Myles Coverdale, English bishop and translator (b. 1488)
Myles Coverdale: A Pivotal Figure in the English Reformation and Bible Translation
Myles Coverdale (also widely known by the spelling Miles Coverdale), born in 1488 and passing away on January 20, 1569, was a towering figure in the English Reformation. Primarily remembered as an influential Bible translator and a compelling preacher, his significant, though brief, tenure as Bishop of Exeter from 1551 to 1553 further cemented his role in shaping the religious landscape of 16th-century England.
The Pioneering Translator of the English Bible
Coverdale's most enduring legacy is undoubtedly his groundbreaking work in making the Holy Scriptures accessible to the common English speaker. In 1535, he achieved a monumental feat: the production of the first complete printed translation of the Bible into English. This was a critical moment for the burgeoning English Reformation, as it followed William Tyndale's earlier, incomplete efforts and preceded the widespread availability of authorized versions.
- Bridging the Gap: While Tyndale had translated the New Testament and parts of the Old Testament directly from Hebrew and Greek, Coverdale, working largely from Latin and German versions (including Martin Luther's German Bible and the Latin Vulgate), successfully brought together all the books of the Bible into a single volume. His work thus completed what Tyndale had started, making the entire canon available in the vernacular for the first time.
- Language and Liturgy: Coverdale's translation had a profound impact on the English language itself, influencing subsequent versions like the King James Bible. Its poetic and readable prose made it popular for private devotion and public worship, significantly contributing to the establishment of English as a liturgical language.
- The Great Bible: His expertise was further recognized when he played a crucial role in compiling and editing the "Great Bible" of 1539, which was the first authorized English Bible commissioned by King Henry VIII for use in churches throughout England. This version, often referred to as "Cromwell's Bible," prominently featured Coverdale's translation work and served as the standard English Bible for several years.
A Paradigm of Reformation Theology
Myles Coverdale's personal theological journey offers a fascinating lens through which to understand the complex evolution of the English Reformation from the 1530s to the 1550s. Initially educated as an Augustinian friar at Cambridge, he embraced reformist ideas early on, aligning himself with figures seeking to purify the church from within.
- From Reformer to Bishop: His appointment as Bishop of Exeter under King Edward VI showcased his elevated standing within the Protestant establishment. However, his episcopal career was cut short by the accession of Mary I, a devout Catholic, which led to his exile to the Continent.
- A Developing Theology: During his exile, particularly in Geneva, Coverdale became increasingly influenced by the robust theological framework of John Calvin. By the time of his death in 1569, he had transitioned into what is often described as an "early Puritan." This meant he advocated for further purification of the Church of England, holding stricter views on worship and doctrine that resonated with Calvinist principles.
- Augustinian Roots: Despite his embrace of Calvinism, Coverdale maintained a deep respect for the teachings of Saint Augustine of Hippo, a foundational Church Father whose emphasis on divine grace and human sinfulness provided a theological bedrock for many reformers, including Calvin himself. This blend of influences highlights the nuanced and often evolving theological positions held by leading figures of the English Reformation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Myles Coverdale
- Why is Myles Coverdale considered so important in English history?
- Coverdale is paramount for producing the first complete printed English Bible in 1535, a monumental achievement that significantly advanced the English Reformation by making the scriptures accessible to the common populace. His work laid the groundwork for future English Bible translations, including the influential King James Version.
- What was Coverdale's role in the Great Bible?
- He was instrumental in compiling and editing the Great Bible of 1539, which was the first authorized English Bible commissioned by King Henry VIII for widespread use in English churches. His own translations formed a significant part of this authorized version.
- How did Coverdale's theological views evolve?
- Beginning as an Augustinian friar and early English reformer, Coverdale's theology progressed to embrace more Calvinist principles, particularly during his exile. By the end of his life, he was considered an early Puritan, though he consistently drew upon and respected the foundational teachings of Augustine.
- Was Coverdale the first to translate the Bible into English?
- No, earlier efforts include John Wycliffe's manuscript translations (late 14th century) and William Tyndale's printed New Testament and parts of the Old Testament (early 16th century). However, Coverdale's 1535 Bible was the first *complete* printed English translation of the entire Bible.