Send Close Add comments: (status displays here)
Got it!  This site "creationpie.com" uses cookies. You consent to this by clicking on "Got it!" or by continuing to use this website.  Note: This appears on each machine/browser from which this site is accessed.
James 1: Interpretation and misinterpretation
by RS  admin@creationpie.com : 1024 x 640


1. Introduction to the book of James
Verse routeJames 1:1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting. [kjv]

The book of James is after Philemon and before Peter in the GNT (Greek New Testament).

In his extensive work entitled "Jewish Antiquities", Josephus mentions James the brother of Jesus the Christ, and, in passing, John the Baptist.

Josephus records his death (sometime from 62 to 69 AD) as being stoned to death by the Jewish religious establishment.

Information sign More: Introduction to the book of James

2. James 1: Interpretation and misinterpretation
The book of James uses some interesting words.

Other aspects of James bring into question the actual author of James.

Some of the logic of what James says appears to have been misinterpreted in ways that support the human sand infrastructure of the church and not what Jesus (and Paul) taught.

Whenever James makes a claim, the following questions should be asked. In terms of fault tolerance and error recovery, do the claims still hold in the presence of "errors" or "anomalies".

3. Disputed books
The book of James is one of many disputed books from the fourth century. Some were kept. Some were not kept.

Some books, such as Peter and John, contain embedded prophecies that help authenticate the writing. Some, such as Hebrews (kept), James (kept) and Barnabas (not kept) do not appear to contain embedded prophecies to help authenticate the writing.

The Latin technical term for disputed books, from Eusebius, of the New Testament is "Antilegomena""disputed books" and is from the ancient Greek word "ἀντιλεγόμενα ""in place of saying" which comes from "ἀντιλέγω""contradict, reply in response, argue against".

4. Table
Some writings were rejected by almost all. Some were accepted by some and rejected by some. Here is a table.

Disputed NT books ‑ some accepted by Catholic or Eastern Church
ACCEPTED  2 John  Apocalypse of Peter
 Epistle to the Hebrews   Epistle of Jude  Acts of Paul
 Epistle of James   Book of Revelation  Shepherd of Hermas
 2 Peter  REJECTED Epistle of Barnabas
 2 John  Gospel of the Hebrews Didache
Eusebius gives some details in his Church History written about 325 AD.

It is interesting to look at each book in detail and try to determine why or why not each book was kept or not kept in the canon.

Future topic Details are left as a future topic.


5. Barnabas
English: And again in another prophet he says: All day long I have stretched out my hands to a disobedient people who oppose my righteous way. (Holmes, 2007, p. 419)
Greek: καὶ πάλιν ἐν ἑτέρῳ προφήτῃ λέγει· Ὅλην τὴν ἡμέραν ἐξεπέτασα τὰς χεῖρας μου πρὸς λαὸν ἀπειθῆ καὶ ἀντιλέγοντα ὁδῷ δικαίᾳ μου. Epistle of Barnabas [12.4]

Barnabas uses the ancient Greek word "ἀντιλέγω""contradict, reply in response, argue against". Holmes translates the word as "oppose" but the meaning "contradict" or "argue against" fits better. Barnabas is referring to Isaiah 65:2 where, in context, the "thoughts" are "opposed" or "contradict" or "argue against" that of God.

Verse routeIsaiah 65:2 I have spread out my hands all the day unto a rebellious people, which walketh in a way that was not good, after their own thoughts; [kjv]
Verse routeεξεπετασα τας χειρας μου ολην την ημεραν προς λαον απειθουντα και αντιλεγοντα οι ουκ επορευθησαν οδω αληθινη αλλ οπισω των αμαρτιων αυτων [lxx]



Information sign More: Epistle of Barnabas

6. Isaiah 65:2
   Isaiah 65:2 
 All 
KJV: I have spread out my hands all the day unto a rebellious people, which walketh in a way that was not good, after their own thoughts;
Hebrew: פרשתי ידי כל היום אל עם סורר ההלכים הדרך לא טוב אחר מחשבתיהם׃
Greek: εξεπετασα τας χειρας μου ολην την ημεραν προς λαον απειθουντα και αντιλεγοντα οι ουκ επορευθησαν οδω αληθινη αλλ οπισω των αμαρτιων αυτων

7. James 1:1 Diaspora and the twelve tribes
Verse routeJames 1:1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting. [kjv]
Verse routeιακωβος θεου και κυριου ιησου χριστου δουλος ταις δωδεκα φυλαις ταις εν τη διασπορα χαιρειν [gnt]
Verse routeIacobusduodecim tribubusdispersione … [v]

In order for what James writes to be applicable to Christians in general, one must reasonably argue that something written to the "twelve" Jewish "tribes" applies to everyone else.

The ancient Greek word "διασπείρω""scatter, spread around". Some pastors will claim than this word represents the Jewish Diasporas. Some recognized Jewish Diasporas were after 66-70 AD (destruction of Jerusalem) and 132-135 AD (Bar Kokhba revolt).

Future topic Details are left as a future topic.

Another Greek word for "scatter" is the source of the English word "scoprion".

Information sign More: A scatter-brained approach to the sting of a scorpion

8. James 1:1
   James 1:1 
 All 
KJV: James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.
Greek: ιακωβος θεου και κυριου ιησου χριστου δουλος ταις δωδεκα φυλαις ταις εν τη διασπορα χαιρειν
Latin: Iacobus Dei et Domini nostri Iesu Christi servus duodecim tribubus quae sunt in dispersione salutem

9. Strongs - scatter

10. Usage - scatter
*G1290 *3 διασπορά (dee-as-por-ah') : from G1289; dispersion, i.e. (specially and concretely) the (converted) Israelite resident in Gentile countries:--(which are) scattered (abroad).
Word usage per chapter Words: διασπορα διασποραν διασπορας

The ancient Greek word "διασπείρω""scatter, spread around".

11. Scattered
Verse routeJohn 7:35 Then said the Jews among themselves, Whither will he go, that we shall not find him? will he go unto the dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles? [kjv]
Verse routeειπον ουν οι ιουδαιοι προς εαυτους που ουτος μελλει πορευεσθαι οτι ημεις ουχ ευρησομεν αυτον μη εις την διασποραν των ελληνων μελλει πορευεσθαι και διδασκειν τους ελληνας [gnt]

Verse routeJames 1:1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting. [kjv]
Verse routeιακωβος θεου και κυριου ιησου χριστου δουλος ταις δωδεκα φυλαις ταις εν τη διασπορα χαιρειν [gnt]
Verse routeIacobusduodecim tribubusdispersione … [v]

Verse route1 Peter 1:1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, [kjv]
Verse routeπετρος αποστολος ιησου χριστου εκλεκτοις παρεπιδημοις διασπορας ποντου γαλατιας καππαδοκιας ασιας και βιθυνιας [gnt]

John, James and Peter use the ancient Greek word "διασπείρω""scatter, spread around". This word is used 7 times in the LXX (Septuagint) (omitted).

12. John 7:35
   John 7:35 
 All 
KJV: Then said the Jews among themselves, Whither will he go, that we shall not find him? will he go unto the dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles?
Greek: ειπον ουν οι ιουδαιοι προς εαυτους που ουτος μελλει πορευεσθαι οτι ημεις ουχ ευρησομεν αυτον μη εις την διασποραν των ελληνων μελλει πορευεσθαι και διδασκειν τους ελληνας

13. 1 Peter 1:1
   1 Peter 1:1 
 All 
KJV: Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,
Greek: πετρος αποστολος ιησου χριστου εκλεκτοις παρεπιδημοις διασπορας ποντου γαλατιας καππαδοκιας ασιας και βιθυνιας

14. James 1:2 Joy
Verse routeJames 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; [kjv]
Verse routeπασαν χαραν ηγησασθε αδελφοι μου οταν πειρασμοις περιπεσητε ποικιλοις [gnt]
Verse routegaudiumcumtemptationibus variis … [v]

The English word "joy" comes, through French, from the Latin word "gaudia""joy" and is the source of the word "gaudy". The ancient Greek word "χαρά""favor, grace" was the word used to translate the Hebrew word for "favor" or "grace".

Information sign More: A joyous thank you for the grace of a gaudy favor

15. James 1:2 Temptations and testing
Verse routeJames 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; [kjv]
Verse routeπασαν χαραν ηγησασθε αδελφοι μου οταν πειρασμοις περιπεσητε ποικιλοις [gnt]
Verse routegaudiumcumtemptationibus variis … [v]

The ancient Greek word "πειράζω""examine" and is often translated in the KJV (King James Version) as "tempt". The "temptation" is an examination, sometimes to deceive, using beliefs that the person being examined holds to be true.

The modern idea of the Greek "temptation" is that of an interview where one examines someone about things they know or believe they know.

Information sign More: Matthew 4:1-11 Examining evil temptations
Information sign More: Do not mention temptations nor attempt to be a pirate

16. Peirastic
Book: Aristotle on False ReasoningOn page 2, Schreiber elaborates on "peirastic" reasoning as distinguished by Aristotle.
Aristotle's clarification of the word fits the "temptations" of Jesus in the Gospels. The ancient Greek word "πειράζω""examine" and is often translated in the KJV as "tempt". The modern idea of the Greek "temptation" is that of an interview where one examines someone about things they know or believe they know.

Information sign More: Matthew 4:1-11 Examining evil temptations
Information sign More: Do not mention temptations nor attempt to be a pirate
Information sign More: Book: Aristotle on False Reasoning

17. James and Luke Testing
Verse routeJames 1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; [kjv]
Verse routeπασαν χαραν ηγησασθε αδελφοι μου οταν πειρασμοις περιπεσητε ποικιλοις [gnt]
Verse routegaudiumcumtemptationibus variis … [v]
Verse route1:3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. [kjv]
Verse routeγινωσκοντες οτι το δοκιμιον υμων της πιστεως κατεργαζεται υπομονην [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "δοκιμάζω""try out, test, taste, attempt". The idea in this verse of active physical "testing" appears to use the modern Latin-based idea of "temptation" rather than the ancient Greek meaning of passive abstract idea of "examination" with intent to deceive.

Verse routeLuke 14:19 And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee have me excused. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι ετερος ειπεν ζευγη βοων ηγορασα πεντε και πορευομαι δοκιμασαι αυτα ερωτω σε εχε με παρητημενον [gnt]

The modern Greek word "δοκιμάζω" (tho-kee-MA-zo) ≈ "try out, test, taste, attempt" has the same meaning.

18. James 1:2
   James 1:2 
 All 
KJV: My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
Greek: πασαν χαραν ηγησασθε αδελφοι μου οταν πειρασμοις περιπεσητε ποικιλοις
Latin: omne gaudium existimate fratres mei cum in temptationibus variis incideritis

19. James 1:3
   James 1:3 
 All 
KJV: Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
Greek: γινωσκοντες οτι το δοκιμιον υμων της πιστεως κατεργαζεται υπομονην

20. Luke 14:19
   Luke 14:19 
 All 
KJV: And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee have me excused.
Greek: και ετερος ειπεν ζευγη βοων ηγορασα πεντε και πορευομαι δοκιμασαι αυτα ερωτω σε εχε με παρητημενον

21. James 1:4 Patience and perfection
Verse routeJames 1:4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. [kjv]
Verse routeη δε υπομονη εργον τελειον εχετω ινα ητε τελειοι και ολοκληροι εν μηδενι λειπομενοι [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "τέλειος""purposed, complete, perfected" and not the modern English idea of "perfect" as "without error".

For Aristotle there was the added meaning of "purpose" as in an "end" as "τέλος""end, purpose, complete" and is the source of the English word "teleology" as the "logic" or "reasoning" about the "end times". Aristotle sometimes uses the word in the sense of "mature" as in "ripe" (fruit, etc.) in contrast to "raw".

Information sign More: Matthew 19:13-30 perfect end to complete perfection

22. James 1:4
   James 1:4 
 All 
KJV: But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
Greek: η δε υπομονη εργον τελειον εχετω ινα ητε τελειοι και ολοκληροι εν μηδενι λειπομενοι

23. James 1:5
Verse routeJames 1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. [kjv]
Verse routeει δε τις υμων λειπεται σοφιας αιτειτω παρα του διδοντος θεου πασιν απλως και μη ονειδιζοντος και δοθησεται αυτω [gnt]
Verse routeindiget sapientiamaffluenterinproperat … [v]

The ancient Greek word "σοφός""clever, cunning" and is often translated as the English word "wise". This word may be from the PIE (Proto Indo-European) root "SEHP""to taste, to try out".

Red flagThis Greek word for "wise" is not the usual Greek word used by Jesus or Paul who use a different word, sometimes translated as "wise" but that has a meaning of being "prudent" rather than "wise" or "clever".

24. The stomach for a gut feeling
Verse routeEphesians 1:8 Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; [kjv]
Verse routeης επερισσευσεν εις ημας εν παση σοφια και φρονησει [gnt]

Here is a comparison. The ancient Greek word "φρόνιμος""sensible, mindful" and comes from the ancient Greek word "φρήν""midriff, stomach". A "sensible" approach requires that trade-offs be made.

In relating to his Greek audience, Paul will use the Greek word for "wise" in the sense that they would know it. Jesus, however, does not use the Greek word for "wise" in a good sense. Instead, Jesus uses the word for "prudent" in a positive manner.

Information sign More: A prudent approach to a wise understanding
Information sign More: A wise fool should not be prudish about being prudent

25. Wise and foolish
Many English translations slide the meaning. Why? Here is one example.
Verse routeMatthew 25:1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. [kjv]
Verse route25:2 And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. [kjv]
Verse routeπεντε δε εξ αυτων ησαν μωραι και πεντε φρονιμοι [gnt]

Logical head knowledge: "σοφός""clever, cunning" as in "wisdom". Intuitive gut feeling: "φρόνιμος""sensible, mindful" as in "gut feeling". The Greek for "foolish" is that of being "childish".

Information sign More: A wise opportunity to be prudent

26. James 1:5
   James 1:5 
 All 
KJV: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
Greek: ει δε τις υμων λειπεται σοφιας αιτειτω παρα του διδοντος θεου πασιν απλως και μη ονειδιζοντος και δοθησεται αυτω
Latin: si quis autem vestrum indiget sapientiam postulet a Deo qui dat omnibus affluenter et non inproperat et dabitur ei

27. James 1:6 Wavering
Verse routeJames 1:6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. [kjv]
Verse routeαιτειτω δε εν πιστει μηδεν διακρινομενος ο γαρ διακρινομενος εοικεν κλυδωνι θαλασσης ανεμιζομενω και ριπιζομενω [gnt]
Verse routehaesitanshaesitat … [v]

The ancient Greek word "διάκρινω""separate, distinguish, discern" which is, literally, "though separation". The Latin word "haesito""remain fixed in place, hesitate, be uncertain".

From the other words in the verse, with sea and wind analogies, it appears that the Latin meaning of "be uncertain" or "hesitating" was used in this verse and the Greek mistranslation of the word for "separate" or "distinguish" was used as it is elsewhere in the Gospels. This makes this verse appear as if it was a back-translation from Latin into Greek by someone who did not fully understand the Greek language but instead used the Latin translation of the Greek from, for example, the Gospels.

However, there could be some scientific term connections with Aristotle and/or Plutarch.

