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2 min read 22-02-2025

The Wicked Bible: A Typo That Made History

The "Wicked Bible," also known as the "Adulterous Bible," isn't wicked in the sense of promoting evil. Its infamy stems from a single, scandalous typographical error: a missing "not" in the Seventh Commandment. This seemingly small mistake made this 17th-century Bible a highly sought-after collector's item and a fascinating piece of printing history.

The Infamous Typo and its Impact

The error occurs in Exodus 20:14, where the commandment reads, "Thou shalt commit adultery," instead of the correct "Thou shalt not commit adultery." This seemingly minor omission caused a significant uproar upon its discovery. While unintentional, the mistake was considered blasphemous by many at the time. The printer, Robert Barker, and his partner, Martin Lucas, faced severe consequences for their oversight.

Consequences for the Printers

The King James Bible was a heavily regulated text. Any deviation was a serious offense. Barker and Lucas were fined heavily and their printing license was revoked. Their error became a symbol of the dangers of carelessness in religious publishing. The remaining copies of the Wicked Bible were recalled and destroyed—though a few miraculously survived.

Why the Wicked Bible Remains Relevant Today

The Wicked Bible serves as a compelling illustration of several key points:

The Power of the Printed Word: The error highlights the profound impact of the printed word, especially in a deeply religious society. A single misplaced word could cause widespread scandal and significant legal repercussions.
Human Error in Production: The story reminds us that even meticulous processes, like printing sacred texts, are susceptible to human error. The tale is a humbling reminder of our fallibility.
The Value of Rarity: The scarcity of surviving copies has elevated the Wicked Bible's value considerably. Intact examples are highly sought after by collectors and museums.
A Lesson in Proofreading: The incident remains a stark cautionary tale for publishers, editors, and proofreaders everywhere, emphasizing the critical importance of meticulous attention to detail.

Rarity and Value

Today, complete copies of the Wicked Bible are incredibly rare. Their value is substantial, making them highly sought-after artifacts. The few surviving examples are housed in prestigious collections and libraries worldwide, serving as a testament to the enduring fascination with this historical printing error.

Beyond the Typo: The Significance of the King James Bible

It's important to understand the context surrounding the Wicked Bible. The King James Bible itself holds immense cultural and historical significance. It's a cornerstone of English literature, influencing language, culture, and countless works of art. The Wicked Bible, in its flawed form, remains intricately linked to this legacy.

Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy

The Wicked Bible, despite (or perhaps because of) its infamous typo, remains a significant piece of history. It teaches us about the power of the printed word, the impact of human error, the value of rarity, and the enduring fascination with historical anomalies. It's a story that continues to resonate centuries later.