But: the common Hebrew conjunction here marks the contrast between the behavior of the hero and that of the rest of the soldiers. It is properly translated “but” in most versions.

The pronoun he at the beginning of this verse refers, of course, to Shammah. If there is any danger that it will be understood to refer to someone else, or if readers will not know who is involved, then the name should be used in place of the pronoun.

Took his stand: some will say “just stood in the same place in the garden.” Compare 20.11; 1 Sam 17.16. The Hebrew verb is often used in a military context. Compare “he stood his ground” (Revised English Bible, Good News Translation).

In the midst of the plot: since the Philistines had come to steal the crop of lentils that was still in the field, Shammah positioned himself there to hold it for his people.

This verse ends with the same words in Hebrew as found in the middle of verse 10: the LORD wrought a great victory.

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 .