The King James Only movement is a Christian fundamentalist stance that believes the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible is the only inspired and inerrant translation of scripture. Its supporters reject modern translations, arguing that they are corrupted and less accurate. The spelling of "King James Only movement" can be represented phonetically as /kɪŋ dʒeɪmz ˈoʊnli ˈmuvmənt/, reflecting the correct placement and pronunciation of the stressed syllables and consonant sounds in the phrase.
The King James Only Movement refers to a religious ideology and movement that advocates the exclusive usage and acceptance of the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible as the only valid and authoritative translation. It asserts that the KJV, also known as the Authorized Version, is ordained by God and represents the only divinely-inspired and inerrant English translation of the Bible.
Adherents of the King James Only Movement commonly challenge the use and legitimacy of modern translations, arguing that they are flawed, inaccurate, or even heretical. They denounce newer versions as compromised by human error, theological biases, and scriptural omissions or alterations. Consequently, they view the KJV as the standard through which all other translations should be measured.
The King James Only Movement often promotes the belief that any changes or variations in Bible translations ultimately undermine the integrity and reliability of God's Word. Some advocates argue that newer translations dilute essential doctrines and compromise essential teachings, leading to spiritual confusion and straying away from the true faith.
This movement gained momentum in the late 20th century, primarily in fundamentalist and conservative Protestant circles. While it encompasses various factions and degrees of intensity, the central tenet remains an unwavering insistence on the exclusive use of the King James Version for personal study, teaching, and preaching.