James 3:4

James 3:4 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Consider ships as well. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot is inclined.

King James Version KJV

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.

American Standard Version ASV

Behold, the ships also, though they are so great and are driven by rough winds, are yet turned about by a very small rudder, whither the impulse of the steersman willeth.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And again ships, though they are so great and are moved by violent winds, are turned by a very small guiding-blade, at the impulse of the man who is using it.

Free Bible Version FBV

Look at ships as well: even though they're very big and are driven along by strong winds, they're steered by a very small rudder in the direction the pilot wants to go.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Behold also the shippes, which though they be so great, and are driuen of fierce windes, yet are they turned about with a very small rudder, whither soeuer the gouernour listeth.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

lo, also the ships, being so great, and by fierce winds being driven, are led about by a very small helm, whithersoever the impulse of the helmsman doth counsel,

World English Bible WEB

Behold, the ships also, though they are so big and are driven by fierce winds, are yet guided by a very small rudder, wherever the pilot desires.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Behold also the ships, which though they are so great, and are driven by fierce winds, yet they are turned about with a very small helm, withersoever the governor willeth.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

Behold also ships, whereas they are great, and are driven by strong winds, yet are they turned about with a small helm, whithersoever the force of the governor willeth.

Translation for Translators T4T

Think also about ships. Although a ship may be very large and although it can be moved by strong winds {strong winds can move it}, by turning a very small ◄rudder/steering paddle► people can direct the ship wherever they want it to go.

Plain English Version PEV

And think about ships. They are like that too. A ship is very big, but its driver can use the little rudder at the back to steer it around. Even if strong winds want to blow it one way, that driver can steer it another way using that little rudder.

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Berean Amplified Bible — James 3:4

BAB

Word Study

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Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

James 3:4 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

GRK ιδου και τα πλοια τηλικαυτα οντα και υπο σκληρων ανεμων ελαυνομενα μεταγεται υπο ελαχιστου πηδαλιου οπου αν η ορμη του ευθυνοντος βουληται

ιδου horaō G3708 to see: see Verb-2AMM-2S

και kai G2532 and Conj

τα ho G3588 the/this/who Art-NPN

πλοια ploion G4143 boat Noun-NPN

τηλικαυτα tēlikoutos G5082 so great Dem-NPN

οντα eimi G1510 to be Verb-PAP-NPN

και kai G2532 and Conj

υπο hupo G5259 by/under: by Prep

σκληρων sklēros G4642 hard Adj-GPM

ανεμων anemos G417 wind Noun-GPM

ελαυνομενα elaunō G1643 to drive Verb-PPP-NPN

μεταγεται metagō G3329 to turn Verb-PPI-3S

υπο hupo G5259 by/under: by Prep

ελαχιστου elachistos G1646 least Adj-GSN-S

πηδαλιου pēdalion G4079 rudder Noun-GSN

οπου hopou G3699 where(-ever) Adv

αν an G302 if Particle

η ho G3588 the/this/who Art-NSF

ορμη hormē G3730 impulse Noun-NSF

του ho G3588 the/this/who Art-GSM

ευθυνοντος euthunō G2116 to straighten Verb-PAP-GSM

βουληται boulomai G1014 to plan Verb-PNS-3S

Greek Word Study

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Greek Word Reference — James 3:4

ιδου horaō G3708 "to see: see" Verb-2AMM-2S

This word means 'to see' or 'to perceive', and can also mean 'to attend to' or 'to experience', like in Mark 6:38 and John 1:46. It's a key word for understanding and perceiving things.

Definition: ὁράω, -ῶ, [in LXX chiefly for ראה, also for חזה, etc. ;] in "durative" sense (hence aor. act., εἶδον, pass., ὤφθην, fut., ὄψομαι, from different roots; see M, Pr., 110f.), to see (in colloq. even the present is rare, its place being generally taken by θεωρέω, see BL, §24). __1. Of bodily vision, to see, perceive, behold: absol., Mrk.6:38, al.; ἔρχου καὶ ἴδε, Jhn.1:46, al.; before ὅτι, Mrk.2:16, al.; with accusative, Mat.2:2, Mrk.1:10 16:7, Gal.1:19, al.; θεόν, Jhn.1:18, 1Jn.4:20, al. __2. to see with the mind, perceive, discern: absol, Rom.15:21; with accusative of thing(s), Mat.9:2 27:54, Act.8:23, Col.2:18, al. __3. to see, take heed, beware: ὅρα μή, with aor. subjc., Mat.8:4 18:10, Mrk.1:44, 1Th.5:15; id., sc. μὴ ποήσῃς, Rev.19:10 22:9 (Bl., §81, 1); before imperat. Mat.9:30 16:6, Mrk.8:15 __4. to experience: τ. θάνατον, Luk.2:26, Heb.11:5; ζωήν, Jhn.3:36; τ. διαφθοράν, Act.2:27. __5. to visit: with accusative of person(s), Luk.8:20, Jhn.12:21, Rom.1:11, al.; with accusative loc, Act.19:21. __6. to see to, care for: Mat.27:4, Act.18:15 (cf. ἀφ-, καθ-, προ-, συν-οράω). SYN.: see: βλέπω. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 605 NT verses. KJV: behold, perceive, see, take heed See also: 1 Corinthians 2:9; Acts 16:40; 1 Peter 1:8.

και kai G2532 "and" Conj

And or also, a connecting word used to join ideas or words, like in Matthew 2:18 and Hebrews 1:1.

