« | Job 28 | » |
1 There are mines where silver is dug; There are places where gold is refined.
2 We dig iron out of the ground And melt copper out of the stones.
3 Miners explore the deepest darkness. They search the depths of the earth And dig for rocks in the darkness.
4 Far from where anyone lives Or human feet ever travel, They dig the shafts of mines. There they work in loneliness, Clinging to ropes in the pits.
5 Food grows out of the earth, But underneath the same earth All is torn up and crushed.
6 The stones of the earth contain sapphires, And its dust contains gold.
7 No hawk sees the roads to the mines, And no vulture ever flies over them.
8 No lion or other fierce beast Ever travels those lonely roads.
9 Miners dig the hardest rocks, Dig mountains away at their base.
10 As they tunnel through the rocks, They discover precious stones.
11 They dig to the sources of rivers And bring to light what is hidden.
12 But where can wisdom be found? Where can we learn to understand?
13 Wisdom is not to be found among mortals; No one knows its true value.
14 The depths of the oceans and seas Say that wisdom is not found there.
15 It cannot be bought with silver or gold.
16 The finest gold and jewels Cannot equal its value.
17 It is worth more than gold, Than a gold vase or finest glass.
18 The value of wisdom is more Than coral or crystal or rubies.
19 The finest topaz and the purest gold Cannot compare with the value of wisdom.
20 Where, then, is the source of wisdom? Where can we learn to understand?
21 No living creature can see it, Not even a bird in flight.
22 Even death and destruction Admit they have heard only rumors.
23 God alone knows the way, Knows the place where wisdom is found,
24 Because he sees the ends of the earth, Sees everything under the sky.
25 When God gave the wind its power And determined the size of the sea;
26 When God decided where the rain would fall, And the path that the thunderclouds travel;
27 It was then he saw wisdom and tested its worth--- He gave it his approval.
28 God said to us humans, "To be wise, you must have reverence for the Lord. To understand, you must turn from evil."
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.