Here “looking” means “considering.” Alternate translation: “will consider” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 16 12 smf2 figs-personification 0 the misery unleashed on me Here David speaks of misery as if it were a dangerous animal that the Benjamite unleashed on him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2SA 16 13 h7jk 0 Shimei went beside him up on the hillside Shimei was walking parallel to David and his men, though Shimei was up higher on the hillside.
2SA 16 15 l6bc translate-names 0 Ahithophel See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 15:12](../15/12.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 16 16 p1gq translate-names 0 Hushai See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 15:32](../15/32.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 16 16 d97z writing-newevent 0 It came about “It happened that.” This phrase is used to introduce the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
2SA 16 16 gp9v translate-names 0 Arkite See how you translated the name of this people group in [2 Samuel 15:32](../15/32.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 16 17 x1al 0 loyalty a strong feeling of support and love
2SA 16 17 b4yd figs-rquestion 0 Is this your loyalty to your friend? Why did you not go with him? These rhetorical questions are asked to criticize Hushai. They can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You have been a loyal friend to David; you should have gone with him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 16 18 k7hr figs-123person 0 the one whom … that is the man … with him Here Hushai is referring to Absalom in the third person to take emphasize off of him and place it on Yahweh and the people who chose him. This can be written in second person. Alternate translation: “you are the one whom … you are the man … with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
2SA 16 19 hq49 figs-rquestion 0 what man should I serve? Should I not serve in the presence of his son? Hushai asks these rhetorical questions to emphasize that he wants to serve Absalom. They can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “I should serve only David’s son, so I will serve in his presence.” or “I should serve you, for you are David’s son.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 16 20 f7w3 translate-names 0 Ahithophel See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 15:12](../15/12.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 16 21 d7c8 figs-euphemism 0 Go into your father’s slave wives This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “Have sexual relations with your father’s slave wives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 16 21 sm7v figs-idiom 0 to keep the palace The phrase “to keep” means to take care of. Alternate translation: “to take care of the palace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 16 21 jx59 figs-metaphor 0 become a stench to your father Ahithophel speaks of Absalom offending his father as if he would become something that had a strong and offensive odor. Alternate translation: “become offensive to your father” or “greatly insulted father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 16 21 bu9j figs-synecdoche 0 Then the hands of all who are with you will be strong Here the people who followed Absalom are referred to by their hands. The news will strengthen the peoples’ loyalty to Absalom and encourage them. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “The news of this will strengthen the loyalty of all who follow you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 16 22 gx92 figs-euphemism 0 Absalom went in to his father’s slave wives This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “Absalom had sexual relations with his father’s slave wives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 16 22 v3ik figs-hyperbole 0 in the sight of all Israel This means that people were able to see the tent and Absalom walking in and out of the tent with the women. The phrase “all of Israel” is a generalization, for only people near the palace could see it. Alternate translation: “where the Israelites could see him go into the tent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2SA 16 23 k3y9 figs-simile 0 Now the advice of Ahithophel … was as if a man heard Here the author compare how much people trusted Ahithophel’s advice with how much they would trust advice directly from God. Alternate translation: “Now people trusted the advice of Ahithophel in those days in the same way they would have trusted it if had come” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 16 23 qt97 figs-synecdoche 0 as if a man heard from the mouth of God himself Here God’s mouth represents himself and emphasizes his speech. Alternate translation: “as if God had said it with his own mouth” or “as if a man heard it spoken by God himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
2SA 16 23 jqr6 0 all of Ahithophel’s advice was viewed by both David and Absalom This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “both David and Absalom viewed all of Ahithophel’s advice”
2SA 17 intro abch 0 # 2 Samuel 17 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Confusion<br>Ahithophel gives good advise to Absalom, but Hushai confuses Absalom. God is using the misleading advice to protect David, his king.
2SA 17 1 jz1q translate-names 0 Ahithophel See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 15:12](../15/12.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 17 2 ukx7 figs-doublet 0 weary and weak These words mean basically the same thing and are used together to emphasize how weak David was. Alternate translation: “weak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2SA 17 2 si3k figs-abstractnouns 0 will surprise him with fear Here the word “fear” can be expressed with the adjective “afraid.” Alternate translation: “will surprise him and make him afraid” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2SA 17 2 txi8 figs-explicit 0 I will attack only the king It is implied that he intends to kill the king. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “I will kill only the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 17 3 b53b figs-explicit 0 bring back all the people This refers to all of the people who were with David. Alternate translation: “bring back all of the people who were with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 17 3 b385 figs-simile 0 like a bride coming to her husband Here Ahithophel speaks of the peoples’ happiness by comparing it to a bride’s happiness. Alternate translation: “and they will come happily, like a bride is happy when she comes to her husband” or “and they will come happily” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 17 3 fwq6 figs-idiom 0 be at peace This means to have peace or to live peacefully. Alternate translation: “live peacefully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 17 3 d16g figs-metonymy 0 under you This refers to being under the king’s authority. Alternate translation: “under your authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 17 5 b9n4 0 Hushai the Arkite See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 15:32](../15/32.md).
2SA 17 6 lw7i 0 Ahithophel See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 15:12](../15/12.md).
2SA 17 8 w2fu figs-simile 0 they are like a bear robbed of her cubs The anger of the soldiers here is being compared to that of a mother bear who cubs are taken from her. Alternate translation: “they are angry, like a mother bear whose cubs have been take from her” or “they are very angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 17 8 q99g figs-explicit 0 is a man of war This means that his has fought in many battles and knows well the ways of war. Alternate translation: “has fought in many battles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 17 9 vwd2 0 Look Here this word is used to draw someone’s attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen”
2SA 17 9 v2xp figs-ellipsis 0 or in some other place This is another place he may be hiding. Alternate translation: “or hidden in some other place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2SA 17 9 d2wh figs-activepassive 0 when some of your men have been 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: “when his soldiers kill some of your men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 17 9 f1q8 figs-abstractnouns 0 A slaughter has taken place among the soldiers who follow Absalom The noun “slaughter” means an event where many people are brutally killed. This can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “Many of the soldiers who follow Absalom have been slaughtered” or “The enemy soldiers have killed many of the soldiers who follow Absalom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2SA 17 10 g7bl figs-synecdoche 0 whose hearts are like the heart of a lion Here the soldiers are refers to by their “hearts.” Also, their strong bravery is compared to that of a lion’s. Alternate translation: “who are as brave as lions” or “who are very brave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 17 11 sm9p figs-activepassive 0 that all Israel should be gathered together to you 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, here “all Israel” represents only the Israelite soldiers. Alternate translation: “that you should gather together all of the Israelite soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 17 11 jz3g figs-merism 0 from Dan to Beersheba This phrase means from the northern border of Israel to the southern border. Alternate translation: “from the whole nation of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
2SA 17 11 vl1f figs-hyperbole 0 as numerous as the sands that are by the sea This is an exaggeration where all the grains of sand on a beach are compared to the number of Israelite soldiers. Alternate translation: “so many that they can barely be counted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 17 11 lbr4 figs-idiom 0 that you go to battle in person The phrase “in person” means to go yourself and not send someone else instead. Alternate translation: “then lead them yourself into battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 17 12 v92h figs-idiom 0 come on him This means to purposefully go to where he is and then to attack. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 17 12 rys8 figs-simile 0 we will cover him as the dew falls on the ground Absalom’s army is described as covering David’s army like the dew covers the ground in the morning. Alternate translation: “we will overwhelm and completely defeat David’s army” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 17 12 k6bm 0 dew the fog or misty cloud of water that can fall onto the ground during the night, covering the ground and leaving it wet in the morning
2SA 17 12 jdy3 figs-litotes 0 We will not leave even one of his men … alive This negative sentence is used for emphasis and can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: “We will kill every one of his men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
2SA 17 12 dwr7 figs-rpronouns 0 him himself Both these words refer to David. Alternate translation: “David himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
2SA 17 13 cez7 figs-synecdoche 0 then all Israel This refers to Israel’s soldiers, not to all of Israel. Alternate translation: “then all of our soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 17 13 v4rx figs-explicit 0 will bring ropes to that city and we will drag it into the river This means that the soldiers would tear down the city walls and drag the pieces to river. Alternate translation: “will destroy the city and drag the stones to the river with ropes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 17 13 ua57 figs-hyperbole 0 until there is no longer even a small stone found there This is an exaggeration to describe how completely they will destroy the city. The would not literally sweep away every small stone from the city. Alternate translation: “until the city is completely destroyed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2SA 17 14 vg6q 0 Hushai the Arkite See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 15:32](../15/32.md). Arkite is the name of a people group.
2SA 17 14 erd5 0 Ahithophel See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 15:12](../15/12.md).
2SA 17 14 j39m figs-abstractnouns 0 the rejection of Ahithophel’s good advice The word “rejection” can be expressed with the verb “reject.” Alternate translation: “for the men of Israel to reject Ahithophel’s good advice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2SA 17 14 rwx8 figs-idiom 0 to bring destruction on Absalom To “bring” something on someone means to cause it to happen to them. Alternate translation: “to cause a disaster to happen to Absalom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 17 15 pp5p translate-names 0 Zadok … Abiathar See how you translated these men’s names in [2 Samuel 15:24](../15/24.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 17 15 f3gh figs-idiom 0 in such and such a way This phrase, meaning “like this,” refers to what Ahithophel advised Absalom earlier beginning in [2 Samuel 17:1](../17/01.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 17 16 b624 0 the fords of the Arabah A ford is a shallow part of a river where people can walk across. The Arabah is the land along both sides of the Jordan River.
2SA 17 16 u94n figs-idiom 0 by all means This means to make sure that you do something. Alternate translation: “be sure to” or “make sure that you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 17 16 adt3 figs-metaphor 0 the king will be swallowed up Here the king and his people being killed is describes as if they were “swallowed” by their enemy. Alternate translation: “the king will be killed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 17 17 u8z7 translate-names 0 Jonathan … Ahimaaz See how you translated these men’s names in [2 Samuel 15:27](../15/27.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 17 17 q25n figs-metonymy 0 When the message came Here the “message” is spoken of as coming to them, when really it is the woman who came to then bringing the message. Alternate translation: “When she brought them a message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 17 18 r7rc figs-explicit 0 So Jonathan and Ahimaaz went away It is implied that they found out that the young man had told Absalom about them being there. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Jonathan and Ahimaaz found out what the young man had done, so they went away” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 17 19 j4xb translate-names 0 Jonathan … Ahimaaz See how you translated these men’s names in [2 Samuel 15:27](../15/27.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 17 20 n16k translate-names 0 Ahimaaz … Jonathan See how you translated these men’s names in [2 Samuel 15:27](../15/27.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 17 21 kx9m writing-newevent 0 It came about “It happened.” This phrase marks the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
2SA 17 21 r493 figs-metonymy 0 cross quickly over the water Here “the water” refers to the Jordan River. Alternate translation: “cross quickly over the river” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 17 21 h17r figs-idiom 0 has given such and such advice The idiom “such and such” is used in the place of information that is already know by the reader. Here it refers to what Ahithophel advised Absalom beginning in [2 Samuel 17:1](../17/01.md). This information can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “has advised that Absalom send him with an army to attack you now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 17 22 l8sk figs-litotes 0 By morning daylight not one of them had failed to cross over the Jordan This negative sentence is used to emphasize that they all crossed the river. It can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: “By morning daylight every one of them had crossed over the Jordan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
2SA 17 23 x22t figs-activepassive 0 his advice had not been followed 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: “Absalom had not followed his advice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 17 23 zw5j figs-idiom 0 set his affairs in order He prepared for his death by telling his family what to do after he died. Alternate translation: “he prepared for his death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 17 23 b2wa figs-activepassive 0 was buried 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: “they buried him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 17 24 c8ze translate-names 0 Mahanaim Translate the name of this place the same as you did in [2 Samuel 2:8](../02/08.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 17 25 dur7 translate-names 0 Amasa … Joab … Jether … Nahash These are the names of men. See how you translated Joab and Zeruiah (Joab’s mother) in [2 Samuel 2:13](../02/13.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 17 25 v1vl 0 Ishmaelite This word means that the person is descended from Ishmael. Some versions say “Israelite” here. See the footnote. You may want to choose the word that is used in the majority language Bible in your area.
2SA 17 25 q7fs figs-euphemism 0 who went in to Abigail This is a polite way of speaking of sexual relations. You may have to use other words in your translation. Alternate translation: “who had sexual relations with Abigail” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 17 26 p8z6 translate-names 0 Gilead Translate the name of this place the same as you did in [2 Samuel 2:9](../02/09.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 17 27 a88x writing-newevent 0 It came about This phrase is used to introduce the next event in the story line. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-newevent]])
2SA 17 27 ya8t translate-names 0 Mahanaim … Rabbah … Lo Debar … Rogelim These are the names of cities or places. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 17 27 sb1a translate-names 0 Shobi … Nahash … Machir … Ammiel … Barzillai These are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 17 27 g662 translate-names 0 Ammonites … Gileadite These are the names of people groups. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 18 intro abci 0 # 2 Samuel 18 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This chapter tells of the defeat and death of Absalom, ending this section on Absalom’s rebellion.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### David’s mercy<br>David reorganized his army and sent them out to battle, but told them to be merciful to Absalom. When David’s army defeated Absalom’s army, Absalom fled on a mule, but his hair caught in a tree limb and the mule ran on, leaving him hanging. One of David’s soldiers saw him and told Joab. Joab went and killed him. When David heard about this he mourned for his son, Absalom. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/mercy]])
2SA 18 1 y2u4 figs-metonymy 0 David counted the soldiers who were with him and appointed David did not count all of the people himself, rather other men counted them. Alternate translation: “David commanded for the soldiers who were with him to be counted and he appointed” or “David arranged the soldiers who were with him and appointed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 18 1 qt9x 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: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2SA 18 2 x31q translate-fraction 0 one-third … another third “one-third of the army … another third of the army.” A “third” is one part out of three equal parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-fraction]])
2SA 18 2 lu6k translate-names 0 Abishai … Zeruiah See how you translated these men’s names in [2 Samuel 2:18](../02/18.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 18 2 xwu2 translate-names 0 Ittai See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 15:19](../15/19.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 18 2 zy14 translate-names 0 Gittite This refers to a person from Gath, which is a Philistine city. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 18 2 s8e1 figs-explicit 0 I will certainly go out with you myself, too This means that he will go out with them to battle. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “I myself will go with you to battle” or “I personally will go with you into battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 18 3 z3p1 translate-numbers 0 half of us The word “half” refers to one out of two equal parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2SA 18 3 cmi5 figs-explicit 0 you are worth ten thousand of us This means that the enemy army considering killing David of greater worth than killing 10,000 of the other men. The number 10,000 here is an exaggeration used to emphasize a very great number of people. Alternate translation: “they would rather kill you than to kill 10,000 of us” or “killing you is worth more to them than killing a great number of us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2SA 18 3 r2hd figs-explicit 0 that you be ready to help us from the city David could help them from the city by advising them and sending men to help them. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “that you stay here in the city and send help to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 18 5 idy7 translate-names 0 Abishai See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 2:18](../02/18.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 18 5 nnf5 translate-names 0 Ittai See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 15:19](../15/19.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 18 5 jbs6 0 Deal gently for my sake with the young man, with Absalom “For my sake, do not harm the young man, Absalom.” The phrase “Deal gently” means to be kind to someone and not to harm them.
2SA 18 6 ak3c figs-explicit 0 went out into the countryside against Israel This means that they went out and fought against them in battle. Alternate translation: “went out into the countryside and fought against Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 18 6 na7e figs-synecdoche 0 against Israel Here “Israel” refers to their soldiers, not all of the Israelites. Alternate translation: “against the Israelite soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 18 7 xa6g figs-activepassive 0 The army of Israel was defeated there before the soldiers of 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: “There the soldiers of David defeated the army of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 18 8 ndw4 figs-personification 0 more men were consumed by the forest than by the sword Here “the forest” is described as if it were alive and could act. “The sword” refers to David’s soldiers who fought with swords. Alternate translation: “dangerous things in the forest killed more men than David’s soldiers killed with their swords” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 18 9 fye9 figs-explicit 0 Absalom happened to meet some of David’s soldiers This is an event that happened during the battle. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “During the battle, Absalom happened to meet some of David’s soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 18 9 ua3f figs-metonymy 0 his head was caught up in the tree branches Absalom had long hair that got caught in the tree branches. Alternate translation: “his hair was caught in the tree branches” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 18 11 w13x figs-rquestion 0 Why did you not strike him down to the ground? This rhetorical question means that he should have killed him. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. The phrase “strike down” means to kill. Alternate translation: “You should have struck him down to the ground!” or “You should have killed him immediately!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 18 11 aik2 translate-bmoney 0 ten silver shekels This can be written in modern units. Alternate translation: “ten silver coins” or “110 grams of silver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]])
2SA 18 12 m6ur translate-bmoney 0 a thousand silver shekels “1,000 silver shekels.” This can be stated in modern units. Alternate translation: “1,000 silver coins” or “11 kilograms of silver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2SA 18 12 y75l figs-idiom 0 would not have reached out my hand against the king’s son The phrase “reached out my hand” means to attack. Alternate translation: “would not have attacked the king’s son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 18 12 c6je figs-idiom 0 No one must touch Here “touching” refers to “harming.” Alternate translation: “No none must harm” or “Do not harm” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 18 13 if8q figs-abstractnouns 0 a falsehood The word “falsehood” can be expressed with a verbal phrase. Also, this refers to disobeying the king’s command. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “doing something that is wrong” or “by disobeying the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 18 13 b1r6 figs-metaphor 0 there is nothing hidden from the king Here the man speaks about how the king knows about almost everything that happens as if everything were a physical object he knew the location of. Alternate translation: “there is nothing that the king does not know” or “the king hears about everything that happens” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 18 14 jl1n figs-explicit 0 I will not wait for you Joab meant that he should not continue talking to the man. Alternate translation: “I will not waste anymore time talking to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 18 14 m7ub figs-synecdoche 0 heart of Absalom Here Absalom’s heart refers to his chest or upper body. Alternate translation: “chest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 18 15 va7x figs-synecdoche 0 armor This refers to both the armor he would wear to protect himself and to his weapons. Alternate translation: “armor and weapons” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 18 16 f9za figs-explicit 0 Then Joab blew the trumpet, and the army returned from pursuing Israel, for Joab held back the army This describes what Joab commanded by blowing the trumpet. Alternate translation: “Then Joab blew the trumpet to call back the army, and the army returned from pursuing Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 18 16 ji7k figs-synecdoche 0 returned from pursuing Israel Here “Israel” refers to the Israelite army. Alternate translation: “returned from pursuing the Israelite army” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 18 17 d3n5 figs-explicit 0 they buried his body under a very large pile of stones After putting his body in the pit they covered it with a pile of stones. This can be stated more clearly. Alternate translation: “they covered his body with a huge pile of stones” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 18 17 b87l figs-synecdoche 0 while all Israel fled Here “all Israel” refers to the Israelite soldiers. The word “fled” means “ran away.” Alternate translation: “while all the Israelite soldiers ran away” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 18 18 s18q translate-names 0 the King’s Valley This is the name of a place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 18 18 j9s8 figs-metonymy 0 to carry along the memory of my name Absalom uses the phrase “my name” to refer to himself and his family line. Alternate translation: “to carry on my family name, by which people would remember me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 18 18 tg1p figs-activepassive 0 so it is called Absalom’s Monument to this very day 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 people called it Absalom’s Monument from that day on” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 18 19 md2p translate-names 0 Ahimaaz See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 15:27](../15/27.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 18 19 qby5 figs-metaphor 0 run to the king with the good news Here Ahimaaz speaks of running to go and tell the king the good news as if the good news were a object that he were carrying. Alternate translation: “run to tell the king the good news” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 18 19 jyg5 figs-metonymy 0 the hand of his enemies Here “hand” refers to control. Alternate translation: “the control of his enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 18 20 v56v figs-explicit 0 you will bear no news This refers to not bearing the news to the king. Alternate translation: “you will not tell the news to the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 18 24 t7w3 figs-metaphor 0 raised his eyes Here the watchman looking to see something is spoken of as if he lifted up his eyes. Alternate translation: “looked out beyond the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 18 25 r6br figs-metaphor 0 there is news in his mouth Here the king speaks of the man having a message as if the news were an object sitting in his mouth. Alternate translation: “he has news to tell us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 18 27 zpr6 figs-simile 0 I think the running of the man in front is like the running of Ahimaaz son of Zadok The watchman compares the way the man ran to the way Ahimaaz runs to suggest that it may be him. Alternate translation: “I think the man running in front is Ahimaaz son Zadok, because he runs like Ahimaaz” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 18 28 ft3g translate-symaction 0 He bowed himself before the king with his face to the ground He did this to honor the king. Alternate translation: “He bowed himself before the king with his face to the ground to honor the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 18 28 qm8v 0 Blessed be Yahweh “Praise Yahweh.” Here “bless” means to praise.
2SA 18 28 e5ky figs-metaphor 0 the men who lifted up their hand against my master the king Here Ahimaaz speaks of the men opposing the king as if they were raising their hands before him. Alternate translation: “the men who opposed and fought against my master the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 18 32 s9h4 figs-simile 0 The enemies of my master the king,…should be as that young man is The Cushite uses a comparison as a polite way to tell the king that Absalom is dead. This can be stated more directly. Alternate translation: “I would like all your enemies … to die the way that young man died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 19 intro abcj 0 # 2 Samuel 19 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### David told to stop mourning Absalom<br>Joab warned David that if he continued to mourn Absalom and not thank his army, they would all desert him. So David went out to encourage the soldiers. David was both a good father and a good leader.<br><br>### David made king again<br>This chapter record the recognition that David was the true king of Israel. It is important to remember that even though Absalom had power for a while, David never stopped being the king.<br><br>### The ten tribes and Judah argue over David<br>The ten tribes of Israel argued with the tribe of Judah about who would bring David across the river. The men of Judah answered the ten tribes very harshly. This may foreshadow, or give a glimpse of, the future civil war that would come to divide these two groups.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br>The people wanted David back as their king and expressed it in a rhetorical question: “So why are we not talking about bringing the king back?” David also used a question to persuade the people of Judah to bring him back: “You are my brothers, my flesh and bone. Why then are you the last to bring back the king?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 1 wl3f figs-activepassive 0 Joab 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 Joab” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 19 1 ggg6 0 Look, the king is weeping The word “Look” is used here to draw someone’s attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen, the king is weeping”
2SA 19 2 jq6i figs-explicit 0 So the victory that day was turned into mourning for all the army This means that the whole army mourned instead of celebrating. AT “So instead of celebrating victory that day, the whole army mourned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 19 3 c8b8 figs-simile 0 like people who are ashamed sneak away when they run from battle The author compares the way that the soldiers had to sneak back into the city to the way that soldiers sneak away when they are running away from battle. This emphasizes that they were made to feel ashamed. Alternate translation: “in the same way that people who had run away from battle would sneak away because they were ashamed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 19 4 bt57 translate-symaction 0 The king covered his face This is a way to express grief and mourning. Alternate translation: “The king showed his grief by covering his face” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 19 5 ve2h figs-synecdoche 0 You have shamed the faces of all your soldiers today Here the soldiers are referred to by their face to emphasize how they would have hid their faces because of their shame” Alternate translation: “You have caused all your soldiers to hide their faces in shame today” or “You have caused all of your soldiers to be ashamed today” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 19 6 sx3c figs-hyperbole 0 nothing to you This phrase is an exaggeration, but it expresses the very low value that David showed for the army. Alternate translation: “are worth very little to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2SA 19 6 si4j figs-hypo 0 if Absalom had lived, and we all had died, then that would have pleased you The speaker is giving a hypothetical situation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
2SA 19 7 h9b9 figs-explicit 0 I swear by Yahweh Joab is making a very strong oath. Alternate translation: “I swear, as surely as Yahweh is alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 19 7 p34h figs-doublenegatives 0 if you do not go, not one man will remain with you This means that only if David went would his soldiers remain with him. Alternate translation: “only if you go will any of your men remain with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2SA 19 7 m2uc figs-idiom 0 not one man will remain with you This refers to them remaining loyal to him. Alternate translation: “not one man will remain loyal to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 19 8 e6vs figs-hyperbole 0 all the people were told This is a generalization. It means most of the men. It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “many of the men who were there heard others saying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 19 8 msv7 0 Look, the king is sitting The word “Look” is used here to draw someone’s attention to what is said next. Alternate translation: “Listen, the king is sitting”
2SA 19 8 q8cd figs-hyperbole 0 all the people Here “the people” refer to the people who followed David. Here “all” is an generalization. It means a large number came and gathered around him. Alternate translation: “many of the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2SA 19 8 k5ue figs-synecdoche 0 So Israel fled, every man to his home Here “Israel” refers to the Israelite soldiers who followed Absalom. Alternate translation: “And every Israelite soldier fled to his own home” or “And all of the Israelite soldiers fled to their homes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 19 9 ypj8 figs-metonymy 0 out of the hand of our enemies Here “hand” means control. Alternate translation: “from under the control of our enemies” or “from our enemies’ control” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 19 9 wn5a figs-metonymy 0 out of the hand of the Philistines Here “hand” means control. Alternate translation: “from under the control of the Philistines” or “from the Philistines’ control” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 19 9 w56d figs-explicit 0 out of the land because of Absalom This means that he had left the country fleeing from Absalom. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “out of the country fleeing from Absalom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 19 10 h2rq figs-rquestion 0 why do you say nothing about bringing the king back? This means they should consider bringing David back now that Absalom was dead. The question may be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “we should be talking about bringing the king back.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 11 ywv6 figs-idiom 0 sent to Zadok and to Abiathar This means that David sent a messenger to Zadok and Abiathar. Alternate translation: “sent a messenger to Zadok and to Abiathar” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 19 11 jd6q figs-rquestion 0 Why are you the last to bring the king back … to bring him back to his palace? This rhetorical question is asked to rebuke the elders in Judah. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should have been the first to favor the king and bring him back to the palace, not the people of the nation of Israel.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 11 d4d9 figs-abstractnouns 0 since the talk of all Israel favors the king, to bring The noun “talk” can be expressed with the verb “talk” or “speak.” Alternate translation: “since all Israel speaks favorably about the king and desires to bring” or “since what the people of Israel are saying is in the king’s favor, to bring” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2SA 19 11 v8mv figs-metaphor 0 to bring the king back to his palace Here restoring the king’s authority to rule is spoken of as bringing him back to his palace. Alternate translation: “to restore the king’s authority as king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 19 12 si3p figs-metaphor 0 You are my brothers, my flesh and bone The king uses these to phrases to emphasize that they are closely related. Being or having the same flesh is a metaphor for belonging to the same family or tribe. Alternate translation: “You are my brothers, and we have the same flesh and bone” or “You are my brothers, my close relatives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 19 12 n4pu figs-rquestion 0 Why then are you the last to bring back the king? This is the second rhetorical question here and it is also a rebuke for the elders of Judah. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should have been the first, not the last, to bring back the king.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 13 uf92 translate-names 0 Amasa See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 17:25](../17/25.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 19 13 h28k figs-rquestion 0 Are you not my flesh and my bone? David uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that they are related. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You are my flesh and my bones.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 13 f88h figs-metaphor 0 my flesh and my bone Here David speaks of them being related by saying that they have the same flesh and bones. See how you translated a similar phrase in [2 Samuel 19:12](../19/12.md). Alternate translation: “my relative” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 19 13 gk6u figs-idiom 0 God do so to me This is an idiom that means for God to kill him. Alternate translation: “May God kill me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 19 14 g6z6 figs-metonymy 0 he won the hearts Here the mens’ loyalty is referred to as their “hearts.” Alternate translation: “he won the loyalty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 19 14 w82p figs-metaphor 0 as one man This speaks of the men being united in their loyalty to the king as if they were one man with the same mind. Alternate translation: “and they were united together” or “they were united in their loyalty to the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 19 14 a3id figs-idiom 0 They sent to the king This means that they sent a messenger to the king. Alternate translation: “They sent a messenger to the king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 19 16 p33r translate-names 0 Gera This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 19 16 ke2l translate-names 0 Bahurim Translate the name of this place the same as you did in [2 Samuel 3:16](../03/16.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 19 17 kj6a translate-names 0 Ziba This is the name of a man. Translate as you did in [2 Samuel 9:2](../09/02.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 19 17 s7u2 figs-explicit 0 in the presence of the king This means that the king was there and was aware of what was happening. Alternate translation: “at the place where the king was” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 19 19 tx71 figs-idiom 0 call to mind This means “to remember.” Alternate translation: “remember” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 19 19 s3zc figs-idiom 0 not take it to heart “To take something to heart” means to think about something seriously or to be bothered by it. Alternate translation: “not be bothered by it” or “forget about it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 19 21 w2c6 translate-names 0 Abishai See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 2:18](../02/18.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 19 21 p13v translate-names 0 Zeruiah See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 2:13](../02/13.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 19 21 yth5 figs-rquestion 0 Should not Shimei be put to death for this, because he cursed Yahweh’s anointed? Abishai was angry at Shimei for cursing David and is suggesting that he should be killed. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Shimei should be put to death because he cursed Yahweh’s anointed.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 21 spv5 figs-explicit 0 Yahweh’s anointed This refers to David. It means that he is the man that Yahweh had anointed as king. Alternate translation: “the man that Yahweh has anointed as king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 19 22 dn85 figs-rquestion 0 What have I to do with you … that you should today be adversaries to me? David uses this rhetorical question to rebuke Abishai. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “We have nothing in common with you, you sons of Zeruiah! You have no good reason to become my adversaries today.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 22 s4fe figs-rquestion 0 Will any man be put to death today in Israel? For do I not know that today I am king over Israel? David uses these rhetorical questions to continue rebuking Abishai. These questions can be written as statements. Alternate translation: “No person will be executed today in the nation of Israel, because today I am the one who is king over all of Israel.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 22 f3ky figs-idiom 0 Will any man be put to death This phrase “put to death” means to be killed or executed. Alternate translation: “Will any man be killed” or “Will I order any man to die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 19 22 t2u7 figs-rquestion 0 For do I not know that today I am king over Israel? Possible meanings of this rhetorical question are: (1) “I know that I am still king of Israel.” or (2) “Today I am the one who is king over Israel!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 24 kg79 translate-names 0 Mephibosheth See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 4:4](../04/04.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 19 24 sc2i 0 He had not dressed his feet “He had not cared for his feet.” Mephibosheth’s feet were crippled. This phrase means that he had not taken proper care of his feet.
2SA 19 25 zrh9 figs-explicit 0 Why did you not go with me, Mephibosheth? David is asking Mephibosheth why he did not go with David when David and all the people who followed him left Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “Why did you not go with me when I left Jerusalem, Mephibosheth?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 19 27 vh2u translate-names 0 Ziba See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 9:2](../09/02.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 19 27 bk18 figs-simile 0 my master the king is like an angel of God Here David’s wisdom is compared to the wisdom of an angel. Alternate translation: “my master the king is as wise as an angel of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 19 27 jn77 figs-idiom 0 do what is good in your eyes This means to do what you think is right. Alternate translation: “do what you believe to be the right thing to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 19 28 rll4 figs-metaphor 0 all my father’s house were dead men before my master the king Mephibosheth speaks of how his relatives had deserved to be executed as if they had already been executed and were dead. Alternate translation: “all my father’s house deserved for my master the king to order them to be executed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 19 28 ww9q figs-metonymy 0 my father’s house This refers to his father’s relatives. Alternate translation: “my father’s relatives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 19 28 fa5b figs-rquestion 0 What right therefore have I that I should still cry any more to the king? Mephibosheth uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that he has no right to request anything from the king. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Therefore, I have no right to ask the king to do anything else for me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 29 wt65 figs-rquestion 0 Why explain anything further? David uses this rhetorical question to tell him that he does not need to continue talking about his conflict with Ziba. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You do not need to explain this any further.” or “You certainly do not need to say any more.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 31 yk1p translate-names 0 Barzillai See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 17:27](../17/27.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 19 31 zak8 translate-names 0 Gileadite See how you translated the name of this people group in [2 Samuel 17:27](../17/27.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 19 31 w1ce translate-names 0 Rogelim See how you translated the name of this place in [2 Samuel 17:27](../17/27.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 19 31 g56k 0 the Jordan the Jordan River
2SA 19 32 ffn7 translate-names 0 Mahanaim See how you translated the name of this place in [2 Samuel 17:27](../17/27.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 19 34 y2r5 figs-rquestion 0 How many days are left in the years of my life, that I should go up with the king to Jerusalem? Here Barzillai means that he is old and that there is no reason for him to accompany David. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “I am certainly not going to live many more years. There is no good reason for me to go up with the king to Jerusalem.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 35 n8fn figs-rquestion 0 Can I distinguish between good and bad? Barzillai uses rhetorical questions to emphasize why he does not want to go to Jerusalem. Here “good” and “bad” refer to what is desirable and what is not. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “I cannot distinguish between what is desirable and what is not.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 35 d6qd figs-rquestion 0 Can your servant taste what I eat or what I drink? Barzillai uses rhetorical questions to emphasize why he does not want to go to Jerusalem. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “I cannot enjoy the taste of what I eat and drink.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 35 dgv2 figs-rquestion 0 Can I hear any more the voice of singing men and singing women? Barzillai uses rhetorical questions to emphasize why he does not want to go to Jerusalem. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “I cannot hear well the voices of singing men and singing women.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 35 f2zi figs-rquestion 0 Why then should your servant be a burden to my master the king? Barzillai uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that he does not want to be a burden to the king. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Your servant should not go with you and be a burden to you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 36 x8m1 figs-rquestion 0 Why should the king repay me with such a reward? Barzillai uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that he does not know why the king would reward him this way. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “I do not know why the king would repay me with such a great reward” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 37 wef7 figs-explicit 0 by the grave of my father and my mother This does not mean that he wants to die right next to their graves, but rather, that he wants to die in the city where they are buried. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “where my father’s and my mother’s graves are” or “where my father and my mother are buried” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 19 37 sn5r figs-ellipsis 0 Let him cross over This refers to crossing the Jordan River. Alternate translation: “Let him cross over the Jordan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2SA 19 38 sm6q figs-explicit 0 Kimham will go over with me This refers to crossing the Jordan River. This can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Kimham will cross the river with me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 19 40 v221 figs-ellipsis 0 crossed over to Gilgal They crossed over the Jordan River. Alternate translation: “crossed over the river to Gilgal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2SA 19 40 jw3n 0 All the army of Judah brought the king over, and also half the army of Israel Alternate translation: “All the army of Judah and half the army of Israel brought the king over”
2SA 19 40 t9rb figs-ellipsis 0 brought the king over They crossed over the Jordan River with the king. Alternate translation: “escorted the king over the river” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2SA 19 41 sbd9 figs-rquestion 0 Why have our brothers, the men of Judah … and all David’s men with him? The men of Israel use this question to express that they feel betrayed by the people of Judah. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “It is not right that our brothers, the men of Judah, who did not support you as king, had the privilege of bringing you and your family back across the Jordan River.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 41 r7ae figs-metaphor 0 stolen you away The men of Israel speak of how the men of Judah escorted the king across the river as if the king were something they stole that did not belong to them. Alternate translation: “taken you away from us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 19 42 nu1g figs-rquestion 0 Why then are you angry about this? The men of Judah ask this rhetorical question to rebuke the men of Israel. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “But you have no reason to be upset about this.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 42 u3wj figs-rquestion 0 Have we eaten anything that the king had to pay for? Has he given us any gifts? The men of Judah ask the question to express that they have not taken anything from the king. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “The king has never paid for our food, and he has never given us any gifts.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 43 nbt3 figs-explicit 0 we have even more right to David than you “we have a greater claim to David than you do.” It may be helpful to state clearly what having “more right” means. Alternate translation: “we have more right to serve the king and to be with the king than you do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 19 43 vc2s figs-rquestion 0 Why then did you despise us? The men of Israel ask this rhetorical question to express their anger. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not have despised us!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 43 vlb7 figs-rquestion 0 Was not our proposal to bring back our king the first to be heard? The men of Israel ask this question to remind and rebuke the people of Judah. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “We were the first to suggest that we bring back the king!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 19 43 el5k 0 the words of the men of Judah were even more harsh than the words of the men of Israel Alternate translation: “the men of Judah spoke even more harshly than the men of Israel did”
2SA 20 intro abck 0 # 2 Samuel 20 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Sheba’s revolt<br>A man named Sheba told the people of the ten tribes that David was Judah’s king, but not their king. David worked hard to preserve unity in Israel after this time of division.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Idiom<br>Joab used an idiom “has lifted up his hand against the king, against David” meaning “revolted against David,” to explain why his army was attacking the city of Able. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 20 1 l45i figs-parallelism 0 We have no part in David, neither have we any inheritance in the son of Jesse Both of these statements mean the same thing. Sheba is emphasizing that he and the tribes of Israel have no relationship with David. Alternate translation: “The inheritance of David and his father’s family does not belong to us” or “We are not a part of David and his father’s family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 20 3 j97w figs-idiom 0 to keep the palace Here the phrase “to keep” means to take care of. Alternate translation: “to take care of the palace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 20 3 e4kn figs-idiom 0 in a house under guard If a house is “under guard” it means that a guard is posted at the house. Alternate translation: “in a house and put a guard there” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 20 3 ymh8 figs-euphemism 0 he did not lie with them This is a euphemism. Alternate translation: “he did not have sexual relations with them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2SA 20 3 b16i figs-idiom 0 they were shut up This means that they were not allowed to leave the house. Alternate translation: “they were shut inside the house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 20 4 zm4y translate-names 0 Amasa This is the commander of David’s army. See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 17:25](../17/25.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 20 6 ai94 translate-names 0 Abishai This is another commander of David’s army. See how you translated his name in [2 Samuel 2:18](../02/18.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 20 6 gm22 0 your master’s servants, my soldiers The phrase “my soldiers” clarifies which “servants.” David refers to himself as “your master” as a formal way of speaking to someone with less authority.
2SA 20 6 g2i6 figs-explicit 0 he will find fortified cities This means that Sheba and his men will enter these cities to hide from David’s army. The word “he” represents Sheba but refers to both him and his men. Alternate translation: “he and his men will hide in fortified cities” or “he and his men will take refuge in fortified cities” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 20 6 lm43 figs-metonymy 0 out of our sight Here David refers to his army by their sight to emphasize that Sheba and his men would be hidden and David’s army would be unable to capture them. Alternate translation: “from us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 20 7 x1ai translate-names 0 Kerethites … Pelethites These are the names of people groups who helped to protect King David. See how you translated this man’s name in [2 Samuel 8:18](../08/18.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 20 8 mw2c figs-explicit 0 the sword fell out Joab let the sword fall out to fool Amasa into thinking that he Joab was unarmed, so that Amasa would allow him to walk closer to him. Alternate translation: “he allowed the sword to fall on the ground so Amasa would think he was unarmed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 20 9 cca2 0 my cousin Amasa was the son of the sister of Joab’s mother.
2SA 20 11 m94g figs-idiom 0 he who is for David To be “for” someone means to support them. Alternate translation: “he who supports David” or “he who is loyal to David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 20 12 dp5t figs-explicit 0 Amasa lay wallowing in his blood “Amasa lay squirming in his blood.” Amasa may have still been alive and rolling in his blood, but he was probably dead by this time. It is described this way to show how gruesome his body looked. Alternate translation: “Amasa lay dead in his blood” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 20 12 r75k figs-explicit 0 all the people stood still … came by him stood still This means they stopped walking and were staring at Amasa’s dead body. Alternate translation: “all the people stood still staring at the dead body … came by him stood still, staring at his dead body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 20 13 y3pd figs-activepassive 0 After Amasa was taken off the road This may be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “After the man took Amasa off the road” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 20 13 x48e figs-abstractnouns 0 in pursuit of This abstract noun can be stated as a verb. Alternate translation: “pursuing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2SA 20 14 ppx4 figs-synecdoche 0 Sheba passed through Here “Sheba” refers to both him and his army. Alternate translation: “Sheba and his army” or “Sheba and his men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 20 14 b6n5 translate-names 0 Abel Beth Maacah Both Abel and Beth Maacah names refer to the same place and may be combined. It is a city near the tribe of Dan. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 20 14 k4pw translate-names 0 of the Bikrites This is the name of a people group. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 20 15 n7h9 figs-explicit 0 battered the wall to knock it down This means that they used a battering ram to knock down the wall. A battering ram was a cut tree or large log with a sharpened end or an end covered in metal. It was held by several men who would pound the end against a wall. Alternate translation: “used a battering ram to knock down the wall” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 20 16 k1s4 0 Listen, please listen The repetition of “Listen” strengthens the woman’s plea.
2SA 20 17 a5x5 0 Listen to the words of your servant The woman refers to herself as “your servant.” This is a polite way to speak to someone with greater authority.
