« | Psalm 55 | » |
1 Hear my prayer, O God; don't turn away from my plea!
2 Listen to me and answer me; I am worn out by my worries.
3 I am terrified by the threats of my enemies, crushed by the oppression of the wicked. They bring trouble on me; they are angry with me and hate me.
4 I am terrified, and the terrors of death crush me.
5 I am gripped by fear and trembling; I am overcome with horror.
6 I wish I had wings like a dove. I would fly away and find rest.
7 I would fly far away and make my home in the desert.
8 I would hurry and find myself a shelter from the raging wind and the storm.
9 Confuse the speech of my enemies, O Lord! I see violence and riots in the city,
10 surrounding it day and night, filling it with crime and trouble.
11 There is destruction everywhere; the streets are full of oppression and fraud.
12 If it were an enemy making fun of me, I could endure it; if it were an opponent boasting over me, I could hide myself from him.
13 But it is you, my companion, my colleague and close friend.
14 We had intimate talks with each other and worshiped together in the Temple.
15 May my enemies die before their time; may they go down alive into the world of the dead! Evil is in their homes and in their hearts.
16 But I call to the LORD God for help, and he will save me.
17 Morning, noon, and night my complaints and groans go up to him, and he will hear my voice.
18 He will bring me safely back from the battles that I fight against so many enemies.
19 God, who has ruled from eternity, will hear me and defeat them; for they refuse to change, and they do not fear him.
20 My former companion attacked his friends; he broke his promises.
21 His words were smoother than cream, but there was hatred in his heart; his words were as soothing as oil, but they cut like sharp swords.
22 Leave your troubles with the LORD, and he will defend you; he never lets honest people be defeated.
23 But you, O God, will bring those murderers and liars to their graves before half their life is over. As for me, I will trust in you.
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.