« | Psalm 7 | » |
1 O LORD, my God, I come to you for protection; rescue me and save me from all who pursue me,
2 or else like a lion they will carry me off where no one can save me, and there they will tear me to pieces.
3 O LORD, my God, if I have wronged anyone, if I have betrayed a friend or without cause done violence to my enemy --- if I have done any of these things---
4 (SEE 7:3)
5 then let my enemies pursue me and catch me, let them cut me down and kill me and leave me lifeless on the ground!
6 Rise in your anger, O LORD! Stand up against the fury of my enemies; rouse yourself and help me! Justice is what you demand,
7 so bring together all the peoples around you, and rule over them from above.
8 You are the judge of all people. Judge in my favor, O LORD; you know that I am innocent.
9 You are a righteous God and judge our thoughts and desires. Stop the wickedness of evildoers and reward those who are good.
10 God is my protector; he saves those who obey him.
11 God is a righteous judge and always condemns the wicked.
12 If they do not change their ways, God will sharpen his sword. He bends his bow and makes it ready;
13 he takes up his deadly weapons and aims his burning arrows.
14 See how wicked people think up evil; they plan trouble and practice deception.
15 But in the traps they set for others, they themselves get caught.
16 So they are punished by their own evil and are hurt by their own violence.
17 I thank the LORD for his justice; I sing praises to the LORD, the Most High.
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.