William Kethe facts for kids

William Kethe (sometimes spelled Keithe) was an important churchman from Europe who lived a long time ago. He is best known for translating parts of the Bible, especially the Psalms, which are like songs or poems in the Bible. He passed away on June 6, 1594.

Early Life and Exile

William Kethe was likely born in Scotland, though we don't have exact proof. He became known as one of the Protestants who had to leave England during the time of Queen Mary I. These people were called the "Marian exiles."

Leaving England

Kethe was recorded in Frankfurt, Germany, in 1555 and later in Geneva, Switzerland, in 1557. This suggests he joined others who supported John Knox during some disagreements among the exiles in Frankfurt.

Translating the Bible

Kethe played a big part in translating religious texts. His work helped many people understand the Bible and sing psalms in their own language.

The Geneva Bible

In 1560, Kethe helped translate the famous Geneva Bible. This version of the Bible was very popular because it was easy to read and had notes that helped people understand it better.

Contributing to Psalms

He also added twenty-five psalms to the 1561 Anglo-Genevan Psalter. A psalter is a book of psalms set to music. While only ten of his psalms stayed in the 1562 English Psalter, all twenty-five were kept in the 1564 Scottish Psalter. Many of his psalms were translated from French.

The Old Hundredth

Kethe's most famous work is his version of Psalm 100, known as The Old Hundredth. Almost everyone knows its first line: "All People That on Earth Do Dwell." This psalm is still sung in churches around the world today.

Later Life and Work

After his time as an exile and translator, Kethe returned to England and continued his work as a churchman.

Serving as a Rector

During the rule of Queen Elizabeth I, Kethe served as the Rector (a type of church leader) for the parish of Child Okeford in Dorset, England. He held this position from 1561 to 1593.

Military Chaplain

Besides his work as a rector, Kethe also served twice as a military chaplain. He was with Ambrose Dudley, 3rd Earl of Warwick in Le Havre, France, in 1563 and again in 1569. A chaplain provides religious support to soldiers.

After retiring from his role as rector, Kethe stayed in Child Okeford but passed away within a year.