unfoldingWord_en_tn/en_tn_60-JAS.tsv

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2JASfrontintroexs30# Introduction to James<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of James<br><br>1. Greetings (1:1)<br>1. Testing and maturity (1:2-18)<br>1. Hearing and doing the Word of God (1:19-27)<br>1. True faith seen in works<br>- Word of God (1:19-27)<br>- Royal law of love (2:1-13)<br>- Works (2:14-26)<br>1. Difficulties in community<br>- Dangers of the tongue (3:1-12)<br>- Wisdom from above (3:13-18)<br>- Worldly desires (4:1-12)<br>1. Gods perspective on your decisions<br>- Boasting about tomorrow (4:13-17)<br>- Warning about riches (5:1-6)<br>- Suffering with patience (5:7-11)<br>1. Closing exhortations<br>- Oaths (5:12)<br>- Prayer and healing (5:13-18)<br>- Care for one another (5:19-20)<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of James?<br><br>The author identifies himself as James. This was probably James, the half-brother of Jesus. James was a leader in the early church and was part of the Jerusalem council. The Apostle Paul also called him a “pillar” of the church.<br><br>This is not the same man as the Apostle James. The Apostle James was killed before this letter was written.<br><br>### What is the Book of James about?<br><br>In this letter, James encouraged believers who were suffering. He told them know that God uses their suffering to help them become mature Christians. James also told them of the need for believers to do good deeds. He wrote much in this letter about how believers should live and treat one another. For example, he commanded them to treat one another fairly, to not fight with one another, and to use riches wisely.<br><br>James taught his readers by using many examples from nature such as in 1:6, 11 and 3:1-12. Also, many parts of this letter are similar to what Jesus wrote in the Sermon on the Mount (Mat 5-7).<br><br>### Who were the “twelve tribes in the dispersion”?<br><br>James said he was writing to the “twelve tribes in the dispersion” (1:1). Some scholars think that James was writing to Jewish Christians. Other scholars think that James was writing to all Christians in general. This letter is known as one of the “General Epistles” since it was not written to a specific church or individual.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “James.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “A Letter from James” or “The Letter James Wrote.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### Did James disagree with Paul about how a person is justified before God?<br><br>Paul taught in Romans that Christians are justified by faith and not by works. James seems to teach that Christians are justified by works. This can be confusing. But a better understanding of what Paul and James taught shows that they agree with one another. Both of them taught that a person needs faith in order to be justified. And they both taught that true faith will cause a person to do good works. Paul and James taught about these things in different ways because they had different audiences who needed to know different things about being justified. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/works]])<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### How should the translator signal transitions between topics in the Book of James?<br><br>The letter quickly changes topics. Sometimes James does not tell the readers that he is about to change topics. It is acceptable to allow the verses to appear disconnected from each other. It may make sense to set the passages apart by starting a new line or putting a space between topics.<br><br>### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of James?<br><br>* “Do you want to know, foolish man, that faith without works is useless?” (2:20). The ULT, UST, and modern versions read this way. Some older versions read, “Do you want to know, foolish man, that faith without works is dead?” If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.<br><br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
3JAS1intropz2q0# James 01 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>James formally introduces this letter in verse 1. Writers often began letters in this way in the ancient Near East.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Testing and temptation<br><br>These two words occur together in ([James 1:12-13](./12.md)). Both words speak of a person who is able to choose between doing something good and doing something evil. The difference between them is important. God is testing the person and wants him to do what is good. Satan is tempting the person and wants him to do what is evil.<br><br>### Crowns<br><br>The crown that a man who passes the test receives is a reward, something that people who do something especially good receive. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/reward]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br><br>James uses many metaphors in this chapter, and you will need to understand the material on the metaphor page before you can translate them well. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “To the twelve tribes in the dispersion”<br><br>It is not clear to whom James wrote this letter. He calls himself a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, so he was probably writing to Christians. But he calls his readers “the twelve tribes in the dispersion,” words which usually refer to Jews. It is possible that he is using the words as a metaphor for “all people whom God has chosen” or that he wrote the letter at a time when most Christians had grown up as Jews.
4JAS11ssc80General Information:The apostle James writes this letter to all the Christians. Many of them were Jews, and they lived in many different places.
5JAS11pkt2figs-explicitἸάκωβος, Θεοῦ καὶ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, δοῦλος1James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus ChristThe phrase “this letter is from” is implied. Alternate translation: “This letter is from James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
6JAS11l4i7figs-synecdocheταῖς δώδεκα φυλαῖς1to the twelve tribesPossible meanings are (1) this is a synecdoche for Jewish Christians, or (2) this is a metaphor for all Christians. Alternate translation: “to Gods faithful people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
7JAS11vza9figs-abstractnounsἐν τῇ διασπορᾷ1in the dispersionThe term “dispersion” normally referred to the Jews who were scattered in other countries, away from their homeland Israel. This abstract noun can be expressed with a phrase with the verb “scattered.” Alternate translation: “who are scattered around the world” or “who live in other countries” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
8JAS11huk9χαίρειν1Greetings!a basic greeting, such as “Hello!” or “Good day!”
9JAS12knw6πᾶσαν χαρὰν ἡγήσασθε, ἀδελφοί μου, ὅταν πειρασμοῖς περιπέσητε ποικίλοις1Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you experience various troubles“My fellow believers, think of all your different kinds of troubles as something to celebrate”
10JAS13xud2figs-abstractnounsτὸ δοκίμιον ὑμῶν τῆς πίστεως κατεργάζεται ὑπομονήν1the testing of your faith produces enduranceThe expressions “the testing,” “your faith,” and “endurance” are nouns that stand for actions. God does the testing, that is, he finds out how much the believers trust and obey him. Believers (“you”) believe in him and endure suffering. Alternate translation: “when you suffer hardships, God is finding out how much you trust him. As a result, you will become able to endure even more hardships” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
11JAS14j2p4figs-personificationἡ…ὑπομονὴ ἔργον τέλειον ἐχέτω1Let endurance complete its workHere endurance is spoken of as if it were a person at work. Alternate translation: “Learn to endure any hardship” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
12JAS14unh4τέλειοι1fully developedable to trust in Christ and obey him in all circumstances
13JAS14l7efἐν μηδενὶ λειπόμενοι1not lacking anythingThis can be stated in the positive. Alternate translation: “having all that you need” or “being all that you need to be”
14JAS15du7zαἰτείτω παρὰ τοῦ διδόντος, Θεοῦ1ask for it from God, the one who gives“ask God for it. He is the one who gives”
15JAS15q2dfτοῦ διδόντος, Θεοῦ, πᾶσιν ἁπλῶς, καὶ μὴ ὀνειδίζοντος1gives generously and without rebuke to all“gives generously and does not rebuke any”
16JAS15xu31δοθήσεται αὐτῷ1he will give it“God will do it” or “God will answer your prayer”
17JAS16y2mkfigs-doublenegativesἐν πίστει, μηδὲν διακρινόμενος1in faith, doubting nothingThis can be stated in the positive. Alternate translation: “with complete certainty that God will answer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
18JAS16p12lfigs-simileὁ γὰρ διακρινόμενος ἔοικεν κλύδωνι θαλάσσης, ἀνεμιζομένῳ καὶ ῥιπιζομένῳ.1For anyone who doubts is like a wave in the sea that is driven by the wind and tossed aroundAnyone who doubts that God will help him is said to be like the water in the ocean or in a large lake, which keeps moving in different directions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
19JAS18b5t6figs-metaphorδίψυχος1is double-mindedThe word “double-minded” refers to a persons thoughts when he is unable to make a decision. Alternate translation: “cannot decide if he will follow Jesus or not” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
20JAS18k89pfigs-metaphorἀκατάστατος ἐν πάσαις ταῖς ὁδοῖς αὐτοῦ1unstable in all his waysHere this person is spoken of as if he cannot stay on one path but instead goes from one to another. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
21JAS19gc9bὁ ἀδελφὸς ὁ ταπεινὸς1the poor brother“the believer who does not have much money”
22JAS19yxs5figs-metaphorκαυχάσθω…ἐν τῷ ὕψει αὐτοῦ1boast of his high positionSomeone whom God has honored is spoken of as if he were standing in a high place. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
23JAS110uzk7figs-ellipsisὁ δὲ πλούσιος, ἐν τῇ ταπεινώσει αὐτοῦ1but the rich man of his low positionThe words “let boast” are understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “but let the rich man boast of his low position” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
24JAS110w4taὁ δὲ πλούσιος1but the rich man“but the man who has a lot of money.” Possible meanings are (1) the rich man is a believer or (2) the rich man is an unbeliever.
25JAS110ulk4figs-ellipsisἐν τῇ ταπεινώσει αὐτοῦ1of his low positionA rich believer should be happy if God causes him to suffer. Alternate translation: “should be happy that God has given him difficulties” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
26JAS110nug7figs-simileὡς ἄνθος χόρτου παρελεύσεται1he will pass away as a wild flower in the grassRich people are spoken of as being similar to wild flowers, which are alive for only a short time. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
27JAS111gv7vfigs-metaphorἡ εὐπρέπεια τοῦ προσώπου αὐτοῦ ἀπώλετο1its beauty perishesA flower no longer being beautiful is spoken of as if its beauty dies. Alternate translation: “and it is no longer beautiful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
28JAS111ng26figs-simileὁ πλούσιος ἐν ταῖς πορείαις αὐτοῦ μαρανθήσεται1the rich man will fade away in the middle of his journeyHere the flower simile is probably continued. As flowers do not die suddenly but instead fade away over a short time, so also the rich people may not die suddenly but instead take a little time to disappear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
29JAS111sdi2figs-metaphorἐν ταῖς πορείαις αὐτοῦ1in the middle of his journeyA rich mans activities in daily life are spoken of as if they are a journey that he is making. This metaphor implies that he is giving no thought to his coming death, and that it will takes him by surprise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
30JAS112vcu40Connecting Statement:James reminds the believers who have fled that God does not cause temptation; he tells them how to avoid temptation.
