« | Job 5 | » |
1 Call out, Job. See if anyone answers. Is there any angel to whom you can turn?
2 To worry yourself to death with resentment would be a foolish, senseless thing to do.
3 I have seen fools who looked secure, but I called down a sudden curse on their homes.
4 Their children can never find safety; no one stands up to defend them in court.
5 Hungry people will eat the fool's crops--- even the grain growing among thorns --- and thirsty people will envy his wealth.
6 Evil does not grow in the soil, nor does trouble grow out of the ground.
7 No indeed! We bring trouble on ourselves, as surely as sparks fly up from a fire.
8 If I were you, I would turn to God and present my case to him.
9 We cannot understand the great things he does, and to his miracles there is no end.
10 He sends rain on the land and he waters the fields.
11 Yes, it is God who raises the humble and gives joy to all who mourn.
12 He upsets the plans of cunning people, and traps the wise in their own schemes, so that nothing they do succeeds;
13 (SEE 5:12)
14 even at noon they grope in darkness.
15 But God saves the poor from death; he saves the needy from oppression.
16 He gives hope to the poor and silences the wicked.
17 Happy is the person whom God corrects! Do not resent it when he rebukes you.
18 God bandages the wounds he makes; his hand hurts you, and his hand heals.
19 Time after time he will save you from harm;
20 when famine comes, he will keep you alive, and in war protect you from death.
21 God will rescue you from slander; he will save you when destruction comes.
22 You will laugh at violence and hunger and not be afraid of wild animals.
23 The fields you plow will be free of rocks; wild animals will never attack you.
24 Then you will live at peace in your tent; when you look at your sheep, you will find them safe.
25 You will have as many children as there are blades of grass in a pasture.
26 Like wheat that ripens till harvest time, you will live to a ripe old age.
27 Job, we have learned this by long study. It is true, so now accept it.
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.