James 1:10

Authorized King James Version

But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#3
πλούσιος
the rich
wealthy; figuratively, abounding with
#4
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#5
τῇ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
ταπεινώσει
is made low
depression (in rank or feeling)
#7
αὐτοῦ
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#8
ὅτι
because
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#9
ὡς
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#10
ἄνθος
the flower
a blossom
#11
χόρτου
of the grass
a "court" or "garden", i.e., (by implication, of pasture) herbage or vegetation
#12
παρελεύσεται
he shall pass away
to come near or aside, i.e., to approach (arrive), go by (or away), (figuratively) perish or neglect, (causative) avert

Analysis

Within the broader context of James, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to James's theological argument.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of James Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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