« | Job 30 | » |
1 But men younger than I am make fun of me now! Their fathers have always been so worthless that I wouldn't let them help my dogs guard sheep.
2 They were a bunch of worn-out men, too weak to do any work for me.
3 They were so poor and hungry that they would gnaw dry roots--- at night, in wild, desolate places.
4 They pulled up the plants of the desert and ate them, even the tasteless roots of the broom tree!
5 Everyone drove them away with shouts, as if they were shouting at thieves.
6 They had to live in caves, in holes dug in the sides of cliffs.
7 Out in the wilds they howled like animals and huddled together under the bushes.
8 A worthless bunch of nameless nobodies! They were driven out of the land.
9 Now they come and laugh at me; I am nothing but a joke to them.
10 They treat me with disgust; they think they are too good for me, and even come and spit in my face.
11 Because God has made me weak and helpless, they turn against me with all their fury.
12 This mob attacks me head-on; they send me running; they prepare their final assault.
13 They cut off my escape and try to destroy me; and there is no one to stop them.
14 They pour through the holes in my defenses and come crashing down on top of me;
15 I am overcome with terror; my dignity is gone like a puff of wind, and my prosperity like a cloud.
16 Now I am about to die; there is no relief for my suffering.
17 At night my bones all ache; the pain that gnaws me never stops.
18 God seizes me by my collar and twists my clothes out of shape.
19 He throws me down in the mud; I am no better than dirt.
20 I call to you, O God, but you never answer; and when I pray, you pay no attention.
21 You are treating me cruelly; you persecute me with all your power.
22 You let the wind blow me away; you toss me about in a raging storm.
23 I know you are taking me off to my death, to the fate in store for everyone.
24 Why do you attack a ruined man, one who can do nothing but beg for pity?
25 Didn't I weep with people in trouble and feel sorry for those in need?
26 I hoped for happiness and light, but trouble and darkness came instead.
27 I am torn apart by worry and pain; I have had day after day of suffering.
28 I go about in gloom, without any sunshine; I stand up in public and plead for help.
29 My voice is as sad and lonely as the cries of a jackal or an ostrich.
30 My skin has turned dark; I am burning with fever.
31 Where once I heard joyful music, now I hear only mourning and weeping.
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.