The pronoun he at the beginning of this verse may be confusing. It refers to Elisha, and in many languages the proper name should probably be used to avoid misunderstanding.

The text continues to present the commands of Elisha as direct quotations followed by a clear statement of their fulfillment in each case. But if indirect discourse is preferred, it is certainly acceptable.

The arrows must, of course, refer to those remaining and not the one that had already been shot through the window. In some languages it will be more natural to say “the remaining arrows” or something similar.

And he took them is literally “and he took.” Revised Standard Version has added the pronoun them, which is required in English. In fact, the vast majority of English versions do so. New American Bible, however, says simply “which he did.”

The second command of the prophet in this verse is fulfilled by King Jehoash, but a new element is added in the fulfillment. The prophet ordered him to Strike the ground with them, but without specifying how many times this should be done. King Jehoash does so three times and this number becomes significant later in the story.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Kings, Volume 2. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2008. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .