King James Version

What Does James 1:10 Mean?

James 1:10 in the King James Version says “But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away. — study this verse from James chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.

James 1:10 · KJV


Context

8

A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.

9

Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: rejoice: or, glory rejoice: or, glory

10

But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.

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.

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.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away. The rich believer is likewise to boast in being "made low" (tapeinōsis, ταπείνωσις), for temporal wealth is ephemeral like grass. James invokes Isaiah 40 to show that riches wither under the burning heat (kausōn, καύσων). The imagery reinforces Jesus' warning that worldly treasures decay; only treasures in heaven endure.

By pairing verses 9 and 10, James levels status distinctions in the church. Reformed theology affirms that justification eliminates boasting in worldly assets; the cross humbles the rich and lifts the poor. The wealthy are called to glory in their humiliation because in Christ they become servants, stewards rather than owners.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Some members of James's audience were relatively wealthy merchants or landowners who had embraced Christ. In a first-century honor culture, their social capital tempted them to expect preferential treatment. James, writing from Jerusalem with apostolic authority, reminds them that persecution could strip wealth overnight, as happened during famines and political upheavals.

His teaching dovetails with Paul's admonitions in 1 Timothy 6 for the rich to be humble and generous. The diaspora situation—where fortunes were uncertain—made James's warning urgent.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what ways can you intentionally boast in Christ rather than success or assets?
  2. How might God be calling you to embrace practical humility with your resources?
  3. Whom can you bless this week to demonstrate that riches are temporary?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
1 of 12
G3588

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

δὲ2 of 12

But

G1161

but, and, etc

πλούσιος3 of 12

the rich

G4145

wealthy; figuratively, abounding with

ἐν4 of 12

in

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

τῇ5 of 12
G3588

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

ταπεινώσει6 of 12

is made low

G5014

depression (in rank or feeling)

αὐτοῦ7 of 12
G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

ὅτι8 of 12

because

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

ὡς9 of 12

as

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

ἄνθος10 of 12

the flower

G438

a blossom

χόρτου11 of 12

of the grass

G5528

a "court" or "garden", i.e., (by implication, of pasture) herbage or vegetation

παρελεύσεται12 of 12

he shall pass away

G3928

to come near or aside, i.e., to approach (arrive), go by (or away), (figuratively) perish or neglect, (causative) avert


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of James. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

James 1:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to James 1:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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