« | Proverbs 23 | » |
1 If you sit down to eat with a ruler, notice the food that is in front of you.
2 Control yourself if you have a big appetite.
3 Don't be greedy for his fine foods, because that food might be a trick.
4 Don't wear yourself out trying to get rich; be wise enough to control yourself.
5 Wealth can vanish in the wink of an eye. It can seem to grow wings and fly away like an eagle.
6 Don't eat the food of selfish people; don't be greedy for their fine foods.
7 Selfish people are always worrying about how much the food costs. They tell you, "Eat and drink," but they don't really mean it.
8 You will throw up the little you have eaten, and you will have wasted your kind words.
9 Don't speak to fools; they will only ignore your wise words.
10 Don't move an old stone that marks a border, and don't take fields that belong to orphans.
11 God, their defender, is strong; he will take their side against you.
12 Remember what you are taught, and listen carefully to words of knowledge.
13 Don't fail to punish children. If you spank them, they won't die.
14 If you spank them, you will save them from death.
15 My child, if you are wise, then I will be happy.
16 I will be so pleased if you speak what is right.
17 Don't envy sinners, but always respect the Lord.
18 Then you will have hope for the future, and your wishes will come true.
19 Listen, my child, and be wise. Keep your mind on what is right.
20 Don't drink too much wine or eat too much food.
21 Those who drink and eat too much become poor. They sleep too much and end up wearing rags.
22 Listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not forget your mother when she is old.
23 Learn the truth and never reject it. Get wisdom, self-control, and understanding.
24 The father of a good child is very happy; parents who have wise children are glad because of them.
25 Make your father and mother happy; give your mother a reason to be glad.
26 My son, pay attention to me, and watch closely what I do.
27 A prostitute is as dangerous as a deep pit, and an unfaithful wife is like a narrow well.
28 They ambush you like robbers and cause many men to be unfaithful to their wives.
29 Who has trouble? Who has pain? Who has unnecessary bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes?
30 It is people who drink too much wine, who try out all different kinds of strong drinks.
31 Don't stare at the wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly.
32 Later it bites like a snake with poison in its fangs.
33 Your eyes will see strange sights, and your mind will be confused.
34 You will feel dizzy as if you're in a storm on the ocean, as if you're on top of a ship's sails.
35 You will think, "They hit me, but I'm not hurt. They beat me up, but I don't remember it. I wish I could wake up. Then I would get another drink."
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.