worthless men

The Hebrew in 1 Samuel 2:12 that is often translated in English as “worthless men” is translated in Anuak as “people (with) their heads bad” (i.e., rascals).

scoundrel

The Hebrew that is translated as “scoundrel” or “worthless person” or similar in English is translated in Vidunda as “troublemaker” and Kutu as “very evil person.” (Source: Pioneer Bible Translators, project-specific translation notes in Paratext)

complete verse (1 Samuel 2:12)

Following are a number of back-translations as well as a sample translation for translators of 1 Samuel 2:12:

  • Kupsabiny: “The sons of Eli did evil rather than obeying/honoring God.” (Source: Kupsabiny Back Translation)
  • Newari: “Eli’s sons were scoundrel. They did not respect to the LORD, and they did not understand His authority either.” (Source: Newari Back Translation)
  • Hiligaynon: “The two children/(sons) of Eli (were) wicked men. They would- not -obey the LORD” (Source: Hiligaynon Back Translation)
  • English: “Eli’s two sons, who were also priests, were very wicked. They did not revere (OR, respect/obey) Yahweh.” (Source: Translation for Translators)