David

The name that is transliterated as “David” in English is translated in Spanish Sign Language with the sign signifying king and a sling (referring to 1 Samuel 17:49 and 2 Samuel 5:4). (Source: John Elwode in The Bible Translator 2008, p. 78ff.)


“Elizabeth” in Spanish Sign Language, source: Sociedad Bíblica de España

In German Sign Language it is only the sling. (See here ).


“David” in German Sign Language (source )

The (Protestant) Mandarin Chinese transliteration of “David” is 大卫 (衛) / Dàwèi which carries an additional meaning of “Great Protector.”

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

Translation commentary on 1 Samuel 17:29

Since two questions follow, Good News Translation changes the verb said to “asked” in order to conform to common English usage. But in some languages the questions may be turned into statements. For example, the question What have I done now? is really a way of saying “I haven’t done anything wrong.” And in some cases it will be better translated this way.

Was it not but a word? In some languages it may be best to express this as a statement rather than as a question. See Revised English Bible, “I only asked a question.” If the question format is retained, the meaning to be conveyed is “Don’t I even have the right to speak any more?” (La Bible du Semeur).

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 .