King James Version

What Does James 3:17 Mean?

“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure , then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. partiality: or, wrangling”

Context

This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. sensual: or, natural

For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. confusion: Gr. tumult or unquietness

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure , then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. partiality: or, wrangling

And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.

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Topics in This Verse

Wisdom

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(17) **But the wisdom that is from above . . .**—Whereas, in sweetest contrast to all this repulsive foulness and riot, the true *wisdom from above is first pure, *chaste as the Lamb of God, “the Word made flesh” (John 1:14), then *peaceful, gentle, and compliant*—easy to be won, *full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, *not double-minded (*non duplex*)*, nor hypocritical.* Compare with this beautiful description St. Paul’s list of the fruits of the Spirit, “love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance” (Galatians 5:22), and his discourse on Love (1 Corinthians 13). Truly this wisdom “cannot be gotten for gold, neither shall silver be weighed for the price thereof;” “Happy is the man that findeth her.” (Read Job 28:14-19, and Proverbs 3:13-18.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 3:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.