« | Job 12 | » |
1 Yes, you are the voice of the people. When you die, wisdom will die with you.
2 (SEE 12:1)
3 But I have as much sense as you have; I am in no way inferior to you; everyone knows all that you have said.
4 Even my friends laugh at me now; they laugh, although I am righteous and blameless; but there was a time when God answered my prayers.
5 You have no troubles, and yet you make fun of me; you hit someone who is about to fall.
6 But thieves and godless people live in peace, though their only god is their own strength.
7 Even birds and animals have much they could teach you;
8 ask the creatures of earth and sea for their wisdom.
9 All of them know that the LORD's hand made them.
10 It is God who directs the lives of his creatures; everyone's life is in his power.
11 But just as your tongue enjoys tasting food, your ears enjoy hearing words.
12 Old people have wisdom, but God has wisdom and power. Old people have insight; God has insight and power to act.
13 (SEE 12:12)
14 When God tears down, who can rebuild, and who can free those God imprisons?
15 Drought comes when God withholds rain; floods come when he turns water loose.
16 God is strong and always victorious; both deceived and deceiver are in his power.
17 He takes away the wisdom of rulers and makes leaders act like fools.
18 He dethrones kings and makes them prisoners;
19 he humbles priests and men of power.
20 He silences those who are trusted, and takes the wisdom of old people away.
21 He disgraces those in power and puts an end to the strength of rulers.
22 He sends light to places dark as death.
23 He makes nations strong and great, but then he defeats and destroys them.
24 He makes their leaders foolish and lets them wander confused and lost;
25 they grope in the dark and stagger like drunkards.
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.