The verb at the beginning of this verse contrasts with the whispering that went on between David and Abishai when they were in Saul’s camp. It will be appropriate to translate it “shouted” (New American Bible, New Century Version) or “cried out” (La Bible du Semeur). Similarly the verb answered, which introduces Abner’s response, may be rendered “shouted back” (Contemporary English Version).

The army: literally “the people” (see verse 5), referring to Saul’s soldiers.

Abner the son of Ner: since Abner has already been identified in verse 5 as the son of Ner, Good News Translation omits these words here for reasons of English style.

The question directed to Abner, Will you not answer…? is merely a way of attracting the attention of Abner and the entire camp. Since a literal rendering may be subject to misunderstanding, translators may feel free to use whatever attention-getting device the receptor language may use in such a situation.

The words to the king are lacking in the Septuagint, which is followed by New Jerusalem Bible, An American Translation, and Osty-Trinquet. Critique Textuelle de l’Ancien Testament, however, gives a {B} evaluation to the Masoretic Text, which includes these words. The sense is that Abner wants to know who dares to trouble the sleep of King Saul by shouting loudly to Abner. Parola Del Signore: La Bibbia in Lingua Corrente says “ ‘Who is it who is disturbing the king?’ Abner replied.”

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 .