strong man

The Hebrew that is translated as “strong (mighty) man” in many English versions is translated into Anuak as “liver is strong” (i.e., “fearless”).

For other translations using the term “liver” in Anuak see here and see Seat of the Mind for traditional views of “ways of knowing, thinking, and feeling.”

Philistines

The term that is transliterated as “Philistines” in English is translated in American Sign Language with a sign that signifies the helmet the Philistine warriors wore was decorated with feather-like objects. (Source: RuthAnna Spooner, Ron Lawer)


“Philistines” in American Sign Language, source: Deaf Harbor

Click or tap here to see a short video clip about Philistines (source: Bible Lands 2012)

Translation commentary on 1 Samuel 14:52

This verse stands alone as a paragraph in many translations, summarizing the continual war between Israel and the Philistines during Saul’s rule. The Philistines were already mentioned in the summary statement in verse 47, but this verse highlights the fact that they were a special case among the enemies of Israel.

There was hard fighting: this may sound too impersonal in some languages. The translation should probably indicate that Saul was intensely involved in this fighting.

All the days of Saul is a literal translation of the Hebrew. Revised English Bible says “throughout Saul’s lifetime.”

Valiant man: literally “son of worth [or, son of power].” The same noun is found in the expression “did valiantly” in verse 48. And a similar idiom is translated “men of valor” in 10.26.

He attached him to himself: a literal translation may result in an unnatural expression in some languages. The meaning is clearly expressed in Good News Translation. In some cases it may be appropriate to say that “he drafted them into his army” or that “he persuaded them to join his soldiers.”

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on the First and Second Books of Samuel, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2001. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .