Did Copernicus Defiantly Dismiss His Biblical Critics?

Nicolas Copernicus was a cautious man. He delayed publishing his heliocentric theory for decades, and his magnum opus 'De Revolutionibus Orbium Coelestium' was only published in 1543, the year of his death. His actual preface, dedicated to Pope Paul III, does address potential critics who might use Scripture against his theory, but in measured, diplomatic terms appropriate for addressing the Pope. The fiery version that circulates today -- with 'babblers' and 'I value them not, and scorn their unfounded judgment' -- transforms Copernicus from a careful church canon into a defiant rebel. Each translation and retelling over the centuries added slightly more force to his words, until the cautious diplomat became an icon of scientific rebellion. The real Copernicus was far more concerned about mathematical precision than fighting religious authorities.