The text does not say so, but in light of verse 3, the events described in this and the following verses take place the next morning following Jonathan’s warning to David. In order to make this clear, some translators may have to make the implied information explicit by beginning this verse “The next morning,” as in Contemporary English Version.

As in verse 2, the Hebrew identifies Saul as Jonathan’s father. In accordance with natural English style, Good News Translation says simply “to Saul.”

Jonathan begins to address his father in the third person (Let not the king) and then changes to the second person (you). In most languages this will be more naturally rendered “Please, your Majesty, do not….” See “indirect reference” on page 12 and following.

The verbal expression sin against occurs twice in this verse, and in both cases it refers to doing something to harm another person.

His servant will become “your servant” if direct address is used as recommended above.

The conjunction because occurs twice in the last part of this verse. In both cases the word introduces reasons why Saul should not act against David. But the two reasons are essentially one, since the first is stated negatively and the second positively.

His deeds have been of good service to you is a rather awkward way of saying “[he] has helped you very much by his deeds” (New American Bible). The deeds, or “achievements” (Revised English Bible), are probably a reference to David’s exploits in battle. The following verse makes this clearer.

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 .