A Bible excerpt is included in a Chinese language textbook for seventh-graders in Beijing. [File photo]

"God created the Universe," a translated version of a Bible excerpt in Genesis, has been included in the Chinese language textbook for seventh-graders in the country's capital city, reported Beijing Youth Daily.

The textbook, which has sparked controversy since the news came out recently, was actually published 10 years ago and included other content from ancient Chinese myths and legends.

"The inclusion of a Bible story in this edition of the Chinese textbook is to help expand the students' horizon," explained a staff member from the Beijing Educations Scientific Research Institute, the regulator of textbooks used in the city.

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