Die Zürcher Bibel von 1531

By Christoph Sigrist

Book Description

This scholarly exploration delves into one of the most significant yet overlooked biblical translations of the Reformation era. While Martin Luther's German Bible often receives primary attention, Christoph Sigrist reveals the remarkable story of the Zurich Bible, completed five years earlier in 1529 under the guidance of reformer Huldrych Zwingli and fellow scholars.

The book examines how these Swiss reformers approached the sacred task of translating Scripture directly from Hebrew and Greek sources into German, creating their own distinctive interpretation for German-speaking communities. Sigrist pays particular attention to the magnificent 1531 illustrated folio edition published by Christoph Froschauer, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful printed works of its time.

With only three hand-colored copies surviving worldwide, including one treasured specimen from Grossmünster church that underwent careful restoration in 2010-2011, this Bible represents both artistic achievement and spiritual heritage. The author traces how the Froschauer Bible spread throughout Europe and North America, influencing countless believers across centuries.

Beyond historical analysis, Sigrist considers what this Reformation-era translation means for contemporary spiritual seekers. For readers interested in how sacred texts have shaped faith communities and continue to speak across time, this study offers valuable insights into the enduring power of Scripture to transform both individuals and societies through careful, devoted translation work.