« | Proverbs 20 | » |
1 It isn't smart to get drunk! Drinking makes a fool of you and leads to fights.
2 An angry ruler is like a roaring lion-- make either one angry, and you are dead.
3 It makes you look good when you avoid a fight-- only fools love to quarrel.
4 If you are too lazy to plow, don't expect a harvest.
5 Someone's thoughts may be as deep as the ocean, but if you are smart, you will discover them.
6 There are many who say, "You can trust me!" But can they be trusted?
7 Good people live right, and God blesses the children who follow their example.
8 When rulers decide cases, they weigh the evidence.
9 Can any of us really say, "My thoughts are pure, and my sins are gone"?
10 Two things the LORD hates are dishonest scales and dishonest measures.
11 The good or bad that children do shows what they are like.
12 Hearing and seeing are gifts from the LORD.
13 If you sleep all the time, you will starve; if you get up and work, you will have enough food.
14 Everyone likes to brag about getting a bargain.
15 Sensible words are better than gold or jewels.
16 You deserve to lose your coat if you loan it to someone to guarantee payment for the debt of a stranger.
17 The food you get by cheating may taste delicious, but it turns to gravel.
18 Be sure you have sound advice before making plans or starting a war.
19 Stay away from gossips-- they tell everything.
20 Children who curse their parents will go to the land of darkness long before their time.
21 Getting rich quick may turn out to be a curse.
22 Don't try to get even. Trust the LORD, and he will help you.
23 The LORD hates dishonest scales and dishonest weights. So don't cheat!
24 How can we know what will happen to us when the LORD alone decides?
25 Don't fall into the trap of making promises to God before you think!
26 A wise ruler severely punishes every criminal.
27 Our inner thoughts are a lamp from the LORD, and they search our hearts.
28 Rulers are protected by God's mercy and loyalty, but they must be merciful for their kingdoms to last.
29 Young people take pride in their strength, but the gray hairs of wisdom are even more beautiful.
30 A severe beating can knock all of the evil out of you!
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.