31JAS112m13dμακάριος ἀνὴρ ὃς ὑπομένει πειρασμόν1Blessed is the man who endures testing“The man who endures testing is fortunate” or “The man who endures testing is well off”
32JAS112vr4aὑπομένει πειρασμόν1endures testingremains faithful to God during hardships
33JAS112vta6δόκιμος1passed the testhe has been approved by God
34JAS112k3hhfigs-metaphorλήμψεται τὸν στέφανον τῆς ζωῆς1receive the crown of lifeEternal life is spoken of as if it were a wreath of leaves placed on the head of a victorious athlete. Alternate translation: “receive eternal life as his reward” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
35JAS112hx28figs-activepassiveἐπηγγείλατο τοῖς ἀγαπῶσιν αὐτόν1has been promised to those who love GodThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God has promised to those who love him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
36JAS113a77aπειραζόμενος1when he is tempted“when he desires to do something evil”
37JAS113lh7zfigs-activepassiveἀπὸ Θεοῦ πειράζομαι1I am tempted by GodThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God is trying to make me do something evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
38JAS113p5cpfigs-activepassiveὁ…Θεὸς ἀπείραστός ἐστιν κακῶν1God is not tempted by evilThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “No one can make God desire to do evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
39JAS113zb13πειράζει δὲ αὐτὸς οὐδένα1nor does he himself tempt anyone“and God himself does not try to persuade anyone do evil”
40JAS114nj9mfigs-personificationἕκαστος…πειράζεται ὑπὸ τῆς ἰδίας ἐπιθυμίας1each person is tempted by his own desireA persons desire is spoken of as if it were someone else who was tempting him to sin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
41JAS114nle5figs-personificationἐξελκόμενος καὶ δελεαζόμενος1which drags him away and entices himEvil desire continues to be spoken of as if it were a person who could drag away someone else. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
42JAS114z4bdδελεαζόμενος1enticesattracts, persuades someone to do evil
43JAS115s4cdfigs-personificationεἶτα ἡ ἐπιθυμία συλλαβοῦσα τίκτει ἁμαρτίαν, ἡ δὲ ἁμαρτία ἀποτελεσθεῖσα, ἀποκύει θάνατον1Then after the desire conceives, it gives birth to sin, and after the sin is full grown, it gives birth to deathDesire continues to be spoken of as a person, this time clearly as a woman who becomes pregnant with a child. The child is identified as sin. Sin is another female baby that grows up, becomes pregnant, and gives birth to death. This chain of metaphors is a picture of someone who ends up dying both spiritually and physically because of his evil desires and his sin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
44JAS116v195μὴ πλανᾶσθε1Do not be deceived“Do not let anyone deceive you” or “Stop deceiving yourselves”
45JAS117t2nnfigs-doubletπᾶσα δόσις ἀγαθὴ, καὶ πᾶν δώρημα τέλειον1Every good gift and every perfect giftThese two phrases mean basically the same thing. James uses them to emphasize that anything good that a person has comes from God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
46JAS117n7d8figs-metaphorτοῦ Πατρὸς τῶν φώτων1the Father of lightsGod, the creator of all the lights in the sky (sun, moon, and stars), is said to be their “Father.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
47JAS117g5gefigs-simileπαρ’ ᾧ οὐκ ἔνι παραλλαγὴ ἢ τροπῆς ἀποσκίασμα.1With him there is no changing or shadow because of turningThis expression pictures God as an unchanging light, like the sun, moon, planets, and stars in the sky. This is in contrast to shadows here on earth that constantly change. Alternate translation: “God does not change. He is as constant as the sun, moon, and stars in the sky, rather than like shadows which appear and disappear on earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
48JAS118mj29figs-metaphorἀπεκύησεν ἡμᾶς1give us birthGod, who brought us eternal life, is spoken of as if he had given us birth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
49JAS118ykq9λόγῳ ἀληθείας1the word of truthPossible meanings are (1) “the message about the truth” or (2) “the true message.”
50JAS118qh2efigs-simileεἰς τὸ εἶναι ἡμᾶς ἀπαρχήν τινα1so that we would be a kind of firstfruitsJames is using the traditional Hebrew idea of firstfruits as a way to describe the value of the Christian believers to God. He implies that there will be many more believers in the future. Alternate translation: “so that we would be like an offering of firstfruits” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
51JAS119dt7iἴστε1You know thisPossible meanings are (1) “Know this” as a command, to pay attention to what I am about to write or (2) “You know this” as a statement, that I am about to remind you of something that you already know.
52JAS119p728figs-idiomἔστω…πᾶς ἄνθρωπος ταχὺς εἰς τὸ ἀκοῦσαι, βραδὺς εἰς τὸ λαλῆσαι1Let every man be quick to hear, slow to speakThese sayings are idioms that mean people should first listen intently, and then consider carefully what they say. Here “slow to speak” does not mean speaking slowly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
53JAS119ev3vβραδὺς εἰς ὀργήν1slow to anger“not get angry quickly”
54JAS120ej4pὀργὴ…ἀνδρὸς, δικαιοσύνην Θεοῦ οὐκ ἐργάζεται.1the anger of man does not work the righteousness of GodWhen a person is always angry, he cannot do Gods work, which is righteous.
55JAS121hit5figs-metaphorἀποθέμενοι πᾶσαν ῥυπαρίαν καὶ περισσείαν κακίας1take off all sinful filth and abundant amounts of evilSin and evil are spoken of here as if they were clothing that could be taken off. Alternate translation: “stop doing all filthy sins and stop doing abundant amounts of evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
56JAS121h226figs-doubletἀποθέμενοι πᾶσαν ῥυπαρίαν καὶ περισσείαν κακίας1take off all sinful filth and abundant amounts of evilHere the expressions “sinful filth” and “evil” share similar meanings. James uses them to emphasize how bad sin is. Alternate translation: “stop doing every kind of sinful behavior” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
57JAS121h8tyfigs-metaphorῥυπαρίαν1sinful filthHere “filth,” that is, dirt, stands for sin and evil. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
58JAS121a3u3ἐν πραΰτητι1In humility“Without pride” or “Without arrogance”
59JAS121i9w1figs-metaphorδέξασθε τὸν ἔμφυτον λόγον1receive the implanted wordThe expression “implant” means to place one thing inside of another. Here Gods word is spoken of as if it were a plant made to grow inside believers. Alternate translation: “obey the message God has spoken to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
60JAS121ekl3figs-explicitσῶσαι τὰς ψυχὰς ὑμῶν1save your soulsWhat a person is saved from can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “save you from Gods judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
61JAS121z73efigs-synecdocheτὰς ψυχὰς ὑμῶν1your soulsHere the word “souls” refers to persons.Alternate translation: “yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
62JAS122x14mγίνεσθε δὲ ποιηταὶ λόγου1Be doers of the word“Be people who follow Gods instructions”
63JAS122wvp4παραλογιζόμενοι ἑαυτούς1deceiving yourselves“fooling yourselves”
64JAS123ewn9ὅτι εἴ τις ἀκροατὴς λόγου ἐστὶν1For if anyone is a hearer of the word“For if anyone listens to the Gods message in the scriptures”
65JAS123r6ppfigs-ellipsisκαὶ οὐ ποιητής1but not a doerThe word “is” and “of the word” are understood from the previous phrase. The noun “doer” can also be expressed with the verbs “do” or “obey.” Alternate translation: “but is not a doer of the word” or “but does not obey the word” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
66JAS123pw5xfigs-simileοὗτος ἔοικεν ἀνδρὶ κατανοοῦντι τὸ πρόσωπον τῆς γενέσεως αὐτοῦ ἐν ἐσόπτρῳ1he is like a man who examines his natural face in a mirrorA person who hears Gods word is like someone who looks in the mirror. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
67JAS123shn9τὸ πρόσωπον τῆς γενέσεως αὐτοῦ1his natural faceThe word “natural” clarifies that James is using the ordinary meaning of the word “face.” Alternate translation: “his face”
68JAS124wu34figs-explicitκαὶ ἀπελήλυθεν, καὶ εὐθέως ἐπελάθετο ὁποῖος ἦν1then goes away and immediately forgets what he was likeIt is implied that though he may see that he needs to do something, such as wash his face or fix his hair, he walks away and forgets to do it. This what a person who does not obey Gods word is like. Alternate translation: “then goes away and immediately forgets to do what he saw he needed to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
69JAS125kvr7figs-simileὁ…παρακύψας εἰς νόμον τέλειον1the person who looks carefully into the perfect lawThis expression continues the image of the law as a mirror. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
70JAS125sf8kfigs-explicitνόμον τέλειον, τὸν τῆς ἐλευθερίας1the perfect law of freedomThe relationship between the law and freedom can be expressed clearly. Here “freedom” probably refers to freedom from sin. Alternate translation: “the perfect law that gives freedom” or “the perfect law that makes those who follow it free” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
71JAS125jku1figs-activepassiveοὗτος μακάριος ἐν τῇ ποιήσει αὐτοῦ ἔσται1this man will be blessed in his actionsThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will bless this man as he obeys the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
72JAS126j1bgδοκεῖ θρησκὸς εἶναι1thinks himself to be religious“thinks he worships God correctly”
73JAS126vxu1figs-metonymyγλῶσσαν αὐτοῦ1his tongueControlling ones tongue stands for controlling ones speech. Alternate translation: “what he says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
74JAS126bj2tἀπατῶν1deceivesgets someone to believe something that is not true
75JAS126sex6figs-metonymyκαρδίαν αὐτοῦ1his heartHere “heart” refers to his belief or thoughts. Alternate translation: “himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
76JAS126q83dτούτου μάταιος ἡ θρησκεία1his religion is worthless“he worships God uselessly”
77JAS127g11kfigs-doubletκαθαρὰ καὶ ἀμίαντος1pure and unspoiledJames speaks of religion, the way one worships God, as if it could be physically pure and unspoiled. These are traditional ways for Jews to say that something is acceptable to God. Alternate translation: “Completely acceptable” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
78JAS127skf4figs-metaphorπαρὰ τῷ Θεῷ καὶ Πατρί1before our God and Fatherdirected to God (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
79JAS127iiv2ὀρφανοὺς1the fatherless“the orphans”
80JAS127r8njἐν τῇ θλίψει αὐτῶν1in their afflictionThe fatherless and widows are suffering because their fathers or husbands have died.
81JAS127nmf7figs-metaphorἄσπιλον ἑαυτὸν τηρεῖν ἀπὸ τοῦ κόσμου1to keep oneself unstained by the worldSin in the world is spoken of as something dirty that can stain a person. Alternate translation: “to not allow the evil in the world to cause oneself to sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
82JAS2introf5zd0# James 02 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Favoritism<br><br>Some of Jamess readers treated rich and powerful people well and treated poor people badly. This is called favoritism, and James tells them that this is wrong. God wants his people to treat both rich people and poor people well.<br><br>### Justification<br><br>Justification is what happens when God makes a person righteous. James says here that God makes righteous or justifies people who do good works along with having faith. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/justice]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Quotation marks<br><br>The words “Show me your faith without works, and I will show you my faith by my works” are hard to understand. Some people think that they are what “someone may say,” like the words in the quotation marks. Most versions translate them as words that James is saying back to that “someone.”<br><br>### “You have…I have”<br><br>Some people think that the words “you” and “I” are metonyms for “some people” and “other people.” If they are correct, verse 18 could be translated, “Someone may say, Some people have faith and other people have works. Not everyone has both.’” If the next sentence is also what “someone may say,” it could be translated “Some people show their faith without works, and other people show their faith by their works. Both have faith.” In both cases, the reader will understand only if you add the extra sentence. It is probably best to translate as the ULT does. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
83JAS21ici90Connecting Statement:James continues to tell the scattered Jewish believers how to live by loving one another and reminds them not to favor rich people over poor brothers.
84JAS21kab4ἀδελφοί μου1My brothersJames considers his audience to be Jewish believers. Alternate translation: “My fellow believers” or “My brothers and sisters in Christ”
85JAS21qs2xfigs-metaphorἔχετε τὴν πίστιν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1hold to faith in our Lord Jesus ChristBelieving in Jesus Christ is spoken of as if it were an object that one could hold onto. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
86JAS21x32nfigs-exclusiveτοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1our Lord Jesus ChristThe word “our” includes James and his fellow believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
87JAS21en1cπροσωπολημψίαις1favoritism toward certain peoplethe desire to help some people more than others
88JAS22h5uhfigs-hypoἐὰν…ἀνὴρ1Suppose that someoneJames starts to describe a situation where the believers might give more honor to a rich person than to a poor person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
89JAS22j8d5χρυσοδακτύλιος, ἐν ἐσθῆτι λαμπρᾷ1wearing gold rings and fine clothes“dressed like a wealthy person”
90JAS23zx9fσὺ κάθου ὧδε καλῶς1sit here in a good placesit in this place of honor
91JAS23ce14σὺ στῆθι ἐκεῖ1stand over theremove to a place with less honor
92JAS23h2fyκάθου ὑπὸ τὸ ὑποπόδιόν μου1Sit at my feetmove to a humble place
93JAS24x9elfigs-rquestionοὐ διεκρίθητε ἐν ἑαυτοῖς, καὶ ἐγένεσθε κριταὶ διαλογισμῶν πονηρῶν1are you not judging among yourselves? Have you not become judges with evil thoughts?James is using rhetorical questions to teach and possibly scold his readers. Alternate translation: “you are making judgments among yourselves and becoming judges with evil thoughts.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
94JAS25m5jrἀκούσατε, ἀδελφοί μου ἀγαπητοί1Listen, my beloved brothersJames was exhorting his readers as family. “Pay attention, my dear fellow believers”
95JAS25ha52figs-rquestionοὐχ ὁ Θεὸς ἐξελέξατο τοὺς πτωχοὺς τῷ κόσμῳ, πλουσίους ἐν πίστει, καὶ κληρονόμους τῆς βασιλείας ἧς ἐπηγγείλατο τοῖς ἀγαπῶσιν αὐτόν1did not God choose…love him?Here James uses a rhetorical question to teach his readers not to show favoritism. It can be made a statement. Alternate translation: “God has chosen…love him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
96JAS25ke2qfigs-nominaladjτοὺς πτωχοὺς1the poorThis refers to poor people in general. Alternate translation: “poor people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
97JAS25s38zfigs-metaphorπλουσίους ἐν πίστει1be rich in faithHaving much faith is spoken of as being wealthy or rich. The object of faith may have to be specified. Alternate translation: “have strong faith in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
98JAS25qii5figs-metaphorκληρονόμους1heirsThe people to whom God has made promises are spoken of as if they were to inherit property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
99JAS26yv6yfigs-youὑμεῖς δὲ ἠτιμάσατε1But you haveJames is speaking to his whole audience. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
100JAS26vr53ἠτιμάσατε τὸν πτωχόν1have dishonored the poor“you have shamed poor people”
101JAS26l2lufigs-rquestionοὐχ οἱ πλούσιοι καταδυναστεύουσιν ὑμῶν1Is it not the rich who oppress you?Here James uses a rhetorical question to correct his readers. Alternate translation: “It is rich people who oppress you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
102JAS26eeg5figs-nominaladjοἱ πλούσιοι1the richThis refers to rich people in general. Alternate translation: “rich people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
103JAS26z73xκαταδυναστεύουσιν ὑμῶν1who oppress you“who treat you badly”
104JAS26s9k1figs-rquestionαὐτοὶ ἕλκουσιν ὑμᾶς εἰς κριτήρια1Are they not the ones…to court?Here James uses a rhetorical question to correct his readers. It can be made a statement. Alternate translation: “The rich people are the ones…to court.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
105JAS26h8jnfigs-explicitἕλκουσιν ὑμᾶς εἰς κριτήρια1drag you to court“forcibly take you to court to accuse you in front of judges” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
106JAS27las1figs-rquestionοὐκ αὐτοὶ βλασφημοῦσιν τὸ καλὸν ὄνομα τὸ ἐπικληθὲν ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς1Do they not insult…have been called?Here James uses a rhetorical question to correct and teach his readers. It can be made a statement. Alternate translation: “The rich people insult…have been called.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
107JAS27wd8yfigs-metonymyτὸ καλὸν ὄνομα τὸ ἐπικληθὲν ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς1the good name by which you have been calledThis refers to Christs name. Alternate translation: “the name of Christ who called you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
108JAS28fe1ifigs-youτελεῖτε1you fulfillThe word “you” refers to the Jewish believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
109JAS28q9hhνόμον τελεῖτε βασιλικὸν1fulfill the royal law“obey Gods law.” The law is “royal” becuase God, the true king, is the one who gave it to people.
110JAS28ymf5ἀγαπήσεις τὸν πλησίον σου ὡς σεαυτόν1You shall love your neighbor as yourselfJames is quoting from the book of Leviticus.
111JAS28gll2τὸν πλησίον σου1your neighbor“all people” or “everyone”
112JAS28b9wuκαλῶς ποιεῖτε1you do well“you are doing well” or “you are doing what is right”
113JAS29xt6yεἰ…προσωπολημπτεῖτε1if you favor“give special treatment to” or “give honor to”
114JAS29cq5hἁμαρτίαν ἐργάζεσθε1committing sin“sinning.” That is, breaking the law.
115JAS29gl2efigs-personificationἐλεγχόμενοι ὑπὸ τοῦ νόμου ὡς παραβάται1convicted by the law as lawbreakersHere the law is spoken of as if it were a human judge. Alternate translation: “guilty of breaking Gods law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
116JAS210l29gὅστις γὰρ…τηρήσῃ1For whoever obeys“For anyone who obeys”
117JAS210jb5ufigs-metaphorπταίσῃ δὲ ἐν ἑνί, γέγονεν πάντων ἔνοχος1except that he stumbles…the whole lawStumbling is falling down while one is trying to walk. Disobeying one point of the law is spoken of as if it were stumbling while walking. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
118JAS210m8epἐν ἑνί1in just a single waybecause of disobedience to just one requirement of the law
119JAS211ez11ὁ γὰρ εἰπών1For the one who saidThis refers to God, who gave the law to Moses.
120JAS211q19iμὴ μοιχεύσῃς1Do not commitTo “commit” is to do an action.
121JAS211c8jmfigs-youεἰ…οὐ μοιχεύεις, φονεύεις δέ, γέγονας1If you…but if you…you haveHere “you” means “each one of you.” Although James was writing to many Jewish believers, in this case, he used the singular form as if he was writing to each person individually. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
122JAS212c6y8οὕτως λαλεῖτε, καὶ οὕτως ποιεῖτε1So speak and act“So you must speak and obey.” James commanded the people to do this.
123JAS212yp6ifigs-activepassiveδιὰ νόμου ἐλευθερίας μέλλοντες κρίνεσθαι1who will be judged by means of the law of freedomThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “who know that God will judge them by means of the law of freedom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
124JAS212ik76διὰ νόμου1by means of the lawThis passage implies that it is God who will judge according to his law.
