Monday, May 2, 2022

Publication of the King James Bible, May 2, 1611

Translation it is that openeth the window,
    to let in the light;
        that breaketh the shell,
            that we may eat the kernel;
                that putteth aside the curtain,
                    that we may look into the most Holy place;
                        that removeth the cover of the well,
                            that we may come by the water.

                            The Translators to the Reader

Whenever we put words into someone's mouth,
    or see the writing on the wall,
        or go from strength to strength,
            or eat, drink and be merry,
                or fight the good fight,
                    or bemoan the signs of the times,
                        or find a fly in the ointment,
                             or use words such as "long-suffering",
                                "scapegoat" and
                                    "peacemaker"
            we are unconsciously quoting the [King James Version].

            Robert McCrum, The Guardian, November 20, 2010