New International VersionMy dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,
New Living TranslationUnderstand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.
English Standard VersionKnow this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger;
Berean Standard BibleMy beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger,
Berean Literal BibleKnow this, my beloved brothers. But let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow unto anger;
King James BibleWherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
New King James VersionSo then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;
New American Standard BibleYou know this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Now everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger;
NASB 1995This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger;
NASB 1977This you know, my beloved brethren. But let everyone be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger;
Legacy Standard BibleKnow this, my beloved brothers. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger;
Amplified BibleUnderstand this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Let everyone be quick to hear [be a careful, thoughtful listener], slow to speak [a speaker of carefully chosen words and], slow to anger [patient, reflective, forgiving];
Christian Standard BibleMy dear brothers and sisters, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger,
Holman Christian Standard BibleMy dearly loved brothers, understand this: Everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger,
American Standard VersionYe know this, my beloved brethren. But let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
Contemporary English VersionMy dear friends, you should be quick to listen and slow to speak or to get angry.
English Revised VersionYe know this, my beloved brethren. But let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
GOD'S WORD® TranslationRemember this, my dear brothers and sisters: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and should not get angry easily.
Good News TranslationRemember this, my dear friends! Everyone must be quick to listen, but slow to speak and slow to become angry.
International Standard VersionYou must understand this, my dear brothers. Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.
NET BibleUnderstand this, my dear brothers and sisters! Let every person be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger.
New Heart English BibleThis you know, my beloved brothers. But let every person be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger;
Webster's Bible TranslationWherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
Weymouth New TestamentYou know this, my dearly-loved brethren. But let every one be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to be angry. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleSo then, my beloved brothers, everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger,
World English BibleSo, then, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger; Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionSo then, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger,
Berean Literal BibleKnow this, my beloved brothers. But let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow unto anger;
Young's Literal Translation So then, my brethren beloved, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger,
Smith's Literal TranslationWherefore, my dearly beloved brethren, let every man be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger: Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleYou know, my dearest brethren. And let every man be swift to hear, but slow to speak, and slow to anger.
Catholic Public Domain VersionYou know this, my most beloved brothers. So let every man be quick to listen, but slow to speak and slow to anger.
New American BibleKnow this, my dear brothers: everyone should be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath,
New Revised Standard VersionYou must understand this, my beloved: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger; Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleTherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, and slow to speak, and slow to anger:
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishAnd you, my beloved brethren, everyone of you should be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger. NT Translations Anderson New TestamentSo, then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.
Godbey New TestamentKnow, my beloved brethren; but let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow toward wrath:
Haweis New TestamentWherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.
Mace New TestamentWherefore, my dear brethren, let every one be eager to hear, averse to contradiction, and deaf to passion.
Weymouth New TestamentYou know this, my dearly-loved brethren. But let every one be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to be angry.
Worrell New TestamentYe know this, my beloved brethren; but let every man be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;
Worsley New TestamentWherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context Hearing and Doing18He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we would be a kind of firstfruits of His creation. 19Mybelovedbrothers,understand this:Everyoneshould bequicktolisten,slowtospeak,and slowtoanger,20for man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires.…
Cross References Proverbs 17:27-28A man of knowledge restrains his words, and a man of understanding maintains a calm spirit. / Even a fool is considered wise if he keeps silent, and discerning when he holds his tongue.
Proverbs 10:19When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.
Proverbs 15:1A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Ecclesiastes 7:9Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger settles in the lap of a fool.
Proverbs 14:29A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man promotes folly.
Proverbs 16:32He who is slow to anger is better than a warrior, and he who controls his temper is greater than one who captures a city.
Ephesians 4:26-27“Be angry, yet do not sin.” Do not let the sun set upon your anger, / and do not give the devil a foothold.
Colossians 3:8But now you must put aside all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.
Proverbs 29:11A fool vents all his anger, but a wise man holds it back.
Proverbs 18:13He who answers a matter before he hears it—this is folly and disgrace to him.
Proverbs 19:11A man’s insight gives him patience, and his virtue is to overlook an offense.
Matthew 5:22But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ will be subject to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be subject to the fire of hell.
Ephesians 4:31Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice.
1 Peter 3:8-9Finally, all of you, be like-minded and sympathetic, love as brothers, be tenderhearted and humble. / Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
Proverbs 12:16A fool’s anger is known at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult.
