were born to David

The Hebrew in 2 Samuel 3:2 that is translated as “(sons) were born to David” or similar in English is translated in Vidunda as “(sons) were born to David’s wives,” to make it sound more natural. (Source: Pioneer Bible Translators, project-specific translation notes in Paratext)

complete verse (2 Samuel 3:2)

Following are a number of back-translations as well as a sample translation for translators of 2 Samuel 3:2:

  • Kupsabiny: “When David was living in Hebron, his wife produced/bore for him six boys. Ahinoam from Jezreel produced Amnon.” (Source: Kupsabiny Back Translation)
  • Newari: “These are the sons born to David in Hebron —
    The eldest son was Amnon, his mother was Ahinoam of Jezreel.” (Source: Newari Back Translation)
  • Hiligaynon: “These were the male children of David who were-born at Hebron: the first-born was Amnon his child with Ahinoam who comes-from-Jezreel.” (Source: Hiligaynon Back Translation)

David

The name that is transliterated as “David” in English means “beloved.” (Source: Cornwall / Smith 1997 )

In Spanish Sign Language it is translated with the sign signifying king and a sling (referring to 1 Samuel 17:49 and 2 Samuel 5:4). (Source: John Elwode in The Bible Translator 2008, p. 78ff. )


“Elizabeth” in Spanish Sign Language, source: Sociedad Bíblica de España

In German Sign Language it is only the sling. (See here ).


“David” in German Sign Language (source )

For more information on translations of proper names with sign language see Sign Language Bible Translations Have Something to Say to Hearing Christians .

The (Protestant) Mandarin Chinese transliteration of “David” is 大卫 (衛) / Dàwèi which carries an additional meaning of “Great Protector.”

Click or tap here to see a short video clip about David (source: Bible Lands 2012)

Learn more on Bible Odyssey: David .