« | Deuteronomy 27 | » |
1 Moses commanded the leaders of Israel and charged the people: Keep every commandment that I command you today.
2 On the day you cross the Jordan into the land that GOD, your God, is giving you, erect large stones and coat them with plaster.
3 As soon as you cross over the river, write on the stones all the words of this Revelation so that you'll enter the land that GOD, your God, is giving you, that land flowing with milk and honey that GOD, the God-of-Your-Fathers, promised you.
4 So when you've crossed the Jordan, erect these stones on Mount Ebal. Then coat them with plaster.
5 Build an Altar of stones for GOD, your God, there on the mountain. Don't use an iron tool on the stones;
6 build the Altar to GOD, your God, with uncut stones and offer your Whole-Burnt-Offerings on it to GOD, your God.
7 When you sacrifice your Peace-Offerings you will also eat them there, rejoicing in the Presence of GOD, your God.
8 Write all the words of this Revelation on the stones. Incise them sharply.
9 Moses and the Levitical priests addressed all Israel: Quiet. Listen obediently, Israel. This very day you have become the people of GOD, your God.
10 Listen to the Voice of GOD, your God. Keep his commandments and regulations that I'm commanding you today.
11 That day Moses commanded:
12 After you've crossed the Jordan, these tribes will stand on Mount Gerizim to bless the people: Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Joseph, and Benjamin.
13 And these will stand on Mount Ebal for the curse: Reuben, Gad, Asher, Zebulun, Dan, and Naphtali.
14 The Levites, acting as spokesmen and speaking loudly, will address Israel:
15 GOD's curse on anyone who carves or casts a god-image--an abomination to GOD made by a craftsman--and sets it up in secret. All respond: Yes. Absolutely.
16 GOD's curse on anyone who demeans a parent. All respond: Yes. Absolutely.
17 GOD's curse on anyone who moves his neighbor's boundary marker. All respond: Yes. Absolutely.
18 GOD's curse on anyone who misdirects a blind man on the road. All respond: Yes. Absolutely.
19 GOD's curse on anyone who interferes with justice due the foreigner, orphan, or widow. All respond: Yes. Absolutely.
20 GOD's curse on anyone who has sex with his father's wife; he has violated the woman who belongs to his father. All respond: Yes. Absolutely.
21 GOD's curse on anyone who has sex with an animal. All respond: Yes. Absolutely.
22 GOD's curse on anyone who has sex with his sister, the daughter of his father or mother. All respond: Yes. Absolutely.
23 GOD's curse on anyone who has sex with his mother-in-law. All respond: Yes. Absolutely.
24 GOD's curse on anyone who kills his neighbor in secret. All respond: Yes. Absolutely.
25 GOD's curse on anyone who takes a bribe to kill an innocent person. All respond: Yes. Absolutely.
26 GOD's curse on whoever does not give substance to the words of this Revelation by living them. All respond: Yes. Absolutely.
The Message (MSG)
The Message (MSG) is a contemporary, paraphrased translation of the Bible, crafted to bring the scriptures to life in modern, conversational English. Developed by pastor and scholar Eugene H. Peterson, The Message was published in segments starting in 1993, with the complete Bible released in 2002. Peterson’s aim was to make the Bible accessible and engaging for today’s readers, breaking down the barriers posed by traditional, formal language. His work sought to capture the original tone, rhythm, and intent of the biblical texts, presenting them in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences.
One of the defining characteristics of The Message is its use of dynamic equivalence, focusing on conveying the thoughts and meanings behind the original texts rather than adhering to a word-for-word translation. This approach allows for the use of idiomatic expressions and modern phrasing, making the scriptures feel more relatable and immediate. Peterson, who had a deep understanding of both the biblical languages and modern culture, aimed to bridge the gap between the ancient world of the Bible and the everyday experiences of today’s readers.
The Message has been praised for its readability and ability to convey the emotional and narrative elements of the Bible in a fresh, vivid manner. Its accessible language makes it particularly appealing to those who might find traditional translations difficult to understand or intimidating. Many readers appreciate The Message for its ability to make familiar passages feel new and impactful, often shedding light on the scriptures in ways that resonate on a personal level. It is frequently used in personal devotions, group studies, and church services where clarity and relatability are paramount.
Despite its popularity, The Message has faced criticism from some scholars and traditionalists who argue that its paraphrased nature can lead to oversimplification and loss of nuance. Critics contend that in striving for contemporary relevance, The Message sometimes departs too far from the original texts, potentially altering the intended meanings. However, supporters of The Message appreciate its ability to engage modern readers and spark interest in the Bible, seeing it as a valuable tool for evangelism and discipleship. Overall, The Message stands out as a bold and innovative translation that has made a significant impact on how many people experience and understand the Bible.