King James Version
James 3:11 in the King James Version says “Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? place: or, hole” — study this verse from James chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? place: or, hole”
James 3:11 · King James Version
Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.
Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.
Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? place: or, hole
Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.
Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.
“a fountain”
G4077a fount (literally or figuratively), i.e., source or supply (of water, blood, enjoyment) (not necessarily the original spring)
“at”
G1537a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
“the same”
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
“water and”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
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 3:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.