« | Job 7 | » |
1 "People have a hard task on earth, and their days are like those of a laborer.
2 They are like a slave wishing for the evening shadows, like a laborer waiting to be paid.
3 But I am given months that are empty, and nights of misery have been given to me.
4 When I lie down, I think, 'How long until I get up?' The night is long, and I toss until dawn.
5 My body is covered with worms and scabs, and my skin is broken and full of sores.
6 "My days go by faster than a weaver's tool, and they come to an end without hope.
7 Remember, God, that my life is only a breath. My eyes will never see happy times again.
8 Those who see me now will see me no more; you will look for me, but I will be gone.
9 As a cloud disappears and is gone, people go to the grave and never return.
10 They will never come back to their houses again, and their places will not know them anymore.
11 "So I will not stay quiet; I will speak out in the suffering of my spirit. I will complain because I am so unhappy.
12 I am not the sea or the sea monster. So why have you set a guard over me?
13 Sometimes I think my bed will comfort me or that my couch will stop my complaint.
14 Then you frighten me with dreams and terrify me with visions.
15 My throat prefers to be choked; my bones welcome death.
16 I hate my life; I don't want to live forever. Leave me alone, because my days have no meaning.
17 "Why do you make people so important and give them so much attention?
18 You examine them every morning and test them every moment.
19 Will you never look away from me or leave me alone even long enough to swallow?
20 If I have sinned, what have I done to you, you watcher of humans? Why have you made me your target? Have I become a heavy load for you?
21 Why don't you pardon my wrongs and forgive my sins? I will soon lie down in the dust of death. Then you will search for me, but I will be no more."
The New Century Version (NCV)
The New Century Version (NCV) is a contemporary English translation of the Bible designed to be easily understandable and accessible to a broad audience. First published in 1987 by Thomas Nelson, the NCV originated from a project aimed at creating a simplified English translation for children. Over time, the scope of the translation expanded to cater to readers of all ages, including those with limited English proficiency and those new to the Bible. The NCV’s primary goal is to communicate the truths of Scripture in clear, everyday language that resonates with modern readers.
A notable feature of the NCV is its use of dynamic equivalence, or thought-for-thought translation philosophy. This approach prioritizes conveying the meaning and intent of the original texts over maintaining a strict word-for-word correspondence. By doing so, the NCV aims to make the Bible’s messages more relatable and easier to understand, especially for those who may find traditional translations challenging. The translation team worked diligently to balance accuracy with readability, ensuring that the essence of the biblical texts is preserved while making them more accessible to contemporary audiences.
The NCV also includes various study aids and features designed to enhance comprehension and engagement with the biblical text. These include introductions to each book of the Bible, footnotes that provide historical and cultural context, and cross-references that help readers see connections between different parts of Scripture. Additionally, the NCV often employs gender-neutral language where appropriate, aiming to be inclusive and respectful of modern sensibilities while remaining faithful to the original texts.
Despite its strengths, the New Century Version has faced some criticism from those who prefer more traditional or literal translations. Critics argue that the dynamic equivalence approach can sometimes result in a loss of nuance and depth found in the original languages. Additionally, some theologians express concern that the simplified language may not fully capture the richness and complexity of certain theological concepts. Nonetheless, the NCV remains a valuable resource for many readers, particularly those seeking a clear and approachable version of the Bible that helps them connect with and understand its timeless messages.