James 5:4

Authorized King James Version

Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἰδού,
Behold
used as imperative lo!
#2
τὰ
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
μισθὸς
the hire
pay for service (literally or figuratively), good or bad
#4
τὰ
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
ἐργατῶν
of the labourers
a toiler; figuratively, a teacher
#6
τὰ
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
ἀμησάντων
have reaped down
properly, to collect, i.e., (by implication) reap
#8
τὰ
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
χώρας
fields
room, i.e., a space of territory (more or less extensive; often including its inhabitants)
#10
ὑμῶν
you
of (from or concerning) you
#11
τὰ
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
ἀπεστερημένος
kept back by fraud
to despoil
#13
ἀφ'
is of
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
#14
ὑμῶν
you
of (from or concerning) you
#15
κράζει
crieth
properly, to "croak" (as a raven) or scream, i.e., (genitive case) to call aloud (shriek, exclaim, intreat)
#16
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#17
τὰ
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#18
βοαὶ
the cries
a halloo, i.e., call (for aid, etc.)
#19
τὰ
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#20
θερισάντων
of them which have reaped
to harvest
#21
εἰς
into
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#22
τὰ
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#23
ὦτα
the ears
the ear (physically or mentally)
#24
κυρίου
of the Lord
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
#25
Σαβαὼθ
of sabaoth
armies; sabaoth (i.e., tsebaoth), a military epithet of god
#26
εἰσεληλύθασιν
are entered
to enter (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of James, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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