« | Psalm 74 | » |
1 Why have you abandoned us like this, O God? Will you be angry with your own people forever?
2 Remember your people, whom you chose for yourself long ago, whom you brought out of slavery to be your own tribe. Remember Mount Zion, where once you lived.
3 Walk over these total ruins; our enemies have destroyed everything in the Temple.
4 Your enemies have shouted in triumph in your Temple; they have placed their flags there as signs of victory.
5 They looked like woodsmen cutting down trees with their axes.
6 They smashed all the wooden panels with their axes and sledge hammers.
7 They wrecked your Temple and set it on fire; they desecrated the place where you are worshiped.
8 They wanted to crush us completely; they burned down every holy place in the land.
9 All our sacred symbols are gone; there are no prophets left, and no one knows how long this will last.
10 How long, O God, will our enemies laugh at you? Will they insult your name forever?
11 Why have you refused to help us? Why do you keep your hands behind you?
12 But you have been our king from the beginning, O God; you have saved us many times.
13 With your mighty strength you divided the sea and smashed the heads of the sea monsters;
14 you crushed the heads of the monster Leviathan and fed his body to desert animals.
15 You made springs and fountains flow; you dried up large rivers.
16 You created the day and the night; you set the sun and the moon in their places;
17 you set the limits of the earth; you made summer and winter.
18 But remember, O LORD, that your enemies laugh at you, that they are godless and despise you.
19 Don't abandon your helpless people to their cruel enemies; don't forget your persecuted people!
20 Remember the covenant you made with us. There is violence in every dark corner of the land.
21 Don't let the oppressed be put to shame; let those poor and needy people praise you.
22 Rouse yourself, God, and defend your cause! Remember that godless people laugh at you all day long.
23 Don't forget the angry shouts of your enemies, the continuous noise made by your foes.
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.