In the King James Version of the Old Testament, the phrase in the which is used in Genesis 1:29, 42:38, 19:29, 45:6 and Numbers 6:5. It is also used in the New Testament: Luke 19:30, 23:29, John 4:53, 5:28, Acts 17:31, 26:16, Colossians 3:7, and Peter 3:10. For example:
- If mischief befall him by the way in the which ye go, then shall ye bring down my gray hairs with sorrow to the grave. (Gen. 42:38 KJV)
- Go ye into the village over against you; in the which at your entering ye shall find a colt tied, whereon yet never man sat: loose him, and bring him hither. (Luke 19:30 KJV)
The phrase in the which appears to be an archaic use of English that is no longer acceptable grammar. During what time period would this usage have been acceptable grammar?