Therefore: as in 2.30 this transition word shows a relationship between what has been said previously and what follows. Here the solemn declaration of Yahweh is a direct result of the inappropriate behavior of the family of Eli. Bible en français courant translates “This is why,” while most English versions have “Therefore.”

The verb swear occurs frequently in the Old Testament. Often it has negative connotations if the information sworn to is false. But in its positive sense it is a way of certifying under oath that something will happen. A person is bound by the oath taken that the promised event will indeed take place. The verbal root is thought to come from the numeral “seven” and refers perhaps to a sevenfold binding. In this context God gives his sacred and unbreakable word that he will indeed punish the family of Eli for their misdeeds.

Eli’s house again refers to his family (see verses 12 and 13).

Expiated: the root meaning of the Hebrew verb is debated. It means either “to cover” or “to wipe away.” In Old Testament thought God “covers” or “wipes away [or, erases]” human sins or offenses against God. Expiated (Revised Standard Version, New Revised Standard Version, New Jewish Publication Society’s Tanakh, Revised English Bible) is technical religious language and has little meaning for many contemporary speakers of English. Hence Good News Translation uses a phrase to express the sense: “to remove the consequences of this terrible sin.” Bible en français courant says “to make forget his sin.”

Sacrifice or offering: see the comments on 2.29.

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 .