« | Isaiah 38 | » |
1 About this time King Hezekiah became sick and almost died. The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz went to see him and said to him, "The LORD tells you that you are to put everything in order because you will not recover. Get ready to die."
2 Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed:
3 "Remember, LORD, that I have served you faithfully and loyally, and that I have always tried to do what you wanted me to." And he began to cry bitterly.
4 Then the LORD commanded Isaiah
5 to go back to Hezekiah and say to him, "I, the LORD, the God of your ancestor David, have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will let you live fifteen years longer.
6 I will rescue you and this city of Jerusalem from the emperor of Assyria, and I will continue to protect the city."
7 Isaiah replied, "The LORD will give you a sign to prove that he will keep his promise.
8 On the stairway built by King Ahaz, the LORD will make the shadow go back ten steps." And the shadow moved back ten steps.
9 After Hezekiah recovered from his illness, he wrote this song of praise:
10 I thought that in the prime of life I was going to the world of the dead, Never to live out my life.
11 I thought that in this world of the living I would never again see the LORD Or any living person.
12 My life was cut off and ended, Like a tent that is taken down, Like cloth that is cut from a loom. I thought that God was ending my life.
13 All night I cried out with pain, As if a lion were breaking my bones. I thought that God was ending my life.
14 My voice was thin and weak, And I moaned like a dove. My eyes grew tired from looking to heaven. LORD, rescue me from all this trouble.
15 What can I say? The LORD has done this. My heart is bitter, and I cannot sleep.
16 Lord, I will live for you, for you alone; Heal me and let me live.
17 My bitterness will turn into peace. You save my life from all danger; You forgive all my sins.
18 No one in the world of the dead can praise you; The dead cannot trust in your faithfulness.
19 It is the living who praise you, As I praise you now. Parents tell their children how faithful you are.
20 LORD, you have healed me. We will play harps and sing your praise, Sing praise in your Temple as long as we live.
21 Isaiah told the king to put a paste made of figs on his boil, and he would get well.
22 Then King Hezekiah asked, "What is the sign to prove that I will be able to go to the Temple?"
The Good News Bible (GNB)
The Good News Bible (GNB), also known as the Good News Translation (GNT) in the United States, is an English translation of the Bible that prioritizes readability and accessibility for a diverse audience. First published in 1966 by the American Bible Society, the GNB was originally designed as a translation for people with limited English proficiency, including non-native speakers and those with lower literacy levels. Its straightforward and contemporary language makes it particularly effective for use in educational settings, churches, and personal study.
One of the hallmark features of the Good News Bible is its dynamic equivalence translation philosophy, which focuses on conveying the thought and meaning of the original texts rather than adhering strictly to a word-for-word approach. This allows the translators to use idiomatic expressions and familiar language that resonate with modern readers. The GNB aims to present the Bible in a way that is relatable and engaging, making it easier for readers to connect with the biblical stories and teachings without getting bogged down by archaic language or complex theological terminology.
In addition to its clear language, the Good News Bible includes helpful illustrations, maps, and notes that enhance the reader’s understanding of the text. The translation is structured to facilitate comprehension, often breaking up longer passages into shorter paragraphs and sections. This visual organization aids readers in navigating the biblical narrative and understanding the context of various stories and teachings. The GNB also includes helpful footnotes that provide additional information and insights into specific verses, making it a valuable resource for study and reflection.
Despite its strengths, the Good News Bible has faced criticism from some scholars and traditionalists who prefer more literal translations. Critics argue that the dynamic equivalence approach can lead to a loss of nuance and depth present in the original languages. Additionally, some readers express concern that the GNB’s simplified language may not adequately convey the richness of the biblical text. However, the Good News Bible remains a widely used and appreciated translation, particularly for its commitment to making the scriptures accessible to all, allowing readers from various backgrounds to engage with and understand the timeless messages of the Bible.