Well, the man who first translated the bible into English was burned at the stake, and they've been at it ever since. Must be all that adultery, murder and incest. But not to worry. It's back on the shelves.

Well, the man who first translated the bible into English was burned at the stake, and they've been at it ever since. Must be all that adultery, murder and incest. But not to worry. It's back on the shelves.

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This quote poignantly highlights the long-standing tension between the act of translating sacred texts and the societal or religious conflicts that have historically surrounded it. The historical reference to the man who first translated the Bible into English, presumably William Tyndale, underscores the peril faced by those daring to interpret and disseminate religious scriptures in a language accessible to the common people. His execution by burning at the stake exemplifies the extreme measures taken to suppress such efforts, rooted in fears of losing ecclesiastical and societal control. The mention that 'they've been at it ever since' humorously notes that despite the danger, translation and interpretation of religious texts have persisted, often sparking controversy. The ironic comment about 'adultery, murder and incest' alludes to the biblical figures—many of whom were embroiled in such sins—and perhaps suggests that the texts have been unfairly associated or misused to justify condemnation, judgment, or moral hypocrisy. Celebrating that the Bible is 'back on the shelves' hints at the eventual acceptance or normalization of scripture, yet also implies a critique of the ongoing disputes and conflicts that translations and interpretations can trigger. The quote emphasises the power of language to influence, challenge authority, and transform societies. It also reminds us that the dissemination of knowledge, especially when related to religion, often involves risk and opposition, but the resilience of those seeking truth and understanding ultimately prevails. In a broader context, it reflects on how sacred texts and their interpretations continue to impact societal morality and politics, inspiring both faith and controversy across generations.

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August 06, 2025

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