History of the Russian Bible – From the Synodal Translation to Modern Times

The story of the Russian Bible began in the 19th century with the publication of the Russian Synodal Bible in 1876, which quickly became the standard translation for Russian-speaking Christians.

This version was a major milestone—the first widely accessible, standardized Bible in Russian. It was distributed in churches, monasteries, and homes, becoming the foundation for generations of Russian believers.

However, personal copies were rare. Bibles were expensive, and most people relied on hearing Scripture read aloud by priests during church services. For those who owned a Bible, it was a treasured family heirloom, carefully preserved and passed down through generations.

The 20th century brought dramatic changes. Following the Russian Revolution and the rise of the Soviet Union, religious life was heavily restricted. Churches were closed, Bible ownership was banned, and practicing Christianity became risky. During this period, access to the Russian Bible became limited, and the oral tradition of hearing Scripture remained vital for many believers.

Despite these challenges, the Russian Bible endured, preserving faith, culture, and the spiritual heritage of Russian Christians through centuries of hardship.