The Authorized Version, commonly known as the King James Version (KJV), is one of the most influential and enduring translations of the Bible in the English language. Commissioned by King James I of England in 1604, the translation was completed and first published in 1611. It was intended to be an authoritative English translation for use in the Church of England, replacing the Bishops' Bible and other earlier translations.

Historical Context

The Authorized Version was produced during a time of religious and political change in England. The Protestant Reformation had led to a desire for accessible Scripture in the vernacular, and previous translations, such as the Tyndale Bible and the Geneva Bible, had already made significant impacts. However, these earlier translations were often associated with specific theological perspectives or political movements, prompting the need for a new, unified translation.

Translation Process

The translation was undertaken by a committee of approximately 47 scholars, divided into six groups, each responsible for different sections of the Bible. These scholars were chosen for their expertise in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin, as well as their theological acumen. The translators worked from the Textus Receptus for the New Testament and the Masoretic Text for the Old Testament, consulting previous English translations and other sources to ensure accuracy and clarity.

Language and Style

The Authorized Version is renowned for its majestic and poetic language, which has had a profound influence on English literature and culture. Its style is characterized by a balance of simplicity and grandeur, making it both accessible and reverent. The translators aimed to preserve the original meaning of the texts while also creating a work that would be suitable for public reading and liturgical use.

Theological Significance

The Authorized Version holds a special place in the hearts of many Christians, particularly within the Anglican tradition and among various Protestant denominations. Its widespread use and acceptance have contributed to its status as a standard text for English-speaking Christians. The translation is often praised for its faithfulness to the original languages and its ability to convey the theological depth of the Scriptures.

Influence and Legacy

The Authorized Version has had a lasting impact on Christianity and the English-speaking world. It has shaped religious thought, inspired countless works of art and literature, and contributed to the development of the English language. Many phrases and expressions from the KJV have entered common usage, reflecting its deep cultural penetration.

Scriptural Quotations

While the Authorized Version itself is not quoted here, its influence can be seen in the Berean Standard Bible , which seeks to provide a clear and accurate translation of the Scriptures. For example, in John 3:16, the BSB states: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." This verse, like many others, echoes the enduring message of the Gospel as conveyed in the Authorized Version.

Modern Usage

Despite the emergence of numerous modern translations, the Authorized Version remains a beloved and respected text. It is still used in many churches and is often preferred for its literary beauty and historical significance. Its influence continues to be felt in theological studies, worship, and personal devotion.Authorized Version

AUTHORIZED VERSION

o'-thor-iz'd. See ENGLISH VERSIONS.

Jesus in the World.
... in no danger as regarded accident or misfortune. This will appear more
plainly as we proceed. So much for the authorized version. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/macdonald/hope of the gospel/jesus in the world.htm

The Old Testament and Modern Criticism
... For example, in 1 Sam.3.1 the Authorized Version reads, "Saul reigned one year,
and when he had reigned two years over Israel." This translation does violence ...
/.../the christian view of the old testament/chapter iii the old testament.htm

The Scriptures
... These six lines recall the following six passages in the Authorized Version:
And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord' (Luke 1:38). ...
/.../the hymns of methodism in their literary relations/chapter i the scriptures.htm

The Holy Spirit Forming Christ Within Us.
... The Authorized Version reads "Filled with all the fullness of God." The Revised
Version reads more exactly "filled unto all the fullness of God." It is no ...
/.../torrey/the person and work of the holy spirit/chapter xii the holy spirit.htm

The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit
... It is true that the same Greek word is translated wind and Spirit; also that the
Authorized Version uses the neuter pronoun "itself," when speaking of the Holy ...
/.../evans/the great doctrines of the bible/the doctrine of the holy.htm

Of the Lord's Passion, and that it was Foretold.
... Another explanation is, that the word translated bread denotes fruit, as in the
English authorized version, "Let us destroy the tree, with the fruit thereof ...
/.../lactantius/the divine institutes/chap xviii of the lords passion.htm

Of the Priesthood of Jesus Foretold by the Prophets.
... [645] In conspectu meo. The Septuagint, eno'pion christou mou; and so the English
authorized version, "before my anointed.". [646] Zechariah 3:1-8. ...
/.../lactantius/the divine institutes/chap xiv of the priesthood of.htm

Appendix (A).
... Whenever the time comes for the Church of England to revise her Authorized Version
(1611), it will become necessary that she should in the first instance ...
/.../burgon/the last twelve verses of the gospel according to s mark/appendix a.htm

Tate
... version supplanted, by royal and episcopal authority, the "old version" by Sternhold,
Hopkins, and others, and is to this day the authorized version of the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/nutter/hymn writers of the church/tate.htm

The Displeasure of Jesus.
... the passage, Mark 1:43"in the authorized version, 'And he straitly charged him;'
in the revised, 'And he strictly charged him,' with 'sternly' in the margin. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/macdonald/unspoken sermons/the displeasure of jesus.htm

What is The Bishops' Bible? | GotQuestions.org

What is the King James Version (KJV)? | GotQuestions.org

Are there errors in the Qur'an (Koran)? | GotQuestions.org

Authorized: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus