Translators are reminded that the archaic English language used in this prayer, which is so prominent in translating the pronouns and verb forms of this verse, should not be imitated, since it reflects nothing in the original text.

Establish: this seems to be a keyword in this chapter. Note its use in verses 12 and 13 above. In this context, however, it may be more naturally translated by another verb in many languages. God may be said to have “received Israel as his very own people” or to have “agreed to become the God of Israel.” Or possibly it may be translated “You have chosen Israel” (Contemporary English Version).

The words for thyself and to be thy people are talking about the same truth and may therefore have to be translated by a single expression in certain languages.

Didst become their God: this does not mean that God became God at this point in time, but rather it speaks of the establishment of a relationship between the eternally existing God and the people of Israel, who then acknowledged him as their God. Compare also Deut 26.17; 29.13; and Jer 7.23.

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 .