« | Job 32 | » |
1 So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes.
2 Then Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite, of the family of Ram, became angry. He was angry at Job because he justified himself rather than God;
3 he was angry also at Job's three friends because they had found no answer, though they had declared Job to be in the wrong.
4 Now Elihu had waited to speak to Job, because they were older than he.
5 But when Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouths of these three men, he became angry.
6 Elihu son of Barachel the Buzite answered: "I am young in years, and you are aged; therefore I was timid and afraid to declare my opinion to you.
7 I said, 'Let days speak, and many years teach wisdom.'
8 But truly it is the spirit in a mortal, the breath of the Almighty, that makes for understanding.
9 It is not the old that are wise, nor the aged that understand what is right.
10 Therefore I say, 'Listen to me; let me also declare my opinion.'
11 "See, I waited for your words, I listened for your wise sayings, while you searched out what to say.
12 I gave you my attention, but there was in fact no one that confuted Job, no one among you that answered his words.
13 Yet do not say, 'We have found wisdom; God may vanquish him, not a human.'
14 He has not directed his words against me, and I will not answer him with your speeches.
15 "They are dismayed, they answer no more; they have not a word to say.
16 And am I to wait, because they do not speak, because they stand there, and answer no more?
17 I also will give my answer; I also will declare my opinion.
18 For I am full of words; the spirit within me constrains me.
19 My heart is indeed like wine that has no vent; like new wineskins, it is ready to burst.
20 I must speak, so that I may find relief; I must open my lips and answer.
21 I will not show partiality to any person or use flattery toward anyone.
22 For I do not know how to flatter-- or my Maker would soon put an end to me!
The New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
The New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) is a highly respected English translation of the Bible that was first published in 1989 by the National Council of Churches. It was developed as an update to the Revised Standard Version (RSV) of 1952, with the goal of incorporating the latest biblical scholarship and addressing changes in the English language. The NRSV is renowned for its accuracy, literary quality, and ecumenical approach, making it a preferred choice for both academic study and liturgical use across various Christian denominations.
One of the primary features of the NRSV is its commitment to being a literal, or word-for-word, translation while also ensuring that the text is clear and comprehensible for modern readers. The translation team, which included scholars from diverse religious backgrounds, aimed to produce a text that faithfully represents the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek manuscripts. This dedication to precision and clarity makes the NRSV an excellent resource for in-depth study and theological reflection, as it strives to convey the exact meaning of the original texts.
The NRSV is also notable for its inclusive language, which seeks to reflect the diversity of the contemporary Christian community. The translators took great care to avoid gender-specific language when the original texts did not explicitly require it, making the text more inclusive and accessible to all readers. This approach has been particularly appreciated in academic and liturgical settings, where sensitivity to gender and inclusivity are important considerations. The NRSV’s attention to inclusive language helps ensure that all readers can see themselves reflected in the biblical narrative.
Despite its many strengths, the NRSV has faced some criticism, particularly from those who prefer more traditional translations. Critics argue that the use of inclusive language can sometimes lead to interpretations that differ from the original intent of the texts. Additionally, some conservative scholars and readers feel that the NRSV’s ecumenical approach may result in compromises on certain theological nuances. Nonetheless, the New Revised Standard Version remains a highly valued translation, widely used in churches, seminaries, and universities for its scholarly rigor, literary excellence, and commitment to inclusivity.