125JAS212e87rνόμου ἐλευθερίας1the law of freedom“the law that gives true freedom”
126JAS213yv6lfigs-personificationκατακαυχᾶται ἔλεος κρίσεως1Mercy triumphs over“Mercy is better than” or “Mercy defeats.” Here mercy and justice are spoken of as if they were persons. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
127JAS214h3840Connecting Statement:James encourages the scattered believers to show their faith before others, just as Abraham showed others his faith by his works.
128JAS214k4e4figs-rquestionτί τὸ ὄφελος, ἀδελφοί μου, ἐὰν πίστιν λέγῃ τις, ἔχειν ἔργα, δὲ μὴ ἔχῃ1What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith, but he has no works?James is using a rhetorical question to teach his audience. Alternate translation: “It is no good at all, fellow believers, if someone says he has faith, but he has no works.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
129JAS214c234figs-abstractnounsἐὰν πίστιν λέγῃ τις, ἔχειν ἔργα, δὲ μὴ ἔχῃ1if someone says he has faith, but he has no worksThe can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “faith” and “works.” Alternate translation: “if someone says he believes in God but he does not do what God commands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
130JAS214z9q8figs-rquestionμὴ δύναται ἡ πίστις σῶσαι αὐτόν?1Can that faith save him?James is using a rhetorical question to teach his audience. This can be restated to remove the abstract noun “faith.” Alternate translation: “That faith cannot save him.” or “If a person does not do what God commands, then just saying he believes in God will not save him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
131JAS214g8krσῶσαι αὐτόν1save him“spare him from Gods judgment”
132JAS215f6elἀδελφὸς ἢ ἀδελφὴ1brother or sistera fellow believer in Christ, whether male or female
133JAS216lj89figs-metonymyθερμαίνεσθε1stay warmThis means either “have enough clothes to wear” or “have a place to sleep.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
134JAS216ngj8figs-explicitχορτάζεσθε1be filledThe thing that fills them is food. This can be stated explicitly. Alternate translation: “be filled with food” or “have enough to eat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
135JAS216n5jhfigs-metonymyτοῦ σώματος1for the bodyto eat, to wear, and to live comfortably (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
136JAS216yi63figs-rquestionτί τὸ ὄφελος?1what good is that?James uses a rhetorical question to teach his audience. Alternate translation: “that is not good.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
137JAS217me1dfigs-metaphorἡ πίστις, ἐὰν μὴ ἔχῃ ἔργα, νεκρά ἐστιν καθ’ ἑαυτήν1faith by itself, if it does not have works, is deadJames speaks of faith as if it were alive if one does good works, and of faith as if it were dead if one does not do good deeds. This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “faith” and “works.” Alternate translation: “a person who says he believes God, but does not do what God commands, does not really believe God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
138JAS218al63figs-hypoἀλλ’ ἐρεῖ τις1Yet someone may sayJames describes a hypothetical situation where someone objects to his teaching. James seeks to correct his audiences understanding of faith and works. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
139JAS218ii8dfigs-abstractnounsσὺ πίστιν ἔχεις, κἀγὼ ἔργα ἔχω; δεῖξόν μοι τὴν πίστιν σου χωρὶς τῶν ἔργων, κἀγώ σοι δείξω ἐκ τῶν ἔργων μου τὴν πίστιν.1“You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without works, and I will show you my faith by my worksJames is describing how someone may argue against his teaching and how he would respond. This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “faith” and “works.” Alternate translation: “It is acceptable that you believe God and that I do what God commands. Prove to me that you can believe God and not do what he commands, and I will prove to you that I believe God by doing what he commands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
140JAS219fv39τὰ δαιμόνια πιστεύουσιν καὶ φρίσσουσιν1the demons believe that, and they tremble“the demons also believe, but they shake with fear.” James contrasts the demons with those who claim to believe and not do good deeds. James states that the demons are wiser because they fear God while the others do not.
141JAS220ax95figs-rquestionθέλεις δὲ γνῶναι, ὦ ἄνθρωπε κενέ, ὅτι ἡ πίστις χωρὶς τῶν ἔργων ἀργή ἐστιν?1Do you want to know, foolish man, that faith without works is useless?James uses this question to introduce the next part of his teaching. Alternate translation: “Listen to me, foolish man, and I will show that faith without works is useless.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
142JAS220sd63figs-abstractnounsὅτι ἡ πίστις χωρὶς τῶν ἔργων ἀργή ἐστιν1that faith without works is uselessThis can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “faith” and “works.” Alternate translation: “that if you do not do what God commands, then it is useless for you to say that you believe in God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
143JAS221ysr80General Information:Since these are Jewish believers, they know the story of Abraham, about whom God had told them long ago in his word.
144JAS221q8ivfigs-rquestionἈβραὰμ ὁ πατὴρ ἡμῶν οὐκ ἐξ ἔργων ἐδικαιώθη, ἀνενέγκας Ἰσαὰκ τὸν υἱὸν αὐτοῦ ἐπὶ τὸ θυσιαστήριον?1Was not Abraham our father justified…on the altar?This rhetorical question is used to rebut the foolish mans arguments from [James 2:18](../02/18.md), who refuses to believe that faith and works go together. Alternate translation: “Abraham our father was certainly justified…on the altar.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
145JAS221v3ftfigs-metaphorἐξ ἔργων ἐδικαιώθη1justified by worksJames speaks of works as if they were objects that one can own. Alternate translation: “justified by doing good deeds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
146JAS221ph1sὁ πατὴρ1fatherHere “father” is used in the sense of “ancestor.”
147JAS222t832βλέπεις1You seeThe word “you” is singular, referring to the hypothetical man. James is addressing his whole audience as if they were one person.
148JAS222l1gjfigs-metonymyβλέπεις1You seeThe word “see” is a metonym. Alternate translation: “You understand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
149JAS222vde4ἡ πίστις συνήργει τοῖς ἔργοις αὐτοῦ, καὶ ἐκ τῶν ἔργων ἡ πίστις ἐτελειώθη1faith worked with his works, and that by works his faith was fully developedJames speaks as if “faith” and “works” are things that can work together and help each other. Alternate translation: “because Abraham believed God, he did what God commanded. And because Abraham did what God commanded, he believed God completely”
150JAS222bd9dβλέπεις1You seeJames again addresses his audience directly by using the plural form of “you.”
151JAS223qh4ifigs-activepassiveἐπληρώθη ἡ Γραφὴ1The scripture was fulfilledThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “This fulfilled the scripture” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
152JAS223l818figs-metaphorἐλογίσθη αὐτῷ εἰς δικαιοσύνην1it was counted to him as righteousness“God regarded his faith as righteousness.” Abrahams faith and righteousness were treated as if they were able to be counted as having value. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
153JAS224yha5figs-activepassiveἐξ ἔργων δικαιοῦται ἄνθρωπος, καὶ οὐκ ἐκ πίστεως μόνον1it is by works that a man is justified, and not only by faith“actions and faith are what justify a person, and not only faith.” James speaks of works as if they were objects to obtain. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
154JAS225hir8ὁμοίως δὲ καὶ Ῥαὰβ ἡ πόρνη οὐκ ἐξ ἔργων ἐδικαιώθη1In the same way also…justified by worksJames says that what was true of Abraham was also true of Rahab. Both were justified by works.
155JAS225dcv5figs-rquestionῬαὰβ ἡ πόρνη οὐκ ἐξ ἔργων ἐδικαιώθη, ὑποδεξαμένη τοὺς ἀγγέλους, καὶ ἑτέρᾳ ὁδῷ ἐκβαλοῦσα1was not Rahab the prostitute justified by works…another road?James is using this rhetorical question to instruct his audience. Alternate translation: “it was what Rahab the prostitute did that justified her…another road.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
156JAS225pn2fῬαὰβ ἡ πόρνη1Rahab the prostituteJames expected his audience to know the Old Testament story about the woman Rahab.
157JAS225bx6ifigs-metaphorἐξ ἔργων ἐδικαιώθη1justified by worksJames speaks of works as something to possess. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
158JAS225af9uἀγγέλους1messengerspeople who bring news from another place
159JAS225xm5mἑτέρᾳ ὁδῷ ἐκβαλοῦσα1sent them away by another road“then helped them escape and leave the city”
160JAS226uum8figs-metaphorὥσπερ γὰρ τὸ σῶμα χωρὶς πνεύματος νεκρόν ἐστιν, οὕτως καὶ ἡ πίστις χωρὶς ἔργων νεκρά ἐστιν1For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, even so faith apart from works is deadJames is speaking of faith without works as if it were a dead body without the spirit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
161JAS3intropy3p0# James 03 General Notes<br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors<br><br>James teaches his readers that they should live to please God by reminding them of things that they know from everyday life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
162JAS31p4uufigs-genericnounμὴ πολλοὶ1Not many of youJames is making a generalized statement. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
163JAS31c36bἀδελφοί μου1my brothers“my fellow believers”
164JAS31aw5ffigs-explicitμεῖζον κρίμα λημψόμεθα.1we who teach will be judged more strictlyThis passage speaks of stricter judgment that will come from God on those who teach others about him. Alternate translation: “God will judge us who teach more severely because we know his word better than some people whom we have taught” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
165JAS31v7fafigs-exclusiveδιδάσκαλοι1we who teachJames includes himself and other teachers, but not the readers, so the word “we” is exclusive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
166JAS32ab9hfigs-exclusiveπταίομεν ἅπαντες1we all stumbleJames speaks of himself, other teachers, and the readers, so the word “we” is inclusive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
167JAS32p9ekfigs-metaphorπταίομεν1stumbleSinning is spoken of as if it were stumbling while walking. Alternate translation: “fail” or “sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
168JAS32t6xtἐν λόγῳ οὐ πταίει1does not stumble in words“does not sin by saying wrong things”
169JAS32kn4vοὗτος τέλειος ἀνήρ1he is a perfect man“he is spiritually mature”
170JAS32b16hfigs-synecdocheχαλιναγωγῆσαι καὶ ὅλον τὸ σῶμα1control even his whole bodyJames is referring to ones heart, emotions, and actions. Alternate translation: “control his behavior” or “control his actions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
171JAS33z2ez0General Information:James is developing an argument that small things can control big things.
