Revised Standard Version follows the form of the Hebrew by quoting King David’s words. In English it may seem that David is telling Bathsheba to call for Zadok, Nathan, and Benaiah; however, the verb Call is second person masculine plural.

Since Zadok, Nathan, and Benaiah have already been identified respectively as the priest, the prophet, and the son of Jehoiada earlier in this chapter (verses 8 and 26), Good News Translation omits the qualifying identifications for reasons of style. Translators should use the form that is natural in the receptor language. The text has not indicated earlier that Nathan had left the room when Bathsheba entered, but this verse implies that he had (see verse 28).

If it seems more natural in the receptor language, the direct discourse in this verse may be made indirect following the model of Good News Translation.

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