When was the Bible translated to English? This question delves into the fascinating history of the English Bible and its evolution over centuries. The translation of the Bible into English has had a profound impact on the language, culture, and religious practices of English-speaking societies. In this article, we will explore the key milestones in the translation of the Bible into English, from the earliest attempts to the most recent versions.
The translation of the Bible into English began in the 14th century, with the first complete translation of the Old Testament being done by John Wycliffe. Wycliffe’s translation, known as the Wycliffe Bible, was completed in 1382. This translation was significant because it was the first to be printed using the movable type printing press invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century. However, the Wycliffe Bible was not authorized by the Church and was largely banned.
In 1535, William Tyndale completed the first English translation of the New Testament, which was based on the Greek text of Erasmus. This translation was also printed using the movable type printing press and became widely popular among English-speaking Protestants. However, Tyndale was eventually captured and executed by the English authorities for heresy.
The next major translation of the Bible into English was the Great Bible, which was authorized by King Henry VIII in 1539. This translation was based on the Latin Vulgate and was intended to be used in English churches. The Great Bible was the first English Bible to be officially approved by the Church of England.
In 1568, the Geneva Bible was published, which became the most popular English Bible in the 16th and 17th centuries. The Geneva Bible was translated by a team of scholars and was known for its clear and readable text. It also included marginal notes that provided commentary and explanations of the Bible’s content.
The King James Version (KJV) of the Bible was published in 1611, and it remains one of the most influential translations in English history. The KJV was the result of a collaborative effort by 47 scholars, and it was intended to provide a standard English translation for use in the Church of England. The KJV has had a lasting impact on the English language, with many of its phrases and expressions still in use today.
Over the centuries, numerous translations of the Bible into English have been produced, each with its unique characteristics and contributions. The Revised Version (1881), the American Standard Version (1901), and the New International Version (1978) are some of the notable translations that have followed the KJV.
In conclusion, the translation of the Bible into English has been a long and complex process, with many significant milestones along the way. From the Wycliffe Bible to the King James Version and beyond, the English Bible has played a crucial role in shaping the religious and cultural landscape of English-speaking societies. The question of when was the Bible translated to English highlights the ongoing evolution of this sacred text and its enduring relevance to millions of people around the world.
