William Tyndale Quotes

A collection of quotes by William Tyndale.

William Tyndale was an English scholar and theologian who played a vital role in the Protestant Reformation. Born around 1494, the exact details of his early life are not well-documented. Tyndale is best known for his pioneering translation of the Bible into English, which significantly contributed to the spread of the Protestant movement.

Tyndale began his studies at the University of Oxford before moving to Cambridge, where he became proficient in several ancient languages. His deep religious beliefs compelled him to translate the Bible into English so that ordinary people could read and understand it. However, his work directly challenged the authority of the Catholic Church, which controlled access to the Scriptures.

Facing persecution in England, Tyndale left for Germany in 1524, where he completed the New Testament translation with the help of the printing press. His translated Bible, published in 1526, became the first printed edition of the New Testament in English. The Church reacted vehemently, branding Tyndale a heretic and seeking to suppress his work. Despite the dangers, he continued his translation work, aiming to complete the Old Testament.

In 1535, Tyndale was captured by agents of the Catholic Church and put on trial for heresy. Found guilty, he was executed by strangulation and his body burned at the stake. His last words reportedly highlighted his unwavering commitment to making the Bible available in English, stating, "Lord, open the King of England's eyes."

Tyndale's translations greatly influenced subsequent English Bibles, including the King James Version. His dedication to spreading the Word of God in English left an indelible mark on the religious landscape and the English language itself.

I had perceived by experience, how that it was impossible to

I had perceived by experience, how that it was impossible to stablish the lay people in any truth, except the scripture were plainly laid before their eyes in their mother tongue, that they might see the process, order, and meaning of the text.

William Tyndale

Experience Truth People Order

My overcoat is worn out my shirts also are worn out. And I a

My overcoat is worn out my shirts also are worn out. And I ask to be allowed to have a lamp in the evening it is indeed wearisome sitting alone in the dark.

William Tyndale

Alone

To see how Christ was prophesied and described therein, cons

To see how Christ was prophesied and described therein, consider and mark, how that the kid or lamb must be with out spot or blemish and so was Christ only of all mankind, in the sight of God and of his law.

William Tyndale

Easter

I perceived how that it was impossible to establish the lay

I perceived how that it was impossible to establish the lay people in any truth except the Scripture were plainly laid before their eyes in their mother tongue.

William Tyndale

Truth