Translations
Modern
If you lavish attention on the man in fine clothes and say, “Here is a seat of honor,” but say to the poor man, “You must stand” or “Sit at my feet,”
Traditional
And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:
Literal
…and you might look upon the man bearing the splendid apparel and might say, “You sit here well,” and to the poor one might say, “You stand,” or, “Sit there under my footstool,”
Latin
…et intendatis in eum qui indutus est veste præclara, et dixeritis ei: Tu sede hic bene: pauperi autem dicatis: Tu sta illic; aut sede sub scabello pedum meorum:
Interlinear
Greek
English
If you lavish attention on the man in fine clothes and say, “Here is a seat of honor,” but say to the poor man, “You must stand” or “Sit at my feet,”
Notes
People often focus on wealthy individuals due to their social status, political power, and potential generosity. By serving and publicly honoring the wealthy, the church could receive economic benefits. James warns that this favoritism shows evil motives, creating a divide between loyalty to God and a desire for worldly wealth (1:6; 4:4).
James uses a realistic example to explain why we must not favor the rich.
Glossary
Topics
Commandments: Other Apostles: Precepts of, Explicitly Stated or Implied in Didactic Epistles Contempt: Forbidden Towards: The Poor Discrimination Faith: General Scriptures Concerning Poor: Duty To Respect of Persons: (Partiality)) The Poor: Despise Not Worldliness: General Scriptures Concerning