Treasury of Scripture Why, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: let. Nehemiah 8:2,3,12-14,18 And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month… Nehemiah 9:3 And they stood up in their place, and read in the book of the law of the LORD their Godone fourth part of the day; andanother fourth part they confessed, and worshipped the LORD their God. Proverbs 8:32-35 Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessedare they that keep my ways… slow to speak. James 1:26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religionis vain. James 3:1,2 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation… Proverbs 10:19 In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lipsis wise. slow to wrath. Nehemiah 9:17 And refused to obey, neither were mindful of thy wonders that thou didst among them; but hardened their necks, and in their rebellion appointed a captain to return to their bondage: but thouart a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and forsookest them not. Proverbs 14:17,29He that is soon angry dealeth foolishly: and a man of wicked devices is hated… Proverbs 15:18 A wrathful man stirreth up strife: buthe that is slow to anger appeaseth strife. Jump to Previous AngerAngryBelovedDearDearly-LovedHearHearingNoteQuickSlowSpeakSwiftWhereforeWordsWrathJump to Next AngerAngryBelovedDearDearly-LovedHearHearingNoteQuickSlowSpeakSwiftWhereforeWordsWrathJames 1 1.James greets the twelve tribes among the nations;2.exhorts to rejoice in trials and temptations;5.to ask patience of God;13.and in our trials not to impute our weakness, or sins, to him,19.but rather to hearken to the word, to meditate on it, and to do thereafter.26.Otherwise men may seem, but never be, truly religious.My beloved brothersThis phrase indicates a familial relationship among believers, emphasizing unity and love within the Christian community. The term "brothers" is inclusive of all believers, both men and women, and reflects the early church's understanding of being part of God's family. This familial language is consistent with other New Testament writings, such as Paul's letters, where believers are often referred to as "brothers and sisters" (e.g., Romans 12:1, 1 Corinthians 1:10). The use of "beloved" underscores the deep affection and care that James has for his audience, aligning with the commandment to love one another as Christ loved us ( John 13:34). Understand this
This phrase serves as an imperative, urging the audience to grasp the importance of the following instructions. It reflects the wisdom literature style found in Proverbs, where understanding and wisdom are highly valued (Proverbs 4:7). The call to "understand" suggests that the teachings are not merely to be heard but internalized and acted upon, echoing Jesus' teachings about being doers of the word (Matthew 7:24-27). Everyone should be quick to listen
Listening is a key theme in biblical wisdom literature, where it is often associated with gaining knowledge and understanding (Proverbs 1:5, 18:13). In the cultural context of the early church, oral communication was primary, and listening was essential for learning and community life. This instruction aligns with the Jewish tradition of valuing the spoken word and the importance of hearing God's voice, as seen in the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4). Being "quick to listen" also reflects the humility and teachability that are hallmarks of a godly character. Slow to speak
This phrase advises restraint in speech, a theme prevalent in wisdom literature (Proverbs 10:19, 17:27). In the historical context, speech was a powerful tool, and words could build up or destroy communities. James later elaborates on the power of the tongue inJames 3:1-12, warning of its potential for harm. The call to be "slow to speak" encourages thoughtful and measured responses, reflecting the character of Christ, who spoke with wisdom and authority (Matthew 7:28-29). And slow to anger
Anger is addressed throughout Scripture as a human emotion that can lead to sin if not controlled (Ephesians 4:26-27). In the cultural context of James' audience, anger could disrupt the unity and peace of the community. The instruction to be "slow to anger" aligns with the character of God, who is described as "slow to anger" and abounding in steadfast love (Exodus 34:6). This phrase calls believers to emulate God's patience and self-control, fostering an environment of peace and understanding within the church. Persons / Places / Events 1. JamesThe author of the epistle, traditionally identified as James, the brother of Jesus and a leader in the early Jerusalem church. He writes with authority and pastoral concern for the believers. 2. Early Christian CommunitiesThe recipients of the letter, likely Jewish Christians scattered outside of Palestine, facing trials and needing guidance on living out their faith. 3. The Jerusalem ChurchThe central hub of early Christianity, where James played a significant role. The teachings in this letter reflect the moral and ethical concerns of this community. Teaching Points The Importance of ListeningListening is a foundational skill for effective communication and relationship building. It requires humility and a willingness to understand others before expressing our own views. The Power of WordsWords have the power to build up or tear down. Being slow to speak allows us to choose words that edify and reflect Christ's love. Managing AngerAnger, when unchecked, can lead to sin. By being slow to anger, we allow the Holy Spirit to guide our responses and maintain peace. Cultivating PatiencePatience is a fruit of the Spirit and is essential in our interactions with others. It helps us to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. Reflecting Christ in Our ConductOur behavior should reflect the character of Christ. By being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, we demonstrate the transformative power of the Gospel in our lives. Lists and Questions Top 10 Lessons from James 1
What does "quick to listen, slow to speak" mean?