Definition: καί, conj., and __I. Copulative. __1. Connecting single words; __(a) in general: Mat.2:18, 16:1, Mrk.2:15, Luk.8:15, Heb.1:1, al. mult.; repeated before each of the terms in a series, Mat.23:23, Luk.14:21, Rom.7:12, 9:4, al. __(b) connecting numerals (WM, §37, 4): Jhn.2:20, Act.13:20; __(with) joining terms which are not mutually exclusive, as the part with the whole: Mat.8:33, 26:59, Mrk.16:17, Act.5:29, al. __2. Connecting clauses and sentences: Mat.3:12, Act.5:21, al. mult.; esp. __(a) where, after the simplicity of the popular language, sentences are paratactically joined (WM, §60, 3; M, Pr., 12; Deiss., LAE, 128ff.): Mat.1:21, 7:25, Mrk.9:5, Jhn.10:3, al.; __(b) joining affirmative to negative sentences: Luk.3:14, Jhn.4:11, IIIJhn.10; __(with) consecutive, and so: Mat.5:1, 23:32, Heb.3:19, al.; after imperatives, Mat.4:19, Luk.7:7, al.; __(d) = καίτοι, and yet: Mat.3:14, 6:26, Mrk.12:12, Luk.18:7 (Field, Notes, 72), 1Co.5:2, al.; __(e) beginning an apodosis (= Heb. וְ; so sometimes δέ in cl.), then: Luk.2:21, 7:12, Act.1:10; beginning a question (WM, §53, 3a): Mrk.10:26, Luk.10:29, Jhn.9:36. __3. Epexegetic, and, and indeed, namely (WM, §53, 3c): Luk.3:18, Jhn.1:16, Act.23:6, Rom.1:5, 1Co.3:5, al. __4. In transition: Mat.4:23, Mrk.5:1, 21, Jhn.1:19, al.; so, Hebraistically, καὶ ἐγένετο (וַי:הִי; also ἐγένετο δέ), Mrk.1:9 (cf. Luk.5:1; V. Burton, §§357-60; M, Pr., 14, 16). __5. καὶ . . . καί, both . . . and (for τε . . . καί, see: τε); __(a) connecting single words: Mat.10:28, Mrk.4:41, Rom.11:33, al.; __(b) clauses and sentences: Mrk.9:13, Jhn.7:28, 1Co.1:22, al. __II. Adjunctive, also, even, still: Mat.5:39, 40; Mrk.2:28, al. mult.; esp. with pron., adv., etc., Mat.20:4, Jhn.7:47, al; ὡς κ., Act.11:17; καθὼς κ., Rom.15:7; οὑτω κ., Rom.6:11; διὸ κ., Luk.1:35; ὁ κ. (Deiss., BS, 313ff.), Act.13:9; pleonastically, μετὰ κ.. (Bl., §77, 7; Deiss., BS, 265f,), Php.4:3; τί κ., 1 Co 15:29; ἀλλὰ κ., Luk.14:22, Jhn.5:18, al.; καίγε (M, Pr., 230; Burton, §437), Act.17:27; καίπερ, Heb.5:8; κ. ἐάν, see: ἐάν. ἐάν, contr. fr. εἰ ἄν, conditional particle, representing something as "under certain circumstances actual or liable to happen," but not so definitely expected as in the case of εἰ with ind. (Bl., §65, 4; cf. Jhn.13:17, 1Co.7:36), if haply, if; __1. with subjc. (cl.); __(a) pres.: Mat.6:22, Luk.10:6, Jhn.7:17, Rom.2:25, 26 al.; { __(b) aor. (= Lat. fut. pf.): Mat.4:9 16:26 (cf. ptcp. in Luk.9:25; M, Pr., 230), Mrk.3:24, Luk.14:34, Jhn.5:43, Rom.7:2, al.; = cl. εἰ, with opt., Jhn.9:22 11:57, Act.9:2; as Heb. אִם = ὅταν, Jhn.12:32 14:3, I Jhn.2:28 3:2, Heb.3:7" (LXX) . __2. C. indic, (as in late writers, fr. Arist. on; see WH, App., 171; VD, MGr. 2, App., §77; Deiss., BS, 201f., LAE, 155, 254; M, Pr., 168, 187; Bl., §65, 4); __(a) fut.: Mat.18:19 T, Luk.19:40, Act.7:7; __(b) pres.: 1Th.3:8 (see Milligan, in l.). __3. With other particles: ἐ. καί (Bl., §65, 6), Gal.6:1; ἐ. μή (M, Pr., 185, 187; Bl., l.with), with subjc. pres., Mat.10:13, 1Co.8:8, Jas.2:17, 1Jn.3:21; aor., Mat.6:15, Mrk.3:27, Jhn.3:3, Rom.10:15, Gal.1:8 2:16 (see Lft., Ellic., in ll.); ἐ. τε . . . ἐ. τε, [in LXX for אִם . . . אִם, Est.19:13, al.,] Rom.14:8. __4. = cl. ἄν (which see) after relat. pronouns and adverbs (Tdf., Pr., 96; WH, App., 173; M, Pr., 42f.; Bl., §26, 4; Mayser, 152f.; Deiss., BS, 202ff.): ὃς ἐ., Mat.5:19, Mrk.6:22, 23 Luk.17:32, 1Co.6:18, al.; ὅπου ἐ., Mat.8:19; ὁσάκις ἐ., Rev.11:6; οὗ ἐ., 1Co.16:6; καθὸ ἐ., 2Co.8:12; ὅστις ἐ., Gal.5:10. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 5212 NT verses. KJV: and, also, both, but, even, for, if, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Corinthians 16:1.

τα ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-NPN

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Definition: ὁ, ἡ, τό, the prepositive article (ἄρθρον προτακτικόν), originally a demonstr. pron. (so usually in Hom.), in general corresponding to the Eng. definite article. __I. As demonstr. pron. __1. As frequently in Hom., absol., he (she, it), his (etc.): Act.17:28 (quoted from the poet Aratus). __2. Distributive, ὁ μὲν . . . ὁ δέ, the one . . . the other: 1Co.7:7, Gal.4:22; pl., Act.14:4, 17:32, Php.1:16, al.; οἱ μὲν . . . ἄλλοι δέ, Mat.16:14, Jhn.7:12; οἱ μεν̀ . . . ὁδέ, Heb.7:21, 23. __3. In narration (without ὁ μὲν preceding), ὁ δέ, but he: Mat.2:14, Mrk.1:45, Luk.8:21, Jhn.9:38, al. mult. __II. As prepositive article, the, prefixed, __1. to nouns unmodified: ὁ θεός, τὸ φῶς, etc.; to abstract nouns, ἡ σοφία, etc., to pl. nouns which indicate a class, οἱ ἀλώπεκες, foxes, Mat.8:20, al.; to an individual as representing a class, ὁ ἐργάτης, Luk.10:7; with nom. = voc. in addresses, Mat.11:26, Jhn.19:3, Jas.5:1, al.; to things which pertain to one, ἡ χεῖρ, his hand, Mrk.3:1; to names of persons well known or already mentioned; usually to names of countries (originally adjectives), ἡ Ἰουδαία, etc. __2. To modified nouns: with of person(s) pron. genitive, μοῦ, σοῦ, etc.; with poss. pron., ἐμός, σός, etc.; with adj. between the art. and the noun, ὁ ἀγαθὸς ἄνθρωπος, Mat.12:35; the noun foll, by adj., both with art., ὁ ποιμὴν ὁ καλός, Jhn.10:11 (on ὁ ὄχλος πολύς, Jhn.12:9, see M, Pr., 84); before adjectival phrases, ἡ κατ᾽ ἐκλογὴν πρόθεσις, Rom.9:11. __3. To Other parts of speech used as substantives; __(a) neuter adjectives: τ. ἀγαθόν, etc.; __(b) cardinal numerals: ὁ εἶς, οἷ δύο, etc.; __(with) participles: ὁ βαπτίζων (= ὁ Βαπτιστής, Mat.14:2), Mrk.6:14; πᾶς ὁ, with ptcp., every one who, etc.; __(d) adverbs: τὸ πέραν, τὰ νῦν, ὁ ἔσω ἄνθρωπος; __(e) infinitives: nom., τὸ θέλειν, Rom.7:18, al.; genitive, τοῦ, after adjectives, ἄξιον τοῦ πορεύεσθαι, 1Co.16:4; verbs, ἐλαχεν τοῦ θυμιᾶσαι, Luk.1:9; and frequently in a final sense, ἐξῆλθεν ὁ σπείρειν, Mat.13:3 (on the artic. inf., see Bl., §71). __4. In the neut. to sentences, phrases or single words treated as a quotation: τὸ Ἐι δύνῃ, Mrk.9:23; τὸ ἔτι ἅπαξ, Heb.12:27; τὸ ἀνέβη, Eph.4:9, al. __5. To prepositional phrases: οἱ ἀπὸ Ἰταλίας, Heb.13:24; οἱ ἐκ νόμου, Rom.4:14; neut. accusative absol., in adverbial phrases, τὸ καθ᾽ ἡμέραν, daily, Luk.11:3; τὸ κατὰ σάρκα, as regards the flesh, Rom.9:5. __6. To nouns in the genitive, denoting kinship, association, etc.: ὁ τοῦ, the son of (unless context indicates a different relationship), Mat.10:2, al.; τὰ τοῦ θεοῦ, the things that pertain to God, Mat.16:23; τὰ τῆς εἰρήνης, Rom.14:19 (cf. M, Pr., 81ff.; Bl, §§46, 47). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

πλοια ploion G4143 "boat" Noun-NPN

This word refers to a boat or ship, like the ones mentioned in Matthew 4:21-22 where Jesus calls his disciples. It's a vessel for sailing or traveling on water, used for transportation or fishing. This word is commonly used in the Gospels and Acts.

Definition: πλοῖον, -ον, τό (πλέω), [in LXX chiefly for אֳנִיָּה ;] a boat, also (= obsolete ναῦς) a ship: Mat.4:21-22, and frequently in Gosp. and Ac, Jas.3:4, Rev.8:9 18:19. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 63 NT verses. KJV: ship(-ing) See also: Acts 20:13; Luke 8:37; James 3:4.

τηλικαυτα tēlikoutos G5082 "so great" Dem-NPN

This word describes something as very great or mighty, like a huge size or amount. It is used in 2 Corinthians 1:10 and Hebrews 2:3 to talk about God's power and great things. The Bible translates it as 'so great' or 'so mighty'.

Definition: τηλικοῦτος, -αύτη, -οῦτο (altern. of τηλικόσδε, -ήδε, -όνδε, strengthened form of τηλίκος), [in LXX: 2Ma.12:3, 3Ma.3:9, 4Ma.16:4 * ;] __1. of persons, __(a) of such an age, so old; __(b) so young. __2. Of things, so great: 2Co.1:10, Heb.2:3, Jas.3:4, Rev.16:18.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 4 NT verses. KJV: so great, so mighty See also: 2 Corinthians 1:10; James 3:4; Hebrews 2:3.

οντα eimi G1510 "to be" Verb-PAP-NPN

To be or exist, a basic verb used to describe something or someone, like God saying 'I am' in John 8:58.

Definition: εἰμί, with various uses and significations, like the English verb to be. __I. As substantive verb. __1. Of persons and things, to be, exist: Act.17:28, Jhn.1:1, 8:58, 17:5, al; ὁ ὢν καὶ ὁ ἦν (for past ptcp.), Rev.1:4, 8, 4:8, 11:17, 16:5 (see Swete, Ap., 5; M, Pr., 228); τὰ (μὴ) ὄντα, Rom.4:17, 1Co.1:28. __2. Of times, events, etc., to be, happen, take place: Mat.24:3, Mrk.14:2, 15:42, Luk.21:23, Jhn.4:6, 23, 5:10, al. __3. to be present, be in a place, have come: Mat.2:13, 15, Mrk.1:45, 5:21, 15:40, Luk.1:80, 5:29, Jhn.7:30, al.; before εἰς, Mrk.2:1; before ἐκ, (ἐξ), Mat.1:20, 21:25, Mrk.11:30, Jhn.3:31, al. __4. Impers., ἔστι, ἦν, etc.; __(a) there is (Fr. il y a), was, etc.: Mat.16:28, Luk.16:19, Jhn.3:1, 5:2, Rom.3:10, al.; with dative (of the possessor; Bl., §37, 3), Mat.16:22, Luk.1:7, Jhn.18.10, Rom.9:2, al.; ἔστιν ὅς, ὅστις (chiefly in pl), Mat.16:28, 19:2, Mrk.9:1, al.; __(b) with inf., = ἔξεστιν (which see), it is possible: Heb.9:5, 1Co.11:20, RV (but see ICC, in l.). __II. As copula uniting subject and predicate. __1. Expressing simply identity or equivalence: Mat.5:13, 14:15, Luk.1:18, 19, Jhn.1:1, 4:19, Rev.3:9, al. mult. __2. Explicative, as in parable, figure, type, etc.: Mat.13:19, 1Co.9:2, 10:4, 11:25, Gal.4:24, Rev.17:15, al.; ταῦτ᾽ ἔστιν, Mat.27:46, Mrk.7:2, Rom.7:18 al.; ὅ ἐστιν, Mrk.3:17, Col.1:24, Heb.7:2, al.; akin to this is the sacramental usage: Mat.26:26-28, Mrk.14:22, 24, Luk.22:19, 1Co.11:24 (see ICC on Mk, I Co, ll. with; DB, iii, 148 f.). __3. C. genitive: qual., etc., Mrk.5:42, Luk.3:23, 1Co.14:33, Heb.12:11, al.; part., 1Ti.1:20, 2Ti.1:15; poss., Mat.5:3, 10, Mrk.12:7, Luk.4:7; of service or partisanship, Rom.8:9, 1Co.1:12, 2Co.10:7, 2Ti.2:19. __4. C. dative (BL, §37, 3): Act.1:8, 9:15, Rom.4:12, 1Co.1:18, 2:14, Rev.21:7, al. __5. C. ptcp., as a periphrasis for the simple verb (Bl., §62, 1, 2; M, Pr., 225 ff.); __(a) with ptcp. pf. (cl.): Mat.10:30, Luk.9:32, Jhn.3:24, Act.21:35, 1Co.15:19, al; __(b) with ptcp. pr. (esp. in impf., as in Heb. and Aram.; Dalman, Words, 35 f.), Mat.7:29, Mrk.1:22, Luk.4:31, 14:1, Act.1:10, al. mult., id. for imper. (M, Pr., 180f., 182f.), with ellipsis of εἰμί, Rom.12:9, 10, Heb.13:5, al.; __(with) with ptcp. aor. (cl), Luk.23:9. __6. Seq. εἰς (cf. Heb. הָיָה לְ), a vernac. usage (M, Pr., 71): Mat.19:5, Mrk.10:8, Heb.8:10, al. __7. C. adv.: Mat.19:20, Mrk.4:26, Luk.18:11, al. __8. Ellipses; __(a) of the copula (Bl., §30, 3): Mat.8:29, 24:32, Jhn.21:22, 23, Heb.6:4, al.; __(b) of the predicate: ἐγώ εἰμί, Mat.14:27, Mrk.6:50, al.; absol. (cf. Deu.32:39; אֲנִי הוּא), Mrk.13:6, Jhn.4:26, al. (cf. ἄπ-, ἔν-, πάρ-, συμ-πάρ-, σύν-ειμι). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2123 NT verses. KJV: am, have been, X it is I, was See also: 1 Corinthians 1:2; 1 Corinthians 13:2; 1 Peter 1:6.

και kai G2532 "and" Conj

And or also, a connecting word used to join ideas or words, like in Matthew 2:18 and Hebrews 1:1.

Usage: Occurs in 5212 NT verses. KJV: and, also, both, but, even, for, if, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Corinthians 16:1.

υπο hupo G5259 "by/under: by" Prep

Under or by something, like under a person's authority, as in Matthew 8:9, or under a place, as in Luke 7:8.

Definition: ὑπό (before smooth breathing ὑπ᾽, Mat.8:9b, Luk.7:8b; before rough breathing ὑφ᾽, Rom.3:9; on the neglect of elision in Mt, Lk, ll. witha, Gal.3:22, see WH, App., 146; Tdf., Pr., iv), prep. with genitive, dative (not in NT), accusative __I. C. genitive, primarily of place, under, hence, metaphorically, of the efficient cause, by: after passive verbs, with genitive of person(s), Mat.1:22, Mrk.1:5, Luk.2:18, Jhn.14:21, Act.4:11, 1Co.1:11, Heb.3:4, al.; with genitive of thing(s), Mat.8:24, Luk.7:24, Rom.3:21, al.; with neut. verbs and verbs with pass, meaning, Mat.17:12, Mrk.5:26, 1Co.10:9, 10 1Th.2:14, al. __II. C. accusative, under; __1. of motion: Mat.5:15 8:8, Mrk.4:21, Luk.13:34; hence, metaphorically, of subjection, Rom.7:14, 1Co.15:27, Gal.3:22, 1Pe.5:6, al. __2. Of position: Jhn.1:49, Act.4:12, Rom.3:13, 1Co.10:1, al.; hence, metaphorically, under, subject to, Mat.8:9, Rom.3:9, 1Co.9:20, Gal.4:5, al. __3. Of time, about: Act.5:21. __III. In composition: under (ὑποδέω), hence, of subjection (ὑποτάσσω), compliance (ὑπακούω), secrecy (ὑποβάλλω), diminution (ὑποπνέω). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 209 NT verses. KJV: among, by, from, in, of, under, with See also: 1 Corinthians 1:11; Hebrews 2:3; 1 Peter 2:4.

