5:1 The sons of Reuben, Israel’s firstborn –
(Now he was the firstborn, but when he defiled his father’s bed, 4 his rights as firstborn were given to the sons of Joseph, Israel’s son. So Reuben is not listed as firstborn in the genealogical records. 5
1 tn On the use of אִם (’im, “if”) here, see HALOT 60 s.v.
2 tn Heb “and act from [i.e., so as to prevent] harm so that I might not be in pain.”
3 tn Heb “and God brought about what he had asked.”
4 sn The phrase when he defiled his father’s bed refers to Reuben having sexual relations with his father Jacob’s concubine Bilhah. This incident is recorded in Gen 35:22.
5 tn Heb “and not to be listed in the genealogical records as (having) the right of the firstborn.”
7 tn Heb “for all the work of the holy of holies.”
8 tn Heb “making atonement for Israel according to all which Moses the servant of God commanded.”
10 tn Heb “and David went out before them and answered and said to them.”
11 tn Heb “there will be to me concerning you a heart for unity.”
12 tn Heb “with no violence in my hands.”
13 tn Heb “fathers.”