« | Song of Solomon 2 | » |
1 I am only a wild flower in Sharon, a lily in a mountain valley.
2 Like a lily among thorns is my darling among women.
3 Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest, so is my dearest compared to other men. I love to sit in its shadow, and its fruit is sweet to my taste.
4 He brought me to his banquet hall and raised the banner of love over me.
5 Restore my strength with raisins and refresh me with apples! I am weak from passion.
6 His left hand is under my head, and his right hand caresses me.
7 Promise me, women of Jerusalem; swear by the swift deer and the gazelles that you will not interrupt our love.
8 I hear my lover's voice. He comes running over the mountains, racing across the hills to me.
9 My lover is like a gazelle, like a young stag. There he stands beside the wall. He looks in through the window and glances through the lattice.
10 My lover speaks to me. Come then, my love; my darling, come with me.
11 The winter is over; the rains have stopped;
12 in the countryside the flowers are in bloom. This is the time for singing; the song of doves is heard in the fields.
13 Figs are beginning to ripen; the air is fragrant with blossoming vines. Come then, my love; my darling, come with me.
14 You are like a dove that hides in the crevice of a rock. Let me see your lovely face and hear your enchanting voice.
15 Catch the foxes, the little foxes, before they ruin our vineyard in bloom.
16 My lover is mine, and I am his. He feeds his flock among the lilies
17 until the morning breezes blow and the darkness disappears. Return, my darling, like a gazelle, like a stag on the mountains of Bether.
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.