In Revised Standard Version this verse continues the sentence begun in verse 25. But in many languages it will be more natural style to begin a new sentence here. Then Moses stood means that “Moses took his stand,” or “stationed himself.” Both Good News Translation and Contemporary English Version show that Moses’ action was the result of his anger, and say “So Moses stood at the gate….” In the gate of the camp simply refers to the main entrance into the campsite, the place where they had pitched their tents. Another possible model is “So Moses stood at the gate of the place where the people had set up their tents.” And said should probably be understood as “and shouted” (Good News Translation, Contemporary English Version), since Moses was now speaking to all the people.

Who is on the LORD’s side? Come to me. This is just three short words in the Hebrew, “Who for-Yahweh, to-me.” Good News Translation and Contemporary English Version expand this to be more natural, “Everyone who is on the LORD’s side come over here!” On the LORD’s side means “who serve the LORD” or “who are loyal to Yahweh.” And all the sons of Levi is quite literal; “all the Levites” is more accurate, since Levi, one of the sons of Jacob, was their ancestor. One may also say “all the men of the tribe of Levi” or “all the men who were descendants of Levi.” Gathered themselves together to him simply means, as Good News Translation puts it, that they “gathered around him,” meaning Moses. Several translations have “rallied to him” (New International Version, Revised English Bible, and others).

Quoted with permission from Osborn, Noel D. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on Exodus. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1999. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .