In what year was the first English translation of the Bible completed?

The first complete English translation of the Bible was completed in the year 1382. This translation is commonly referred to as the Wycliffe Bible, named after its translator, John Wycliffe, an English theologian and philosopher.

John Wycliffe and his associates translated the Bible from Latin into Middle English, making it accessible to the common people of England. Prior to this translation, the Bible was predominantly available in Latin, which only the clergy and educated elite could understand.

The Wycliffe Bible played a crucial role in the history of the English language and religious reform. It allowed individuals to study and interpret the Scriptures for themselves, leading to a greater understanding of Christian teachings and challenging the authority of the Catholic Church.

Although the Wycliffe Bible was a significant achievement, it faced opposition from the Church due to its challenging of traditional authority. The Church declared it heretical and prohibited its translation or possession without permission.

Despite the Church's attempts to suppress it, the Wycliffe Bible continued to circulate and influence subsequent translations. It laid the foundation for future English translations, such as the Tyndale Bible and the King James Version.

The Wycliffe Bible was handwritten, as the printing press had not yet been invented. Each copy had to be painstakingly transcribed, making it a rare and valuable piece of literature. Only around 250 manuscripts of the Wycliffe Bible are known to exist today.

In conclusion, the first complete English translation of the Bible, also known as the Wycliffe Bible, was completed in 1382 by John Wycliffe. This translation revolutionized access to the Scriptures, allowing the common people to engage with the Word of God in their own language. Its impact on the English language and religious reform cannot be overstated.

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