What does James 3:7 mean?

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: James 3:7

Explanation

James 3:7 speaks to the dominion of humans over the natural world. The verse emphasizes the ability of mankind to tame all kinds of creatures, across the various spectrums of wildlife, from land to sea. On a literal level, it acknowledges the human capacity to bring animals under their control or influence. The deeper meaning could reflect on mankind’s unique position within creation to harness and steward the earth’s species. It may also imply a contrast between the control over animals and the difficulty of taming the human tongue, which is the broader context of James chapter 3.

Historical Context

The Epistle of James is traditionally attributed to James the Just, the brother of Jesus, and was likely written between AD 50 and AD 60. This verse needs to be understood within the context of the Greco-Roman world where animal domestication was commonplace, and human dominion over animals was part of the established natural order. During this period, humans showcased conquer over animals in various arenas such as the circus, agriculture, and transportation, and this reality would resonate with the audience of the epistle.

Theological Insights

From a Judeo-Christian perspective, James 3:7 reflects the Genesis account where humankind is given authority over the creatures of the earth (Genesis 1:26). Theologically, this verse might represent the idea of humans being made in God’s image with the capacity for rulership and stewardship. Some theologians suggest that while mankind can control animals, it often struggles to control inner passions and the tongue, as James discusses earlier in the chapter. Others note a parallel between the dichotomy of controlling beasts and yet often failing to live righteously before God.

Practical Applications

Practically, James 3:7 could be understood as a call for responsible dominion over creation. It could remind believers of the power of influence they possess and encourage them to use it wisely and compassionately. It also presents a challenge to master oneself, especially one’s speech, as a more significant task compared to taming the wild.

Cross-References

• Genesis 1:26 “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.”
• Proverbs 12:10 “A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.”
• Psalms 8:6-8 “Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet: All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field; The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word for “tamed” is δαμάζω (damazō), which means to tame, subdue, or bring under control. Each category of creatures mentioned reflects a different aspect of the natural world, signifying totality in scope – “beasts” (θηρίον – therion) for wild land animals, “birds” (πετεινόν – peteinon) for airborne creatures, “serpents” (ὁ φις – ho ophis) for reptiles, and “things in the sea” (ἐναλίος – enalios) for marine life.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparing this verse to other ancient cultures, many myths from Egypt, Greece, and Rome also tell of gods and heroes who could tame or command animals. In both ancient and modern Pagan traditions, the concept of mankind’s relationship and dominion over nature varies significantly, with some traditions highlighting harmony with nature as opposed to dominion.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, humans have indeed tamed a wide variety of animals through domestication, selective breeding, and training for thousands of years. The verse’s literal observation aligns with what we know about human influence on animal behavior. However, science would explain this less in terms of dominion and more in terms of evolution and human adaptation for survival and societal development.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and theologians have commented on James 3:7. Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes man’s authority over the animal kingdom but suggests that this power is rendered impotent when it comes to taming the tongue. The Pulpit Commentary notes the distinction between outward control of creatures and the inner control of one’s spirit. John Calvin’s Commentary may stress human responsibility in exercising the authority over creatures wisely and in fear of God. Contemporary scholars might focus on the environmental and ecological implications of this verse as well, considering modern issues of conservation and animal welfare.