The question Who would listen to you in this matter? is rhetorical and is intended to make a strong statement to the effect that no one would pay attention to what these men were saying. Bible en français courant says “No one can approve your proposition.”

The transition word rendered For is intended to show the reason why the idea of the good-for-nothing men should not be approved. In some languages it may be translated “because.” Fox translates this “Indeed” rather than “for” (see the comments on 8.7).

The baggage: or rather “the supplies” (Good News Translation), or “the stores” (Revised English Bible). Compare 10.22; 17.22; 25.13.

They shall share alike: in this decision David is following the law as found in Num 31.25-54. See also Josh 22.8. This application of the general principle is shifted forward in Good News Translation to precede the declaration of the principle. The general principal is set off in poetic format in New Jerusalem Bible, thus showing that this was almost like a proverbial statement that would have been well known to all Israelites.

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 .