« | Psalm 135 | » |
1 Praise the LORD! Praise his name, you servants of the LORD,
2 who stand in the LORD's house, in the Temple of our God.
3 Praise the LORD, because he is good; sing praises to his name, because he is kind.
4 He chose Jacob for himself, the people of Israel for his own.
5 I know that our LORD is great, greater than all the gods.
6 He does whatever he wishes in heaven and on earth, in the seas and in the depths below.
7 He brings storm clouds from the ends of the earth; he makes lightning for the storms, and he brings out the wind from his storeroom.
8 In Egypt he killed all the first-born of people and animals alike.
9 There he performed miracles and wonders to punish the king and all his officials.
10 He destroyed many nations and killed powerful kings:
11 Sihon, king of the Amorites, Og, king of Bashan, and all the kings in Canaan.
12 He gave their lands to his people; he gave them to Israel.
13 LORD, you will always be proclaimed as God; all generations will remember you.
14 The LORD will defend his people; he will take pity on his servants.
15 The gods of the nations are made of silver and gold; they are formed by human hands.
16 They have mouths, but cannot speak, and eyes, but cannot see.
17 They have ears, but cannot hear; they are not even able to breathe.
18 May all who made them and who trust in them become like the idols they have made!
19 Praise the LORD, people of Israel; praise him, you priests of God!
20 Praise the LORD, you Levites; praise him, all you that worship him!
21 Praise the LORD in Zion, in Jerusalem, his home. Praise the LORD!
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.