complete verse (2 Samuel 3:11)

Following are a number of back-translations as well as a sample translation for translators of 2 Samuel 3:11:

  • Kupsabiny: “When Abner had said those words, Ishbosheth became afraid until he could not replied a word.” (Source: Kupsabiny Back Translation)
  • Newari: “Because he was very much afraid of Abner, Ishbosheth was not able to say anything.” (Source: Newari Back Translation)
  • Hiligaynon: “Ishboshet did- not -dare to say anymore for he was afraid of Abner.” (Source: Hiligaynon Back Translation)
  • English: “Ishbosheth was very afraid of Abner, so he did not say anything in reply to Abner.” (Source: Translation for Translators)

Translation commentary on 2 Samuel 3:11

This verse may be restructured as in Good News Translation, if it is more natural to provide the reason for Ishbosheth’s fear before indicating that he was speechless. But instead of stating that it was impossible for Ishbosheth to speak, some languages may prefer to say something like “dared not answer” or “did not presume to respond.”

He feared him: that is, Ishbosheth was afraid of Abner, and this should be made clear.

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 .