2SA 20 19 l2yb figs-ellipsis 0 most peaceful and faithful in Israel This describes the cities. Alternate translation: “most peaceful and faithful cities in Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2SA 20 19 vb6k figs-metaphor 0 city that is a mother in Israel This speaks of the importance of this city among the nation of Israel as if it were a well respected mother. Alternate translation: “city that everyone in Israel respects like they would their mother” or “city that is very important and that Israel respects” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 20 19 f7wf figs-rquestion 0 Why do you want to swallow up the inheritance of Yahweh? Here the woman uses a rhetorical question to suggest to Joab what they should not do. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “You should not destroy the city that is Yahweh’s inheritance!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 20 19 h83g figs-metaphor 0 swallow up Here the woman speaks of the army destroying the city as if the city were food to be swallowed. Alternate translation: “destroy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 20 19 v31s figs-metonymy 0 the inheritance of Yahweh Here the city is referred to as Yahweh’s inheritance to emphasize that it belongs to Yahweh. Alternate translation: “a city that belongs to Yahweh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 20 20 kn3j figs-idiom 0 Far be it, far be it from me, that I should He repeats this phrase to emphasize that this is something he would never do. Alternate translation: “Truly, truly, I would never” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 20 20 u14u figs-ellipsis 0 that I should swallow up or destroy This refers to destroying the city. This may be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “that I should swallow up or destroy your city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2SA 20 20 lh3j figs-doublet 0 swallow up or destroy Both of these phrases means to destroy. In the first phrase “destroying” is spoken of as if it were “swallowing.” These may be combined. Alternate translation: “ruin or destroy the city” or “destroy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 20 21 bq5h figs-idiom 0 has lifted up his hand against This means to rebel and fight against someone. Alternate translation: “has opposed” or “is rebelling against” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 20 21 vu8h figs-idiom 0 Give up him alone Joab is asking for the people of the city to release Sheba to him. Alternate translation: “Hand this man over to us” or “Give this man to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 20 21 rt99 figs-synecdoche 0 I will withdraw from the city Here the “I” refers to both Joab and his soldiers. Alternate translation: “We will withdraw from the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 20 21 tda3 figs-activepassive 0 His head will be thrown 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: “We will throw his head” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 20 22 p855 figs-explicit 0 Then the woman went to all the people in her wisdom This means that the woman acted wisely and spoke to her people about what they should do. Alternate translation: “Then the wise woman spoke to all the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 20 23 ail7 writing-background 0 Now “Now” marks a break in the main story line. This new section gives background information about the men who served King David. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
2SA 20 23 bu9z figs-idiom 0 Joab was over … Benaiah son of Jehoiada was over The phrase “was over” refers to having authority over a group of people. Alternate translation: “Joab had authority over … Benaiah son of Jehoiada had authority over” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 20 23 di2d translate-names 0 Benaiah … Jehoiada Translate the names of these men the same as you did in [2 Samuel 8:18](../08/18.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 20 23 s3i1 translate-names 0 Kerethites … Pelethites Translate the names of these people groups the same as you did in [2 Samuel 8:18](../08/18.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 20 24 hw6f figs-idiom 0 Adoniram was over The phrase “was over” refers to having authority over a group of people. Alternate translation: “Adoniram had authority over” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 20 24 hbx2 translate-names 0 Jehoshaphat … Ahilud Translate the names of these men the same as you did in [2 Samuel 8:16](../08/16.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 21 intro abcl 0 # 2 Samuel 21 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Famine caused by a broken oath<br>When Israel first conquered the land, they promised not to kill the people of Gibeon. When Saul tried to kill them all, God caused a famine in Israel. David made amends with the people of Gideon and the famine ended. David also kept his vow to Jonathan’s sons. This helps to show the wisdom of king David. Although these people were not Israelites, they believed in Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/promise]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/vow]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]])<br><br>### Wisdom, grace and justice<br>David is seen to have many great qualities in this chapter. These were qualities important for a king of Israel: wisdom, grace and justice. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]])
2SA 21 1 yc9z figs-synecdoche 0 sought the face of Yahweh Here “face” is a synecdoche for Yahweh’s presence. This means David prayed to Yahweh for an answer about the famine. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 21 1 f1fs 0 because of Saul and his murderous family Saul had killed many Gibeonites, and Saul’s descendants are guilty because of this sin.
2SA 21 2 j82w writing-background 0 Now Here “Now” marks a break in the main story line. This gives background information about the Gibeonites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
2SA 21 3 r66c figs-parallelism 0 What should I do for you? How can I make atonement … promises? These two sentences have similar meanings. Alternate translation: “What can I do to remove this sin, so that you may bless the people of Yahweh, who inherit his goodness and promises?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 21 6 hce6 figs-activepassive 0 let seven men from his descendants be handed over to us 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: “allow your men to give seven of his descendants to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 21 6 s77u figs-activepassive 0 the one chosen by Yahweh 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 whom Yahweh chose” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 21 8 nz4w 0 Rizpah … Aiah Rizpah was a woman and her father was Aiah. See how you translated these names in [2 Samuel 3:7](../03/07.md).
2SA 21 8 vnv4 translate-names 0 Armoni and Mephibosheth … Adriel … Barzillai These are names of men. This is not the same Mephibosheth as the son of Jonathan. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 21 9 ji6t figs-metonymy 0 He handed them over into the hands of the Gibeonites Here “the hands of the Gibeonites” represents the Gibeonite people’s control. Alternate translation: “He gave them to the Gibeonites” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 21 9 uyb2 figs-activepassive 0 They were put to death This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “The Gibeonites put them to death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 21 11 hs9e figs-activepassive 0 It was told to David This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “Someone told David” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 21 13 n7ji figs-activepassive 0 who had been hanged This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “whom the Gibeonites executed by hanging” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 21 16 b31k translate-bweight 0 three hundred shekels “300 shekels.” This is about 3.4 kilograms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bweight]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2SA 21 17 d893 figs-metaphor 0 you do not put out the lamp of Israel The “lamp of Israel” is a metaphor that refers to David’s leadership and the idea that if David were to die, the people of Israel would have no clear direction. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 21 18 i8h8 0 It came about after this that This phrase marks the beginning of a new part of the story. If your language has a way for doing this, you could consider using it here.
2SA 21 18 ei1h translate-names 0 Gob This is the name of a town. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 21 19 pv8s translate-textvariants 0 Elhanan son of Jair the Bethlehemite killed Goliath the Gittite Some versions translate this as “Elhanan son of Jair the Bethlehemite killed the brother of Goliath the Gittite.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
2SA 21 19 b7w9 figs-simile 0 whose spear was like a weaver’s beam When a person was weaving a cloth he would run the threads through hooks attached to large sticks called a “weaver’s beam.” This means Goliath’s spear was larger than a normal spear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 21 20 nqr4 translate-numbers 0 twenty-four in number “24 fingers and toes altogether” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2SA 21 21 j56u translate-names 0 Jonathan son of Shimeah These are names of men. Shimeah was David’s brother. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 21 22 mqg8 figs-idiom 0 they were killed by the hand of David and by the hand of his soldiers Here “by the hand of” means “through” or “by.” 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: “David and his soldiers killed them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 22 intro abcm 0 # 2 Samuel 22 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 22:2-51.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### God rescued David<br>God rescued David when he thought he would die. He protected David, fought against his enemies, and enabled him to defeat his enemies.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br>David uses many metaphors to express his trust in God’s protection: “my rock, my fortress, my shield, the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge.” He used other metaphors to express his hopelessness: “the waves of death surrounded me,” “the rushing waters of worthlessness overwhelmed me,” “the cords of sheol surrounded me;” “the snares of death trapped me,” and “the surging water.” He also used metaphors for the victory God gave him: “I can run over a barricade” and “by my God I can leap over a wall.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])
2SA 22 1 vx4y figs-parallelism 0 General Information: David’s song to Yahweh starts. He uses parallelism to emphasize what he is saying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 22 1 sh9l 0 out of the hand of all his enemies, and out of the hand of Saul This is a progression from enemies in general to one specific enemy of David, King Saul.
2SA 22 1 gzu9 figs-metonymy 0 out of the hand of This metonym means “out of the power of.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 22 2 t5y8 figs-metaphor 0 Yahweh is my rock, my fortress This metaphor shows a progression from a part, “rock,” to the whole, “fortress.” A fortress is built of many large rocks. This means Yahweh has the strength to protect his people from harm. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 3 h8pd figs-metaphor 0 God is my rock … He is my shield, the horn of my salvation, my stronghold All of these metaphors are symbols of God’s strength and power. They emphasize God’s ability to protect and save his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 4 v4up figs-activepassive 0 who is worthy to be praised 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: “who is worthy to receive praise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 22 4 p1jc figs-activepassive 0 I will be saved from my 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: “he will save me from my enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 22 5 xvj7 figs-metaphor 0 For the waves of death surrounded me, the rushing waters of destruction overwhelmed me David compares the wicked men who wanted to kill him to flood waters that are about to drown him. These sentences have similar meanings and are used for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 22 5 p6bv 0 the rushing waters of destruction This is a picture of fast-flowing flood waters that destroy everything in their path.
2SA 22 6 d6ka figs-personification 0 The cords of Sheol surrounded me; the snares of death trapped me David speaks about death and Sheol as if they are people who are trying to trap him as a hunter traps an animal. These phrases have similar meanings and are used for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 22 7 dv16 0 he heard my voice from his temple David is referring to the heavenly temple where Yahweh dwells. The earthly temple has not yet been built.
2SA 22 7 v2zx figs-metonymy 0 my call for help went into his ears Here the metonym “his ears” refers to Yahweh and his hearing of David’s call for help. Alternate translation: “he heard my prayer for help” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 22 8 ai6g figs-metaphor 0 Then the earth shook This is Yahweh’s response to David’s cry for help from his enemies ([1 Samuel 22:7](./07.md)). David uses the imagery of the earth shaking to emphasize Yahweh’s terrible anger. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 8 gxt8 figs-merism 0 earth shook … heavens trembled David speaks of the two extremes to include everything in creation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
2SA 22 8 x6xl figs-activepassive 0 and were shaken, because God was angry 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 God’s anger shook them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 22 9 qf19 figs-metaphor 0 were ignited by it This is Yahweh’s response to David’s cry for help from his enemies ([1 Samuel 22:7](./07.md)). David uses the imagery of fire coming from Yahweh to emphasize Yahweh’s terrible anger. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 9 c8xq figs-personification 0 his nostrils … his mouth David speaks of Yahweh as if he had these humans parts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2SA 22 9 cq54 figs-metaphor 0 Coals were ignited by it Here Yahweh’s anger is compared to fire, which causes coals to ignite and burn. Alternate translation: “The flame from his mouth set coals on fire” or “He also sent burning coals from his mouth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 10 f5ym figs-metaphor 0 He opened the heavens David describes Yahweh’s way of saving David from his enemies as a storm cloud gathering over a place. This emphasizes God’s power and his anger. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 10 pg86 figs-personification 0 under his feet David speaks of God as having feet like humans. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2SA 22 11 r4l7 figs-activepassive 0 He was seen on the wings of the wind This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “He appeared on the wings of the wind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 22 11 gmc9 figs-metaphor 0 the wings of the wind This expression speaks of the wind as if it were a bird. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 12 mit5 figs-metaphor 0 rain clouds in the skies David describes Yahweh’s way of saving David from his enemies as a storm cloud gathering over a place. This emphasizes God’s power and his anger. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 12 ee39 figs-metaphor 0 He made darkness a tent around him Here the darkness Yahweh creates is compared to a tent which hides him completely. Alternate translation: “He hid himself in the darkness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 13 t957 0 From the lightning before him coals of fire fell This could mean: (1) “Out of his bright light he sent burning coals” or (2) “From his brightness he sent lightning”
2SA 22 13 g4lk figs-metaphor 0 From the lightning before him David continues describing Yahweh, whom he compares to a storm, coming to save him from his enemies. This emphasizes God’s power and anger towards David’s enemies. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 14 d4ht figs-personification 0 The Most High shouted. David describes Yahweh doing these actions a person would do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2SA 22 15 h783 figs-personification 0 He shot arrows David describes Yahweh doing these actions a person would do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2SA 22 15 i235 figs-metaphor 0 He shot arrows … lightning bolts David compares the lightning from Yahweh’s storm to arrows that a soldier would use. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 15 rg2n figs-metaphor 0 lightning bolts and dispersed them David continues describing Yahweh, whom he compares to a storm, coming to save him from his enemies. This emphasizes God’s power and anger towards David’s enemies. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 16 za11 figs-metaphor 0 Then the channels of the sea were seen … breath of his nostrils When Yahweh shouted in his attack against David’s enemies, it is compared to his power to create upheaval in the deepest parts of the ocean and the earth. This shows his great power and fierce anger. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2SA 22 16 dcq2 figs-activepassive 0 the channels of the sea were seen This means that the sea water moved and the ocean floor was visible. This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “People could see the channels of the sea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 22 16 kcr5 figs-activepassive 0 the foundations of the world were laid bare at the rebuke of Yahweh, at the blast of the breath of his nostrils David compares Yahweh’s anger to turbulent movements of the ground. “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’s rebuke, the breath of his nostrils, laid bare the foundations of the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 22 17 kw87 figs-metaphor 0 out of the surging water David compares his enemies to a flood that threatens to drown him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 21 en85 figs-idiom 0 to the measure of the cleanness of my hands Here “cleanness of my hands” means the same as “righteousness.” Alternate translation: “because I obey his commands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 22 s787 0 I have kept the ways of Yahweh Here “the ways of Yahweh” refers to how Yahweh wants his people to act. This means David has done what Yahweh commands.
2SA 22 23 ze3e 0 have been before me This means David constantly reads and thinks about God’s decrees.
2SA 22 24 j1e5 figs-idiom 0 I have kept myself from sin This refers to choosing not to sin against Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 22 25 qdu9 figs-idiom 0 to the degree of my cleanness in his sight Here “my cleanness” means the same as “my righteousness.” Alternate translation: “because he knows that I have done what he commands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 27 b64p 0 you are perverse to the twisted Here “perverse” means to be cunning or crafty, and “twisted” means to turn away from what is good and right. This means God is wise in how he deals with wicked people.
2SA 22 28 yma2 figs-personification 0 your eyes are against the proud Here the metonym “your eyes” refers to what Yahweh sees. This means Yahweh watches the proud person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2SA 22 29 h2zr figs-metaphor 0 you are my lamp, Yahweh. Yahweh lights up my darkness This metaphor compares Yahweh to a lamp, which means he gives David light and helps him to see when things seem hopeless. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 30 l2yd 0 I can run over a barricade Here “barricade” may refer to a group of soldiers or to a stone wall. Either way it means God enables David to defeat his enemies.
2SA 22 30 ul6k figs-hyperbole 0 I can leap over a wall David is exaggerating to emphasize Yahweh’s help. Alternate translation: “I can climb over the wall that surrounds their city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2SA 22 31 udr8 figs-metonymy 0 He is a shield The metaphor “a shield” emphasizes God’s power to protect his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 22 32 p5ua figs-rquestion 0 For who is God except Yahweh, and who is a rock except our God? David uses this question to emphasize that there is no God apart from Yahweh. These may be translated as statements. Alternate translation: “Yahweh alone is God. Our God alone is a rock.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 22 32 d37f figs-metaphor 0 who is a rock David compares Yahweh to a rock to emphasize his strength and ability to protect his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 33 c5tv 0 he leads the blameless person on his path Yahweh keeps the blameless person safe and removes anything that may harm him.
2SA 22 34 wm3b figs-simile 0 He makes my feet swift like a deer and places me on the high hills Here David’s feet are compared to those of a deer using exaggeration. Yahweh gives David the strength to move quickly and provides secure places for protection and rest. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2SA 22 36 ly9s figs-metaphor 0 the shield of your salvation David compares Yahweh’s power to save him to a shield that protects a soldier from his enemy. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 36 ae4t 0 your favor God answered David’s prayers and granted him blessings and success over his enemies.
2SA 22 37 p573 figs-synecdoche 0 You have made a wide place for my feet beneath me Yahweh has put David in a safe place where his enemies cannot trap him. Here he refers to himself by his “feet” to emphasize his ability to stand securely. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 22 39 ax1n figs-metaphor 0 I devoured them and smashed them Here David compares himself to a wild animal. Alternate translation: “I completely destroyed them like a wild animal devouring its prey” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 39 e2qk figs-metonymy 0 under my feet Here “feet” refers to the power and control of victory over his enemies. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 22 40 k5cg figs-simile 0 You put strength on me like a belt for battle Here the strength that Yahweh gives is compared to a belt for battle that allowed David to do mighty things. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2SA 22 41 p97v 0 the back of my enemies’ necks This could mean: (1) David seeing the backs of the enemy as they run away or (2) David putting his foot on the back of his enemy’s neck after he defeats him.
2SA 22 43 fum1 figs-simile 0 like dust on the ground … like mud in the streets This means that David completely destroyed his enemies. These two phrases “like dust on the ground” and “like mud on the streets” have a similar meaning and are used for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 22 44 tjl8 0 You have kept me as the head of nations “You placed me as ruler over the nations.” Here “nations” refers to other nations besides Israel.
2SA 22 45 t5y6 figs-activepassive 0 Foreigners were forced to bow to me 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: “Foreigners bowed down to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 22 47 u5bd figs-parallelism 0 May my rock be praised. May God be exalted These sentences have similar meaning and are used for emphasis. These may be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “May everyone praise my rock. May everyone exalt God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 22 47 xr9u figs-metaphor 0 my rock … the rock David compares Yahweh to a rock to emphasize his power to protect his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 22 51 fz6y 0 he shows his covenant loyalty to his anointed one Here David may be referring to the promises Yahweh made in [2 Samuel 7:8](../07/08.md)
2SA 23 intro abcn 0 # 2 Samuel 23 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 poetry in 23:2-7.<br><br>2 Samuel 23:8-39 is a list of the famous people in David’s army along with some of the special deeds some of them did. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/works]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Everlasting covenant<br>This is a reference to the covenant God previously made with David. (See: [2 Samuel 7](../07/01.md), [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]]).
2SA 23 1 hvt1 figs-activepassive 0 the man who was highly honored, the one anointed by the God of Jacob 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 man whom the God of Jacob highly honored and anointed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 23 1 y2lz translate-symaction 0 anointed by the God of Jacob Anointing was done by pouring oil on a person’s head. This was done to choose who would serve God as king or priest. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 23 2 r3yy figs-metonymy 0 and his word was on my tongue Here “on my tongue” is a metonym for David speaking. Alternate translation: “he gave me a message to speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 23 3 c9yd figs-parallelism 0 The God of Israel spoke, the Rock of Israel … me Here the “God of Israel” is the same as the “Rock of Israel.” The two phrases say essentially the same thing. David compares God to a rock to emphasize his power to protect his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 23 3 w218 figs-parallelism 0 The one who rules righteously over men, who rules in the fear of God These two sentences both say that the king will respect God and do what God wants him to do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 23 4 er3p figs-simile 0 He will be like the morning light … sunshine after rain Here God is comparing the king to the morning light and sunshine after the rain. These are all ways of saying this king would be a delight to God and a blessing for the people. These two phrases have a similar meaning and are used for emphasis. Alternate translation: “He will be a delight to all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 23 5 hef3 figs-rquestion 0 Indeed, is my family not like this before God? Here David is saying that he agrees with God. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “My family is indeed like this before God!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 23 5 n1tt figs-rquestion 0 Has he not made … way? David acknowledges that God has made a covenant with him. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “He has indeed made … way.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 23 5 r8xz figs-rquestion 0 Does he not increase my salvation … desire? David believes that God will always help him and cause him to prosper. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “He increases my salvation and gives me my every desire.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 23 6 ic15 figs-simile 0 But the worthless will all be like thorns to be thrown away Here the wicked person is compared to useless thorns. 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: “But the wicked person is worthless and dangerous like thorns we throw away” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 23 6 dgn8 0 because they cannot be gathered by one’s hands Alternate translation: “because no one can pick them up with his hands without the thorns hurting him”
2SA 23 7 api5 0 They must be burned up where they lie “Where thorns are found, that is where they must be burned.” This means God will destroy wicked people.
