Pierre Robert Olivétan

Pierre Robert Olivétan, born around fifteen hundred six, was a prominent theologian and translator, renowned for his groundbreaking work in biblical translation. As a Waldensian by faith, he dedicated his life to making the scriptures accessible to the French-speaking populace, marking a significant shift in religious literature.

Olivétan is celebrated as the first individual to translate the Bible into French directly from Hebrew and Greek texts, rather than relying on the Latin Vulgate. His translation, often referred to as the Olivetan Bible, was published in fifteen thirty-five under the title La Bible Qui est toute la Saincte scripture in Neuchâtel. This monumental work is recognized as the first French Protestant Bible, laying the foundation for future translations.

His efforts were greatly influenced by his mentor, Jacques Lefèvre d'Etaples, and he was closely related to John Calvin, who contributed a Latin preface to the translation. Olivétan's work not only reflects his scholarly dedication but also his commitment to the Protestant Reformation, making a lasting impact on the religious landscape of France.