Fell on his face to the ground: see verse 4 above.

Did obeisance: see the comments on this verb at 1 Sam 24.8.

Blessed the king: in certain languages it is impossible for a person of inferior rank to “bless” a superior. A different verb must be used. This may therefore be translated “asked God to bless the king” or “prayed for God’s favor on the king.” And if this is made a part of the direct quotation of what Joab says to David, it can be rendered “God bless you” (Good News Translation) or “May God give you his blessing.”

Your servant … his servant: these are again indirect references used by Joab to refer to himself. It will be better translated “I” and “my” in most languages. Similarly my lord the king and the king are respectful ways of addressing David. But they will be better translated “you” or “your majesty” in this direct quotation.

In that translates a Hebrew word expressing cause. Good News Translation and Revised English Bible say “because,” and New American Bible and New Jerusalem Bible say “since.”

Found favor in your sight: see the comments on this idiom in 1 Sam 16.22; 20.3, 29; and 27.5. Compare also Ruth 2.10.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on the First and Second Books of Samuel, Volume 2. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2001. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .