« | Proverbs 16 | » |
1 We humans make plans, but the LORD has the final word.
2 We may think we know what is right, but the LORD is the judge of our motives.
3 Share your plans with the LORD, and you will succeed.
4 The LORD has a reason for everything he does, and he lets evil people live only to be punished.
5 The LORD doesn't like anyone who is conceited-- you can be sure they will be punished.
6 If we truly love God, our sins will be forgiven; if we show him respect, we will keep away from sin.
7 When we please the LORD, even our enemies make friends with us.
8 It's better to be honest and poor than to be dishonest and rich.
9 We make our own plans, but the LORD decides where we will go.
10 Rulers speak with authority and are never wrong.
11 The LORD doesn't like it when we cheat in business.
12 Justice makes rulers powerful. They should hate evil
13 and like honesty and truth.
14 An angry ruler can put you to death. So be wise! Don't make one angry.
15 When a ruler is happy and pleased with you, it's like refreshing rain, and you will live.
16 It's much better to be wise and sensible than to be rich.
17 God's people avoid evil ways, and they protect themselves by watching where they go.
18 Too much pride will destroy you.
19 You are better off to be humble and poor than to get rich from what you take by force.
20 If you know what you're doing, you will prosper. God blesses everyone who trusts him.
21 Good judgment proves that you are wise, and if you speak kindly, you can teach others.
22 Good sense is a fountain that gives life, but fools are punished by their foolishness.
23 You can persuade others if you are wise and speak sensibly.
24 Kind words are like honey-- they cheer you up and make you feel strong.
25 Sometimes what seems right is really a road to death.
26 The hungrier you are, the harder you work.
27 Worthless people plan trouble. Even their words burn like a flaming fire.
28 Gossip is no good! It causes hard feelings and comes between friends.
29 Don't trust violent people. They will mislead you to do the wrong thing.
30 When someone winks or grins behind your back, trouble is on the way.
31 Gray hair is a glorious crown worn by those who have lived right.
32 Controlling your temper is better than being a hero who captures a city.
33 We make our own decisions, but the LORD alone determines what happens.
The Contemporary English Version (CEV)
The Contemporary English Version (CEV) is a modern Bible translation that aims to make the scriptures accessible and understandable to a broad audience, including children and those with limited English proficiency. Published by the American Bible Society in 1995, the CEV emphasizes clarity, readability, and ease of comprehension. Unlike more literal translations, the CEV uses a thought-for-thought translation philosophy, which focuses on conveying the original meaning of the text in a way that is clear and straightforward for contemporary readers.
One of the key features of the CEV is its use of everyday language and simple sentence structures. The translators avoided theological jargon and archaic terms, instead opting for language that is commonly used in daily conversation. This makes the CEV particularly well-suited for public reading, educational settings, and outreach programs where the audience might not be familiar with traditional biblical language. The translation strives to communicate the essence of the biblical message without the barriers that complex language can sometimes create.
The CEV also pays special attention to cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. The translators sought to avoid expressions and idioms that might be misunderstood or offensive in different cultural contexts. Additionally, the CEV includes gender-neutral language where appropriate, aiming to make the text more inclusive while still remaining faithful to the original manuscripts. This approach helps ensure that Bible teachings are accessible to a diverse global audience, promoting understanding and acceptance across different cultures and communities.
Despite its strengths, the CEV has faced some criticism from those who prefer more literal translations. Critics argue that the CEV emphasises on simplicity and readability which can sometimes result in a loss of nuance and depth found in the original languages. Some theologians and scholars believe that the thought-for-thought approach may oversimplify complex theological concepts. Nevertheless, the Contemporary English Version remains a valuable resource for many readers, offering a clear and approachable rendition of the Bible that is particularly effective for those new to the scriptures or those seeking a more accessible way to engage with the biblical text.