« | Job 21 | » |
1 Listen to what I am saying; that is all the comfort I ask from you.
2 (SEE 21:1)
3 Give me a chance to speak and then, when I am through, sneer if you like.
4 My quarrel is not with mortals; I have good reason to be impatient.
5 Look at me. Isn't that enough to make you stare in shocked silence?
6 When I think of what has happened to me, I am stunned, and I tremble and shake.
7 Why does God let evil people live, let them grow old and prosper?
8 They have children and grandchildren, and live to watch them all grow up.
9 God does not bring disaster on their homes; they never have to live in terror.
10 Yes, all their cattle breed and give birth without trouble.
11 Their children run and play like lambs
12 and dance to the music of harps and flutes.
13 They live out their lives in peace and quietly die without suffering.
14 The wicked tell God to leave them alone; they don't want to know his will for their lives.
15 They think there is no need to serve God nor any advantage in praying to him.
16 They claim they succeed by their own strength, but their way of thinking I can't accept.
17 Was a wicked person's light ever put out? Did one of them ever meet with disaster? Did God ever punish the wicked in anger
18 and blow them away like straw in the wind, or like dust carried away in a storm?
19 You claim God punishes a child for the sins of his father. No! Let God punish the sinners themselves; let him show that he does it because of their sins.
20 Let sinners bear their own punishment; let them feel the wrath of Almighty God.
21 When our lives are over, do we really care whether our children are happy?
22 Can anyone teach God, who judges even those in high places?
23 Some people stay healthy till the day they die; they die happy and at ease, their bodies well-nourished.
24 (SEE 21:23)
25 Others have no happiness at all; they live and die with bitter hearts.
26 But all alike die and are buried; they all are covered with worms.
27 I know what spiteful thoughts you have.
28 You ask, "Where are the homes of great people now, those who practiced evil?"
29 Haven't you talked with people who travel? Don't you know the reports they bring back?
30 On the day God is angry and punishes, it is the wicked who are always spared.
31 There is no one to accuse the wicked or pay them back for all they have done.
32 When they are carried to the graveyard, to their well-guarded tombs,
33 thousands join the funeral procession, and even the earth lies gently on their bodies.
34 And you! You try to comfort me with nonsense! Every answer you give is a lie!
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.