self-referencing pronoun for king or queen

In Malay, the pronoun beta for the royal “I” (or “my” or “me”) that is used by royals when speaking to people of lower rank, subordinates or commoners to refer to themselves in these verses. This reflects the “language of the court because the monarchy and sultanate in Malaysia are still alive and well. All oral and printed literature (including newspapers and magazines) preserve and glorify the language of the court. Considering that the language of the court is part of the Malaysian language, court language is used sparingly where appropriate, specifically with texts relating to palace life.” (Source: Daud Soesilo in The Bible Translator 2025, p. 263ff.)

Translation commentary on 1 Maccabees 10:24

I also will write them words of encouragement: Encouragement is not the right word; Demetrius was not trying to get the Jews to cheer up. Good News Bible uses the word “friendly,” but this is not right either. Abel is better with “persuasively.” For this clause translators may say “I’ll write them too! I must persuade them that they are wrong to change sides!” or “… I must persuade them to remain on my side!”

And promise them honor and gifts, that I may have their help: The translation here should not sound calm and thoughtful, as both Revised Standard Version and Good News Bible present it. Demetrius was still upset, so a better model for this whole verse is:

• I’ll write to them as well! I’ll promise them high positions, I’ll offer them gifts! I must convince them to remain on my side! I must have their support!”

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on 1-2 Maccabees. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2011. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.