Gibe-ah: see the comments on verse 5.

Men of valor: this translates a single Hebrew word whose basic meaning is “power” or “strength.” It is often used with the specific meaning “the army.” Good News Translation follows the Septuagint in reading “powerful men” instead of “the army.” New Revised Standard Version says “warriors,” and Revised English Bible, following the Septuagint, says “fighting men.” The meaning is basically the same, whether one follows the Masoretic Text or the Septuagint.

Whose hearts God had touched: some languages may require a separate sentence for this relative clause. There may also be a question as to the meaning of the clause. Does it mean that God had inspired them to accompany Saul to his home (so Knox)? Or is it a more general statement about God’s having stirred them emotionally by the consecration of their new king? Most English versions leave the meaning rather vague, but in those languages that are forced to choose, perhaps it will be best to indicate that these men were inspired by God to accompany Saul, no doubt to protect him and to serve him.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on the First and Second Books of Samuel, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2001. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .