King James Version
James 3:5 in the King James Version says “Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! a m...” — study this verse from James chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! a matter: or, wood”
James 3:5 · King James Version
Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.
Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth .
Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! a matter: or, wood
And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. course: Gr. wheel
For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind : kind: Gr. nature mankind: Gr. nature of man
KJV Study — Public Domain
Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.
“Even”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
“the tongue”
G1100the tongue; by implication, a language (specially, one naturally unacquired)
“Even”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
“boasteth great things”
G3166to talk big, i.e., be grandiloquent (arrogant, egotistic)
“a little”
G3641puny (in extent, degree, number, duration or value); especially neuter (adverbially) somewhat
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 3:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
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