Now therefore: while some versions omit the transition word altogether, it may be important in certain languages. It is ill advised to use a word like “Therefore” (New Revised Standard Version), since that may give the impression that the action called for is to be done because of the death of Saul. The sense is rather that, in spite of that tragic event, there is reason to take courage. Anderson translates “from now on … although….”

Let your hands be strong: or, more accurately, “let your hands be steady.” This is a way of exhorting the people to take courage. It is this idea, rather than a literal rendering of the words, that has been adopted by Bible en français courant, Moffatt, and others. It may be wise to do the same in many other languages. Possible models include “take courage,” “show yourselves to be brave,” or, stated negatively, “don’t be weak” or “don’t be fearful.”

Be valiant: literally “be as sons of valor.” On the use of “sons of…” to indicate membership in a group, see the comments on 1.13.

Your lord: see verse 5.

On the expressions house of Judah and anointed, see verse 4.

The Hebrew text does not clearly show the relationships between the various parts of this verse. The meaning is this: the people of Jabesh-gilead should continue to resist the Philistines and not be afraid, because even though their king has been killed, the people of Judah have made David king, and now he will help defend the people of Jabesh-Gilead if they accept his rule. Compare New Living Translation: “And now that Saul is dead, I ask you to be my strong and loyal subjects like the people of Judah, who have anointed me as their new king.”

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 .