What Did King James Take Out Of The Bible

What Did King James Take Out of the Bible? Debunking Myths and Exploring the King James Version's History

The King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, first published in 1611, remains a cornerstone of English-language Christianity. However, surrounding its creation are several myths and misconceptions, including the persistent idea that King James I actively removed significant portions of scripture. This article will explore the reality of the KJV's creation, debunking the myth of extensive deletions and examining the actual editorial choices made during its translation. The truth is more nuanced than a simple tale of censorship.

The Genesis of the KJV: A Complex Translation Process

The KJV wasn't the product of a single person's whims, but rather the result of a meticulous, years-long project involving dozens of highly educated scholars. These translators worked from multiple source texts, primarily in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin, aiming for a translation that was both accurate and accessible to the common person. Their efforts were intended to unify the English church and supplant earlier, sometimes inconsistent, translations.

The Myth of Extensive Deletions: Examining the Evidence

The claim that King James significantly altered or removed biblical passages is largely unfounded. While the KJV does differ from other versions in certain passages, these differences stem from various factors:

• Translation choices: Translators had to make decisions about the best way to render ancient languages into English. Different interpretations of the source texts naturally lead to variations in wording and even the inclusion or exclusion of specific phrases. These were scholarly judgements, not acts of censorship.

• Focus on clarity and readability: The translators aimed for a text that was clear and understandable for the average reader. This sometimes involved paraphrasing or condensing complex sentences, which could lead to minor differences compared to more literal translations.

• Omission of Apocryphal books: Perhaps the most significant difference between the KJV and many modern Bibles is the exclusion of the deuterocanonical books (also known as the Apocrypha). These books were included in some earlier versions but were considered by many Protestant reformers, including those involved in the KJV project, as not part of the authoritative canon of scripture. This was a theological decision, not an arbitrary act of omission driven by King James. The Apocrypha was indeed seen as controversial at the time.

What Was Removed (and Why): Focusing on Apocrypha

The exclusion of the Apocrypha is a key point. These books (like Tobit, Judith, and parts of Esther and Daniel) were considered part of the Bible in the Catholic tradition and earlier Protestant versions. However, the Reformation significantly impacted views on biblical canonicity, and many Protestant denominations eventually settled on a canon that excluded the Apocrypha. The KJV reflects this theological development of the Protestant Reformation.

The King James Version: A Product of Its Time

It's crucial to understand the KJV in its historical context. The translation process wasn't simply about accuracy; it was also deeply entangled with religious and political agendas. King James I, while involved in authorizing the project, did not directly micromanage the translation itself. The translators were scholars working within the established theological and linguistic norms of their era.

In Conclusion:

While the KJV differs from other Bible translations, attributing these variations to deliberate censorship by King James is inaccurate. The differences largely arose from varied translation choices, efforts to enhance readability, and the settled theological consensus regarding the canon within Protestant circles that excluded the Apocrypha. Understanding the historical and theological context surrounding the KJV's creation is key to a balanced assessment of its content and significance.