172JAS33zql3εἰ δὲ τῶν ἵππων τοὺς χαλινοὺς εἰς τὰ στόματα βάλλομεν1Now if we put bits into horses mouthsJames speaks about horses bits. A bit is a small piece of metal that is placed into a horses mouth to control where it goes.
173JAS33s1nfεἰ δὲ1Now if“If” or “When”
174JAS33u92qτῶν ἵππων1horsesA horse is a large animal used to carry things or people.
175JAS34yn42ἰδοὺ, καὶ τὰ πλοῖα, τηλικαῦτα ὄντα, καὶ ὑπὸ ἀνέμων σκληρῶν ἐλαυνόμενα, μετάγεται ὑπὸ ἐλαχίστου πηδαλίου1Notice also that ships…are steered by a very small rudderA ship is like a truck that floats on water. A rudder is a flat piece of wood or metal at the back of the ship, used to control where it goes. The word “rudder” could also be translated as “tool.”
176JAS34k7f5figs-activepassiveὑπὸ ἀνέμων σκληρῶν ἐλαυνόμενα1are driven by strong winds,This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “strong winds push them, they” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
177JAS34jrk1μετάγεται ὑπὸ ἐλαχίστου πηδαλίου, ὅπου ἡ ὁρμὴ τοῦ εὐθύνοντος βούλεται1are steered by a very small rudder to wherever the pilot desires“have a small tool that a person can use to control where the ship goes”
178JAS35wt6iοὕτως καὶ1LikewiseThis word signals the analogy of the tongue to the horses bits and the ships rudders mentioned in the previous verses. Alternate translation: “In the same way”
179JAS35qx1kμεγάλα αὐχεῖ1boasts great thingsHere “things” is a general word for everything about which these people are proud.
180JAS35ub5hἰδοὺ1Notice also“Think about”
181JAS35fr8xἡλίκον πῦρ, ἡλίκην ὕλην ἀνάπτει1how small a fire sets on fire a large forestIn order to help people understand the harm that the tongue can cause, James speaks of the harm that a small flame can cause. Alternate translation: “how a small flame can start a fire that burns many trees”
182JAS36wm5qfigs-metonymyκαὶ ἡ γλῶσσα πῦρ1The tongue is also a fireThe tongue is a metonym for what people say. James calls it a fire because of the great damage it can do. Alternate translation: “The tongue is like a fire” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
183JAS36i61efigs-metaphorὁ κόσμος τῆς ἀδικίας…καθίσταται ἐν τοῖς μέλεσιν ἡμῶν1a world of sinfulness set among our body partsThe enormous effects of sinful speaking are spoken of as if they were a world by themselves. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
184JAS36sv44figs-metaphorἡ σπιλοῦσα ὅλον τὸ σῶμα1It stains the whole bodySinful speaking is spoken of metaphorically as if it stained ones body. And becoming unacceptable to God is spoken of as if it were dirt on the body. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
185JAS36lf1jfigs-metaphorφλογίζουσα τὸν τροχὸν τῆς γενέσεως1sets on fire the course of lifeThe phrase “course of life” refers to a persons entire life. Alternate translation: “it ruins a persons entire life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
186JAS36a7qdfigs-activepassiveγενέσεως, καὶ φλογιζομένη ὑπὸ τῆς Γεέννης1life. It is itself set on fire by hellThe word “itself” refers to the tongue. Also, here “hell” refers to the powers of evil or to the devil. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “life because the devil uses it for evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
187JAS37ug59figs-activepassiveπᾶσα γὰρ φύσις θηρίων τε καὶ πετεινῶν, ἑρπετῶν τε καὶ ἐναλίων, δαμάζεται καὶ δεδάμασται τῇ φύσει τῇ ἀνθρωπίνῃ1For every kind of…mankindThe phrase “every kind” is a general statement referring to all or many kinds of wild animals. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People have learned to control many kinds of wild animals, birds, reptiles, and sea creatures” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
188JAS37b8c9translate-unknownἑρπετῶν1reptileThis is an animal that crawls on the ground. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
189JAS37zw5mἐναλίων1sea creaturean animal that lives in the sea
190JAS38q9xefigs-metaphorτὴν δὲ γλῶσσαν οὐδεὶς δαμάσαι δύναται ἀνθρώπων1But no human being can tame the tongueJames speaks of the tongue as if it were a wild animal. Here “tongue” represents a persons desire to speak evil thoughts. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
191JAS38m7vifigs-metaphorἀκατάστατον κακόν1It is a restless evil, full of deadly poisonJames speaks of the harm that people can cause by what they say as if the tongue were an evil and poisonous creature that can kill people. Alternate translation: “It is like a restless and evil creature, full of deadly poison” or “It is like a restless and evil creature that can kill people with its venom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
192JAS39le6hἐν αὐτῇ εὐλογοῦμεν1With it we“We use the tongue to say words that”
193JAS39ucm9καταρώμεθα τοὺς ἀνθρώπους1we curse men“we ask God to harm men”
194JAS39umg1figs-activepassiveτοὺς καθ’ ὁμοίωσιν Θεοῦ γεγονότας1who have been made in Gods likenessThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “whom God made in his likeness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
195JAS310a1lyfigs-abstractnounsἐκ τοῦ αὐτοῦ στόματος ἐξέρχεται εὐλογία καὶ κατάρα1Out of the same mouth come blessing and cursingThe nouns “blessing” and “cursing” can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “With the same mouth, a person blesses people and curses people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
196JAS310qrs2ἀδελφοί μου1My brothers“Fellow Christians”
197JAS310n9zyοὐ χρή,…ταῦτα οὕτως γίνεσθαι1these things should not happen“these things are wrong”
198JAS311m18q0Connecting Statement:After James stresses that the words of believers should not both bless and curse, he gives examples from nature to teach his readers that people who honor God by worshiping him should also live in right ways.
199JAS311mz8dfigs-rquestionμήτι ἡ πηγὴ ἐκ τῆς αὐτῆς ὀπῆς βρύει τὸ γλυκὺ καὶ τὸ πικρόν1Does a spring pour out from its opening both sweet and bitter water?James uses a rhetorical question to remind believers about what happens in nature. This can be expressed as a sentence. Alternate translation: “You know that a spring does not pour out both sweet water and bitter water.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
200JAS312z3qgfigs-rquestionμὴ δύναται, ἀδελφοί μου, συκῆ ἐλαίας ποιῆσαι1Does a fig tree, my brothers, make olives?James uses another rhetorical question to remind the believers about what happens in nature. Alternate translation: “Brothers, you know that a fig tree cannot grow olives.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
201JAS312jjj8ἀδελφοί μου1my brothers“my fellow believers”
202JAS312bu4lfigs-ellipsisἢ ἄμπελος σῦκα?1Or a grapevine, figs?The word “make” is understood from the previous phrase. James uses another rhetorical question to remind the believers about what happens in nature. Alternate translation: “Or does a grapevine make figs?” or “And a grapevine cannot grow figs.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
203JAS313fgb7figs-rquestionτίς σοφὸς καὶ ἐπιστήμων ἐν ὑμῖν?1Who is wise and understanding among you?James uses this question to teach his audience about proper behavior. The words “wise” and “understanding” are similar. Alternate translation: “I will tell you how a wise and understanding person is to act.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
204JAS313f9xvfigs-abstractnounsδειξάτω ἐκ τῆς καλῆς ἀναστροφῆς τὰ ἔργα αὐτοῦ ἐν πραΰτητι σοφίας.1Let that person show a good life by his works in the humility of wisdomThis can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “humility” and “wisdom.” Alternate translation: “That person should live a good life by doing the kind of deeds that come from being humble and wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
205JAS314js7bfigs-metonymyεἰ…ζῆλον πικρὸν ἔχετε, καὶ ἐριθείαν ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ ὑμῶν1if you have bitter jealousy and ambition in your heartHere “heart” is a metonym for a persons emotions or thoughts. This can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “jealousy” and “ambition.” Alternate translation: “if you are jealous and selfish” or “if you desire what other people have and you want to succeed even if it harms others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
206JAS314a191figs-abstractnounsμὴ κατακαυχᾶσθε καὶ ψεύδεσθε κατὰ τῆς ἀληθείας.1do not boast and lie against the truthThe abstract noun “truth” can be stated as “true.” Alternate translation: “do not boast that you are wise, because that is not true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
207JAS315clz6figs-metonymyοὐκ ἔστιν αὕτη ἡ σοφία ἄνωθεν κατερχομένη1This is not the wisdom that comes down from aboveHere “This” refers to the “bitter jealousy and strife” described in the previous verses. The phrase “from above” is a metonym that represents “heaven” which represents God himself. Alternate translation: “This is not the kind of wisdom that God teaches us from heaven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
208JAS315g44ufigs-abstractnounsοὐκ ἔστιν αὕτη ἡ σοφία ἄνωθεν κατερχομένη, ἀλλὰ ἐπίγειος, ψυχική, δαιμονιώδης.1This is not the wisdom that comes down from above. Instead, it is earthly, unspiritual, demonicThe abstract noun “wisdom” can be stated as “wise.” - Alternate translation: “Whoever acts like this is not wise according to what God in heaven teaches us. Instead this person is earthly, unspiritual, and demonic” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
209JAS315h36bfigs-metonymyἐπίγειος1earthlyThe word “earthly” refers to the values and behaviors of the people who do not honor God. Alternate translation: “not honoring to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
210JAS315a2u6ψυχική1unspiritual“not from the Holy Spirit” or “not spiritual”
211JAS315mzc9δαιμονιώδης1demonic“from demons”
212JAS316x5jzfigs-abstractnounsὅπου γὰρ ζῆλος καὶ ἐριθεία, ἐκεῖ ἀκαταστασία καὶ πᾶν φαῦλον πρᾶγμα.1For where there are jealousy and ambition, there is confusion and every evil practiceThis can be restated to remove the abstract nouns “jealousy,” “ambition,” and “confusion.” Alternate translation: “For when people are jealous and selfish, this causes them to act in disorderly and evil ways” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
213JAS316dvd7ἐκεῖ ἀκαταστασία1there is confusion“there is disorder” or “there is chaos”
214JAS316vmt4πᾶν φαῦλον πρᾶγμα1every evil practice“every kind of sinful behavior” or “every kind of wicked deed”
215JAS317s8w4figs-abstractnounsἡ δὲ ἄνωθεν σοφία, πρῶτον μὲν ἁγνή ἐστιν1But the wisdom from above is first pureHere “from above” is metonym that represents “heaven” which represents God himself. The abstract noun “wisdom” can be stated as “wise.” Alternate translation: “But when a person is wise according to what God in heaven teaches, he acts in ways that are first pure” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
216JAS317hhk5πρῶτον μὲν ἁγνή ἐστιν1is first pure“is first holy”
