William Tyndale

Date of Birth: c. 1494

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: October 6, 1536

Biography

William Tyndale was an English scholar and clergyman best known for his pioneering translation of the Bible into English. Born in Gloucestershire around 1494, Tyndale was educated at Magdalen Hall, Oxford, and later at the University of Cambridge. His passion for religious reform and making the scriptures accessible to the common people led him to translate the Bible into English, a task that would ultimately cost him his life. Tyndale’s translation was the first to draw directly from Hebrew and Greek texts, making it a significant departure from the Latin Vulgate. His work laid the foundation for subsequent English translations, including the King James Version. Tyndale was executed for heresy in 1536, but his legacy lives on through his substantial contributions to the English language and Christian theology.

5 Interesting Facts about William Tyndale

1. Tyndale’s translation of the New Testament was the first to be printed in English.

2. He coined several English phrases that are still in use today, such as “let there be light” and “the powers that be.”

3. Tyndale’s work greatly influenced the King James Version of the Bible, with an estimated 83% of the New Testament and 76% of the Old Testament in the KJV being derived from Tyndale’s translations.

4. He was fluent in eight languages: English, French, Greek, Hebrew, German, Latin, Italian, and Spanish.

5. Tyndale’s last words were reportedly, “Lord, open the King of England’s eyes.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from William Tyndale

1. “I call God to record against the day we shall appear before our Lord Jesus, that I never altered one syllable of God’s word against my conscience, nor would do this day, if all that is in earth, whether it be honor, pleasure, or riches, might be given me.”

2. “The Church is the one institution that exists for those outside it.”

3. “My part be not in Christ if mine heart be not to follow and live according as I teach.”

4. “If God spare my life, ere many years I will cause a boy that driveth the plough, shall know more of the scripture than thou dost.”

5. “I never altered one syllable of God’s word against my conscience, nor would do this day if all that is in the earth, whether it be honor, pleasure, or riches, might be given me.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

William Tyndale lived during a period when the concept of personal net worth as understood today was not applicable. His wealth was in his scholarly works and contributions to religious reform rather than material riches.