The King James Version (KJV) of the Bible was translated between 1604-1611. Since then, the meanings of many English words have changed or shifted over time. Examining words that have changed meanings can help modern readers better understand the intended meaning of various biblical passages.
Here are some examples of English words that have changed in meaning since the translation of the KJV:
1. Let
In today’s English, the word “let” means “to allow.” For example, “Let me help you with that.” In the KJV, however, “let” often meant the opposite – “to prevent or hinder.” An example is Mark 13:6 – “For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.” The archaic meaning implies that these false Christs will try to hinder and prevent people from believing in the true Christ.
2. By and by
“By and by” in modern English means “eventually.” But in the KJV, it had the sense of “immediately.” Mark 6:25 states: “And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and asked, saying, I will that thou give me by and by in a charger the head of John the Baptist.” Based on the context, it seems Herodias wanted John the Baptist’s head right away.
3. Quick
“Quick” today means fast. But in Early Modern English, it had the sense of “living” or “alive.” This is seen in verses like Acts 10:42 which refers to Christ judging “the quick and the dead.” Here, “quick” means those who are alive, in contrast to the dead.
4. Meat
Today, “meat” refers specifically to animal flesh eaten as food. In the KJV, “meat” could refer to food in general. For example, Genesis 24:33 states that when Abraham’s servant arrived, “there was set meat before him to eat.” This likely referred to a meal, not just meat.
5. Corn
In American English, “corn” refers to maize. However, in the KJV, “corn” could refer to grain in general, including wheat. Deuteronomy 23:25 states that when you enter your neighbor’s standing grain, you may pluck “ears with thine hand; but thou shalt not move a sickle unto thy neighbour’s standing corn.”
6. Lust
Today, “lust” has a strongly sexual connotation. But in Early Modern English, “lust” meant simply “strong desire.” So in the KJV, “lust” is sometimes used in non-sexual contexts. An example is 1 Thessalonians 2:17 where Paul states his “great desire” (i.e. “lust”) to see the Thessalonians.
7. Bowels
In modern English, “bowels” refers literally to intestines or internal organs. But in the KJV, it was often used figuratively to mean “compassion” or “mercy” as the emotions were felt to come from that internal region. For example, 1 John 3:17 states that if we shut up our “bowels of compassion” from a brother in need, the love of God does not abide in us.
8. Peculiar
Calling something “peculiar” today can mean it is strange or odd. But in the KJV, “peculiar” meant “belonging specifically to.” So God refers to Israel as his “peculiar people” in Titus 2:14, meaning they belong specifically to him.
9. Prevent
“Prevent” currently means to stop or hinder something from happening. But in Early Modern English, it meant “to go before” or “precede.” In 1 Thessalonians 4:15, Paul speaks of those who are alive at Christ’s coming not “preventing” (i.e. preceding) those who have died.
10. Charity
In modern English, “charity” refers specifically to benevolent giving. But in the KJV, it was often used to translate the Greek word “agape” meaning God’s divine love for humanity. So 1 Corinthians 13, known as the “love chapter,” repeatedly uses “charity” where modern English would use simply “love.”
11. Take no thought
This phrase in the KJV might be disturbing to modern readers, making it seem as if Jesus promoted recklessness. However, “take no thought” meant “do not be anxious.” Jesus was telling his listeners not to worry excessively in passages like Matthew 6:25.
12. Comprehend
“Comprehend” today means to understand something. In the KJV, it meant “to seize or take possession of.” This is seen in Philippians 3:12 where Paul speaks of “apprehending” or “taking hold” of that for which Christ took hold of him.
13. Conversation
“Conversation” in modern English refers to talking. But in the KJV, it could mean one’s conduct and behavior in general. Passages like Philippians 1:27 tell believers to have a manner of life (i.e. conversation) worthy of the gospel.
14. Damnation
Today, “damnation” refers exclusively to eternal punishment or condemnation. But in Early Modern English, it had a broader meaning of judgement in general. Romans 13:2, for example, refers to receiving “damnation” or judgement from authorities when disobeying laws.
15. Determine
Currently, “determine” means to decisively settle an issue. But in the KJV, it could mean simply to resolve to do something without finality. Acts 20:16 uses it this way in reference to Paul determining or deciding to sail past Ephesus rather than meaning he made a final determination never to visit again.
16. Bishop
“Bishop” today refers to a high-ranking clergy position. But in Early Modern English, it was sometimes synonymous with “elder” or “pastor.” Acts 20:28 uses “bishop” in this general sense of one charged to spiritually oversee believers.
17. Garment
“Garment” in contemporary English refers specifically to an article of clothing. But in the KJV, “garment” could refer to more general coverings. Matthew 9:20 uses it this way in describing the woman who touched the hem of Jesus’ “garment,” meaning the outer covering or cloak He wore.
18. Glass
When modern readers see the word “glass” they likely picture a transparent window or drinking container. But in the KJV, “glass” could refer to a mirror. 1 Corinthians 13:12 says we now see through a “glass” darkly, meaning our human vision is limited and unclear like looking in a poor quality mirror.
19. Winefat
The compound term “winefat” appears multiple times in the KJV Old Testament, but is completely unfamiliar to most contemporary readers. In Early Modern English, a “winefat” referred to a winepress – the vat into which grape juice would flow during crushing.
20. Matrix
Today, “matrix” brings to mind science fiction films starring Keanu Reeves. However, it had a different meaning in 1611 when the KJV was translated. The literal meaning is “womb” and Exodus 13:12 uses it this way, referring to the “matrix” or womb of donkeys and other animals.
There are many other examples of English words that have shifted meaning since 1611. Paying attention to how word meanings have changed over time allows readers to better grasp the intent behind 17th century KJV phrasing. Word study is just one tool that can aid contemporary people in understanding and applying this historic Bible translation.
