« | Job 3 | » |
1 Finally Job broke the silence and cursed the day on which he had been born.
2 O God, put a curse on the day I was born; put a curse on the night when I was conceived!
3 (SEE 3:2)
4 Turn that day into darkness, God. Never again remember that day; never again let light shine on it.
5 Make it a day of gloom and thick darkness; cover it with clouds, and blot out the sun.
6 Blot that night out of the year, and never let it be counted again;
7 make it a barren, joyless night.
8 Tell the sorcerers to curse that day, those who know how to control Leviathan.
9 Keep the morning star from shining; give that night no hope of dawn.
10 Curse that night for letting me be born, for exposing me to trouble and grief.
11 I wish I had died in my mother's womb or died the moment I was born.
12 Why did my mother hold me on her knees? Why did she feed me at her breast?
13 If I had died then, I would be at rest now,
14 sleeping like the kings and rulers who rebuilt ancient palaces.
15 Then I would be sleeping like princes who filled their houses with gold and silver,
16 or sleeping like a stillborn child.
17 In the grave wicked people stop their evil, and tired workers find rest at last.
18 Even prisoners enjoy peace, free from shouts and harsh commands.
19 Everyone is there, the famous and the unknown, and slaves at last are free.
20 Why let people go on living in misery? Why give light to those in grief ?
21 They wait for death, but it never comes; they prefer a grave to any treasure.
22 They are not happy till they are dead and buried;
23 God keeps their future hidden and hems them in on every side.
24 Instead of eating, I mourn, and I can never stop groaning.
25 Everything I fear and dread comes true.
26 I have no peace, no rest, and my troubles never end.
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.