« | Psalm 83 | » |
1 O God, do not keep silent; do not be still, do not be quiet!
2 Look! Your enemies are in revolt, and those who hate you are rebelling.
3 They are making secret plans against your people; they are plotting against those you protect.
4 "Come," they say, "let us destroy their nation, so that Israel will be forgotten forever."
5 They agree on their plan and form an alliance against you:
6 the people of Edom and the Ishmaelites; the people of Moab and the Hagrites;
7 the people of Gebal, Ammon, and Amalek, and of Philistia and Tyre.
8 Assyria has also joined them as a strong ally of the Ammonites and Moabites, the descendants of Lot.
9 Do to them what you did to the Midianites, and to Sisera and Jabin at the Kishon River.
10 You defeated them at Endor, and their bodies rotted on the ground.
11 Do to their leaders what you did to Oreb and Zeeb; defeat all their rulers as you did Zebah and Zalmunna,
12 who said, "We will take for our own the land that belongs to God."
13 Scatter them like dust, O God, like straw blown away by the wind.
14 As fire burns the forest, as flames set the hills on fire,
15 chase them away with your storm and terrify them with your fierce winds.
16 Cover their faces with shame, O LORD, and make them acknowledge your power.
17 May they be defeated and terrified forever; may they die in complete disgrace.
18 May they know that you alone are the LORD, supreme ruler over all the earth.
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.