Understanding the Lord's Prayer in the King James Version
Historical Background of the King James Bible
The King James Version, also known as the Authorized Version, was first published in 1611 under the commission of King James I of England. Renowned for its majestic prose and poetic cadence, the KJV has significantly influenced English-speaking Christianity and literature. Its translation of sacred texts, including the Lord's Prayer, has become a staple for countless generations.
The Origin of the Lord's Prayer
The Lord's Prayer appears in two primary passages in the New Testament: Matthew 6:9–13 and Luke 11:2–4. The version in Matthew is often regarded as the more comprehensive and is the one most commonly recited in Christian worship. Jesus delivered this prayer during the Sermon on the Mount, teaching his disciples how to pray.
The Text of the Lord's Prayer in the King James Bible
The prayer as it appears in Matthew 6:9–13 (KJV) is as follows:
Our Father which art in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, an
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the 'Lord's Prayer' in the King James Bible?
The 'Lord's Prayer' in the King James Bible is considered a foundational Christian prayer that Jesus taught his disciples, emphasizing themes of worship, forgiveness, and reliance on God's kingdom. It is widely recited in Christian liturgy and personal devotion.
How does the wording of the 'Lord's Prayer' in the King James Version differ from other Bible translations?
The King James Version uses Early Modern English language, with phrases like 'Our Father which art in heaven' and 'Give us this day our daily bread,' which differ from more contemporary translations that may use modern language for clarity and accessibility.
Why is the 'Lord's Prayer' in the King James Bible considered a model for Christian prayer?
It encapsulates key elements of Christian prayer, including praise, supplication, forgiveness, and dependence on God, making it a comprehensive template for personal and communal prayer practices.
When was the 'Lord's Prayer' first included in the King James Bible, and what was its historical context?
The 'Lord's Prayer' was included in the original 1611 publication of the King James Bible, during a period of religious reform and translation efforts aimed at making scripture accessible to English-speaking Christians.
Are there any notable differences in the 'Lord's Prayer' between the King James Version and other Christian traditions?
Yes, some Christian denominations use slightly different versions of the prayer; for example, the Catholic tradition includes 'and lead us not into temptation,' while some Protestant versions, including the King James, have variations like 'and lead us not into temptation' without the 'again' phrase. However, the core content remains similar.
