The word No translates a Hebrew adverb that marks a reversal of expectations or beliefs. The meaning is something like “I am sorry to disappoint you, but….” Compare the following translations: “Far from it” (Revised English Bible), “On the contrary” (New American Bible, Anchor Bible), “Alas no” (Bible en français courant), and “No, it’s not good news” (Mandinka).

Our lord King David: This way of speaking shows that Jonathan still respects the authority of David, but what follows indicates that David had exercised his authority in naming Solomon to rule in his place. As in verses 33 and 47, the Hebrew word translated lord is plural, showing respect for authority.

The Hebrew verb for made … king is a causative form, meaning more literally “caused to rule.”

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Kings, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2008. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .