Title page of the New Testament, King James Bible, 1611
The King James Bible has been described as the single most important publication in whole of history and to celebrate the 400th anniversary of its publication, there will be an exhibition of rare books and manuscripts at the National Library of Wales until 10 September 2011.
This edition of the English Bible was named after King James I of England who commissioned a new translation in 1604, and it was subsequently published in 1611. Known as the ‘authorised version’, it was not the earliest English translation of the Bible but became the dominant edition in the English speaking world and still remains in widespread use.
In addition to its theological importance, the King James Bible has proved a landmark in the history of the English language, as, ever since its publication in 1611, this Bible was for many years the only English translation widely available. As with Shakespeare’s works, many of the phrases and idioms used in the Bible have been absorbed into modern everyday language such as ‘by the skin of your teeth’, ‘flesh and blood’ and ‘labour of love’.
From an early age children were encouraged to learn biblical verses by heart, with the result that for generations, written and spoken English was shaped by the language and imagery of the King James Bible. It has also been a great inspiration to poets, dramatists, artists and politicians.
Drawing on the Library’s own prestigious collection, this exhibition will showcase one of the original surviving first editions of the King James Bible alongside William Morgan’s 1588 Welsh translation and other religious texts.
Carys Mai