James 3:7

Authorized King James Version

For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind:

Word-by-Word Analysis

πᾶσα

G3956

every

all, any, every, the whole

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

φύσει

G5449

kind

growth (by germination or expansion), i.e., (by implication) natural production (lineal descent); by extension, a genus or sort; figuratively, native

θηρίων

G2342

of beasts

a dangerous animal

τε

G5037

and

both or also (properly, as correlation of g2532)

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

πετεινῶν

G4071

of birds

a flying animal, i.e., bird

ἑρπετῶν

G2062

of serpents

a reptile, i.e., (by hebraism (compare h7431)) a small animal

τε

G5037

and

both or also (properly, as correlation of g2532)

#10

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#11

ἐναλίων

G1724

of things in the sea

in the sea, i.e., marine

#12

δεδάμασται

G1150

hath been tamed

to tame

#13

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#14

δεδάμασται

G1150

hath been tamed

to tame

#15

τῇ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#16

φύσει

G5449

kind

growth (by germination or expansion), i.e., (by implication) natural production (lineal descent); by extension, a genus or sort; figuratively, native

#17

τῇ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#18

ἀνθρωπίνῃ

G442

human

Analysis

Within the broader context of James, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

James 3:7

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Topics