The Hebrew of this verse begins with the verbal transition sometimes rendered “And it came to pass” (King James Version). The purpose of this transition seems to be to change the focus from the actions of Asa to the reaction of Baasha. But it may be unnecessary to include any overt representation of this transition in most languages.

The verb building here and in verse 22 is better translated “fortifying” (see the comments on verse 17).

The Hebrew says that Baasha dwelt in Tirzah, which was the capital city of the northern kingdom (see 1 Kgs 14.17) until Samaria became the capital. New Jewish Publication Society’s Tanakh has “remained in Tirzah.” The Septuagint, which is followed by New Jerusalem Bible and Osty-Trinquet, says “retired to Tirzah.” Even if the Masoretic Text is followed, it may be better for translation reasons in some languages to supply the verb “returned,” which is understood in the Hebrew, by saying “returned to Tirzah and stayed there.”

Critique Textuelle de l’Ancien Testament gives a {B} rating to the Masoretic Text and argues that the verb dwelt is used here as a technical military term, meaning that Baasha remained militarily inactive and did not respond to the military attacks against his kingdom by the Syrians.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Kings, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2008. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .