« | Psalm 59 | » |
1 Save me from my enemies, my God; protect me from those who attack me!
2 Save me from those evil people; rescue me from those murderers!
3 Look! They are waiting to kill me; cruel people are gathering against me. It is not because of any sin or wrong I have done,
4 nor because of any fault of mine, O LORD, that they hurry to their places.
5 Rise, LORD God Almighty, and come to my aid; see for yourself, God of Israel! Wake up and punish the heathen; show no mercy to evil traitors!
6 They come back in the evening, snarling like dogs as they go about the city.
7 Listen to their insults and threats. Their tongues are like swords in their mouths, yet they think that no one hears them.
8 But you laugh at them, LORD; you mock all the heathen.
9 I have confidence in your strength; you are my refuge, O God.
10 My God loves me and will come to me; he will let me see my enemies defeated.
11 Do not kill them, O God, or my people may forget. Scatter them by your strength and defeat them, O Lord, our protector.
12 Sin is on their lips; all their words are sinful; may they be caught in their pride! Because they curse and lie,
13 destroy them in your anger; destroy them completely. Then everyone will know that God rules in Israel, that his rule extends over all the earth.
14 My enemies come back in the evening, snarling like dogs as they go about the city,
15 like dogs roaming about for food and growling if they do not find enough.
16 But I will sing about your strength; every morning I will sing aloud of your constant love. You have been a refuge for me, a shelter in my time of trouble.
17 I will praise you, my defender. My refuge is God, the God who loves me.
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.