Corpus Christi College, Oxford

John Rainolds, president of Corpus Christi College, provided a room (see windows above arch) in his residence where he and his fellow translators worked on Isaiah through Malachi.

Photo by Kenneth Mays, art treatment by Margaret Diane Hayden

The unique skills possessed by those who translated the King James Bible were at their apex during this time. The translators were all learned biblical scholars and linguists. It would be difficult today to gather 50 scholars with the knowledge of ancient languages possessed by these men.

Lancelot Andrewes was typical of those selected. He had command of 15 languages. Considered one of the most learned men in England, he was also a spiritual leader. He was royal chaplain to Queen Elizabeth and to King James. His sermons left listeners wanting more. In fact, King James slept with Andrewes's sermons under his pillow.

church in Ely, England

Ely, England, where Lancelot Andrewes served as bishop.

Photo by Kenneth Mays

Westminster Abbey