« | Job 10 | » |
1 I am tired of living. Listen to my bitter complaint.
2 Don't condemn me, God. Tell me! What is the charge against me?
3 Is it right for you to be so cruel? To despise what you yourself have made? And then to smile on the schemes of wicked people?
4 Do you see things as we do?
5 Is your life as short as ours?
6 Then why do you track down all my sins and hunt down every fault I have?
7 You know that I am not guilty, that no one can save me from you.
8 Your hands formed and shaped me, and now those same hands destroy me.
9 Remember that you made me from clay; are you going to crush me back to dust?
10 You gave my father strength to beget me; you made me grow in my mother's womb.
11 You formed my body with bones and sinews and covered the bones with muscles and skin.
12 You have given me life and constant love, and your care has kept me alive.
13 But now I know that all that time you were secretly planning to harm me.
14 You were watching to see if I would sin, so that you could refuse to forgive me.
15 As soon as I sin, I'm in trouble with you, but when I do right, I get no credit. I am miserable and covered with shame.
16 If I have any success at all, you hunt me down like a lion; to hurt me you even work miracles.
17 You always have some witness against me; your anger toward me grows and grows; you always plan some new attack.
18 Why, God, did you let me be born? I should have died before anyone saw me.
19 To go from the womb straight to the grave would have been as good as never existing.
20 Isn't my life almost over? Leave me alone! Let me enjoy the time I have left.
21 I am going soon and will never come back--- going to a land that is dark and gloomy,
22 a land of darkness, shadows, and confusion, where the light itself is darkness.
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.