217JAS317hfh9figs-metaphorμεστὴ ἐλέους καὶ καρπῶν ἀγαθῶν1full of mercy and good fruitsHere “good fruits” refer to kind things that people do for others as a result of having wisdom from God. Alternate translation: “full of mercy and good deeds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
218JAS317by2lἀνυπόκριτος1and sincere“and honest” or “and truthful”
219JAS318md56figs-metaphorκαρπὸς…δικαιοσύνης ἐν εἰρήνῃ σπείρεται, τοῖς ποιοῦσιν εἰρήνην1The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace among those who make peacePeople making peace is spoken of as if they were sowing seeds, and righteousness is spoken of as if it were the fruit that grows up as a result of making peace. Alternate translation: “The result of making peace is righteousness” or “Those who work peacefully to help people live in peace produce righteousness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
220JAS318htr1figs-abstractnounsποιοῦσιν εἰρήνην1make peaceThe abstract noun “peace” can be stated as “peacefully.” Alternate translation: “cause people to live peacefully” or “help people not to be angry with each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
221JAS4intror6vv0# James 04 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Adultery<br><br>Writers in the Bible often speak of adultery as a metaphor for people who say they love God but do things that God hates. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]])<br><br>### Law<br><br>James probably uses this word in [James 4:11](../../jas/04/11.md) to refer to “the royal law” ([James 2:8](../../jas/02/08.md)).<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical Questions<br><br>James asks many questions because he wants his readers to think about how they are living. He wants to correct and teach them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Humble<br><br>This word probably usually refers to people who are not proud. James uses the word here to refer to people who are not proud and who also trust in Jesus and obey him.
222JAS41q3pd0General Information:In this section, the words “yourselves,” “your,” and “you” are plural and refer to the believers to whom James writes.
223JAS41k21j0Connecting Statement:James rebukes these believers for their worldliness and their lack of humility. He again urges them to watch how they speak to and about each other.
224JAS41ub82figs-doubletπόθεν πόλεμοι καὶ πόθεν μάχαι ἐν ὑμῖν?1Where do quarrels and disputes among you come from?The abstract nouns “quarrels” and “disputes” mean basically the same thing and can be translated with verbs. Alternate translation: “Why do you quarrel and dispute among yourselves?” or “Why do you fight among yourselves?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
225JAS41pqx2figs-rquestionοὐκ ἐντεῦθεν ἐκ τῶν ἡδονῶν ὑμῶν, τῶν στρατευομένων ἐν τοῖς μέλεσιν ὑμῶν?1Do they not come from your desires that fight among your members?James uses this question to rebuke his audience. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “They come from your evil desires for things, desires that fight among your members.” or “They come from your desires for evil things, desires that fight among your members.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
226JAS41vpe2figs-personificationοὐκ ἐντεῦθεν ἐκ τῶν ἡδονῶν ὑμῶν, τῶν στρατευομένων ἐν τοῖς μέλεσιν ὑμῶν?1Do they not come from your desires that fight among your members?James speaks of desires as they were enemies who waged war against the believers. In reality, of course, it is the people who have these desires who fight among themselves. Alternate translation: “They come from your desires for evil things, by which you end up harming each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
227JAS41v5kgἐν τοῖς μέλεσιν ὑμῶν1among your membersPossible meanings are (1) there is fighting among the local believers, or (2) the fighting, that is, the conflict, is inside each believer.
228JAS42khh9figs-hyperboleφονεύετε καὶ ζηλοῦτε, καὶ οὐ δύνασθε ἐπιτυχεῖν1You kill and covet, and you are not able to obtainThe phrase “You kill” expresses how badly the people behave in order to get what they want. It can be translated as “You do all kinds of evil things to get what you cannot have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
229JAS42v9m8figs-doubletμάχεσθε καὶ πολεμεῖτε1You fight and quarrelThe words “fight” and “quarrel” mean basically the same thing. James uses them to emphasize how much the people argue among themselves. Alternate translation: “You constantly fight” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
230JAS43nk57κακῶς αἰτεῖσθε1you ask badlyPossible meanings are (1) “you ask with wrong motives” or “you ask with bad attitudes” or (2) “you are asking for wrong things” or “you are asking for bad things”
231JAS44efi8figs-metaphorμοιχαλίδες!1You adulteresses!James speaks of believers as being like wives who sleep with men other than their husbands. Alternate translation: “You are not being faithful to God!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
232JAS44wu5vfigs-rquestionοὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι ἡ φιλία τοῦ κόσμου, ἔχθρα τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐστιν?1Do you not know…God?James uses this question to teach his audience. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “You know…God!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
233JAS44b5lyfigs-metonymyἡ φιλία τοῦ κόσμου1friendship with the worldThis phrase refers to identifying with or participating in the worlds value system and behavior. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
234JAS44br36figs-personificationἡ φιλία τοῦ κόσμου1friendship with the worldHere the worlds value system is spoken of as if it were a person that others could be friends with. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
235JAS44jf1gfigs-metonymyἡ φιλία τοῦ κόσμου, ἔχθρα τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐστιν1friendship with the world is hostility against GodOne who is friends with the world is an enemy of God. Here “friendship with the world” stands for being friends with the world, and “hostility against God” stands for being hostile against God. Alternate translation: “friends of the world are enemies of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
236JAS45i2y4ἢ δοκεῖτε…κενῶς ἡ Γραφὴ λέγει1Or do you think the scripture says in vainThis is a rhetorical question James uses to exhort his audience. To speak in vain is to speak uselessly. Alternate translation: “There is a reason that scripture says”
237JAS45bx68τὸ Πνεῦμα ὃ κατῴκισεν ἐν ἡμῖν1The Spirit he caused to live in usSome versions, including the ULT and UST, understand this as a reference to the Holy Spirit. Other versions translate this as “the spirit” and mean by it the human spirit that each person has been created to have. We suggest that you use the meaning that is presented in other translations used by your readers.
238JAS46ub8zfigs-explicitμείζονα δὲ δίδωσιν χάριν1But God gives more graceHow this phrase relates to the previous verse can be made explicit: “But, even though our spirits may desire what we cannot have, God gives us even more grace, if we will humble ourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
239JAS46hyh2διὸ λέγει1so the scripture“Because God gives more grace, the scripture”
240JAS46qs61figs-nominaladjὑπερηφάνοις1the proudThis refers to proud people in general. Alternate translation: “proud people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
241JAS46uu3rfigs-nominaladjταπεινοῖς1the humbleThis refers to humble people in general. Alternate translation: “humble people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
242JAS47da5tὑποτάγητε οὖν1So submit“Because God gives grace to the humble, submit”
243JAS47g7e5ὑποτάγητε…τῷ Θεῷ1submit to God“obey God”
244JAS47nud3ἀντίστητε…τῷ διαβόλῳ1Resist the devil“Oppose the devil” or “Do not do what the devil wants”
245JAS47w9ueφεύξεται1he will flee“he will run away”
246JAS47b5yzfigs-youὑμῶν1youHere this pronoun is plural and refers to James audience. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
247JAS48vd6zfigs-you0General Information:The word “you” here is plural and refers to the scattered believers to whom James writes. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
248JAS48g62mfigs-metaphorἐγγίσατε τῷ Θεῷ1Come close to GodHere the idea of coming close stands for becoming honest and open with God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
249JAS48yh1kfigs-parallelismκαθαρίσατε χεῖρας, ἁμαρτωλοί, καὶ ἁγνίσατε καρδίας, δίψυχοι.1Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-mindedThese are two phrases in parallel with each other. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
250JAS48elh1figs-metonymyκαθαρίσατε χεῖρας1Cleanse your handsThis expression is a command for people to do righteous acts instead of unrighteous acts. Alternate translation: “Behave in a way that honors God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
251JAS48mw54figs-metonymyἁγνίσατε καρδίας1purify your heartsHere “hearts” refers to a persons thoughts and emotions. Alternate translation: “make your thoughts and intentions right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
252JAS48iw61figs-metaphorδίψυχοι1double-mindedThe word “double-minded” refers to a person who cannot make a firm decision about something. Alternate translation: “double-minded people” or “people who cannot decide if you want to obey God or not” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
253JAS49kdn8figs-doubletταλαιπωρήσατε, καὶ πενθήσατε, καὶ κλαύσατε1Grieve, mourn, and cryThese three words have similar meanings. James uses them together to emphasize that the people should be truly sorry for not obeying God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])
254JAS49rf6gfigs-parallelismὁ γέλως ὑμῶν εἰς πένθος μετατραπήτω, καὶ ἡ χαρὰ εἰς κατήφειαν.1Let your laughter turn into sadness and your joy into gloomThis is saying the same thing in different ways for emphasis. The abstract nouns “laughter,” “sadness,” “joy,” and “gloom” can be translated as verbs or adjectives. Alternate translation: “Stop laughing and be sad. Stop being joyful and be gloomy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
255JAS410an8ifigs-metaphorταπεινώθητε ἐνώπιον Κυρίου1Humble yourselves before the Lord“Be humble toward God.” Actions done with God in mind are often spoken of as being done in his physical presence. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
256JAS410tn5wfigs-metaphorὑψώσει ὑμᾶς1he will lift you upJames indicates that God will honor the humble person by saying God will pick that person up off the ground physically from where that person had prostrated himself in humility. Alternate translation: “he will honor you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
257JAS411sy540General Information:The words “you” and “your” in this section refer to the believers to whom James writes.