What does the Bible teach about managing anger?
What does the Bible say about being angry with God?
What does the Bible say about road rage?(19) We come now to the third subdivision of the chapter. By reason of the Divine benevolence, the Apostle urges his readers--(1) to meekness, (2) self-knowledge, (3) practical religion. Wherefore, my beloved brethen.--There appears to be some small error in the MSS. here, but the alteration is only just worth mentioning:ye know my brethren beloved,seems the correct version, the very abruptness of which may serve to arrest attention. Yea, "have ye not known?" might well be asked further in the indignant language of Isaiah (Isaiah 40:21; comp.Romans 5:19). Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.--For all these cautions are required in the building up of the new life. "The quick speaker is the quick kindler;" and we are told later on "how great a matter a little fire kindleth" (James 3:5). And what have we at all to do with wrath, much less that our whole life--as unhappily it often is--should be wasted with such bitterness? Anger, no doubt, is a wholesome tonic for some minds, and certain weaknesses; but "he that is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city" (Proverbs 16:32). Verses 19-27. - EXHORTATION (1) TO HEAR RATHER THAN TO SPEAK, (2) NOT ONLY TO HEAR, BUT ALSO TO DO.Verse 19. - The text requires correction. Forὥστε...ἔστω πᾶς of the Textus Receptus, read,Ἴστε ἀδελφοί μοι ἀγαπητοι ἔστωδὲ πᾶς,א, A, B, C, Latt.Ἴστε is probably indicative, and refers to what has gone before. "Ye know this, my beloved brethren. But let every man," etc. The verse gives us St. James's version of the proverb, "Speech is silver. Silence is golden." Similar maxims were not infrequent among the Jews. So in Ecclus. 5:11, "Be swift to hear; and let thy life be sincere; and with patience give answer;" cf. 4:29, "Be not hasty in thy tongue, and in thy deeds slack and remiss." In the rabbinical work, 'Pirqe Aboth,' 1. 12, we have the following saying of Rabbi Simeon, the son of Gamaliel (who must, therefore, have been a contemporary of St. James): "All my days I have grown up amongst the wise, and have not found ought good for a man but silence; not learning but doing is the groundwork; and whoso multiplies words occasions sin." This passage is curiously like the one before us, both in the thoughts and in the expressions used.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek Myμου(mou)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular
Strong's 1473:I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.belovedἀγαπητοί(agapētoi)Adjective - Vocative Masculine Plural
Strong's 27:From agapao; beloved.brothers,ἀδελφοί(adelphoi)Noun - Vocative Masculine Plural
Strong's 80:A brother, member of the same religious community, especially a fellow-Christian. A brother near or remote.understand this:Ἴστε(Iste)Verb - Perfect Imperative Active - 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 1492:To know, remember, appreciate.Everyoneπᾶς(pas)Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3956:All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.should beἔστω(estō)Verb - Present Imperative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 1510:I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.quickταχὺς(tachys)Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 5036:Quick, swift, speedy, ready, prompt. Of uncertain affinity; fleet, i.e. prompt or ready.toεἰς(eis)Preposition
Strong's 1519:A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.listen,ἀκοῦσαι(akousai)Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active
Strong's 191:To hear, listen, comprehend by hearing; pass: is heard, reported. A primary verb; to hear.slowβραδὺς(bradys)Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 1021:Slow, slow of understanding. Of uncertain affinity; slow; figuratively, dull.toεἰς(eis)Preposition
Strong's 1519:A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.speak,λαλῆσαι(lalēsai)Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active
Strong's 2980:A prolonged form of an otherwise obsolete verb; to talk, i.e. Utter words.[and] slowβραδὺς(bradys)Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular
Strong's 1021:Slow, slow of understanding. Of uncertain affinity; slow; figuratively, dull.toεἰς(eis)Preposition
Strong's 1519:A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.anger,ὀργήν(orgēn)Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 3709:From oregomai; properly, desire, i.e., violent passion (justifiable) abhorrence); by implication punishment.
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NT Letters: James 1:19 So then my beloved brothers let every (Ja Jas. Jam) |
