I also will write them words of encouragement: Encouragement is not the right word; Demetrius was not trying to get the Jews to cheer up. Good News Bible uses the word “friendly,” but this is not right either. Abel is better with “persuasively.” For this clause translators may say “I’ll write them too! I must persuade them that they are wrong to change sides!” or “… I must persuade them to remain on my side!”

And promise them honor and gifts, that I may have their help: The translation here should not sound calm and thoughtful, as both Revised Standard Version and Good News Bible present it. Demetrius was still upset, so a better model for this whole verse is:

• I’ll write to them as well! I’ll promise them high positions, I’ll offer them gifts! I must convince them to remain on my side! I must have their support!”

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on 1-2 Maccabees. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2011. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.