King James Bible

One of the most ambitious projects of the Reformation: the famous King James Bible, originating from the commission of the English King James I, son of Mary Stuart and successor to Elizabeth I as King of England. As one of his first royal acts in 1604, he arranged for a new translation of the Bible in the English language in accordance with the Anglican Church. This attained greater success than the king could have foreseen. His famous King James Bible is considered to be one of the most influential books of all time, and not just in England!

The King’s Bible

A synod of 47 scholars from Oxford, Winchester, Cambridge, and other locales of the English Kingdom met at Hampton Court Palace in the year 1604 for the purpose of pursuing the desire of the king. King James I (1566–1625) had convened the gathering in order to commission a new translation of the Bible into English. James, as the son of Mary Stuart, was also King James VI of Scotland beginning in 1567. From 1603 on, he was additionally King James I of England and thereby the successor of Elizabeth I, who had his mother executed. James I was a famous patron of poetry and was himself active as a poet, inter alia.

Not Only a Religious Text

This love of the word also found expression in his biblical translation. The King James Bible – which is dedicated to the king as its patron – is not only a wonderful means of immersing oneself into biblical tales and a religious devotional book. This English Bible is impressive above all because of its narrative power, the drama and excitement of its texts. Consequently, this Bible had an enormous influence on English literature. Additionally, this is the origin of some very famous biblical phrases!

Importance over the Centuries

The new English translation took place at the behest of King James I between 1604 and 1611. Up to this time in England, the so-called Geneva Bible was read in English, but it differed from James’ interpretation on many points. The new translation replaced the Bishop’s Bible as the official Bible of the Anglican Church. The King James Bible was printed in numerous (new) editions in the coming years and centuries. It is considered to be one of the most influential books of all time and has enjoyed particular significance in England since its initial publication.