But: this does not represent the common Hebrew conjunction but rather a different transition word that usually means “because” or “that.” In this context Revised Standard Version seems to take it as marking the contrast between Hushai’s advice and that of Ahithophel. But in some languages this may be the wrong place for it, since it comes in the middle of Hushai’s discourse. If this is the case this conjunction need not be translated. Others prefer to understand it as a logical connector, based on the suppositions presented in the previous verse. New Jewish Publication Society’s Tanakh and New International Version, for example, translate it “So….” Similarly Traduction œcuménique de la Bible uses a word meaning “Therefore.” This kind of connecting word seems preferable.

That all Israel be gathered to you: this passive expression will have to be transformed into an active one in some languages. This may be done by saying something like “that you assemble all the people of Israel in your presence” or “that you command all the Israelites to come together before you….”

From Dan to Beer-sheba: as in 3.10 and 1 Sam 3.20, this expression is used to refer to the whole of the land of Israel. The phrase also occurs in 2 Sam 24.2, 15; Judges 20.1. Some translators may prefer to translate the meaning of the expression without reference to the place names, as Good News Translation has done. Or it is also possible to retain the place names and add information that will bring out the meaning. For example, it is possible to say “from Dan in the northernmost part of the country to Beersheba in the south” or something similar.

As the sand by the sea for multitude: the size of the force proposed by Hushai contrasts with the smaller group of twelve thousand that Ahithophel had advised in verse 2. The larger group is compared to the grains of sand on the seashore. If this comparison is not meaningful to readers of the proposed translation, a more general statement may be made. Some may say “an extremely great multitude that cannot be counted” or something similar.

To battle in person: literally “and your presence [or, faces] leading into battle.” The ancient Greek version has “among them” or “with them” in place of “into battle.” New Jerusalem Bible combines the readings of the Masoretic Text and the Septuagint, “and you take the field in person with them.” Certain other versions also follow the Septuagint. However, there seems to be no convincing reason for not following the traditional Hebrew text at this point.

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 .