Authorized King James Version facts for kids
The King James Version is a very famous translation of the Bible into the English language. People also call it the Authorized Version (AV). In the United States, it is often known as the King James Version (KJV).
This Bible translation gets its name from King James I of England. He asked the Church of England to start working on it in 1604. The first book was published in 1611.
Even though it is one of the oldest English Bibles, many people still read it today. A survey in the United States in 2014 found that 55% of Bible readers used the King James Version. The New International Version was next, used by 19% of readers. Other versions were used by less than 10%.
Contents
What is the King James Bible?
The King James Bible is an English translation of the Christian Bible. It was created a long time ago, in the early 1600s. It is one of the most important books in English history. Many people still read and study it.
Why was it created?
King James I wanted a new Bible translation for his kingdom. He hoped it would bring people together. He gathered many scholars and church leaders to work on it. They wanted to make a clear and accurate Bible for everyone. The work started in 1604 and finished in 1611.
How popular is it today?
The King James Version is still very popular. Millions of people around the world read it. It is known for its beautiful language. Many churches and individuals continue to use it for worship and study. Its words have also influenced English literature and culture.
Images for kids
-
John Speed's Genealogies recorded in the Sacred Scriptures (1611), bound into first King James Bible in quarto size (1612)
-
William Tyndale translated the New Testament into English in 1525.
-
Archbishop Richard Bancroft was the "chief overseer" of the production of the Authorized Version.
-
The opening of the Epistle to the Hebrews of the 1611 edition of the Authorized Version shows the original typeface. Marginal notes reference variant translations and cross references to other Bible passages. Each chapter is headed by a précis of contents. There are decorative initial letters for each chapter, and a decorated headpiece to each book, but no illustrations in the text.
-
Title page of the 1760 Cambridge edition
See also
In Spanish: Biblia del rey Jacobo para niños
