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 11:42
And Demetrius sent this message to Jonathan: Good News Bible says simply “Demetrius replied,” which is all that is necessary. In some languages translators may want to indent the message that follows (so Contemporary English Version).
Not only will I do these things for you and your nation, but I will confer great honor on you and your nation, if I find an opportunity: Demetrius could not grant Jonathan’s request immediately because of the revolt of his troops. A possible model here is “I will do what you request. In fact, I will bestow great honor on you and your people, whenever I have a chance.”
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.
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