Thus the men of Israel were subdued at that time: Thus translates the common Hebrew conjunction, which serves here as a logical connector and may be legitimately translated in this way. In many languages it may be more natural to render the men of Israel (literally “the sons/children of Israel”) as “the Israelites” (New Revised Standard Version, Revised English Bible, New Jerusalem Bible, New American Bible). Were subdued may be translated “were crushed” (New Jewish Publication Society’s Tanakh). This passive form may easily be made active in languages where passives are a problem. The agent is God, as stated in verses 15 and 16, so a possible model for the men of Israel were subdued is “God subdued the army of Israel.” At that time may be rendered “That day” ( NET Bible) or “on that occasion” (New International Version, Revised English Bible). Good News Translation leaves this phrase implied, but it should be kept.

And the men of Judah prevailed: The army of Judah was victorious over the Israelite army. The men of Judah (literally “the sons/children of Judah”) is better rendered “Judah’s army” (Contemporary English Version).

Because they relied upon the LORD, the God of their fathers: The soldiers of Judah were victorious because of their reliance on God. The cause and effect relationship is important. See Solomon’s prayer in 2 Chr 6.34-35; see also 2 Chr 16.7-8; 20.12-24; 24.24; 32.20-21. Fathers refers to “ancestors,” as in verse 12.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Chronicles, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). Miami: UBS, 2014. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .