Beauty Quote by Adam Nicolson
““The language of the King James Bible is the language of patriarchy, of an instructed order, of richness as a form of beauty, of authority as a form of good; the New English Bible is motivated by the opposite, an anxiety not to bore or intimidate. It is driven, in other words, by the desire to please and, in that way, is a form of language which has died.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The King James Bible: A Critical Guide, 2015
The quote contrasts the traditional, authoritative style of the King James Bible with the modern, user‑friendly tone of the New English Bible, suggesting the latter lacks the gravitas of the former.
In simple terms: Traditional language feels powerful; modern language feels safe.
Key Takeaway
Value depth over ease.
Themes
tradition
authority
language
culture
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
analytical
literary
When to use this quote
- academic analysis
- theology
- public speaking
- writing
- teaching
Key Concepts
literary style
power dynamics
accessibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape perceived authority?
- Can accessibility coexist with depth?
A Different Perspective
Modern simplicity may sacrifice richness and authority.
![“t's [King James Bible] subject is majesty, not tyranny, and it's political purpose was unifying and enfolding, to elide the kingliness of God with the godliness of kings, to make royal power and divine glory into one invisible garment which could be wrapped around the nation as a whole.” quote by Adam Nicolson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6dd/adam-nicolson-40537_bible_t-s-king-james-bible-subject-is-majesty_1574720.jpg)
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