2SA 23 8 ck79 translate-names 0 Jeshbaal This is the name of a man. Other versions read Josheb Basshebeth, Jashobeam, Ishbaal, or Ishbosheth because various ancient copies have these variations. Translators may choose to say this in a footnote to their translation (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 23 8 pka9 translate-names 0 Hachmonite This is the name of a people group. Alternate translation: “son of Hachmon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 23 10 lw96 figs-explicit 0 The army returned after Eleazar This means that the army returned after Eleazar returned from battle. Alternate translation: “The Israeli army returned to the battle field after Eleazer had already won the battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 23 13 de7l translate-numbers 0 the thirty “the 30” or “the thirty bravest Israelite soldiers.” The full meaning of this statement can be made clear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 23 13 y5db translate-names 0 cave of Adullam “cave near the town of Adullam.” Adullam is near Bethlehem. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 23 14 f68v 0 in his stronghold Alternate translation: “in his protected place”
2SA 23 14 pej4 0 the Philistines had established at Bethlehem Alternate translation: “some Philistines soldiers were controlling the village of Bethlehem”
2SA 23 16 r8yf 0 broke through the army Alternate translation: “fought their way through the enemy army”
2SA 23 17 nz91 figs-rquestion 0 Should I drink the blood of men who have risked their lives? David compares the water to blood because the men risked their lives to bring the water to him. He uses a question to emphasize this. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “Drinking this water would be like drinking the blood of those men who have risked their lives to bring it to me.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 23 18 gxa6 figs-activepassive 0 He was often mentioned along with the three soldiers 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: “People often mentioned him when they spoke about the three bravest men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 23 19 ir5c figs-rquestion 0 Was he not even more famous than the three? This question is used to emphasize how famous he was. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “He was even more famous than the three.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2SA 23 22 y87l figs-activepassive 0 he was named alongside the three mighty men 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: “people praise him like they praised the three mighty men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 23 23 b1df translate-numbers 0 He was more highly regarded than the thirty soldiers in general, but he was not regarded quite as highly as the three mighty men “He was more famous than the other 30 soldiers except for the three best soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2SA 23 24 q89a translate-names 0 General Information: This is a list of David’s greatest soldiers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 23 24 h79d translate-numbers 0 The thirty “The 30 very famous soldiers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 23 37 ud59 translate-names 0 General Information: This concludes the list of David’s greatest soldiers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 23 39 t6d8 translate-numbers 0 thirty-seven in all “there were 37 total” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2SA 24 intro abco 0 # 2 Samuel 24 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Counting soldiers<br>David ordered the leaders of his army to count how many men of fighting age there were. He was not supposed to do this because it showed he did not trust God. God was displeased and offered David three punishments. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/trust]])
2SA 24 1 c86d figs-metaphor 0 the anger of Yahweh was ignited against Israel The word “ignite” means start a fire. Here Yahweh’s anger is compared to that of a fire. Alternate translation: “the anger of Yahweh started to burn like a fire” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 24 1 x6eq figs-explicit 0 Go, count Israel and Judah In the law of Moses, God prohibited the kings of Israel from taking a census of fighting men. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2SA 24 2 u7bz figs-merism 0 Dan to Beersheba This phrase uses two place names Dan, in the far north, and Beersheba, in the far south, to represent the entire country. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
2SA 24 2 fu4s 0 count all the people … fit for battle This means to count all the men except those men who are either too young, too old, or physically unable to fight.
2SA 24 3 qi23 translate-numbers 0 multiply … hundred times This means “produce 100 more people for every one person there is now.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
2SA 24 4 b9zy 0 the king’s word was final against Joab Joab and the other commanders of King David’s army were not able to convince David to not take a census.
2SA 24 4 c8cv figs-synecdoche 0 the king’s word This phrase represents the king’s command to them. Alternate translation: “what the king had commanded” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2SA 24 5 pt7b translate-names 0 Aroer This was a city on the northern edge of the Arnon River. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 24 5 zpx8 translate-names 0 Jazer This is a town in Gad. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 24 6 wc3c translate-names 0 Tahtim Hodshi This may refer to the town of Kadesh in the land of the Hittite people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2SA 24 9 qq68 0 Then Joab reported the total of the count of the fighting men to the king Alternate translation: “Then Joab told the king the total number of men ready for battle”
2SA 24 9 t1ix figs-metonymy 0 who drew the sword This metonym refers to the men who were ready to fight in the army. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 24 9 e4ft 0 of Judah This refers to the southern tribe of Judah.
2SA 24 10 cb8t figs-metonymy 0 David’s heart afflicted him The “heart” here is a metonym for David’s emotions and conscience. Alternate translation: “David felt guilty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 24 10 bvb3 0 Now, Yahweh, take away your servant’s guilt David refers to himself as “your servant.” This is a polite way to speak to someone with greater authority.
2SA 24 11 h1gv figs-idiom 0 the word of Yahweh came to the prophet Gad, David’s seer, saying, The idiom “the word of Yahweh came to” is used to introduce a special message from God. See how you translated this idiom in [2 Samuel 7:4](../07/04.md). Alternate translation: “Yahweh gave a message to the prophet Gad, David’s seer. He said,” or “Yahweh spoke this message to the prophet Gad, David’s seer:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2SA 24 11 a4ac 0 David’s seer This means Gad was the official prophet in the royal palace.
2SA 24 14 d6ux figs-metonymy 0 Let us fall into Yahweh’s hands rather than into the hand of man Here “hands” refer to power or control. Alternate translation: “Let Yahweh and not people punish us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 24 15 gt1z figs-merism 0 from Dan to Beersheba Here mentioning the city of Dan in the extreme north and the city Beersheba in the extreme south means the entire nation of Israel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
2SA 24 16 tl5x figs-metonymy 0 the angel reached out with his hand toward Jerusalem to destroy it Here the metonym “hand” stands for the angel’s power. Alternate translation: “the angel was about to destroy the people in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 24 16 ap2v 0 Yahweh changed his mind because of the harm This means that Yahweh stopped the evil that he was allowing the angel to do. Alternate translation: “Yahweh felt grieved about the harm”
2SA 24 16 x95i figs-metonymy 0 Now draw back your hand The metonym “hand” stands for the angel’s power. Alternate translation: “Do not harm them any longer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 24 17 c2r6 figs-parallelism 0 I have sinned, and I have acted perversely These phrases mean the same thing and are combined for emphasis. Alternate translation: “I have sinned terribly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2SA 24 17 b9vn figs-rquestion 0 But these sheep, what have they done? David uses a question and compares the people to sheep to emphasize that they have done nothing wrong. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express it as a statement. Alternate translation: “These ordinary people have done nothing wrong.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 24 17 e2dt figs-metonymy 0 Please let your hand punish me Here the metonym “hand” refers to power. Alternate translation: “Please punish me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 24 20 q15a translate-symaction 0 bowed to the king with his face to the ground He was showing deep respect and honor to the king. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
2SA 24 21 r7k9 figs-activepassive 0 so that the plague may be removed from the 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: “so that Yahweh will remove this plague from the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2SA 24 22 bwm7 figs-metaphor 0 what is good in your sight Here sight represents judgment or evaluation. Alternate translation: “what you think is good” or “what is good in your judgement” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2SA 24 24 m1m6 figs-doublenegatives 0 I will not offer … anything that costs me nothing This can be stated in a positive form. Alternate translation: “I will only offer … something that I have paid for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2SA 24 24 w2n6 translate-numbers 0 fifty shekels “50 shekels.” A shekel is 11 grams. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-bmoney]])
2SA 24 25 xl51 figs-metonymy 0 on behalf of the land Here the metonym “land” stands for the people of Israel. Alternate translation: “on behalf of the people of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2SA 24 25 lp9s figs-activepassive 0 the plague on Israel was confined This can be translated in active form. Alternate translation: “God confined the plague that had been on Israel” or “God took the plague away from Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
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