James I, the Divine Right of Kings and the King James Bible
Study note
James I, who was also James VI of Scotland, and his son Charles I both believed in an idea known as the 'Divine Right of Kings'. This was the belief that the monarch was chosen by God to rule and therefore did not need to answer to Parliament. It meant that the king need not seek Parliament's approval, rather than Parliament having the right to remove the king or nobles choosing who should rule.
James I is also remembered for religion in another way. He ordered a new English translation of the Bible, which became known as the King James Bible after him. It was James I who commissioned this famous translation, not Henry VIII, Charles II or George I. Remember James I for two things: his belief in the Divine Right of Kings, and the King James Bible.
Memory tip: James I: 'Divine Right of Kings' + the King James Bible.
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Question 1 of 2
What was the 'Divine Right of Kings'?
Show all questions and answers for James I, the Divine Right of Kings and the King James Bible(2 questions with explanations)
James I, the Divine Right of Kings and the King James Bible: questions, answers and explanations
1. What was the 'Divine Right of Kings'?
- The right of Parliament to remove the king
- The belief that a king was appointed by God and need not answer to Parliament
- The right of nobles to choose the king
- The king's right to attend church
Correct answer: The belief that a king was appointed by God and need not answer to Parliament
The Divine Right of Kings held that the monarch was chosen by God, not accountable to Parliament.
2. Which king ordered the famous English Bible translation that bears his name?
- James I
- Henry VIII
- Charles II
- George I
Correct answer: James I
James I commissioned the King James Bible, an English translation.
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