« | Job 14 | » |
1 We are all born weak and helpless. All lead the same short, troubled life.
2 We grow and wither as quickly as flowers; we disappear like shadows.
3 Will you even look at me, God, or put me on trial and judge me?
4 Nothing clean can ever come from anything as unclean as human beings.
5 The length of our lives is decided beforehand--- the number of months we will live. You have settled it, and it can't be changed.
6 Look away from us and leave us alone; let us enjoy our hard life---if we can.
7 There is hope for a tree that has been cut down; it can come back to life and sprout.
8 Even though its roots grow old, and its stump dies in the ground,
9 with water it will sprout like a young plant.
10 But we die, and that is the end of us; we die, and where are we then?
11 Like rivers that stop running, and lakes that go dry,
12 people die, never to rise. They will never wake up while the sky endures; they will never stir from their sleep.
13 I wish you would hide me in the world of the dead; let me be hidden until your anger is over, and then set a time to remember me.
14 If a man dies, can he come back to life? But I will wait for better times, wait till this time of trouble is ended.
15 Then you will call, and I will answer, and you will be pleased with me, your creature.
16 Then you will watch every step I take, but you will not keep track of my sins.
17 You will forgive them and put them away; you will wipe out all the wrongs I have done.
18 There comes a time when mountains fall and solid cliffs are moved away.
19 Water will wear down rocks, and heavy rain will wash away the soil; so you destroy our hope for life.
20 You overpower us and send us away forever; our faces are twisted in death.
21 Our children win honor, but we never know it, nor are we told when they are disgraced.
22 We feel only the pain of our own bodies and the grief of our own minds.
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.