Then Elisha the prophet called one of the sons of the prophets: The transition word Then renders the common Hebrew conjunction. But in many languages it may be important to show that the events related in chapter 9 took place at approximately the same time as those in the previous chapter. Many modern versions omit the conjunction altogether, and others have “One day” (Contemporary English Version, Parola Del Signore: La Bibbia in Lingua Corrente, Parole de Vie). But the Hebrew word order in the clause here is usually thought to express an action that occurred prior to a previously mentioned action (Hobbs) or one that is simultaneous with a previously mentioned action. Good News Translation has “Meanwhile” and New Century Version introduces the story with “At the same time.” These two versions may be better models to follow in other languages.

For one of the sons of the prophets, see 1 Kgs 20.35 and 2 Kgs 2.3. Since verse 4 indicates that this was a young prophet, some translations introduce that information here in verse 1 (so Good News Translation, Die Bibel im heutigen Deutsch). An ancient Jewish tradition indicates that this was Jonah, the son of Amittai (2 Kgs 14.25), but there is no guarantee that this identification is correct. It should certainly not be a part of the actual translation, but could be included as a footnote if the uncertainty about it is clearly stated.

Gird up your loins: See the comments on this figurative expression in 2 Kgs 4.29. As in 4.29, this may be translated “Get ready” (New Century Version), “Get ready for the road” (Revised English Bible), or “get ready to go” (Contemporary English Version, Biblia Dios Habla Hoy). Die Bibel im heutigen Deutsch clearly expresses the meaning with “go as fast as you can.” The New International Version rendering “Tuck your cloak into your belt” is probably too distracting to be a good model except in cultures where this practice is common.

Since Elisha was in authority over the other prophets and since the person he is speaking to is apparently young, he should probably be addressed using the familiar form instead of the more formal or distant term in languages where such a distinction is made.

Take this flask of oil in your hand: The Hebrew word rendered flask may be translated “small bottle” (New Century Version) although the same word is translated “jar” by New Century Version in 1 Sam 10.1. Contemporary English Version has simply “bottle.” This container would probably have been made of clay or stone. The oil that was in it was almost certainly olive oil (see 1 Kgs 1.39). In languages that use different words for vegetable oil and a petroleum-based substance, the term for vegetable oil should be used here. The reason for taking the flask will be stated in verse 3.

The text specifies that the young prophet was to take this container in your hand, although this detail is omitted in Contemporary English Version. The intent of this expression is probably to emphasize the personal responsibility of the young prophet to carry the oil. Some modern versions say simply that the prophet was to take the container of oil “with you” (Good News Translation, Revised English Bible, New American Bible). Compare the similar expressions used in 1 Kgs 17.11 and 2 Kgs 4.29.

Ramoth-gilead: See the comments at 1 Kgs 4.13 and 2 Kgs 8.28.

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 .