complete verse (1 Samuel 20:38)

Following are a number of back-translations as well as a sample translation for translators of 1 Samuel 20:38:

  • Kupsabiny: “Hurry and move away from there.’ That servant picked the arrow and went to where Jonathan was.” (Source: Kupsabiny Back Translation)
  • Newari: “Don’t burn time in vain, do it quickly." Then, taking the arrow he returned to his master.” (Source: Newari Back Translation)
  • Hiligaynon: “When the child/(boy) arrived at the-place-where- the arrow -had-fallen/landed, Jonatan shouted, ‘The arrow (is) beyond/ahead of you (sing.). Hurry, then get (it)!’ The child/(boy) picked-up the arrow and returned to Jonatan his master.” (Source: Hiligaynon Back Translation)
  • English: “Then he shouted to the boy, ‘Act quickly; do not wait! Do not stop!’ The boy picked up the arrow and brought it back to Jonathan.” (Source: Translation for Translators)

Translation commentary on 1 Samuel 20:38

Jonathan articulates three imperatives in succession. In Hebrew, the word Hurry is an adverb but functions as an imperative. These words are directed at the young boy who has gone after the arrows, but in fact they are meant to encourage David to leave as quickly as possible. If it is impossible to find three separate ways of saying the same thing in the receptor language, this may be reduced to two. But the cumulative effect of the three is important and if possible should be retained.

The arrows: the Hebrew text says “the arrow.” The scribal correction in the margin of the Masoretic Text reads “the arrows” (see verse 36). Since the record here indicates that only one arrow has been shot (verse 37), Good News Translation and New American Bible say “the arrow.” The introduction of the plural may perhaps be explained by the fact that verse 20 speaks of Jonathan’s planning to shoot three arrows.

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 .