Richard Davies (bishop) facts for kids

Richard Davies, an important Welsh bishop and scholar.

Richard Davies (born around 1505, died November 7, 1581) was an important Welsh bishop and scholar. He played a big part in translating the Bible into the Welsh language.

Early Life and Education

Richard Davies was born in northern Wales. He went to New Inn Hall, Oxford for his education. After finishing his studies, he became a vicar (a type of church leader) in Maids Moreton, Buckinghamshire, in 1549. He then moved to Burnham, Buckinghamshire, in 1550.

A Time of Change

Richard Davies was a supporter of new ideas in the church, known as a reformer. During the rule of Queen Mary I, who was against these new ideas, he had to leave England. He found safety in Geneva, a city known for its reformers.

When Queen Elizabeth I became queen in 1558, Davies returned to England. He started working in local churches again. His connection to Wales became strong once more.

Becoming a Bishop

Davies was part of a group that visited churches in Wales. In January 1560, he became the bishop of St Asaph. Soon after, in 1561, he moved to become the bishop of St David's.

As a bishop, Davies worked hard to bring about church reforms. He was very active and generous. He was also a member of the Council of Wales and the Marches, which helped govern Wales.

Important Friendships and Work

Richard Davies was good friends with Matthew Parker, who was the Archbishop of Canterbury. He was also trusted by William Cecil, a very important advisor to Queen Elizabeth. Both Parker and Cecil often asked Davies for advice about Welsh matters.

Davies was known for his great speaking skills. He also had a speech difficulty, which earned him the friendly nickname "Biffe." This nickname came from an old Celtic word for "fool." Another friend of the bishop was Walter Devereux, 1st Earl of Essex.

Davies worked with William Salesbury to translate the New Testament into the Welsh language. He also helped with the Welsh translation of the Book of Common Prayer. He helped check and improve the Bishops' Bible in 1568. For this project, he was responsible for translating the book of Deuteronomy and the Second Book of Samuel.

Richard Davies passed away in November 1581. He was buried in Abergwili church.