The transition word But renders the common Hebrew conjunction, but many English versions use some kind of contrast marker since some kind of verbal response would normally be expected. While several versions have the same connector as Revised Standard Version, New Jerusalem Bible has “however.”

The people were silent: American Bible takes the Hebrew word rendered the people to be an explanatory, but incorrect, addition since this word is not found in the Septuagint or in the parallel passage in Isa 36.21. American Bible, therefore, translates “They remained silent,” referring to the three envoys of Hezekiah. Contemporary English Version seems to follow this same interpretation. But the Masoretic Text makes sense, and most versions translate as in Revised Standard Version and Good News Translation. The people referred to are the people of Judah in general.

The expressions were silent and answered him not a word are merely positive and negative ways of saying the same thing. But the repetition of the same idea is intentionally used for emphasis. Where possible, this may be imitated in the receptor language.

For the king’s command was, “Do not answer him”: Instead of using a direct quotation for the prohibition of the king, many languages will find it more natural to present this idea indirectly (so Good News Translation). Revised English Bible, for example, says “for the king had given orders that no one was to answer him.” The king refers to King Hezekiah of Judah, as Good News Translation makes explicit, and not to the Assyrian king.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Kings, Volume 2. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2008. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .