James 3:5
Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
Even
G2532
καὶ
Even
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
2 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
γλῶσσα
the tongue
G1100
γλῶσσα
the tongue
Strong's:
G1100
Word #:
4 of 15
the tongue; by implication, a language (specially, one naturally unacquired)
μικρὸν
a little
G3398
μικρὸν
a little
Strong's:
G3398
Word #:
5 of 15
small (in size, quantity, number or (figuratively) dignity)
καὶ
Even
G2532
καὶ
Even
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
μεγάλαυχεῖ
boasteth great things
G3166
μεγάλαυχεῖ
boasteth great things
Strong's:
G3166
Word #:
9 of 15
to talk big, i.e., be grandiloquent (arrogant, egotistic)
ὀλίγον
a little
G3641
ὀλίγον
a little
Strong's:
G3641
Word #:
11 of 15
puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat
Cross References
Proverbs 18:21Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.Proverbs 12:18There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.Proverbs 15:2The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.Psalms 17:10They are inclosed in their own fat: with their mouth they speak proudly.Psalms 10:3For the wicked boasteth of his heart's desire, and blesseth the covetous, whom the LORD abhorreth.Jeremiah 18:18Then said they, Come, and let us devise devices against Jeremiah; for the law shall not perish from the priest, nor counsel from the wise, nor the word from the prophet. Come, and let us smite him with the tongue, and let us not give heed to any of his words.Ezekiel 28:2Son of man, say unto the prince of Tyrus, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thine heart is lifted up, and thou hast said, I am a God, I sit in the seat of God, in the midst of the seas; yet thou art a man, and not God, though thou set thine heart as the heart of God:Jude 1:16These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage.
Historical Context
In dry Mediterranean climates, small sparks caused massive fires—an image his audience understood. Social tensions among diaspora Jews could erupt through rumors. James urges restraint to prevent communal infernos.",
Questions for Reflection
- What conversations or online interactions risk sparking fires?
- How can you proactively speak peace into volatile situations?
- What safeguards will keep your tongue from boasting or burning?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! The tongue, though small, boasts great things and can set a forest ablaze. James warns of its destructive potential. Words ignite conflicts, slander, and doctrinal splits.
Reformed communities have seen revivals and divisions sparked by tongues. James calls for reverent handling of speech, aware of its explosive power.