« | Job 41 | » |
1 Can you catch Leviathan with a fishhook or tie his tongue down with a rope?
2 Can you put a rope through his snout or put a hook through his jaws?
3 Will he beg you to let him go? Will he plead with you for mercy?
4 Will he make an agreement with you and promise to serve you forever?
5 Will you tie him like a pet bird, like something to amuse your servant women?
6 Will fishermen bargain over him? Will merchants cut him up to sell?
7 Can you fill his hide with fishing spears or pierce his head with a harpoon?
8 Touch him once and you'll never try it again; you'll never forget the fight!
9 Anyone who sees Leviathan loses courage and falls to the ground.
10 When he is aroused, he is fierce; no one would dare to stand before him.
11 Who can attack him and still be safe? No one in all the world can do it.
12 Let me tell you about Leviathan's legs and describe how great and strong he is.
13 No one can tear off his outer coat or pierce the armor he wears.
14 Who can make him open his jaws, ringed with those terrifying teeth?
15 His back is made of rows of shields, fastened together and hard as stone.
16 Each one is joined so tight to the next, not even a breath can come between.
17 They all are fastened so firmly together that nothing can ever pull them apart.
18 Light flashes when he sneezes, and his eyes glow like the rising sun.
19 Flames blaze from his mouth, and streams of sparks fly out.
20 Smoke comes pouring out of his nose, like smoke from weeds burning under a pot.
21 His breath starts fires burning; flames leap out of his mouth.
22 His neck is so powerful that all who meet him are terrified.
23 There is not a weak spot in his skin; it is as hard and unyielding as iron.
24 His stony heart is without fear, as unyielding and hard as a millstone.
25 When he rises up, even the strongest are frightened; they are helpless with fear.
26 There is no sword that can wound him; no spear or arrow or lance that can harm him.
27 For him iron is as flimsy as straw, and bronze as soft as rotten wood.
28 There is no arrow that can make him run; rocks thrown at him are like bits of straw.
29 To him a club is a piece of straw, and he laughs when men throw spears.
30 The scales on his belly are like jagged pieces of pottery; they tear up the muddy ground like a threshing sledge.
31 He churns up the sea like boiling water and makes it bubble like a pot of oil.
32 He leaves a shining path behind him and turns the sea to white foam.
33 There is nothing on earth to compare with him; he is a creature that has no fear.
34 He looks down on even the proudest animals; he is king of all wild beasts.
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.