King James Version

What Does James 3:7 Mean?

James 3:7 in the King James Version says “For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mank...” — study this verse from James chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“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”

James 3:7 · KJV

Context

5

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

6

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

7

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

8

But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.

9

Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.

Read James 3 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
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: Every species (physis, φύσις) of beasts, birds, serpents, and sea creatures has been tamed (damazetai, δαμάζεται), yet the tongue resists domination. Humans subdue creation but not their speech—a sobering paradox.

Reformed anthropology recognizes tongue-taming as supernatural work of grace. Our inability underscores need for Spirit's fruit of self-control.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ancient circuses and games showcased tamed animals, so James's contrast resonated. Diaspora believers prided themselves on cultural accomplishments; James shows that true mastery lies in sanctified speech.",

Reflection Questions

  1. Where do you see the limits of self-effort in taming your tongue?
  2. How can you depend more fully on the Spirit for speech?
  3. What stories of God's grace taming your tongue can you share?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 18 words
πᾶσα1 of 18

“every”

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

γὰρ2 of 18

“For”

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

φύσει3 of 18

“kind”

G5449

growth (by germination or expansion), i.e., (by implication) natural production (lineal descent); by extension, a genus or sort; figuratively, native

θηρίων4 of 18

“of beasts”

G2342

a dangerous animal

τε5 of 18

“and”

G5037

both or also (properly, as correlation of g2532)

καὶ6 of 18

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

πετεινῶν7 of 18

“of birds”

G4071

a flying animal, i.e., bird

ἑρπετῶν8 of 18

“of serpents”

G2062

a reptile, i.e., (by hebraism (compare h7431)) a small animal

τε9 of 18

“and”

G5037

both or also (properly, as correlation of g2532)

καὶ10 of 18

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἐναλίων11 of 18

“of things in the sea”

G1724

in the sea, i.e., marine

δεδάμασται12 of 18

“hath been tamed”

G1150

to tame

καὶ13 of 18

“and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

δεδάμασται14 of 18

“hath been tamed”

G1150

to tame

τῇ15 of 18
G3588

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

φύσει16 of 18

“kind”

G5449

growth (by germination or expansion), i.e., (by implication) natural production (lineal descent); by extension, a genus or sort; figuratively, native

τῇ17 of 18
G3588

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

ἀνθρωπίνῃ18 of 18
G442

human

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 3:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Test Your Knowledge

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