The Canadian Encyclopedia — neutral, cited, updated
July 27, 2026Sources cited
Canadianwire.
Canada’s encyclopedia & explainer
Home›Culture & Lifestyle›Religion›King James Bible
Culture & Lifestyle • Religion

King James Bible

The King James Bible, also called the King James Version (KJV) or Authorized Version, is an English translation of the Christian Bible first published in 1611 under the sponsorship of King James I of England.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The King James Bible, also called the King James Version (KJV) or Authorized Version, is an English translation of the Christian Bible first published in 1611 under the sponsorship of King James I of England. It became highly influential in English-speaking Christianity and is also regarded as a major work of English prose.

History

The King James Bible was produced by a team of scholars commissioned by King James I, with the goal of creating an authorized English Bible for church use. It was first published in 1611 and later standardized through revisions, including the widely used 1769 text.

Text and canon

The KJV is an English translation of the Christian Bible and is commonly described as containing the Old Testament, New Testament, and Apocrypha in its original form. Different editions vary in whether the Apocrypha is included.

Literary influence

The translation is widely recognized for its lasting influence on English-language literature and idiom. Its phrasing has become embedded in religious and secular English usage.

Religious use

The KJV was long used as a standard Bible in Anglican and Protestant churches. It continues to be favored by some Christian denominations and groups, especially those preferring traditional English wording.

Key facts

  • The translation was commissioned in 1604 and first published in 1611.
  • It is also known as the Authorized Version and KJV.
  • The text had a major influence on English literary style and vocabulary.
  • It was widely used as the standard English Bible from the mid-17th to early 20th century.
  • The commonly used modern KJV text is based on later standardization, especially the 1769 edition.
🍁
Canadian context

The King James Bible has influenced English-language religious life and literature in Canada, especially within historic Protestant communities and older church traditions.

Frequently asked questions

What is the King James Bible?
It is an English translation of the Christian Bible first published in 1611, also known as the King James Version or Authorized Version.
Who commissioned it?
It was commissioned by King James I of England in 1604.
Why is it called the Authorized Version?
It is called the Authorized Version because it was authorized for use in the Church of England.
When was it first published?
It was first published in 1611.
Why is it historically important?
It strongly influenced English prose, vocabulary, and religious language, and it became a standard Bible for many English-speaking Christians.
Is the KJV still used today?
Yes. It remains in use, especially among some Protestant denominations and readers who prefer traditional English.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/King_James_Version
    Supports: Names, commission date, publication date, language, and general contents of the KJV.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/King-James-Version
    Supports: 1611 publication, influence on English style, long-term standard use, and continued use among some Protestant groups.
  3. Find a Bible — https://find.bible/bibles/ENGKJV/
    Supports: Commission by King James I, 47 scholars, 1611 publication, and 1769 standardization.
  4. BibleGateway — https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/Authorized-King-James-Version-AKJV-Bible/
    Supports: Historical naming, literary influence, and broad historical use in English-speaking churches.