« | Job 11 | » |
1 Then Zophar the Naamathite answered and said:
2 "Should not the multitude of words be answered? And should a man full of talk be vindicated?
3 Should your empty talk make men hold their peace? And when you mock, should no one rebuke you?
4 For you have said, 'My doctrine [is] pure, And I am clean in your eyes.'
5 But oh, that God would speak, And open His lips against you,
6 That He would show you the secrets of wisdom! For [they would] double [your] prudence. Know therefore that God exacts from you [Less] than your iniquity [deserves.]
7 "Can you search out the deep things of God? Can you find out the limits of the Almighty?
8 [They are] higher than heaven -- what can you do? Deeper than Sheol -- what can you know?
9 Their measure [is] longer than the earth And broader than the sea.
10 "If He passes by, imprisons, and gathers [to judgment,] Then who can hinder Him?
11 For He knows deceitful men; He sees wickedness also. Will He not then consider [it?]
12 For an empty-headed man will be wise, When a wild donkey's colt is born a man.
13 "If you would prepare your heart, And stretch out your hands toward Him;
14 If iniquity [were] in your hand, [and you] put it far away, And would not let wickedness dwell in your tents;
15 Then surely you could lift up your face without spot; Yes, you could be steadfast, and not fear;
16 Because you would forget [your] misery, And remember [it] as waters [that have] passed away,
17 And [your] life would be brighter than noonday. [Though] you were dark, you would be like the morning.
18 And you would be secure, because there is hope; Yes, you would dig [around you, and] take your rest in safety.
19 You would also lie down, and no one would make [you] afraid; [Yes,] many would court your favor.
20 But the eyes of the wicked will fail, And they shall not escape, And their hope -- loss of life!"
The New King James Version (NKJV)
The New King James Version (NKJV) is a modern translation of the Bible that seeks to preserve the stylistic and literary beauty of the original King James Version (KJV) while making it more accessible to contemporary readers. The project to create the NKJV began in 1975, spearheaded by Arthur Farstad and a team of over 130 scholars, theologians, and pastors. They aimed to maintain the traditional language and rhythm of the KJV while updating archaic terms and expressions to be more understandable for modern audiences. The translation was completed and published in 1982, offering a blend of reverence for the past and clarity for the present.
One of the defining features of the NKJV is its commitment to the Textus Receptus, the same Greek text underlying the New Testament of the KJV. This ensures a high degree of continuity between the two versions, making the NKJV familiar to those who have long cherished the KJV. However, the NKJV also considers findings from more recent scholarship and textual criticism, incorporating insights from the latest manuscripts and research. This approach helps to balance respect for the historical text with a recognition of the advancements in biblical studies.
The NKJV has been praised for its readability and poetic qualities, which make it suitable for both private study and public worship. Its translators worked diligently to preserve the lyrical and memorable phrasing of the KJV, which has deeply influenced English literature and religious practice. By modernizing the language without compromising the text’s inherent dignity and solemnity, the NKJV has become a popular choice among those who value both accuracy and elegance in their Bible reading.
Despite its strengths, the NKJV has faced criticism from some quarters. Critics argue that by adhering too closely to the Textus Receptus, it may not fully reflect the breadth of available manuscript evidence. Others feel that it may still be too archaic for some readers, especially those who are new to the Bible or who come from different linguistic backgrounds. Nonetheless, the NKJV remains a significant and respected translation, offering a bridge between the venerable tradition of the KJV and the needs of modern readers.