LA BIBLE DES ESCLAVES

The Slave Bible: A Distorted Scripture

The Unique Nature of the Slave Bible

• The Slave Bible, displayed at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, is notable not for its content but for what has been omitted. Approximately 90% of the Old Testament and about 50% of the New Testament have been removed.

• In contrast to a standard King James Version containing 1,189 chapters, the Slave Bible only includes 232 chapters. Key narratives that could inspire rebellion are notably absent.

Omitted Texts and Their Implications

• Significant texts such as the Book of Exodus, which details Moses demanding Pharaoh to "let my people go," are missing. Additionally, Galatians' message that "there is neither slave nor free" is excluded.

• Verses promoting obedience to masters, like Ephesians 6:5, remain in this edited version. This selective editing aimed to instill compliance among enslaved Africans.

The Purpose Behind Selective Editing

• The Slave Bible was crafted to suppress rebellion by using religion as a tool to justify slavery. It represents a dark chapter in how scripture was manipulated for control.

• The exhibition aims to convey a lasting message against repeating such historical injustices and emphasizes understanding both American history and Afro-American roots.