The Inception of the English Printed Bible: The 1539 Great Bible

The journey from Hebrew and Aramaic manuscripts to the first printed English Bible was a monumental shift in religious history. By 1382, the Bible was translated into English, but it wasn’t until 1535 under King Henry VIII’s endorsement, that the Great Bible was printed, allowing English congregations to finally hear the scriptures in their native tongue.

Miles Coverdale’s role in religious history is both groundbreaking and tragic. As a pivotal figure, he translated and produced the first English printed Bible, bridging a significant language gap for the English-speaking populace of his era. Regrettably, his revolutionary contributions led to his conviction and execution by burning in 1536, marking a somber chapter in the tale of religious reformation.