James 2:11

Authorized King James Version

For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
γὰρ
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
εἶπεν
he that said
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#4
Μὴ
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#5
μοιχεύσεις,
Do
to commit adultery
#6
εἶπεν
he that said
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#7
καί
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#8
Μὴ
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#9
φονεύσεις
Do
to be a murderer (of)
#10
εἰ
if
if, whether, that, etc
#11
δέ
Now
but, and, etc
#12
οὐ
no
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#13
μοιχεύσεις,
Do
to commit adultery
#14
φονεύσεις
Do
to be a murderer (of)
#15
δέ
Now
but, and, etc
#16
γέγονας
thou art become
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
#17
παραβάτης
a transgressor
a violator
#18
νόμου
of the law
law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of moses (including the volume); also of the gospel), or figurat

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to James. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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