28. Discerning doubts about doubts
Verse routeMatthew 21:21 Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. [kjv]
Verse routeαποκριθεις δε ο ιησους ειπεν αυτοις αμην λεγω υμιν εαν εχητε πιστιν και μη διακριθητε ου μονον το της συκης ποιησετε αλλα καν τω ορει τουτω ειπητε αρθητι και βληθητι εις την θαλασσαν γενησεται [gnt]

Don't even think of doubting here! Divide into two parts Don't even think of thinking here!
The KJV, and most English translations, use "doubt" for the ancient Greek word "διάκρινω""separate, distinguish, discern" which is, literally, "though separation".
The KJV translation as "doubt" appears to have been influenced by the Latin word "haesito""remain fixed in place, hesitate, be uncertain".

Does this mean that if one does not "discern" properly, one can do the same to a fig tree or to a mountain? Does this mean that if one does not "think about it", one can do the same to a fig tree or mountain? Is this a good or a bad idea? Let us investigate.

Information sign More: Discerning doubts about doubts

29. Aristotle: Meteorology
What James is saying with waves and the sea, etc., may relate to evaporation as in parts being divided.
Book: Loeb #397 Meteorologica
The ancient Greek word "διάκρινω""separate, distinguish, discern"

Aristotle uses this word often in his work Meteorologica. In this case, the "through separation" is that of "evaporation" or "separation of elements".
English: ... then it must be air and the water that surrounds the earth - for vapour is evaporated water. (Loeb #397, p. 19)
Greek: ...λείπεται δ' ἀέρος καὶ τοῦ περὶ τὴν γῆν πᾶσαν ὕδατος· ἡ γὰρ ἀτμὶς ὕδατος διάκρισίς ἐστιν. [340b]


Information sign More: Aristotle
Information sign More: A haughty and high-up meteor
Information sign More: Discerning doubts about doubts

30. James 1:6 Wavering
Verse routeJames 1:6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. [kjv]
Verse routeαιτειτω δε εν πιστει μηδεν διακρινομενος ο γαρ διακρινομενος εοικεν κλυδωνι θαλασσης ανεμιζομενω και ριπιζομενω [gnt]
Verse routehaesitanshaesitat … [v]

Many scientific type words used by James had been used by Aristotle in the 4th century BC. Many of these are in his works including Physics and Meterorologica. A few are new presented.

31. Aristotle: Meterorologica
English: For it is reasonable to suppose that, if the motion of a single star can produce this effect and set the air on fire or disintegrate it because of the size of the circle, (Loeb#397, p. 65)
Greek: εὔλογον γάρ, εἴπερ ἡ ἑνὸς ἄστρου κίνησις, καὶ τὴν τῶν πάντων ποιεῖν τι τοιοῦτον καὶ ἐκριπίζειν ἀέρα τε καὶ διακρίνειν διὰ τὸ τοῦ κύκλου μέγεθος. Aristotle: Μετεωρολογικά/α [346a]
English: In the zodiac circle any such mixture is dissolved because of the movement of the sun and the planets - and consequently the majority of comets fall outside the tropics. (Loeb#397, p. 65)
Greek: ὁ μὲν οὖν τῶν ζῳδίων διὰ τὴν τοῦ ἡλίου φορὰν καὶ τὴν τῶν πλανητῶν διαλύει τὴν τοιαύτην σύστασιν· διόπερ οἱ πολλοὶ τῶν κομητῶν ἐκτὸς γίγνονται τῶν τροπικῶν. Aristotle: Μετεωρολογικά/α [346a]
English: Besides, no tail appears around the sun or moon because they dissolve any such mixture before it can form. (Loeb#397, p. 65)
Greek: ἔτι δ' οὔτε περὶ τὸν ἥλιον οὔτε περὶ σελήνην γίγνεται κόμη· θᾶττον γὰρ διακρίνουσιν ἢ ὥστε συστῆναι τοιαύτην σύγκρισιν. Aristotle: Μετεωρολογικά/α [346a]

32. James 1:6
   James 1:6 
 All 
KJV: But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
Greek: αιτειτω δε εν πιστει μηδεν διακρινομενος ο γαρ διακρινομενος εοικεν κλυδωνι θαλασσης ανεμιζομενω και ριπιζομενω
Latin: postulet autem in fide nihil haesitans qui enim haesitat similis est fluctui maris qui a vento movetur et circumfertur

33. James 1:7
Verse routeJames 1:7 For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. [kjv]
Verse routeμη γαρ οιεσθω ο ανθρωπος εκεινος οτι λημψεται τι παρα του κυριου [gnt]
Verse routeaestimet … [v]

The ancient Greek word "τις""something" and which is not the same as "any thing" which is more general.

The Latin word "aestimo""determine the value" and is the source of the English word "estimate".

The ancient Greek word "οἶδα""know, be acquainted with".

34. James 1:7
   James 1:7 
 All 
KJV: For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.
Greek: μη γαρ οιεσθω ο ανθρωπος εκεινος οτι ληψεται λημψεται τι παρα του κυριου
Latin: non ergo aestimet homo ille quod accipiat aliquid a Domino

35. James 1:8
Verse routeJames 1:8 A double minded man is unstable in all his ways. [kjv]
Verse routeανηρ διψυχος ακαταστατος εν πασαις ταις οδοις αυτου [gnt]
Verse routeduplexinconstansomnibus viis … [v]

The ancient Greek word "ἀκατάστατος""unstable" as in the wind or a person. The primary meaning derives from "wind" which is related to "waves", "sea", etc.

Is every way of a "double minded" man "unstable"?

The Latin word "inconstans""changeable, inconstant, inconsistent".

36. James 1:8
   James 1:8 
 All 
KJV: A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.
Greek: ανηρ διψυχος ακαταστατος εν πασαις ταις οδοις αυτου
Latin: vir duplex animo inconstans in omnibus viis suis

37. Strongs - unstable

38. Usage - unstable
*G182 *0 ἀκατάστατος (ak-at-as'-tat-os) : from G1 (as a negative particle) and a derivative of G2525; inconstant:--unstable.
Word usage per chapter Words: ακαταστατον ακαταστατος

This word is used twice in the GNT, both times by James. It is used once by Isaiah. The LXX is close but not an exact match for the KJV based on the Hebrew.

Verse routeIsaiah 54:11 O thou afflicted, tossed with tempest, and not comforted, behold, I will lay thy stones with fair colours, and lay thy foundations with sapphires. [kjv]
Verse routeταπεινη και ακαταστατος ου παρεκληθης ιδου εγω ετοιμαζω σοι ανθρακα τον λιθον σου και τα θεμελια σου σαπφειρον [lxx]
Verse routeAfflicted and outcast you have not been comforted: behold, I will prepare carbuncle for your stones, and sapphire for your foundations; [bs3]

The Isaiah word in the LXX translated as "afflicted" is the Greek word for "humble" which will appear in the next two verses.

39. Isaiah 54:11
   Isaiah 54:11 
 All 
KJV: O thou afflicted, tossed with tempest, and not comforted, behold, I will lay thy stones with fair colours, and lay thy foundations with sapphires.
Hebrew: עניה סערה לא נחמה הנה אנכי מרביץ בפוך אבניך ויסדתיך בספירים׃
Greek: ταπεινη και ακαταστατος ου παρεκληθης ιδου εγω ετοιμαζω σοι ανθρακα τον λιθον σου και τα θεμελια σου σαπφειρον
Brenton: Afflicted and outcast you have not been comforted: behold, I will prepare carbuncle for your stones, and sapphire for your foundations;

40. Words
Here are some ancient Greek words used by James and were not in common use. Some are technical words. These are according to the Cambridge Greek Lexicon. ... more to be added ...

The interesting part is that many of the technical terms are attributed to Plutarch.

41. James 1:9-10
Verse routeJames 1:9 Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: [kjv]
Verse routeκαυχασθω δε ο αδελφος ο ταπεινος εν τω υψει αυτου [gnt]
Verse routeglorieturhumilisexaltatione … [v]
Verse route1:10 But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away. [kjv]
Verse routeο δε πλουσιος εν τη ταπεινωσει αυτου οτι ως ανθος χορτου παρελευσεται [gnt]
Verse routediveshumilitateflos faeni … [v]

The ancient Greek word "ταπεινός""low-lying, humbled, downcast". James says that the "rich" will "pass away". Will the "poor" also "pass away"?

It would appear that everyone is at the same level before God. Why then would the person of "low degree" always be "exalted" and the "rich" person be "humiliated"? In what way is James talking about the existing heaven and earth as compared to the new heaven and earth?

42. James 1:9
   James 1:9 
 All 
KJV: Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted:
Greek: καυχασθω δε ο αδελφος ο ταπεινος εν τω υψει αυτου
Latin: glorietur autem frater humilis in exaltatione sua

43. James 1:10
   James 1:10 
 All 
KJV: But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.
Greek: ο δε πλουσιος εν τη ταπεινωσει αυτου οτι ως ανθος χορτου παρελευσεται
Latin: dives autem in humilitate sua quoniam sicut flos faeni transibit

44. James 1:11
Verse routeJames 1:11 For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways. [kjv]
Verse routeανετειλεν γαρ ο ηλιος συν τω καυσωνι και εξηρανεν τον χορτον και το ανθος αυτου εξεπεσεν και η ευπρεπεια του προσωπου αυτου απωλετο ουτως και ο πλουσιος εν ταις πορειαις αυτου μαρανθησεται [gnt]


45. James 1:11
   James 1:11 
 All 
KJV: For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways.
Greek: ανετειλεν γαρ ο ηλιος συν τω καυσωνι και εξηρανεν τον χορτον και το ανθος αυτου εξεπεσεν και η ευπρεπεια του προσωπου αυτου απωλετο ουτως και ο πλουσιος εν ταις πορειαις αυτου μαρανθησεται

46. James 1:12 Happy
Verse routeJames 1:12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. [kjv]
Verse routeμακαριος ανηρ ος υπομενει πειρασμον οτι δοκιμος γενομενος λημψεται τον στεφανον της ζωης ον επηγγειλατο τοις αγαπωσιν αυτον [gnt]
Verse routebeatustemptationemprobatuscoronam … [v]

The ancient Greek word "μακάριος""happy, content" but is often translated as "blessed".

The Latin word "beati""happy, fortunate" and is the origin of the English word "beatitude" and the name of the "Beatitudes".

The Latin word "probo""approve, test, inspect, examine, demonstrate, prove".

Information sign More: Matthew 5: A eulogy of some blessed words on being blissfully happy

47. James 1:13
Verse routeJames 1:13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: [kjv]
Verse routeμηδεις πειραζομενος λεγετω οτι απο θεου πειραζομαι ο γαρ θεος απειραστος εστιν κακων πειραζει δε αυτος ουδενα [gnt]
Verse routetemptaturtemptorintemptatortemptat [v]

The ancient Greek word "πειράζω""examine" is an examination, sometimes to deceive, using beliefs that the person being examined holds to be true. How can God be examined by what God believes to be true (since he knows what is true) in an attempt to deceive God?

48. James 1:12
   James 1:12 
 All 
KJV: Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
Greek: μακαριος ανηρ ος υπομενει πειρασμον οτι δοκιμος γενομενος ληψεται λημψεται τον στεφανον της ζωης ον επηγγειλατο ο κυριος τοις αγαπωσιν αυτον
Latin: beatus vir qui suffert temptationem quia cum probatus fuerit accipiet coronam vitae quam repromisit Deus diligentibus se

49. James 1:13
   James 1:13 
 All 
KJV: Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
Greek: μηδεις πειραζομενος λεγετω οτι απο του θεου πειραζομαι ο γαρ θεος απειραστος εστιν κακων πειραζει δε αυτος ουδενα
Latin: nemo cum temptatur dicat quoniam a Deo temptor Deus enim intemptator malorum est ipse autem neminem temptat

50. James 1:14
Verse routeJames 1:14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. [kjv]
Verse routeεκαστος δε πειραζεται υπο της ιδιας επιθυμιας εξελκομενος και δελεαζομενος [gnt]
Verse routetemptaturconcupiscentiaabstractusinlectus [v]

In simple terms, "abstraction" is looking at similarities and ignoring differences. The English word "abstract" comes from the Latin word "abstractus""take away from" used in this verse.

Compare and contrast the following ways of being "drawn away". The Greek for "wander away" is used in the next verse. From the context, which meaning does James appear to convey?

The Latin word "inlectus""enticed, seduced".

Information sign More: Abstractions

51. Strongs - drawn away

52. Usage - drawn away
*G1828 *1 ἐξέλκω (ex-el'-ko) : from G1537 and G1670; to drag forth, i.e. (figuratively) to entice (to sin):--draw away.
Word usage per chapter Words: εξελκομενος=1


53. James 1:14
   James 1:14 
 All 
KJV: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Greek: εκαστος δε πειραζεται υπο της ιδιας επιθυμιας εξελκομενος και δελεαζομενος
Latin: unusquisque vero temptatur a concupiscentia sua abstractus et inlectus

54. James 1:15 Conception
Verse routeJames 1:15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. [kjv]
Verse routeειτα η επιθυμια συλλαβουσα τικτει αμαρτιαν η δε αμαρτια αποτελεσθεισα αποκυει θανατον [gnt]
Verse routeconcupiscentiaconceperitpeccatum peccatum … [v]

The ancient Greek word "συλλαμβάνω""collect, gather, take hold of, seize, conceive a child".

The ancient Greek word "συλλαβή""conception, pregnancy, hold together". In music, it was a chord today called the fourth.

The idea here appears to be of "conception" as in a (physical) "child" or an (abstract) "idea" that takes hold and is acted on.

55. James 1:15
   James 1:15 
 All 
KJV: Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
Greek: ειτα η επιθυμια συλλαβουσα τικτει αμαρτιαν η δε αμαρτια αποτελεσθεισα αποκυει θανατον
Latin: dein concupiscentia cum conceperit parit peccatum peccatum vero cum consummatum fuerit generat mortem

56. Strongs - conceive

57. Usage - conceive
Word usage per chapter Words: συλλαβειν=3 συλλαβεσθαι συλλαβομενοι συλλαβοντες συλλαβουσα=1 συλλαβουσιν συλλημφθεντα συλλημφθηναι συλλημψη συνειληφυια συνελαβεν συνελαβον=2 συνλαμβανου

*G4815 *16 συλλαμβάνω (sool-lam-ban'-o) : from G4862 and G2983; to clasp, i.e. seize (arrest, capture); specially, to conceive (literally or figuratively); by implication, to aid:--catch, conceive, help, take.

The ancient Greek word "συλλαμβάνω""collect, gather, take hold of, seize, conceive a child".

58. James 1:16 Planets and errors and plans
Verse routeJames 1:16 Do not err, my beloved brethren. [kjv]
Verse routeμη πλανασθε αδελφοι μου αγαπητοι [gnt]

Planets in ancient times False goal
The ancient Greek word "πλάνη""wandering, roaming" and, figuratively, "going astray" or "in error". as in wandering off-target. The English word "planet" came from this word meaning "wandering star".
The primary problem in not "erring" or "wandering off target" is knowing which target is the true target. One way to deceive is to confuse others of the true target.

59. Isaiah and Luke Plans
Verse routeIsaiah 40:4 Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: [kjv]
Verse routeπασα φαραγξ πληρωθησεται και παν ορος και βουνος ταπεινωθησεται και εσται παντα τα σκολια εις ευθειαν και η τραχεια εις πεδια [lxx]
Verse routeplanas [v]
Verse routeLuke 3:5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; [kjv]
Verse routeπασα φαραγξ πληρωθησεται και παν ορος και βουνος ταπεινωθησεται και εσται τα σκολια εις ευθειας και αι τραχειαι εις οδους λειας [gnt]
Verse routeplanas [v]

The English word "plan" is, through French, from the Latin word "plan""flat, plane". A plan as a technical drawing, was drafted on a flat piece of paper. The meaning widened to mean a "set of intended actions". The Latin Vulgate in Luke does not use the Greek word "smooth" but, instead, the Latin word "flat".

60. Isaiah 40:4
   Isaiah 40:4 
 All 
KJV: Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain:
Hebrew: כל גיא ינשא וכל הר וגבעה ישפלו והיה העקב למישור והרכסים לבקעה׃
Greek: πασα φαραγξ πληρωθησεται και παν ορος και βουνος ταπεινωθησεται και εσται παντα τα σκολια εις ευθειαν και η τραχεια εις πεδια
Latin: omnis vallis exaltabitur et omnis mons et collis humiliabitur et erunt prava in directa et aspera in vias planas

61. Luke 3:5
   Luke 3:5 
 All 
KJV: Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth;
Greek: πασα φαραγξ πληρωθησεται και παν ορος και βουνος ταπεινωθησεται και εσται τα σκολια εις ευθειαν ευθειας και αι τραχειαι εις οδους λειας
Latin: omnis vallis implebitur et omnis mons et collis humiliabitur et erunt prava in directa et aspera in vias planas

62. James 1:16-17 Astronomical words
Verse routeJames 1:16 Do not err, my beloved brethren. [kjv]
Verse routeμη πλανασθε αδελφοι μου αγαπητοι [gnt]
Verse route1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. [kjv]
Verse routeπασα δοσις αγαθη και παν δωρημα τελειον ανωθεν εστιν καταβαινον απο του πατρος των φωτων παρ ω ουκ ενι παραλλαγη η τροπης αποσκιασμα [gnt]
Verse routedesursumluminumtransmutatiovicissitudinis obumbratio [v]

Planets in ancient times
It is sometimes pointed out that James uses astronomical terms, not often used elsewhere, to describe the "Father". Some of those terms were used by Plutarch (46-119) many years after James supposedly wrote his letter. If James is the brother of Jesus and a fisherman from Galilee, how did he learn about Greek astronomy and use these words (in a technical sense) before they were used by Plutarch?


Future topic Details are left as a future topic.


63. James 1:16
   James 1:16 
 All 
KJV: Do not err, my beloved brethren.
Greek: μη πλανασθε αδελφοι μου αγαπητοι

64. James 1:17
   James 1:17 
 All 
KJV: Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Greek: πασα δοσις αγαθη και παν δωρημα τελειον ανωθεν εστιν καταβαινον απο του πατρος των φωτων παρ ω ουκ ενι παραλλαγη η τροπης αποσκιασμα
Latin: omne datum optimum et omne donum perfectum desursum est descendens a Patre luminum apud quem non est transmutatio nec vicissitudinis obumbratio
Spanish: Toda buena dadiva y todo don perfecto desciende de lo alto, del Padre de las luces, en el cual no hay mudanza, ni sombra de variación.

65. James 1:19-20
Verse routeJames 1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: [kjv]
Verse routeιστε αδελφοι μου αγαπητοι εστω δε πας ανθρωπος ταχυς εις το ακουσαι βραδυς εις το λαλησαι βραδυς εις οργην [gnt]
Verse route1:20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. [kjv]
Verse routeοργη γαρ ανδρος δικαιοσυνην θεου ουκ εργαζεται [gnt]

quick hear
slow speak
slow wrath
It appears that many make a causal connection here that may or may not exist. Perhaps James is doing the same thing.


That is, the compound use of "slow" appears to connect "speak" and "wrath". Is this always so? When is it not so?

The ancient Greek word "βραδύνω""make slow, delay" which comes from "βραδύς""slow" and which is the opposite of "ταχύς""quick, rapid, soon" which, depending on context, might mean "soon". In Revelation this word is often translated "soon" instead of "quick".

Information sign More: Come quickly: sooner or later

66. James 1:19
   James 1:19 
 All 
KJV: Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
Greek: ωστε ιστε αδελφοι μου αγαπητοι εστω δε πας ανθρωπος ταχυς εις το ακουσαι βραδυς εις το λαλησαι βραδυς εις οργην

67. James 1:20
   James 1:20 
 All 
KJV: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
Greek: οργη γαρ ανδρος δικαιοσυνην θεου ου κατεργαζεται ουκ εργαζεται

68. James 1:21
Verse routeJames 1:21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. [kjv]
Verse routeδιο αποθεμενοι πασαν ρυπαριαν και περισσειαν κακιας εν πραυτητι δεξασθε τον εμφυτον λογον τον δυναμενον σωσαι τας ψυχας υμων [gnt]
Verse routeinmunditiammalitiaemansuetudineinsitum verbumpotestanimas … [v]


69. James 1:21
   James 1:21 
 All 
KJV: Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.
Greek: διο αποθεμενοι πασαν ρυπαριαν και περισσειαν κακιας εν πραυτητι δεξασθε τον εμφυτον λογον τον δυναμενον σωσαι τας ψυχας υμων
Latin: propter quod abicientes omnem inmunditiam et abundantiam malitiae in mansuetudine suscipite insitum verbum quod potest salvare animas vestras

70. James 1:22-23
Verse routeJames 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. [kjv]
Verse routeγινεσθε δε ποιηται λογου και μη ακροαται μονον παραλογιζομενοι εαυτους [gnt]
Verse routefactores verbiauditoresfallentes … [v]
Verse route1:23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: [kjv]
Verse routeοτι ει τις ακροατης λογου εστιν και ου ποιητης ουτος εοικεν ανδρι κατανοουντι το προσωπον της γενεσεως αυτου εν εσοπτρω [gnt]
Verse routeauditorverbifactorconsiderantispeculo [v]

In Bible times, "glass" was often used as a "mirror". In modern times, one encounters "carnival mirror sermons".

Information sign More: Carnival mirror sermons

71. James 1:22
   James 1:22 
 All 
KJV: But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
Greek: γινεσθε δε ποιηται λογου και μη μονον ακροαται μονον παραλογιζομενοι εαυτους
Latin: estote autem factores verbi et non auditores tantum fallentes vosmet ipsos

72. James 1:23
   James 1:23 
 All 
KJV: For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:
Greek: οτι ει τις ακροατης λογου εστιν και ου ποιητης ουτος εοικεν ανδρι κατανοουντι το προσωπον της γενεσεως αυτου εν εσοπτρω
Latin: quia si quis auditor est verbi et non factor hic conparabitur viro consideranti vultum nativitatis suae in speculo

73. James 1:24-25
Verse routeJames 1:24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. [kjv]
Verse routeκατενοησεν γαρ εαυτον και απεληλυθεν και ευθεως επελαθετο οποιος ην [gnt]
Verse routeconsideravitstatim oblitus … [v]
Verse route1:25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. [kjv]


74. James 1:24
   James 1:24 
 All 
KJV: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
Greek: κατενοησεν γαρ εαυτον και απεληλυθεν και ευθεως επελαθετο οποιος ην
Latin: consideravit enim se et abiit et statim oblitus est qualis fuerit

75. James 1:25
   James 1:25 
 All 
KJV: But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
Greek: ο δε παρακυψας εις νομον τελειον τον της ελευθεριας και παραμεινας ουτος ουκ ακροατης επιλησμονης γενομενος αλλα ποιητης εργου ουτος μακαριος εν τη ποιησει αυτου εσται

76. James 1:26-27
Verse routeJames 1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain. [kjv]
Verse routeει τις δοκει θρησκος ειναι μη χαλιναγωγων γλωσσαν εαυτου αυτου αλλα απατων καρδιαν εαυτου τουτου ματαιος η θρησκεια [gnt]
Verse routeputatreligiosumrefrenans linguamseducensreligio [v]
Verse route1:27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. [kjv]
Verse routeθρησκεια καθαρα και αμιαντος παρα τω θεω και πατρι αυτη εστιν επισκεπτεσθαι ορφανους και χηρας εν τη θλιψει αυτων ασπιλον εαυτον τηρειν απο του κοσμου [gnt]
Verse routereligio mundainmaculatavisitaretribulationeinmaculatumsaeculo [v]



Information sign More: Religious

77. James 1:26

   James 1:26 
 All 
KJV: If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.
Greek: ει τις δοκει θρησκος ειναι εν υμιν μη χαλιναγωγων γλωσσαν εαυτου αυτου αλλ αλλα απατων καρδιαν αυτου εαυτου τουτου ματαιος η θρησκεια
Latin: si quis autem putat se religiosum esse non refrenans linguam suam sed seducens cor suum huius vana est religio
Luther: So aber sich jemand unter euch lässet dünken, er diene Gott, und hält seine Zunge nicht im Zaum, sondern verführet sein Herz, des Gottesdienst ist eitel.

78. Deceiving heart
Verse routeJames 1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain. [kjv]
Verse routeει τις δοκει θρησκος ειναι μη χαλιναγωγων γλωσσαν εαυτου αυτου αλλα απατων καρδιαν εαυτου τουτου ματαιος η θρησκεια [gnt]

Verse routeProverbs 18:2 A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself. [kjv]

One can deceive one's own heart reflexively

79. Proverbs 18:2

 All 
KJV: A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself.
Hebrew: לא יחפץ כסיל בתבונה כי אם בהתגלות לבו׃
Greek: ου χρειαν εχει σοφιας ενδεης φρενων μαλλον γαρ αγεται αφροσυνη
Latin: non recipit stultus verba prudentiae nisi ea dixeris quae versantur in corde eius
Spanish: No toma placer el necio en la inteligencia, sino en que su corazón se descubra.

80. James 1:27

   James 1:27 
 All 
KJV: Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
Greek: θρησκεια καθαρα και αμιαντος παρα τω θεω και πατρι αυτη εστιν επισκεπτεσθαι ορφανους και χηρας εν τη θλιψει αυτων ασπιλον εαυτον τηρειν απο του κοσμου
Latin: religio munda et inmaculata apud Deum et Patrem haec est visitare pupillos et viduas in tribulatione eorum inmaculatum se custodire ab hoc saeculo

81. End of page

by RS  admin@creationpie.com : 1024 x 640