James 3:2 web — For in many things we all stumble. If anyone doesn't stumble in word, the same is a perfect man, able to bridle the who…

World English Bible

"For in many things we all stumble. If anyone doesn't stumble in word, the same is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body also."

— James 3:2, World English Bible

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James 3:2 in Other Translations

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James 3 — Context

1

Let not many of you be teachers, my brothers, knowing that we will receive heavier judgment.

2

For in many things we all stumble. If anyone doesn't stumble in word, the same is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body also.

3

Indeed, we put bits into the horses' mouths so that they may obey us, and we guide their whole body.

4

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.

5

So the tongue is also a little member, and boasts great things. See how a small fire can spread to a large forest!

James 3:2 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does James 3:2 say?
James 3:2 in the World English Bible reads: “For in many things we all stumble. If anyone doesn't stumble in word, the same is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body also.”
Where is James 3:2 in the Bible?
James 3:2 is found in the New Testament, in the book of James, chapter 3, verse 2.
Who wrote James?
James is traditionally attributed to James, half-brother of Jesus, leader of the Jerusalem church. It was written c. AD 44–49.
What is the book of James about?
James is the New Testament's closest cousin to Old-Testament wisdom literature — pungent, practical, and uncompromising. Faith without works is dead. The tongue is a fire. The prayers of a righteous man avail much. It calls Christians to walk their talk.
What are the major themes of James?
James explores themes including Faith and Works, Wisdom, Speech, Suffering, Prayer. These themes shape the meaning and context of James 3:2.
What translation should I read James 3:2 in?
James 3:2 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize James 3:2?
James 3:2 reads (WEB): “For in many things we all stumble. If anyone doesn't stumble in word, the same is a perfect man, able to bridle the whole body also.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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