« | Proverbs 15 | » |
1 A gentle answer quiets anger, but a harsh one stirs it up.
2 When wise people speak, they make knowledge attractive, but stupid people spout nonsense.
3 The LORD sees what happens everywhere; he is watching us, whether we do good or evil.
4 Kind words bring life, but cruel words crush your spirit.
5 It is foolish to ignore what your parents taught you; it is wise to accept their correction.
6 Righteous people keep their wealth, but the wicked lose theirs when hard times come.
7 Knowledge is spread by people who are wise, not by fools.
8 The LORD is pleased when good people pray, but hates the sacrifices that the wicked bring him.
9 The LORD hates the ways of evil people, but loves those who do what is right.
10 If you do what is wrong, you will be severely punished; you will die if you do not let yourself be corrected.
11 Not even the world of the dead can keep the LORD from knowing what is there; how then can we hide our thoughts from God?
12 Conceited people do not like to be corrected; they never ask for advice from those who are wiser.
13 When people are happy, they smile, but when they are sad, they look depressed.
14 Intelligent people want to learn, but stupid people are satisfied with ignorance.
15 The life of the poor is a constant struggle, but happy people always enjoy life.
16 Better to be poor and fear the LORD than to be rich and in trouble.
17 Better to eat vegetables with people you love than to eat the finest meat where there is hate.
18 Hot tempers cause arguments, but patience brings peace.
19 If you are lazy, you will meet difficulty everywhere, but if you are honest, you will have no trouble.
20 Wise children make their fathers happy. Only fools despise their mothers.
21 Stupid people are happy with their foolishness, but the wise will do what is right.
22 Get all the advice you can, and you will succeed; without it you will fail.
23 What a joy it is to find just the right word for the right occasion!
24 Wise people walk the road that leads upward to life, not the road that leads downward to death.
25 The LORD will destroy the homes of arrogant men, but he will protect a widow's property.
26 The LORD hates evil thoughts, but he is pleased with friendly words.
27 Try to make a profit dishonestly, and you get your family in trouble. Don't take bribes and you will live longer.
28 Good people think before they answer. Evil people have a quick reply, but it causes trouble.
29 When good people pray, the LORD listens, but he ignores those who are evil.
30 Smiling faces make you happy, and good news makes you feel better.
31 If you pay attention when you are corrected, you are wise.
32 If you refuse to learn, you are hurting yourself. If you accept correction, you will become wiser.
33 Reverence for the LORD is an education in itself. You must be humble before you can ever receive honors.
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.