258JAS411r3hcκαταλαλεῖτε1speak against“speak badly about” or “oppose”
259JAS411uyi9figs-metonymyἀδελφοί1brothersJames speaks of the believers as if they are biological brothers. The term here includes women as well as men. Alternate translation: “fellow believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
260JAS411jlx4ἀλλὰ κριτής1but a judge“but you are acting like the person who gives the law”
261JAS412e9daεἷς ἐστιν νομοθέτης καὶ κριτής1Only one is the lawgiver and judgeThis refers to God. “God is the only one who gives laws and judges people”
262JAS412m49qfigs-rquestionσὺ δὲ τίς εἶ, ὁ κρίνων τὸν πλησίον?1Who are you, you who judge your neighbor?This is a rhetorical question James uses to scold his audience. This can be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: “You are just a human and cannot judge another human.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
263JAS413iz9hfigs-idiomποιήσομεν ἐκεῖ ἐνιαυτὸν1spend a year thereJames speaks of spending time as if it were money. “stay there for a year” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
264JAS414b7irfigs-rquestionοἵτινες οὐκ ἐπίστασθε τὸ τῆς αὔριον, ποία ἡ ζωὴ ὑμῶν?1Who knows what will happen tomorrow, and what is your life?James uses these questions to correct his audience and to teach these believers that physical life is not that important. They can be expressed as statements. Alternate translation: “No one knows what will happen tomorrow, and your life does not last very long!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
265JAS414a9v2figs-metaphorἀτμὶς γάρ ἐστε, ἡ πρὸς ὀλίγον φαινομένη, ἔπειτα καὶ ἀφανιζομένη.1For you are a mist that appears for a little while and then disappearsJames speaks of people as if they were a mist that appears and then quickly goes away. Alternate translation: “You live for only a short amount of time, and then you die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
266JAS415gj65ἀντὶ τοῦ λέγειν ὑμᾶς1Instead, you should say“Instead, your attitude should be”
267JAS415e1ilζήσομεν καὶ ποιήσομεν, τοῦτο ἢ ἐκεῖνο1we will live and do this or that“we will live long enough to do what we have planned to do.” The word “we” does not directly refer to James or his audience but is part of the example of how James audience should consider the future.
268JAS417q84zεἰδότι οὖν καλὸν ποιεῖν, καὶ μὴ ποιοῦντι, ἁμαρτία αὐτῷ ἐστιν.1for anyone who knows to do good but does not do it, for him it is sinAnyone who fails to do the good he knows he should do is guilty of sin.
269JAS5introud8q0# James 05 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Eternity<br>This chapter contrasts living for things of this world, which will not last, with living for things that will last for eternity. It is also important to live with the expectation that Jesus will return soon. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]])<br><br>### Oaths<br>Scholars are divided over whether this passage teaches all oaths are wrong. Most scholars believe some oaths are permissible and James instead is teaching Christians to have integrity.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Elijah<br>This story will be difficult to understand if the books of 1 and 2 Kings and 1 and 2 Chronicles have not yet been translated.<br><br>### “Save his soul from death”<br>This probably teaches that the person who stops their sinful lifestyle will not be punished with physical death as a consequence of their sin. On the other hand, some scholars believe this passage teaches about eternal salvation. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/death]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])
270JAS51phs30Connecting Statement:James warns rich people about their focus on pleasure and riches.
271JAS51gel9figs-explicitοἱ πλούσιοι1you who are richPossible meanings are (1) James is giving a strong warning to wealthy believers or (2) James is talking about wealthy unbelievers. Alternate translation: “you who are rich and say you honor God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
272JAS51l3wdfigs-abstractnounsἐπὶ ταῖς ταλαιπωρίαις ὑμῶν ταῖς ἐπερχομέναις1because of the miseries coming on youJames states that these people will suffer terribly in the future and writes as if their sufferings were objects that were coming toward them. The abstract noun “miseries” can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: “because you will suffer terribly in the future” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
273JAS52gq45figs-pastforfutureὁ πλοῦτος ὑμῶν σέσηπεν, καὶ τὰ ἱμάτια ὑμῶν σητόβρωτα γέγονεν.1Your riches have rotted, and your clothes have become moth-eaten.Earthly riches do not last nor do they have any eternal value. James speaks of these events as if they had already happened. Alternate translation: “Your riches will rot, and your clothes will be eaten by moths.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
274JAS52v241ὁ πλοῦτος…τὰ ἱμάτια1riches…clothesThese things are mentioned as examples of things that are valuable to wealthy people.
275JAS53am1ufigs-pastforfutureὁ χρυσὸς ὑμῶν καὶ ὁ ἄργυρος κατίωται,1Your gold and your silver have become tarnishedEarthly riches do not last nor do they have any eternal value. James speaks of these events as if they had already happened. Alternate translation: “Your riches will rot, and your clothes will be eaten by moths. Your gold and silver will become tarnished” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
276JAS53wj9vχρυσὸς…ἄργυρος1gold…silverThese things are mentioned as examples of things that are valuable to wealthy people.
277JAS53q4pmκατίωται,…ὁ ἰὸς αὐτῶν1have become tarnished…their rustThese phrases are used here to describe how gold and silver are ruined. Alternate translation: “are ruined…their ruined condition” or “are corroded…their corrosion”
278JAS53e55tfigs-personificationὁ ἰὸς αὐτῶν εἰς μαρτύριον ὑμῖν ἔσται1their rust will be a witness against you. ItJames wrote of their valuable things being ruined as if they were a person in a courtroom accusing the wicked of their crimes. Alternate translation: “and when God judges you, your ruined treasures will be like someone who accuses you in court. Their corrosion” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] )
279JAS53i37xfigs-simileφάγεται τὰς σάρκας ὑμῶν ὡς πῦρ.1will consume…like fireHere the corrosion is spoken of as if it were a fire that will burn up their owners. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
280JAS53w3ajfigs-metonymyτὰς σάρκας ὑμῶν1your fleshHere “flesh” stands for the physical body. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
281JAS53j6fefigs-metaphorπῦρ1fireThe idea of fire here is meant to lead people to remember that fire often stands for Gods punishment that will come on all the wicked. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
282JAS53np1ufigs-metonymyἐν ἐσχάταις ἡμέραις1for the last daysThis refers to the time right before God comes to judge all people. The wicked think they are storing up riches for the future, but what they are doing is storing up judgment. Alternate translation: “for when God is about to judge you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
283JAS54gcj50Connecting Statement:James continues to warn rich people about thier focus on pleasure and riches.
284JAS54e9iyfigs-personificationὁ μισθὸς τῶν ἐργατῶν, τῶν ἀμησάντων τὰς χώρας ὑμῶν, ὁ ἀφυστερημένος ἀφ’ ὑμῶν, κράζει,1the pay of the laborers is crying out—the pay that you have withheld from those who harvested your fieldsThe money that should have been paid is spoken of as a person who is shouting because of the injustice done to him. Alternate translation: “the fact that you did not pay those you hired to work in your fields shows that you have done wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
285JAS54n21afigs-metaphorαἱ βοαὶ τῶν θερισάντων, εἰς τὰ ὦτα Κυρίου Σαβαὼθ εἰσελήλυθαν.1the cries of the harvesters have gone into the ears of the Lord of hostsThe shouts of the harvesters are spoken of as if they could be heard in heaven. Alternate translation: “the Lord of hosts has heard the cries of the harvesters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
286JAS54h9y8figs-metaphorεἰς τὰ ὦτα Κυρίου Σαβαὼθ1into the ears of the Lord of hostsGod is spoken of as if he had ears as humans have. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
287JAS55xt8hfigs-metaphorἐθρέψατε τὰς καρδίας ὑμῶν ἐν ἡμέρᾳ σφαγῆς.1You have fattened your hearts for a day of slaughterHere people are viewed as if they were cattle, luxuriously fed on grain so they would become fattened to be slaughtered for a feast. However, no one will feast at the time of judgment. Alternate translation: “Your greed has only prepared you for harsh eternal judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
288JAS55pr31figs-metonymyτὰς καρδίας ὑμῶν1your heartsThe “heart” was considered to be the center of human desire, and here stands for the entire person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
289JAS56u5c5κατεδικάσατε, ἐφονεύσατε τὸν δίκαιον,1You have condemned…the righteous personThis is probably not “condemned” in the legal sense of a judge passing a sentence of death on a criminal. Instead, it probably refers to the wicked and powerful people who decide to mistreat the poor until they die.
