Geneva Bible

The first Reformed Bible translated into English

The history of this first Reformed Bible translated into English is closely linked to the persecution that raged in England during the reign of Mary Tudor (1553-1558). Several of his subjects, including the Scottish reformer John Knox (c.1513-1572), forced into exile, took refuge in Geneva where they formed a dynamic community. Knox became its pastor from 1556 to 1557.
That year, the English exiles, supported by Calvin and Knox on the one hand, and the Genevan civil authorities on the other, undertook the edition of a Bible in their language. Full translation began after Tyndale's English New Testament revision appeared. The enterprise lasted a little over two years; the men who worked on it took care to establish their text from the Greek and Hebrew originals, also drawing inspiration from the Latin versions, particularly that of Théodore de Bèze. They also relied on the already existing and recognized French and German translations.
A large number of explanatory notes indicates the seriousness of the work done. They also highlight the bias of the translators, in particular a rather critical vision of the monarchical system. The work came out of the press in 1560, with a dedication to Queen Elizabeth I. It enjoyed immediate and prolonged success, going through many editions until 1644. We find traces of its influence in the work of the poet Milton For example.

---

Geneva Bible

Geneva Bible, first Reformed Bible translated into English

---

Return to collection