Description
Book Synopsis: John Drury's clear, marvelously erudite, and richly detailed introduction to the Everyman's Library edition of The New Testament reminds us why the King James Version, first published in 1611, has been the favorite of English readers for centuries. Despite a plethora of new translations in the second half of the twentieth century, the King James Version retains its power and appeal because "it has the intrinsic value of a classic and is an enduring masterpiece." Drury outlines the fascinating history of this magisterial translation, marveling at the "patient generosity" with which the translators sifted through and distilled a century of previous scholarship. He points out that their work has endured not only because of the astonishing care they took to reflect faithfully the syntax of the original Hebrew and Greek–which enabled them to dispense with the densely entangled prose style that characterized English writing at the time–but also because of their concern to writers from Milton to Coleridge to George Eliot. From the doctrinal richness of the letters of St. Paul to those four masterpieces of storytelling, the Gospels, The New Testament has served as a source of inspiration for centuries.
To quote George Steiner on the centrality of the Bible: "What you have in hand is not a book. It is the book. That, of course, is what 'Bible' means. It is the book which, not only in Western humanity, defines the concept of a text. All our other books, however different in matter or method, relate, be it indirectly, to this book of books…All other books are inhabited by the murmur of that distant source."
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With its timeless beauty and enduring wisdom, The New Testament: The King James Version (Everyman's Library) is a literary treasure that has captivated English readers for centuries. As John Drury eloquently states in his introduction to this edition, the King James Version stands as an enduring masterpiece because of its intrinsic value as a classic. Unmatched in its quality and depth, this translation has withstood the test of time, outlasting numerous modern translations that emerged in the latter half of the 20th century.
What sets the King James Version apart is the painstaking dedication of its translators. They meticulously sifted through a century's worth of scholarship, ensuring that the syntax of the original Hebrew and Greek texts were faithfully reflected. By doing so, they created a translation that broke free from the dense prose style prevalent in English writing during that era. This commitment to accuracy and clarity has earned the King James Version praise from literary giants, from Milton to Coleridge to George Eliot.
The New Testament, as a collection of ancient writings, offers more than just doctrinal richness. It presents four profound and captivating narratives known as the Gospels. These gripping stories have inspired countless individuals throughout centuries, serving as a perennial source of inspiration. As George Steiner notes, the Bible itself holds a centrality in Western humanity, acting as the defining concept of a text. All other books, regardless of their subject matter or literary approach, are influenced by the profound legacy of this foundational work.
If you are seeking a truly remarkable reading experience, look no further than The New Testament: The King James Version (Everyman's Library). Immerse yourself in the timeless brilliance of its carefully selected and faithfully translated words. Click here to discover the enduring power and inspiration of the book that stands above all others.
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