Exploring the Bibles That Preceded the King James Version- A Journey Through Early English Scripture Translations

What Bible Was 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, before the KJV, there were several other translations that played a significant role in shaping the English-speaking world’s understanding of the Bible. This article will explore some of these translations and their impact on the development of the KJV.

Wycliffe’s Bible (1382)

The first complete English Bible was translated by John Wycliffe, a priest and scholar, and was published in 1382. Wycliffe’s translation was based on the Latin Vulgate, the most widely used Bible in Europe at the time. Although Wycliffe’s Bible was not the first English translation, it was the first to include the entire Bible and was widely circulated in England. It had a significant impact on the English language and was instrumental in preparing the ground for later translations.

Tyndale’s New Testament (1526)

William Tyndale, a scholar and reformer, is credited with the first English New Testament translation, published in 1526. Tyndale’s translation was based on the Greek New Testament and was intended to make the Bible accessible to the common people. His work was highly influential and was used by Martin Luther in Germany. Despite facing severe persecution, Tyndale’s translation set the stage for future English Bible translations.

Matthew’s Bible (1537)

The Matthew Bible, published in 1537, was the first complete English Bible to be authorized by the Church of England. It was translated by a team of scholars, including Thomas Matthew, John Rogers, and Miles Coverdale. The Matthew Bible was a critical step in the development of the English Bible, as it was the first to be printed in England and was widely distributed among the English-speaking population.

Great Bible (1539)

The Great Bible, published in 1539, was the first English Bible to be authorized by the English government. It was a large, folio-sized book that was intended for use in churches. The Great Bible was the first English Bible to include the Apocrypha, which were books that were considered part of the Bible by some but not by others. Despite its size and cost, the Great Bible was widely distributed and had a significant impact on the English-speaking world.

Geneva Bible (1560)

The Geneva Bible, published in 1560, was a significant translation that influenced the KJV. It was translated by a team of scholars, including William Whittingham and Myles Coverdale, and was based on the Greek and Hebrew texts. The Geneva Bible included marginal notes that provided commentary and explanations, which were a significant innovation at the time. Its influence on the KJV was so great that it is estimated that around 80% of the KJV’s text was derived from the Geneva Bible.

King James Version (1611)

The King James Version, published in 1611, was the culmination of years of translation work and scholarly research. It was commissioned by King James I of England and was intended to provide a definitive English Bible for the Church of England. The KJV is known for its beauty, clarity, and readability, and has been the standard English Bible for many English-speaking Christians for over four centuries.

In conclusion, the KJV was not the first English Bible translation, but it was built upon the foundation laid by earlier translations such as Wycliffe’s Bible, Tyndale’s New Testament, the Matthew Bible, the Great Bible, and the Geneva Bible. These translations played a crucial role in shaping the English-speaking world’s understanding of the Bible and preparing the way for the KJV to become the enduring classic that it is today.