« | Psalm 20 | » |
1 A David psalm. GOD answer you on the day you crash, The name God-of-Jacob put you out of harm's reach,
2 Send reinforcements from Holy Hill, Dispatch from Zion fresh supplies,
3 Exclaim over your offerings, Celebrate your sacrifices,
4 Give you what your heart desires, Accomplish your plans.
5 When you win, we plan to raise the roof and lead the parade with our banners. May all your wishes come true!
6 That clinches it--help's coming, an answer's on the way, everything's going to work out.
7 See those people polishing their chariots, and those others grooming their horses? But we're making garlands for GOD our God.
8 The chariots will rust, those horses pull up lame-- and we'll be on our feet, standing tall.
9 Make the king a winner, GOD; the day we call, give us your answer.
The Message (MSG)
The Message (MSG) is a contemporary, paraphrased translation of the Bible, crafted to bring the scriptures to life in modern, conversational English. Developed by pastor and scholar Eugene H. Peterson, The Message was published in segments starting in 1993, with the complete Bible released in 2002. Peterson’s aim was to make the Bible accessible and engaging for today’s readers, breaking down the barriers posed by traditional, formal language. His work sought to capture the original tone, rhythm, and intent of the biblical texts, presenting them in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences.
One of the defining characteristics of The Message is its use of dynamic equivalence, focusing on conveying the thoughts and meanings behind the original texts rather than adhering to a word-for-word translation. This approach allows for the use of idiomatic expressions and modern phrasing, making the scriptures feel more relatable and immediate. Peterson, who had a deep understanding of both the biblical languages and modern culture, aimed to bridge the gap between the ancient world of the Bible and the everyday experiences of today’s readers.
The Message has been praised for its readability and ability to convey the emotional and narrative elements of the Bible in a fresh, vivid manner. Its accessible language makes it particularly appealing to those who might find traditional translations difficult to understand or intimidating. Many readers appreciate The Message for its ability to make familiar passages feel new and impactful, often shedding light on the scriptures in ways that resonate on a personal level. It is frequently used in personal devotions, group studies, and church services where clarity and relatability are paramount.