« | Song of Solomon 8 |
1 I wish that you were my brother, that my mother had nursed you at her breast. Then, if I met you in the street, I could kiss you and no one would mind.
2 I would take you to my mother's house, where you could teach me love. I would give you spiced wine, my pomegranate wine to drink.
3 Your left hand is under my head, and your right hand caresses me.
4 Promise me, women of Jerusalem, that you will not interrupt our love.
5 Who is this coming from the desert, arm in arm with her lover? Under the apple tree I woke you, in the place where you were born.
6 Close your heart to every love but mine; hold no one in your arms but me. Love is as powerful as death; passion is as strong as death itself. It bursts into flame and burns like a raging fire.
7 Water cannot put it out; no flood can drown it. But if any tried to buy love with their wealth, contempt is all they would get.
8 We have a young sister, and her breasts are still small. What will we do for her when a young man comes courting?
9 If she is a wall, we will build her a silver tower. But if she is a gate, we will protect her with panels of cedar.
10 I am a wall, and my breasts are its towers. My lover knows that with him I find contentment and peace.
11 Solomon has a vineyard in a place called Baal Hamon. There are farmers who rent it from him; each one pays a thousand silver coins.
12 Solomon is welcome to his thousand coins, and the farmers to two hundred as their share; I have a vineyard of my own!
13 Let me hear your voice from the garden, my love; my companions are waiting to hear you speak.
14 Come to me, my lover, like a gazelle, like a young stag on the mountains where spices grow.
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.