« | Psalm 38 | » |
1 O LORD, don't punish me in your anger!
2 You have wounded me with your arrows; you have struck me down.
3 Because of your anger, I am in great pain; my whole body is diseased because of my sins.
4 I am drowning in the flood of my sins; they are a burden too heavy to bear.
5 Because I have been foolish, my sores stink and rot.
6 I am bent over, I am crushed; I mourn all day long.
7 I am burning with fever and I am near death.
8 I am worn out and utterly crushed; my heart is troubled, and I groan with pain.
9 O Lord, you know what I long for; you hear all my groans.
10 My heart is pounding, my strength is gone, and my eyes have lost their brightness.
11 My friends and neighbors will not come near me, because of my sores; even my family keeps away from me.
12 Those who want to kill me lay traps for me, and those who want to hurt me threaten to ruin me; they never stop plotting against me.
13 I am like the deaf and cannot hear, like the dumb and cannot speak.
14 I am like those who do not answer, because they cannot hear.
15 But I trust in you, O LORD; and you, O Lord my God, will answer me.
16 Don't let my enemies gloat over my distress; don't let them boast about my downfall!
17 I am about to fall and am in constant pain.
18 I confess my sins; they fill me with anxiety.
19 My enemies are healthy and strong; there are many who hate me for no reason.
20 Those who pay back evil for good are against me because I try to do right.
21 Do not abandon me, O LORD; do not stay away, my God!
22 Help me now, O Lord my savior!
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.