1796 Five Volume Challoner Douay Bible Printed in Edinburgh

The Holy Bible translated from the Latin Vulgate: … And first published by the English College at Douay, Anno 1609. Newly revised and corrected, according to the Clementin edition of the scriptures. [With] The New Testament…

Description

5 vols. Text in two column Roman with notes at foot. “M.E. Robertson Dec 1858” inked to front pastedown in first two volumes with his name in upper margin of title pages in subsequent volumes. Bound in contemporary gilt-paneled tree calf with matching red morocco labels. Spines with floral gilt devices to compartments.

Pagination

[4],507,[3] (Gen-Ruth); [2],492,[2] (1Sam-Esther); [2],484,[2] (Job-Isaiah); [2],511,[3] (Jer-2Macc); [2],532,[2] pp. (NT).

Condition

Joints a bit worn but holding firm; Spines to volumes 2,3,4 slightly chipped with volume 4 cracked. An attractive set with clean and crisp pages.   

Note

Bishop Richard Challoner revised the Douay-Rheims Bible (1749–1752) to modernize its archaic language and improve readability. The original, based on the Latin Vulgate, was dense and difficult for contemporary readers. Challoner simplified phrasing, refined grammar, and brought the text closer to the style of the King James Bible while maintaining Catholic doctrine. His revision was so extensive that it largely replaced the original Douay-Rheims. It became the standard English Catholic Bible for centuries and remains influential, often used in traditional Catholic circles and referenced in later translations. His work ensured greater accessibility for English-speaking Catholics. This edition was “sold chiefly in England and Ireland.”

References

Herbert 1408; Herbert 1422.