Is it true that the King James Bible was published on May 2, 1611? — R.M., by telephone

The King James Bible was certainly published in 1611, but the exact date of its release remains unknown. Since 1557, all new books published in England had to be registered with the stationers' company of London, and the date of their registration became their date of publication.

The first edition of the King James Bible was not registered with the stationers' company, probably because it was considered a revision of the Bishops' Bible rather than a new work. Prior to 1557, some printers chose to mention the exact date when their Bibles had been officially authorized. The fourth edition of the so-called Great Bible, for instance, was authorized on May 6, 1541. It seems to be the only early English Bible published in May.

Puzzled by a Scripture passage? Submit your Bible-related questions to Dr. Liana Lupas at LLupas@AmericanBible.org or via U.S. mail. ABSRecord.com/bibleqa