SOME LINGUISTIC AND STYLISTIC PROPERTIES OF THE KING JAMES BIBLE

Abstract

Investigations of biblical texts have always been the topic of heated discussion among theologians and linguists, as well as representatives of other scientific disciplines. Over the years, the biblical stories and testimonies have been persistently challenged by different scholars, with a particular emphasis on the language of the Bible. In this paper, we dwell upon the events preceding the emergence of the King James Version and the immense authority that the KJV gained both in the churches of England and among the common people of the British Isles. As this translation of the Bible was authorised by King James, it is often referred to as the Authorised Version, and has become the Official Bible of England. Many people still believe that the KJV is The Bible, since according to them, its creation was inspired by God himself. Hence it becomes essential to reveal the factors which contribute to the supremacy of its language and majesty of style.