But Jehoshaphat said: But translates the common Hebrew conjunction, which in this context introduces a clearly implied contrast. In the continuing dialogue, the verb said is followed by a question. For this reason it may be more natural to translate it “asked” as in Good News Translation, New International Version, and Revised English Bible.

Is there not here another prophet of the LORD of whom we may inquire?: A literal translation of Jehoshaphat’s question reads “Is there not here a prophet of Yahweh still that we can inquire of him?” The Hebrew text has a word for “still,” but not a word corresponding to the word another in Revised Standard Version. This question may be understood two different ways: (a) the prophets of verse 5 were prophets of the LORD, but Jehoshaphat wants to consult another prophet of the LORD (so Revised Standard Version/New Revised Standard Version); or, less likely, (b) the prophets of verse 5 are not prophets of the LORD, so Jehoshaphat wants to consult a prophet who does speak for the LORD (so New International Version, which has “Is there not a prophet of the LORD here whom we can inquire of?”).

In the conversation between the two kings, the first person plural pronoun we (here and in the following verse) is inclusive since each king would be including the other in their endeavor to determine God’s will.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Chronicles, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). Miami: UBS, 2014. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .