« | Job 14 | » |
1 "We're all adrift in the same boat: too few days, too many troubles.
2 We spring up like wildflowers in the desert and then wilt, transient as the shadow of a cloud.
3 Do you occupy your time with such fragile wisps? Why even bother hauling me into court?
4 There's nothing much to us to start with; how do you expect us to amount to anything?
5 Mortals have a limited life span. You've already decided how long we'll live-- you set the boundary and no one can cross it.
6 So why not give us a break? Ease up! Even ditchdiggers get occasional days off.
7 For a tree there is always hope. Chop it down and it still has a chance-- its roots can put out fresh sprouts.
8 Even if its roots are old and gnarled, its stump long dormant,
9 At the first whiff of water it comes to life, buds and grows like a sapling.
10 But men and women? They die and stay dead. They breathe their last, and that's it.
11 Like lakes and rivers that have dried up, parched reminders of what once was,
12 So mortals lie down and never get up, never wake up again--never.
13 Why don't you just bury me alive, get me out of the way until your anger cools? But don't leave me there! Set a date when you'll see me again.
14 If we humans die, will we live again? That's my question. All through these difficult days I keep hoping, waiting for the final change--for resurrection!
15 Homesick with longing for the creature you made, you'll call--and I'll answer!
16 You'll watch over every step I take, but you won't keep track of my missteps.
17 My sins will be stuffed in a sack and thrown into the sea--sunk in deep ocean.
18 "Meanwhile, mountains wear down and boulders break up,
19 Stones wear smooth and soil erodes, as you relentlessly grind down our hope.
20 You're too much for us. As always, you get the last word. We don't like it and our faces show it, but you send us off anyway.
21 If our children do well for themselves, we never know it; if they do badly, we're spared the hurt.
22 Body and soul, that's it for us-- a lifetime of pain, a lifetime of sorrow."
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.