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 2 Samuel 12:19

But: the Hebrew conjunction is rendered by nothing more than a new paragraph break in Good News Translation. However, since what happens is somewhat unexpected, a conjunction like But may be appropriate—especially if no new paragraph is made at this point.

The words his servants, referring to David’s officials, may be replaced by pronouns in this context. Compare Good News Translation.

Whispering together: the idea of whispering may have to be translated in some languages as “speaking in a low voice” or “talking so that others could not hear.”

Perceived: the verb used here means “made a mental judgment” or “realized” (Revised English Bible, New American Bible, New Jerusalem Bible). It will have to be translated in some languages as “knew” (Contemporary English Version), “understood,” or “decided.”

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on the First and Second Books of Samuel, Volume 2. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2001. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .