Saul went on one side: the Septuagint says “Saul and his men” and is followed by New Jerusalem Bible and Osty-Trinquet. For translation purposes the Septuagint may be followed here, since Saul certainly did not go alone.

The word rendered mountain is different from the word rendered “hill” in verse 19. The reference seems to be the “rock” mentioned in verse 25. Consistent with its translation “gorge” in verse 25, New American Bible says “As Saul moved along one rim of the gorge.”

And David was making haste: literally “And behold, David was making haste.” On the translation of “behold,” see page 18 and following. Here the focusing particle seems to highlight the haste with which David was moving in order to get away from Saul.

Were closing in upon David: the precise meaning of this verb is uncertain. All versions agree in general, however, that Saul and his men were somehow attempting to capture David and his men. Compare “were attempting to outflank David and his men” (New American Bible) or “were trying to cross over to David and his men’s side” (New Jerusalem Bible). Compare also Contemporary English Version, “were just about to capture David and his men.”

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 .