σκληρων sklēros G4642 "hard" Adj-GPM

Hard or harsh, like a rough sea in James 3:4 or a difficult word in John 6:60.

Definition: σκληρός, -ά, -όν (σκέλλω, to dry), [in LXX chiefly for קָשָׁה ;] hard to the touch, rough, harsh, (opposite to μαλακός); metaphorically, in various uses; __(a) of men, hard, stern, severe: Mat.25:24; __(b) of things, hard, rough, violent: σκληρόν σοι (ἐστι), Act.26:14; λόγος, Jhn.6:60; ἄνεμος, Jas.3:4; σκληρὰ λαλεῖν, Ju 15.† SYN.: αὐστηρός, q.v (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 5 NT verses. KJV: fierce, hard See also: Acts 26:14; John 6:60; James 3:4.

ανεμων anemos G417 "wind" Noun-GPM

Wind is the literal meaning, but it can also imply the four directions of the earth, as in Matthew 24:31 and Revelation 7:1. It's used to describe a natural phenomenon or a metaphor for change.

Definition: ἄνεμος, -ου, ὁ [in LXX for רוּחַ ;] wind: Mat.11:7 14:24, 30 14:32, Mrk.4:37, 39 4:41 6:48, 51, Luk.7:24 8:23-24, Jhn.6:13, Act.27:7, 14-15, Jas.3:4, Rev.6:13 7:1; pl., Mat.7:25, 27 8:26-27, Luk.8:25, Act.27:4, Ju 12; οἱ τέσσαρες ἄ. τῆς γῆς, Rev.7:1; hence the four quarters of the heavens (see Deiss., BS, 248; MM, VGT, see word), Mat.24:31, Mrk.13:27; metaphorically, of variable teaching, Eph 414.† SYN.: πνεῦμα, πνοή (and cf. θύελλα, λαῖλαψ). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 29 NT verses. KJV: wind See also: Acts 27:4; Mark 4:41; James 3:4.

ελαυνομενα elaunō G1643 "to drive" Verb-PPP-NPN

To drive or push something forward, like the wind or a boat, as seen in James 3:4 and Mark 6:48. This word can also mean to be driven by a force, such as demons. It is used to describe movement or action.

Definition: ἐλαύνω [in LXX: Isa.41:7 (הָלַם) Isa.33:21 (שַׁיִט), etc. ;] to drive: of the wind, Jas.3:4, 2Pe.2:17; of sailors rowing or sailing a boat, Mrk.6:48, Jhn.6:19; of demons, Luk.8:29 (cf. ἀπ-, συν-ελαύνω).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 5 NT verses. KJV: carry, drive, row See also: 2 Peter 2:17; John 6:19; James 3:4.

μεταγεται metagō G3329 "to turn" Verb-PPI-3S

Means to turn or lead something in a new direction, like turning a horse in James 3:3-4. The KJV translates it as turn about.

Definition: μετ-άγω [in LXX: 3Ki.8:47-48, 2Ch.6:37 (שָׁבָה) 2Ch.36:3 (סוּר hi.), 1Es.1:45 Est.2:10 Est.5:69, Est.8:17, Sir prol.16 Sir.10:8, 2Ma.1:33 * ;] __1. in Xen., Plut., and later writers, to transfer, transport (so LXX). __2. In sense otherwise unknown (see Hort, in l), to turn about, direct: Jas.3:3-4.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2 NT verses. KJV: turn about See also: James 3:3; James 3:4.

υπο hupo G5259 "by/under: by" Prep

Under or by something, like under a person's authority, as in Matthew 8:9, or under a place, as in Luke 7:8.

Usage: Occurs in 209 NT verses. KJV: among, by, from, in, of, under, with See also: 1 Corinthians 1:11; Hebrews 2:3; 1 Peter 2:4.

ελαχιστου elachistos G1646 "least" Adj-GSN-S

The smallest or least important thing, as seen in Matthew 25:40 and 1 Corinthians 15:9. This word is used to describe something that is minimal or insignificant, and is often used to emphasize the importance of humility.

Definition: ἐλάχιστος, -η, -ον (see: ἐλάσσων), smallest, least: as proper superlat., 1Co.15:9; elsewhere, as usually in late Gk., intensive (B1., § 11, 3); Mat.2:6 (LXX) Mat.25:40, 45 Luk.12:26 16:10 19:17, 1Co.4:3 6:2, Jas.3:4; ἐ. ἐν τ. βασιλείᾳ τ. οὐρανῶν, Mat.5:19 (see Dalman, Words, 113). Compar., ἐλαχιστότερος (for corresp. superl., see LS; see also Bl., § 44, 3); less than the least: Eph.3:8.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 11 NT verses. KJV: least, very little (small), smallest See also: 1 Corinthians 4:3; Luke 16:10; James 3:4.

πηδαλιου pēdalion G4079 "rudder" Noun-GSN

A rudder is a device that steers a ship, used in James 3:4 and Acts 27:40 to describe how a small part can control a large thing.

Definition: πηδάλιον, -συ, τό (πηδός, the blade of an oar), a rudder: Jas.3:4; pl., Act.27:40.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2 NT verses. KJV: rudder See also: Acts 27:40; James 3:4.

οπου hopou G3699 "where(-ever)" Adv

This word asks about the location or place of something, like in Matthew 25:24 and John 3:8. It is used to describe where events occur, and is often translated as 'where' or 'in what place'.

Definition: ὅπου adv. of place, correlat. of ποῦ (which see), where. __I. Prop., of place, __1. where; __(a) in relative sentences, with indic: Mat.25:24, 26, Mrk.2:4 4:5, 15 5:40 13:14, Jhn.3:8 6:62 7:34, 36 11:32 14:3 17:24 20:19, Rom.15:20, Rev.2:13; after nouns of place, for relat. prepositional phrase (ἐν ᾧ., etc.), Mat.6:19-20 13:5 26:57 28:6, Mrk.6:55 9:48 Luk.12:33, Jhn.1:28 4:20, 46 6:23 7:42 10:40 11:30 12:1 18:1, 20 19:18, 20 19:41 20:12, Act.17:1, Rev.2:13 11:8 20:10; before ἐκεῖ., Mat.6:21, Luk.12:34 17:37 Jhn.12:26; id. pleonast. (= Heb. שָׁם . . . אֲשֶׁר; Aram. תַּמָּן . . דּ; of. Gen.13:3), ὅ. . . . ἐκεῖ, Rev.12:6, 14; ὅ. . . . ἐπ᾽ αὐτῶν, Rev.17:9; ὅ. ἄν, wherever (M, Pr., 168), with imperfect indic., Mrk.6:56; with Pres. subjc., Mat.24:28; ὅ. ἐάν, Mat.26:13, Mrk.6:10 9:18 14:9, 14 a; __(b) in quaest. indir., with aor. subjc.: Mrk.14:14 b, Luk.22:11. __2. In late writers (sometimes also in cl.; Bl., § 25, 2), with verbs of motion, = ὅποι, whither: with indic., Jhn.8:21-22 13:33, 36 14:4 21:18, Heb.6:20, Jas.3:4; ὅ. ἄν, whithersoever, with present ind., Rev.14:4; subjc., Luk.9:57; ὅ. ἐάν, Mat.8:19. __II. Without strict local sense, __1. of time or condition: Col.3:11, Heb.9:16 10:18, Jas.3:16, 2Pe.2:11. __2. Of cause or reason (AV, whereas): 1Co.3:3.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 76 NT verses. KJV: in what place, where(-as, -soever), whither (+ soever) See also: 1 Corinthians 3:3; Luke 9:57; Hebrews 6:20.

αν an G302 "if" Particle

The Greek word for 'if' is used to show a condition. It appears in Luke 7, where Jesus says what would happen if a certain condition were met.

Definition: ἄν, conditional particle, which cannot usually be separately translated in English, its force depending on the constructions which contain it (see further, LS, see word; WM, §xlii; M, Pr., 165 ff.; MM, VGT, see word). __1. In apodosis, __(i) with indic, imperfect or aor., expressing what would be or would have been if (εἰ with impf., aor. or plpf.) some condition were or had been fulfilled: Luk.7:39 17:6, Jhn.5:46, Gal.1:10, Mat.12:7 24:43, 1Co.2:8, Act.18:14, 1Jn.2:19, al. The protasis is sometimes understood (as also in cl.): Mat.25:27, Luk.19:23. In hypothetical sentences, expressing unreality, ἄν (as often in late writers, more rarely in cl.) is omitted: Jhn.8:39 15:24 19:11, Rom.7:7, Gal.4:15; __(ii) with opt., inf., ptcp. (cl.; see LS, see word; M, Int., §275; M, Pr., 167:4). __2. In combination with conditional, relative, temporal, and final words; __(i) as in cl., with subj., __(a) in protasis with εἰ, in Attic contr. ἐάν, which see; __(b) in conditional, relative, and temporal clauses (coalescing with ὅτε, ἐπεί, etc.; see: ὅταν, ἐπάν, etc.), ever, soever; __(α) with pres., ἡνίκα, 2Co.3:15; ὃς ἄν, Rom.9:15 (LXX) 16:2, al.; ὅσοι ἄν, Luk.9:5; ὡς ἄν, Rom.15:24 (M, Pr., 167); __(β) with aor., ὃς ἄν, Mat.5:21, 22, 31; ἕως ἄν, until, Mat.2:13, Mrk.6:10, al.; ὡς ἄν, as soon as (M, Pr., 167), 1Co.11:34, Php.2:23. On the frequently use of ἐάν for ἄν with the foregoing words, see: ἐάν; __(ii) in late Gk., when some actual fact is spoken of, with indic.: ὅταν (which see); ὅπου ἄν, Mrk.6:56 (M, Pr., 168); καθότι ἄν, Act.2:45 4:35; ὡς ἄν, 1Co.12:2. __3. in iterative construction, with imperfect and aor. indic. (M, Pr., 167): Act.2:45 4:35, 1Co.12:2. __4. with optative, giving a potential sense to a question or wish: Act.8:31 26:29. __5. Elliptical constructions: εἰ μή τι ἄν (M, Pr., 169), 1Co.7:5; ὡς ἄν, with inf., as it were (op. cit. 167), 2Co.10:9. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 159 NT verses. KJV: (what-, where-, wither-, who-)soever See also: 1 Corinthians 2:8; Luke 9:4; Hebrews 1:13.

η ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-NSF

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

ορμη hormē G3730 "impulse" Noun-NSF

An impulse is a sudden or violent movement, like the assault in Acts 14:5. This word is used to describe intense energy or action, as in James 3:4.

Definition: ὁρμή, -ῆς, ἡ [in LXX: Pro.3:25 (שׁוֹא), etc. ;] __1. a violent movement, impulse: Jas.3:4; __2. a hostile movement, onset, assault. Act.14:5.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2 NT verses. KJV: assault See also: Acts 14:5; James 3:4.

του ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-GSM

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

ευθυνοντος euthunō G2116 "to straighten" Verb-PAP-GSM

This word means to straighten or steer something, like a ship's governor in James 3:4. It's about guiding or directing something in the right direction.

Definition: εὐθύνω (εὐθύς), [in LXX: Num.22:23, Jos.24:23 (נָטָה hi.), Jdg.14:7, 1Ki.18:20 18:26 (יָשַׁר) Pro.20:24, Sir.2:2, 6, al. ;] __1. to direct: Jas.3:4. __2. to make straight: Jhn.1:23 (LXX, ἑτοιμάσατε).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2 NT verses. KJV: governor, make straight See also: James 3:4; John 1:23.

βουληται boulomai G1014 "to plan" Verb-PNS-3S

To be willing or to desire something, as in Mark 15:15 and Acts 5:28. It implies a deliberate choice or intention, like being minded to do something. This word is used in 2 Corinthians 1:15 and 1 Timothy 6:9.

Definition: βούλομαι, [in LXX for חפץ, אבה, יעץ, etc. ;] to will, wish, desire, purpose, be minded, implying more strongly than θέλω (which see), the deliberate exercise of volition (see Hort on Jas.1:18): with inf. (M, Pr., 205; Bl., §69, 4), Mrk.15:15, Act.5:28, 33 12:4 15:37 17:20 18:15, 27 19:30 22:30 23:28 27:43 28:18, 2Co.1:15, 1Ti.6:9, Heb.6:17, II Jhn.12, 3Jo.10, Ju 5; with accusative, 2Co.1:17; with accusative and inf., Php.1:12, 1Ti.2:8 5:14, Tit.3:8, 2Pe.3:9; of the will making choice between alternatives, Mat.1:19 11:27, Luk.10:22, Act.25:20, 1Co.12:11, Jas.3:4 4:4; εἰ βούλει (cl., a courteous phrase = θέλεις, colloq.; Bl., §21, 8; LS, see word), Luk.22:42; with subjc., adding force to a question of deliberation (Bl., §64, 6), Jhn.18:39; βουληθείς, of set purpose (see Hort, in l.), Jas.1:18; impf., ἐβουλόμην (= cl. βουλοίμην ἄν; Bl., §63, 5; Lft., Phm. 13), Act.25:22, Phm 13 (see also Cremer, 143).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 34 NT verses. KJV: be disposed, minded, intend, list, (be, of own) will (-ing) See also: 1 Corinthians 12:11; Acts 25:22; Hebrews 6:17.

Study Notes — James 3:4

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
James 3:4 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on James 3:4
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on James 3:4
Matthew Poole's Commentary on James 3:4
Trapp's Commentary on James 3:4
Ellicott's Commentary on James 3:4
Cambridge Bible on James 3:4
Barnes' Notes on James 3:4
Whedon's Commentary on James 3:4
Sermons on James 3:4

Context — Taming the Tongue

2We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to control his whole body. 3When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can guide the whole animal.

4Consider ships as well. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot is inclined.

5In the same way, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it boasts of great things. Consider how small a spark sets a great forest ablaze. 6The tongue also is a fire, a world of wickedness among the parts of the body. It pollutes the whole person, sets the course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Psalms 107:25–27	For He spoke and raised a tempest that lifted the waves of the sea. They mounted up to the heavens, then sunk to the depths; their courage melted in their anguish. They reeled and staggered like drunkards, and all their skill was useless.
2	Matthew 8:24	Suddenly a violent storm came up on the sea, so that the boat was engulfed by the waves; but Jesus was sleeping.
3	Acts 27:14–38	But it was not long before a cyclone called the Northeaster swept down across the island. Unable to head into the wind, the ship was caught up. So we gave way and let ourselves be driven along. Passing to the lee of a small island called Cauda, we barely managed to secure the lifeboat. After hoisting it up, the crew used ropes to undergird the ship. And fearing that they would run aground on the sandbars of Syrtis, they lowered the sea anchor and were driven along. We were tossed so violently that the next day the men began to jettison the cargo. On the third day, they threw the ship’s tackle overboard with their own hands. When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days and the great storm continued to batter us, we abandoned all hope of being saved. After the men had gone a long time without food, Paul stood up among them and said, “Men, you should have followed my advice not to sail from Crete. Then you would have averted this disaster and loss. But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because you will not experience any loss of life, but only of the ship. For just last night an angel of God, whose I am and whom I serve, stood beside me and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar. And look, God has granted you the lives of all who sail with you.’ So take courage, men, for I believe God that it will happen just as He told me. However, we must run aground on some island.” On the fourteenth night we were still being driven across the Adriatic Sea. About midnight the sailors sensed they were approaching land. They took soundings and found that the water was twenty fathoms deep. Going a little farther, they took another set of soundings that read fifteen fathoms. Fearing that we would run aground on the rocks, they dropped four anchors from the stern and prayed for daybreak. Meanwhile, the sailors attempted to escape from the ship. Pretending to lower anchors from the bow, they let the lifeboat down into the sea. But Paul said to the centurion and the soldiers, “Unless these men remain with the ship, you cannot be saved.” So the soldiers cut the ropes to the lifeboat and set it adrift. Right up to daybreak, Paul kept urging them all to eat: “Today is your fourteenth day in constant suspense, without taking any food. So for your own preservation, I urge you to eat something, because not a single hair of your head will be lost.” After he had said this, Paul took bread and gave thanks to God in front of them all. Then he broke it and began to eat. They were all encouraged and took some food themselves. In all, there were 276 of us on board. After the men had eaten their fill, they lightened the ship by throwing the grain into the sea.
4	Jonah 1:4	Then the LORD hurled a great wind upon the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship was in danger of breaking apart.

James 3:4 Summary

James 3:4 uses the example of a ship and its rudder to show how small things can have a big impact. Just like a small rudder can steer a large ship, our words can steer the course of our lives and the lives of others. This is why it's so important to be mindful of what we say, as our words have the power to build up or tear down, as seen in Proverbs 18:21. By choosing to use our words to build others up, we can set a positive direction for our lives and help others do the same, as encouraged in Ephesians 4:29.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main point James is trying to make in James 3:4?

