In a previous post I noted that the Preface to the 1611 King James Version
is an embarrassment to KJV-only advocates because in it the translators
of the KJV make a series of statements that argue against the KJV-only
position. Since KJV-only proponents insist that only the KJV is the Word
of God in English, they are radically opposed to any English
translation produced in the last 400 years.
Prior to the KJV, there had been many English translations of Bible:
Wycliffe (1382), Tyndale (NT, 1526), Coverdale (1535), Matthew’s Bible
(1537), the Great Bible (1539), the Geneva Bible (1560), the Bishops’
Bible (1568), and the Douai-Rheims (1609–10). Since these and other
translations were already available in 1611, the translators of the KJV
believed there would be hostility to their new translation, and so they
were quick to address the issue in the Preface:
Zeal to promote the common good, whether it be by
devising anything ourselves, or revising that which hath been laboured
by others, deserveth certainly much respect and esteem, but yet findeth
but cold entertainment [reception] in the world. It is welcomed with
suspicion instead of love, and with emulation instead of
thanks: and if there be any hole left for cavil [trivial objection] to
enter, (and cavil, if it do not find a hole, will make one) it is sure
to be misconstrued, and in danger to be condemned. This will easily be
granted by as many as know story [history], or have any experience. For
was there ever any thing projected, that savoured any way of newness or
renewing, but the same endured many a storm of gainsaying or opposition?
This, and more to this purpose, his Majesty that now reigneth…knew
full well, according to the singular wisdom given unto him by God, and
the rare learning and experience that he hath attained unto; namely,
that whosoever attempteth any thing for the publick, (specially if it
pertain to religion, and to the opening and clearing of the word of God)
the same setteth himself upon a stage to be glouted [frowned] upon by
every evil eye; yea, he casteth himself headlong upon pikes [spears], to
be gored by every sharp tongue. For he that meddleth with men’s
religion in any part meddleth with their custom, nay, with their
freehold [an estate or office held for life]; and though they find no
content in that which they have, yet they cannot abide to hear of
altering. Continue at Bill Combs
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