This is the 2608th most frequent German word.
befanden
"Befanden" is the past tense form of "befinden," meaning "were located" or "were situated."
In this sentence, 'befanden' is used to indicate the physical location of the books, intertwined with the reflexive pronoun 'sich' to demonstrate their state of being placed on the table.
Die Bücher befanden sich auf dem Tisch.
The books were located on the table.
Here, 'befanden' is utilized in the judgemental context, meaning that they concluded or determined his guilt, denoting an expression of opinion.
Sie befanden ihn schuldig.
They found him guilty.
In this context, 'befanden' reflects the realization or perception of the state or position of the subjects during the walk.