« | Proverbs 9 | » |
1 Wisdom has built her house and made seven columns for it.
2 She has had an animal killed for a feast, mixed spices in the wine, and set the table.
3 She has sent her servant women to call out from the highest place in town:
4 "Come in, ignorant people!" And to the foolish she says,
5 "Come, eat my food and drink the wine that I have mixed.
6 Leave the company of ignorant people, and live. Follow the way of knowledge."
7 If you correct conceited people, you will only be insulted. If you reprimand evil people, you will only get hurt.
8 Never correct conceited people; they will hate you for it. But if you correct the wise, they will respect you.
9 Anything you say to the wise will make them wiser. Whatever you tell the righteous will add to their knowledge.
10 To be wise you must first have reverence for the LORD. If you know the Holy One, you have understanding.
11 Wisdom will add years to your life.
12 You are the one who will profit if you have wisdom, and if you reject it, you are the one who will suffer.
13 Stupidity is like a loud, ignorant, shameless woman.
14 She sits at the door of her house or on a seat in the highest part of town,
15 and calls out to people passing by, who are minding their own business:
16 "Come in, ignorant people!" To the foolish she says,
17 "Stolen water is sweeter. Stolen bread tastes better."
18 Her victims do not know that the people die who go to her house, that those who have already entered are now deep in the world of the dead.
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.