King James Version
James 2:6 in the King James Version says “But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?” — study this verse from James chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?”
James 2:6 · King James Version
Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?
Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? of the: or, of that
But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?
Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called? blaspheme: or, revile, or, slander
If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:
KJV Study — Public Domain
Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.
“the poor”
G4434akin to g4422 and the alternate of g4098); a beggar (as cringing), i.e., pauper (strictly denoting absolute or public mendicancy, although also used i
“and”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
“draw”
G846the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
“before”
G1519to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
“the judgment seats”
G2922a rule of judging ("criterion"), i.e., (by implication) a tribunal
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.
James 2:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to James 2:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge