« | Psalm 28 | » |
1 (By David.) Only you, LORD, are a mighty rock! Don't refuse to help me when I pray. If you don't answer me, I will soon be dead.
2 Please listen to my prayer and my cry for help, as I lift my hands toward your holy temple.
3 Don't drag me away, LORD, with those cruel people, who speak kind words, while planning trouble.
4 Treat them as they deserve! Punish them for their sins.
5 They don't pay any attention to your wonderful deeds. Now you will destroy them and leave them in ruin.
6 I praise you, LORD, for answering my prayers.
7 You are my strong shield, and I trust you completely. You have helped me, and I will celebrate and thank you in song.
8 You give strength to your people, LORD, and you save and protect your chosen ones.
9 Come save us and bless us. Be our shepherd and always carry us in your arms.
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.