James 2:15

Authorized King James Version

If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἐὰν
If
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
#2
δὲ
but, and, etc
#3
ἀδελφὸς
G80
a brother
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
#4
or
disjunctive, or; comparative, than
#5
ἀδελφὴ
G79
sister
a sister (naturally or ecclesiastically)
#6
γυμνοὶ
naked
nude (absolute or relative, literal or figurative)
#7
ὑπάρχωσιν
be
to begin under (quietly), i.e., come into existence (be present or at hand); expletively, to exist (as copula or subordinate to an adjective, particip
#8
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#9
λειπόμενοι
destitute
to leave, i.e., (intransitively or passively) to fail or be absent
#10
ὦσιν
(may, might, can, could, would, should, must, etc.; also with g1487 and its comparative, as well as with other particles) be
#11
τῆς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
ἐφημέρου
of daily
for a day ("ephemeral"), i.e., diurnal
#13
τροφῆς
food
nourishment (literally or figuratively); by implication, rations (wages)

Analysis

Within the broader context of James, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of James.

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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