So: the common Hebrew conjunction is translated by a number of modern versions as an adverb of manner, “Thus” (New Jewish Publication Society’s Tanakh, New American Bible, New Jerusalem Bible). That is, it was in this way (the way just described in the narrative) that David defeated Goliath.

Prevailed over: or, more literally, “was stronger than.” That is, David won the battle. Modern versions use verbs like “defeated” (Contemporary English Version), “overcame” (New American Bible), and “triumphed over” (New Jerusalem Bible).

This verse, which is a kind of summary statement, is missing in the Septuagint. Moffatt and New American Bible place the entire verse within square brackets, indicating that the translators regard the verse to be a later addition to the Hebrew text.

According to 2 Sam 21.19, Goliath was killed by Elhanan, the son of Jair. Various suggestions have been made to explain the difference, including the following: (1) “Elhanan” and “David” refer to the same person. One is a personal name and the other a title. (2) “Elhanan” is a given name and “David” is a throne name. (3) The two refer to different people, and though Elhanan killed Goliath, the tradition later attributed this conquest to David. But whatever the explanation for this problem, translators are required to translate the text as it stands.

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 .