19 Heb “the ark of God.” It seems unlikely that Saul would call for the ark, which was several miles away in Kiriath-jearim (see 1 Sam 7:2). The and an Old Latin have “ephod” here, a reading which harmonizes better with v. 3 and fits better with the verb “bring near” (see 1 Sam 23:9; 30:7) and with the expression “withdraw your hand” in v. 19. This reading is followed in the present translation (cf. , , ).
20 Heb “for the ark of God was in that day, and the sons of Israel.” The translation follows the text of some Greek manuscripts. See the previous note.

In other versions

So Saul said to Ahijah, “Bring the ark of God here.” For the ark of God went at that time with the people of Israel.

Saul said to Ahijah, “Bring the ark of God.” (At that time it was with the Israelites.)

Saul told Ahijah, “Bring the ark of God,” for it was with the Israelites at that time.

Then Saul shouted to Ahijah, “Bring the ephod here!” For at that time Ahijah was wearing the ephod in front of the Israelites.

Then Saul said to Ahijah, “Bring near the ark of God” (for the ark of God was at that time with the Israelites).

And Saul said unto Ahiah, Bring hither the ark of God. For the ark of God was at that time with the children of Israel.

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