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 23:2

Therefore: this transition word makes a logical link between the previous verse and David’s action described in this verse. It was because David had heard about the Philistine attack on Keilah that he wondered whether he should go and help the people of that town.

Inquired of the LORD: literally “asked the LORD, saying.” Regarding the probable method of asking God, see 10.22 and 14.37.

This entire verse may be translated quite naturally into some languages without the use of direct discourse:

• So David asked the LORD whether he should go and attack the Philistines. And the LORD told him that he should attack them in order to save the town of Keilah.

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 .