James 3:12
Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.
Original Language Analysis
μὴ
Can
G3361
μὴ
Can
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
1 of 18
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
ἀδελφοί
brethren
G80
ἀδελφοί
brethren
Strong's:
G80
Word #:
3 of 18
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
ποιῆσαι
bear
G4160
ποιῆσαι
bear
Strong's:
G4160
Word #:
7 of 18
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
οὐδεμια
can no
G3762
οὐδεμια
can no
Strong's:
G3762
Word #:
12 of 18
not even one (man, woman or thing), i.e., none, nobody, nothing
πηγὴ
fountain
G4077
πηγὴ
fountain
Strong's:
G4077
Word #:
13 of 18
a fount (literally or figuratively), i.e., source or supply (of water, blood, enjoyment) (not necessarily the original spring)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
15 of 18
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Historical Context
Agrarian imagery resonated with diaspora Jews familiar with fig and olive cultivation. Mixed fruit signified corruption or disease. James warns that duplicity indicates spiritual sickness.",
Questions for Reflection
- What mismatched fruit do you observe in your speech?
- How can you address root issues producing inconsistent words?
- What reminders of your identity in Christ keep speech aligned?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh. Can a fig tree bear olives or a grapevine figs? Neither can saltwater produce fresh. Identity determines fruit. Likewise, redeemed tongues should bear godly speech, not contradictory fruit.
Reformed teaching on union with Christ emphasizes new identity; speech inconsistent with that identity must be addressed through repentance and faith.