James is using the example of ships and their rudders to illustrate the power of small things, like the tongue, to control and direct our lives, as also mentioned in James 3:5-6.

How does the size of the ship relate to the point James is making?

The size of the ship, although large and driven by strong winds, is still controlled by a small rudder, emphasizing that even the smallest parts can have a significant impact, similar to how a small spark can set a great forest ablaze, as mentioned in James 3:5.

What does the pilot's inclination have to do with the direction of the ship?

The pilot's inclination determines the direction of the ship, just as our words and actions, though small, can set the course of our lives and the lives of others, as seen in Proverbs 18:21, which says that the power of life and death is in the tongue.

How can we apply this principle to our everyday lives?

We can apply this principle by being mindful of our words and actions, and seeking to use them to steer our lives and the lives of others in a positive direction, as encouraged in Ephesians 4:29, which advises us to use our words to build others up.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways in which my words can be like a rudder, steering the course of my life and the lives of others?
How can I use my words to build others up and set a positive direction for my life, as encouraged in Ephesians 4:29?
What are some potential consequences of allowing my words to 'steer' my life in a negative direction, as warned in James 3:6?
In what ways can I seek to use my words to bring life and positivity to those around me, as seen in Proverbs 16:24?

Gill's Exposition on James 3:4

Behold also the ships, which though they be so great,.... Of so large a bulk, of such a prodigious size, and are such unwieldy vessels: and are driven of fierce winds; with great vehemence, rapidity,

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on James 3:4

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. Not only animals, but even ships.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on James 3:4

The other similitude, in which a man is compared to a ship, the tongue to the rudder, the governing the whole body to the turning about the ship. As the rudder is but a small thing, in comparison of the much greater bulk of a ship, and yet, being itself turned, turns the whole ship (though so great, and driven of so fierce winds) which way soever the steersman pleaseth: so likewise the tongue, though little to the whole man, (which may withal be driven, and acted by storms of furious passions), yet if it be itself under government, the rest of the man will be so too.

Trapp's Commentary on James 3:4

4 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. Ver. 4. Whithersoever the governor] Peterent caelum Belgae si navibus peti posset, Ley them ask for the skys of Belge if it would be possible to reach them by ship, saith one (Johnston, de Nat. Constant.)

Ellicott's Commentary on James 3:4

(4) The governor—i.e., the “helmsman,” from the Latin gubernator. The Venerable Bede, our earliest English translator, refers the ships here to an image of ourselves, and the winds to the impulses of our own minds, by which we are driven hither and thither. St. James, remembering the storms of the Galilean lake, could well rejoice in a simile like this, although he himself may only have known the craft of an inland sea, and never have beheld “broad rivers and streams” wherein went “galley with oars and gallant ship” (Isaiah 33:21). And none knew better than the brother of the Lord who was the true “Helm of the ships that keep Pathway along the deep.”

Cambridge Bible on James 3:4

4. Behold also the ships …] General as the thought is, we may perhaps connect it, as we have done ch. James 1:6, with personal recollections of storms on the Galilean lake. It will be seen that this also has its counterpart in Sophocles. The two images are brought together by a writer more within St James’s reach than the Greek tragedian. With Philo, Reason in man, the Divine Word in Creation, are compared both with the charioteer and the pilot. (De Conf. ling. p. 336. De Abr. p. 360). In the latter the very word which St James uses for “governor” is employed also by Philo. The same thoughts appear in the beautiful hymn of Clement of Alexandria as describing the work of Christ as the true Teacher. (Paedag. ad fin.):“Curb for the stubborn steedMaking its will give heed.Helm of the ships that keepTheir pathway o’er the deep.whithersoever the governor listeth] Better, the pilot or steersman. This, which, the reader will hardly need to be reminded, is the primary meaning of “governor”, has, in the modern use of the word, all but dropped out of sight. Literally the sentence runs, whithersoever the impulse of the steersman may wish.

Barnes' Notes on James 3:4

Behold also the ships - This illustration is equally striking and obvious. A ship is a large object. It seems to be unmanageable by its vastness, and it is also impelled by driving storms.

Whedon's Commentary on James 3:4

4. Helm—Rudder. The ships are a larger image of the same truth, and, taking in their size and the force of winds, form a fine illustration.

Sermons on James 3:4

	Sermon	Description
	God's Wind by Charles E. Cowman	Charles E. Cowman preaches about how God's contrary winds and sufferings in life can actually lift us to higher levels and bring us closer to God's heavens, just like birds facing
	That Comforts and Joys Seem to Follow Awakenings and Convictions of Conscience, in a Certain Order, Is No Sign by Jonathan Edwards	Jonathan Edwards preaches about the process of salvation, emphasizing that before God delivers individuals from sin, they must first have a deep sense of the evil they are being sa
	(Grace Baptist) Die to Self by Bill McLeod	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of bad things turning out good, both in Scripture and in contemporary life. He uses the example of David fleeing from King Saul a
	Baptism and the Gospel by Paul Washer	In this sermon, the speaker begins by emphasizing the importance of remembering what God has done for us. He then introduces the topic of the gospel and its significance. The speak
	Jonah by Brother Yun	This sermon emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's calling in our lives, using the story of Jonah as an example of disobedience and the consequences that follow. It highli
	(Jonah) No Place to Hide by John Vissers	John Vissers preaches on the story of Jonah, emphasizing that one cannot escape God's presence or purpose, as Jonah attempts to flee from God's command to preach to Nineveh. The se
	Not All Storms Are Bad by Warren Wiersbe	Warren Wiersbe preaches on the powerful imagery in Psalms 18:7-15, illustrating how God works when He comes to the aid of His children. These verses depict God as the Creator and D