Gustav Vasa Bible

religious canon

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June 29, 2026

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The Gustav Vasa Bible, published in 1541, was the first complete Bible translation in any Scandinavian language. Commissioned by King Gustav Vasa, it marked a pivotal moment in Swedish history, establishing a national Lutheran Church and inaugurating modern Swedish literature. This translation was based on earlier Swedish versions and Luther's work. The Bible's publication significantly influenced subsequent Swedish poets and provided a foundation for the language. The Reformation in Sweden, supported by Gustav Vasa, led to the confiscation of church property and the establishment of Lutheranism as the dominant religion.123

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biblical literature
Scandinavian versions
…in any Scandinavian country—was the Gustav Vasa Bible (Uppsala, 1541), named for the Swedish king under whose reign it was printed. It utilized earlier Swedish translations as well as Luther’s. A corrected version (the Gustavus Adolphus Bible, named for the reigning Swedish king) was issued in 1618 and another, with…
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…in any Scandinavian country—was the Gustav Vasa Bible (Uppsala, 1541), named for the Swedish king under whose reign it was printed. It utilized earlier Swedish translations as well as Luther’s. A corrected version (the Gustavus Adolphus Bible, named for the reigning Swedish king) was issued in 1618 and another, with…
Read More