« | Proverbs 18 | » |
1 The one who lives alone is self-indulgent, showing contempt for all who have sound judgment.
2 A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing personal opinion.
3 When wickedness comes, contempt comes also; and with dishonor comes disgrace.
4 The words of the mouth are deep waters; the fountain of wisdom is a gushing stream.
5 It is not right to be partial to the guilty, or to subvert the innocent in judgment.
6 A fool's lips bring strife, and a fool's mouth invites a flogging.
7 The mouths of fools are their ruin, and their lips a snare to themselves.
8 The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels; they go down into the inner parts of the body.
9 One who is slack in work is close kin to a vandal.
10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe.
11 The wealth of the rich is their strong city; in their imagination it is like a high wall.
12 Before destruction one's heart is haughty, but humility goes before honor.
13 If one gives answer before hearing, it is folly and shame.
14 The human spirit will endure sickness; but a broken spirit-- who can bear?
15 An intelligent mind acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.
16 A gift opens doors; it gives access to the great.
17 The one who first states a case seems right, until the other comes and cross-examines.
18 Casting the lot puts an end to disputes and decides between powerful contenders.
19 An ally offended is stronger than a city; such quarreling is like the bars of a castle.
20 From the fruit of the mouth one's stomach is satisfied; the yield of the lips brings satisfaction.
21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.
22 He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the LORD.
23 The poor use entreaties, but the rich answer roughly.
24 Some friends play at friendship but a true friend sticks closer than one's nearest kin.
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.