description Wycliffe Bible Overview
The Wycliffite Bible is the name given to related Middle English translations of the Latin Vulgate produced in the late fourteenth century. Traditionally associated with the reformer John Wycliffe, the translations were probably created by several scholars connected with his intellectual and religious movement rather than by Wycliffe alone. Surviving in numerous handwritten copies, they made the complete biblical text available in English before printing was introduced to England and became linked with Lollard belief and controversy.
help Wycliffe Bible FAQ
Did John Wycliffe personally translate the entire Wycliffite Bible?
The translations are traditionally associated with John Wycliffe, but scholars generally attribute the work to several people connected with his reforming circle. Nicholas of Hereford is one scholar often linked to part of the earlier translation.
Was the Wycliffite Bible translated from Hebrew and Greek?
No, it was translated into Middle English from the Latin Vulgate rather than directly from the Hebrew and Greek originals. That distinguishes it from later English Bibles shaped by Renaissance study of biblical source languages.
Why are there two main versions of the Wycliffite Bible?
The earlier version follows Latin wording and syntax closely, which can make its English difficult to read. A later revision produced more natural Middle English while retaining the Vulgate as its source.
Why did owning a Wycliffite Bible become controversial?
Church authorities associated vernacular scripture with Lollardy, the reform movement influenced by Wycliffe. The 1408 Constitutions of Oxford restricted unauthorized English biblical translations, although many Wycliffite manuscripts still survive.
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