« | Job 6 | » |
1 If my troubles and griefs were weighed on scales,
2 (SEE 6:1)
3 they would weigh more than the sands of the sea, so my wild words should not surprise you.
4 Almighty God has shot me with arrows, and their poison spreads through my body. God has lined up his terrors against me.
5 A donkey is content when eating grass, and a cow is quiet when eating hay.
6 But who can eat flat, unsalted food? What taste is there in the white of an egg?
7 I have no appetite for food like that, and everything I eat makes me sick.
8 Why won't God give me what I ask? Why won't he answer my prayer?
9 If only he would go ahead and kill me!
10 If I knew he would, I would leap for joy, no matter how great my pain. I know that God is holy; I have never opposed what he commands.
11 What strength do I have to keep on living? Why go on living when I have no hope?
12 Am I made of stone? Is my body bronze?
13 I have no strength left to save myself; there is nowhere I can turn for help.
14 In trouble like this I need loyal friends--- whether I've forsaken God or not.
15 But you, my friends, you deceive me like streams that go dry when no rain comes.
16 The streams are choked with snow and ice,
17 but in the heat they disappear, and the stream beds lie bare and dry.
18 Caravans get lost looking for water; they wander and die in the desert.
19 Caravans from Sheba and Tema search,
20 but their hope dies beside dry streams.
21 You are like those streams to me, you see my fate and draw back in fear.
22 Have I asked you to give me a gift or to bribe someone on my behalf
23 or to save me from some enemy or tyrant?
24 All right, teach me; tell me my faults. I will be quiet and listen to you.
25 Honest words are convincing, but you are talking nonsense.
26 You think I am talking nothing but wind; then why do you answer my words of despair?
27 You would even roll dice for orphan slaves and make yourselves rich off your closest friends!
28 Look me in the face. I won't lie.
29 You have gone far enough. Stop being unjust. Don't condemn me. I'm in the right.
30 But you think I am lying--- you think I can't tell right from wrong.
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.