This verse begins with the Hebrew verbal transition that is literally “And it shall come about” (New American Standard Bible). Because the statement that follows in this verse is a more detailed explanation of what has just been said, some translators render this transition in such a way as to highlight this fact; for example, Osty-Trinquet begins with “Yes” while Parole de Vie has “In effect.” But most versions leave it untranslated and simply begin with the temporal relative clause.

When your days are fulfilled to go to be with your fathers: This is a euphemism referring to the time when David will die. Fathers refers here to “ancestors” (New Revised Standard Version, Good News Translation). The receptor languages may have other equally colorful euphemisms that would be appropriate in such a context. So translators should not abandon the use of a euphemism and follow Good News Translation without first seeking a natural equivalent here. But neither should they translate the Hebrew euphemism literally if the meaning will not be clear in the receptor language. Biblia Dios Habla Hoy says “when your life comes to its end and you die.”

I will raise up your offspring after you, one of your sons: The Hebrew verb translated raise up may not be natural if translated literally in certain languages. It will be important to avoid giving the impression that some kind of resurrection is intended. Alternative verbs that avoid this are “appoint” (New Jerusalem Bible) and “establish” (Complete Jewish Bible). Offspring is literally “seed” (King James Version). Revised English Bible speaks of “one of your family,” while Complete Jewish Bible has “one of your descendants.” One of your own sons indicates that your offspring refers to a male in this context. This phrase is an allusion to Solomon (1 Kgs 2.12, 46). God’s promise here is remembered in Psa 89.3-4 and 132.11, and is interpreted as a prophecy concerning the Messiah in John 7.42 and Acts 2.30.

And I will establish his kingdom means that God will ensure the stability and strength of the kingdom of David’s son. New Jerusalem Bible translates “and I shall make his sovereignty secure.” In verse 14 God refers to the kingdom as his own kingdom, which shows that for the writer, there is little distinction between David’s kingdom and God’s kingdom.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellington, John E. A Handbook on 1-2 Chronicles, Volume 1. (UBS Helps for Translators). Miami: UBS, 2014. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .