« | Proverbs 20 | » |
1 Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.
2 A king's wrath is like the roar of a lion; he who angers him forfeits his life.
3 It is to a man's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.
4 A sluggard does not plow in season; so at harvest time he looks but finds nothing.
5 The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out.
6 Many a man claims to have unfailing love, but a faithful man who can find?
7 The righteous man leads a blameless life; blessed are his children after him.
8 When a king sits on his throne to judge, he winnows out all evil with his eyes.
9 Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin"?
10 Differing weights and differing measures- the LORD detests them both.
11 Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right.
12 Ears that hear and eyes that see- the LORD has made them both.
13 Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare.
14 "It's no good, it's no good!" says the buyer; then off he goes and boasts about his purchase.
15 Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel.
16 Take the garment of one who puts up security for a stranger; hold it in pledge if he does it for a wayward woman.
17 Food gained by fraud tastes sweet to a man, but he ends up with a mouth full of gravel.
18 Make plans by seeking advice; if you wage war, obtain guidance.
19 A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much.
20 If a man curses his father or mother, his lamp will be snuffed out in pitch darkness.
21 An inheritance quickly gained at the beginning will not be blessed at the end.
22 Do not say, "I'll pay you back for this wrong!" Wait for the LORD, and he will deliver you.
23 The LORD detests differing weights, and dishonest scales do not please him.
24 A man's steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand his own way?
25 It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider his vows.
26 A wise king winnows out the wicked; he drives the threshing wheel over them.
27 The lamp of the LORD searches the spirit of a man; it searches out his inmost being.
28 Love and faithfulness keep a king safe; through love his throne is made secure.
29 The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.
30 Blows and wounds cleanse away evil, and beatings purge the inmost being.
The New International Version (NIV)
The New International Version (NIV) is one of the most widely read and respected modern English translations of the Bible. First published in 1978 by the International Bible Society, the NIV was created by a diverse team of over 100 evangelical scholars from various denominations. The goal of the NIV was to produce a Bible translation that balanced readability, accuracy, and faithfulness to the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts. This makes the NIV an ideal choice for both personal study and public worship, appealing to a broad audience across different Christian traditions.
A key feature of the NIV is its use of a balanced translation philosophy known as "optimal equivalence." This approach combines aspects of formal equivalence (word-for-word) and dynamic equivalence (thought-for-thought) to provide a translation that is both accurate and easily understandable. The translators carefully considered the context and meaning of the original texts, striving to convey their messages in clear, contemporary English. This balance ensures that the NIV remains faithful to the original languages while being accessible to modern readers, making it a versatile and widely accepted translation.
The NIV also includes various study aids and features designed to enhance the reader’s understanding of the Bible. These include comprehensive cross-references, footnotes, and introductions to each book that provide historical and cultural context. Additionally, the NIV is available in numerous editions and formats, including study Bibles, devotional Bibles, and children’s Bibles, catering to different needs and preferences. The widespread availability and extensive resources associated with the NIV make it a valuable tool for both individual study and group teaching.
Despite its popularity and widespread use, the NIV has faced some criticism. Some traditionalists and scholars prefer more literal translations, arguing that the NIV’s approach to dynamic equivalence can sometimes result in interpretive bias or a loss of subtle nuances present in the original texts. Additionally, debates have arisen over the NIV’s use of gender-inclusive language in its 2011 update, with some critics feeling that it strays too far from the original wording. Nonetheless, the New International Version remains a highly esteemed and influential translation, recognized for its readability, accuracy, and broad appeal across the Christian community.