James 2:6

Authorized King James Version

But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὑμεῖς
ye
you (as subjective of verb)
#2
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#3
ἠτιμάσατε
have despised
to render infamous, i.e., (by implication) contemn or maltreat
#4
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
πτωχόν
the poor
akin to g4422 and the alternate of g4098); a beggar (as cringing), i.e., pauper (strictly denoting absolute or public mendicancy, although also used i
#6
οὐχ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#7
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
πλούσιοι
rich men
wealthy; figuratively, abounding with
#9
καταδυναστεύουσιν
Do
to exercise dominion against, i.e., oppress
#10
ὑμῶν
you
of (from or concerning) you
#11
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#12
αὐτοὶ
draw
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
#13
ἕλκουσιν
to drag (literally or figuratively)
#14
ὑμᾶς
you
you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)
#15
εἰς
before
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#16
κριτήρια
the judgment seats
a rule of judging ("criterion"), i.e., (by implication) a tribunal

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 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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