290JAS56lq6pfigs-genericnounτὸν δίκαιον, οὐκ ἀντιτάσσεται1the righteous person. He does not“the people who do what is right. They do not.” Here “the righteous person” refers to righteous people in general and not to a specific person. Alternate translation: “righteous people. They do not” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
291JAS56z7w1ἀντιτάσσεται ὑμῖν1resist you“oppose you”
292JAS57n8880General Information:In closing, James reminds the believers about the Lords coming and gives several short lessons on how to live for the Lord.
293JAS57xr6g0Connecting Statement:James changes topics from a rebuke of the rich people to an exhortation to the believers.
294JAS57a4svμακροθυμήσατε οὖν1So be patient“Because of this, wait and be calm”
295JAS57wgk4figs-metonymyἕως τῆς παρουσίας τοῦ Κυρίου.1until the Lords comingThis phrase refers to the return of Jesus, when he will begin his kingdom on the earth and judge all people. Alternate translation: “until Christs return” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
296JAS57y4erfigs-metaphorὁ γεωργὸς1the farmerJames makes an analogy using farmers and believers to teach what it means to be patient. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
297JAS58bbn1figs-metonymyστηρίξατε τὰς καρδίας ὑμῶν1Make your hearts strongJames is equating the believers hearts to their will to remain committed. Alternate translation: “Stay committed” or “Keep your faith strong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
298JAS58jw3bἡ παρουσία τοῦ Κυρίου ἤγγικεν.1the Lords coming is near“the Lord will return soon”
299JAS59k74rμὴ στενάζετε, ἀδελφοί, κατ’ ἀλλήλων, ἵνα μὴ κριθῆτε.1Do not complain, brothers…youJames is writing to all the scattered Jewish believers.
300JAS59w9xvκατ’ ἀλλήλων1against one another“about each other”
301JAS59z3p7figs-activepassiveμὴ κριθῆτε1you will be not judgedThis can be stated in the active. Alternate translation: “Christ will not judge you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
302JAS59ita4ἰδοὺ, ὁ κριτὴς1See, the judge“Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: the judge”
303JAS59g938figs-metaphorὁ κριτὴς πρὸ τῶν θυρῶν ἕστηκεν.1the judge is standing at the doorJames compares Jesus, the judge, to a person about to walk through a door to emphasize how soon Jesus will return to judge the world. Alternate translation: “the judge is coming soon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
304JAS510sic1τῆς κακοπαθίας καὶ τῆς μακροθυμίας, τοὺς προφήτας, οἳ ἐλάλησαν ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι Κυρίου1the suffering and patience of the prophets, those who spoke in the name of the Lord“how the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord suffered persecution with patience”
305JAS510pvs3figs-metonymyοἳ ἐλάλησαν ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι Κυρίου.1spoke in the name of the Lord“Name” here is a metonym for the person of the Lord. Alternate translation: “by the authority of the Lord” or “spoke for the Lord to the people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
306JAS511xwr8ἰδοὺ, μακαρίζομεν1See, we regard“Pay attention, because what I am about to say is both true and important: we regard”
307JAS511s3nlτοὺς ὑπομείναντας1those who endured“those who continued obeying God even through hardship”
308JAS512fug7πρὸ πάντων…ἀδελφοί μου,1Above all, my brothers,“This is important, may brothers:” or “Especially, my brothers,”
309JAS512bjt3figs-gendernotationsἀδελφοί μου1my brothersThis refers to all believers including women. Alternate translation: “my fellow believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
310JAS512s755μὴ ὀμνύετε1do not swearTo “swear” is to say that you will do something, or that something is true, and to be held accountable by a higher authority. Alternate translation: “do not make an oath” or “do not make a vow”
311JAS512t1uqfigs-metonymyμήτε τὸν οὐρανὸν, μήτε τὴν γῆν1either by heaven or by the earthThe words “heaven” and “earth” refer to the spiritual or human authorities that are in heaven and earth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
312JAS512m3veἤτω…ὑμῶν τὸ ναὶ, ναὶ, καὶ τὸ οὒ, οὔ,1let your “Yes” mean “Yes” and your “No” mean “No,”“do what you say you will do, or say that something is true, without making an oath”
313JAS512f6mxfigs-metaphorἵνα μὴ ὑπὸ κρίσιν πέσητε1so you do not fall under judgmentBeing condemned is spoken of as if one had fallen, crushed by the weight of something heavy. Alternate translation: “so God will not punish you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
314JAS513m3e6figs-rquestionκακοπαθεῖ τις ἐν ὑμῖν? προσευχέσθω.1Is anyone among you suffering hardship? Let him prayJames uses this question to cause the readers to reflect on their need. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “If anyone is enduring troubles, he should pray” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
315JAS513wdf7figs-rquestionεὐθυμεῖ τις? ψαλλέτω.1Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praiseJames uses this question to cause the readers to reflect on their blessings. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “If anyone is happy, he should sing songs of praise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
316JAS514in34figs-rquestionἀσθενεῖ τις ἐν ὑμῖν? προσκαλεσάσθω1Is anyone among you sick? Let him callJames uses this question to cause the readers to reflect on their need. This can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “If anyone is sick, he should call” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
317JAS514fik7figs-metonymyἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ Κυρίου1in the name of the Lord“Name” is a metonym for the person of Jesus Christ. Alternate translation: “by the authority of the Lord” or “with the authority that the Lord has given hthem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
318JAS515c8q6figs-metonymyἡ εὐχὴ τῆς πίστεως σώσει τὸν κάμνοντα1The prayer of faith will heal the sick personThe writer speaks of God hearing believers pray for sick people and healing those people as if the prayers themselves healed the people. Alternate translation: “The Lord will hear the prayer of faith and will heal the sick person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
319JAS515qiw4ἡ εὐχὴ τῆς πίστεως1The prayer of faith“The prayer made by believers” or “The prayer that people pray believing God will do as they ask”
320JAS515ei3qἐγερεῖ αὐτὸν ὁ Κύριος1the Lord will raise him up“the Lord will make him well” or “the Lord will enable him to resume his normal life”
321JAS516t2iq0General Information:As these were Jewish believers, James reminds them to pray by recalling one of the prophets of old and that prophets practical prayers.
322JAS516dl5kἐξομολογεῖσθε οὖν…τὰς ἁμαρτίας,1So confess your sinsAdmit to other believers things you did wrong so that you can be forgiven.
323JAS516i8cmἀλλήλοις1to one another“to each other”
324JAS516mzk8figs-activepassiveὅπως ἰαθῆτε1so that you may be healedThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that God may heal you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
325JAS516zk62figs-metaphorπολὺ ἰσχύει δέησις δικαίου ἐνεργουμένη.1The prayer of a righteous person is very strong in its workingPrayer is presented as if it were an object that was strong or powerful. Alternate translation: “When the person who obeys God prays, God will do great things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
326JAS517vhw2προσευχῇ προσηύξατο1prayed earnestly“prayed eagerly” or “prayed passionately”
327JAS517i8wvtranslate-numbersτρεῖς…ἕξ1three…six“3…6” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-numbers]])
328JAS518zwc9ὁ οὐρανὸς ὑετὸν ἔδωκεν1The heavens gave rain“The heavens” probably refers to the sky, which is presented as the source of the rain. Alternate translation: “Rain fell from the sky”
329JAS518yi7mἡ γῆ ἐβλάστησεν τὸν καρπὸν αὐτῆς1the earth produced its fruitHere the earth is presented as the source of the crops.
330JAS518s76lfigs-metonymyτὸν καρπὸν1fruitHere “fruit” stands for all the crops of the farmers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
331JAS519xr4lfigs-gendernotationsἀδελφοί1brothersHere this word probably refers to both men and women. Alternate translation: “fellow believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
332JAS519dv4vfigs-metaphorἐάν τις ἐν ὑμῖν πλανηθῇ ἀπὸ τῆς ἀληθείας, καὶ ἐπιστρέψῃ τις αὐτόν1if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone brings him backA believer who stops trusting in God and obeying him is spoken of as if he were a sheep that wandered away from the flock. The person who persuades him to trust in God again is spoken of as if he were a shepherd who went to search for the lost sheep. Alternate translation: “whenever anyone stops obeying God, and another person helps him start obeying again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
333JAS520xg1yfigs-metonymyὁ ἐπιστρέψας ἁμαρτωλὸν ἐκ πλάνης ὁδοῦ αὐτοῦ, σώσει ψυχὴν αὐτοῦ ἐκ θανάτου, καὶ καλύψει πλῆθος ἁμαρτιῶν.1whoever turns a sinner from his wandering way…will cover over a great number of sinsJames means that God will use the actions of this person to persuade the sinner to repent and be saved. But James speaks as if it were this other person who actually saved the sinners soul from death. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
334JAS520pd78figs-synecdocheσώσει ψυχὴν αὐτοῦ ἐκ θανάτου, καὶ καλύψει πλῆθος ἁμαρτιῶν.1will save him from death, and will cover over a great number of sinsHere “death” refers to spiritual death, eternal separation from God. Alternate translation: “will save him from spiritual death, and God will forgive the sinner for all of his sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
335JAS520rh4dfigs-metaphorκαλύψει πλῆθος ἁμαρτιῶν.1will cover over a great number of sinsPossible meanings are (1) the person who brings back the disobedient brother will have his sins forgiven or (2) the disobedient brother, when he returns to the Lord, will have his sins forgiven. Sins are spoken of as if they were objects that God could cover so that he would not see them, so that he would forgive them. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])