James 1:24
For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 10
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ἑαυτὸν
himself
G1438
ἑαυτὸν
himself
Strong's:
G1438
Word #:
3 of 10
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
4 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἀπελήλυθεν
goeth his way
G565
ἀπελήλυθεν
goeth his way
Strong's:
G565
Word #:
5 of 10
to go off (i.e., depart), aside (i.e., apart) or behind (i.e., follow), literally or figuratively
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
6 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἐπελάθετο
forgetteth
G1950
ἐπελάθετο
forgetteth
Strong's:
G1950
Word #:
8 of 10
to lose out of mind; by implication, to neglect
Cross References
2 Peter 3:11Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,Luke 7:39Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.Luke 1:66And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.Matthew 8:27But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!1 Thessalonians 1:5For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.Judges 8:18Then said he unto Zebah and Zalmunna, What manner of men were they whom ye slew at Tabor? And they answered, As thou art, so were they; each one resembled the children of a king.
Historical Context
In oral cultures, memory work was prized. James's warning would sting those proud of memorizing Torah yet failing to obey. Paul similarly rebukes Corinthians for forgetting the gospel (1 Corinthians 15:1-2).
Persecuted believers could excuse disobedience due to pressure; James insists that forgetting identity leads to compromised witness.
Questions for Reflection
- What spiritual truths do you tend to forget soon after hearing them?
- How can you build reminders into your routine to apply God's Word?
- Who can hold you accountable to act on convictions before they fade?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. This person beholds himself, departs, and immediately forgets what manner of man he was. The verbs—beheld (katenoēsen, κατενόησεν), went away (apelthen, ἀπῆλθεν), forgot (epelatheto, ἐπελάθετο)—depict culpable negligence. Forgetfulness is moral, not mental; he chooses not to act on the revelation.
James exposes spiritual amnesia common in nominal religion. The gospel reveals our sin and Christ's provision; to walk away unchanged is to despise grace. Reformed piety emphasizes meditation and application to avoid such forgetfulness.