Exploring the Texts that Preceded the King James Version- A Journey Through Early English Bibles

What Bible Came Before the King James Version?

The King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, published in 1611, is one of the most influential translations in English history. However, it was not the first English Bible to be printed. The KJV was preceded by several other translations that laid the groundwork for its eventual publication. This article explores the key translations that came before the King James Version.

Wycliffe’s Bible (1382)

The first complete English Bible was translated by John Wycliffe and printed in 1382. This translation, known as Wycliffe’s Bible, was based on the Latin Vulgate and was significant for its use of the vernacular language, making the Bible accessible to a broader audience. Although Wycliffe’s Bible was not the first English translation, it was the first complete English Bible to be printed and had a profound impact on the development of English literature and religious thought.

The Great Bible (1539)

The Great Bible, also known as the Bishops’ Bible, was the first English Bible authorized by the Church of England. It was translated by a team of scholars under the direction of Bishop John Heywood and was published in 1539. The Great Bible was printed in large format and distributed to churches throughout England, making it the first English Bible to be widely available to the general public.

The Geneva Bible (1560)

The Geneva Bible was a significant translation that came before the King James Version. It was first published in 1560 and was based on the Greek and Hebrew texts. The Geneva Bible was known for its inclusion of marginal notes that provided commentary and explanations of the text. These notes were often controversial and were seen as a challenge to the authority of the Church of England. The Geneva Bible played a crucial role in the development of Protestantism in England and influenced the language and style of the King James Version.

The Bishops’ Bible (1568)

The Bishops’ Bible was a revised version of the Great Bible, published in 1568. It was translated by a team of scholars appointed by the Church of England and was intended to replace the Geneva Bible. The Bishops’ Bible was the official English Bible of the Church of England until the publication of the King James Version.

The King James Version (1611)

The King James Version was commissioned by King James I of England in 1604 and was published in 1611. It was the result of a collaborative effort by a team of 47 scholars from various denominations. The KJV was based on the Greek and Hebrew texts and was intended to provide a definitive English translation of the Bible. The KJV quickly became the dominant English Bible and has had a lasting impact on English literature, language, and religious thought.

In conclusion, the King James Version was preceded by several significant English translations, each of which contributed to the development of the English Bible. From Wycliffe’s Bible to the King James Version, these translations have shaped the way we read and understand the Bible today.