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Great Bible

bible_translation_history theological_term standard

A major English Bible translation first published in 1539 and authorized for public reading in the Church of England.

At a Glance

A historically important English translation of the Bible, associated with the early English Reformation and public church reading.

Key Points

Description

The Great Bible refers to a sixteenth-century English translation of the Bible first published in 1539. It became important in the worship and reading life of the Church of England during the Reformation era, especially as a Bible intended for public use. Historically, it stands as an early milestone in the English Bible tradition and in the broader movement to make Scripture available in the vernacular. Because it is a translation of Scripture rather than a doctrinal concept, it belongs in Bible-translation and church-history classification rather than as a theological term.

Biblical Context

The Great Bible is not itself a biblical text, but a translation of the biblical books into English for reading and use in the church.

Historical Context

Published in 1539, the Great Bible became an important English Reformation Bible and was associated with church reading under the authority of the Church of England. It represents a major step in the movement toward wider vernacular access to Scripture.

Jewish and Ancient Context

No direct Jewish or ancient-context background is required, since this is a sixteenth-century English Bible translation rather than an ancient biblical or Jewish term.

Primary Key Texts

Secondary Key Texts

Original Language Note

The Great Bible is an English translation of the biblical texts, not an original-language term.

Theological Significance

Its significance is historical and ecclesial: it reflects the Reformation emphasis on Scripture in the vernacular and public reading of the Bible. It does not introduce a new doctrine or alter biblical authority.

Philosophical Explanation

Bible translation matters because language shapes access, comprehension, and public teaching. The Great Bible is important as part of the history of how English-speaking Christians received Scripture.

Interpretive Cautions

Do not treat the Great Bible as a separate source of doctrine. Its value is historical and translational, and its wording should be understood in relation to the biblical originals and the wider history of English Bible versions.

Major Views

No major theological viewpoints are at issue here; discussion is mainly historical and bibliographical.

Doctrinal Boundaries

The Great Bible is a translation of Scripture, not Scripture itself. It should be used as a historical witness to English Bible development, while final doctrinal authority remains with the inspired biblical text.

Practical Significance

This entry helps readers understand the development of English Bibles, the Reformation push for vernacular Scripture, and the background of later English translations.

Related Entries

See Also

Data

Machine-readable JSON for Great Bible

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