« | Job 7 | » |
1 Human life is like forced army service, like a life of hard manual labor,
2 like a slave longing for cool shade; like a worker waiting to be paid.
3 Month after month I have nothing to live for; night after night brings me grief.
4 When I lie down to sleep, the hours drag; I toss all night and long for dawn.
5 My body is full of worms; it is covered with scabs; pus runs out of my sores.
6 My days pass by without hope, pass faster than a weaver's shuttle.
7 Remember, O God, my life is only a breath; my happiness has already ended.
8 You see me now, but never again. If you look for me, I'll be gone.
9 Like a cloud that fades and is gone, we humans die and never return; we are forgotten by all who knew us.
10 (SEE 7:9)
11 No! I can't be quiet! I am angry and bitter. I have to speak.
12 Why do you keep me under guard? Do you think I am a sea monster?
13 I lie down and try to rest; I look for relief from my pain.
14 But you---you terrify me with dreams; you send me visions and nightmares
15 until I would rather be strangled than live in this miserable body.
16 I give up; I am tired of living. Leave me alone. My life makes no sense.
17 Why are people so important to you? Why pay attention to what they do?
18 You inspect them every morning and test them every minute.
19 Won't you look away long enough for me to swallow my spit?
20 Are you harmed by my sin, you jailer? Why use me for your target practice? Am I so great a burden to you?
21 Can't you ever forgive my sin? Can't you pardon the wrong I do? Soon I will be in my grave, and I'll be gone when you look for me.
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.