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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>James 1:25 But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so--not being a forgetful hearer, but an effective doer--he will be blessed in what he does.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/james/1-25.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/18/59_Jas_01_25.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="James 1:25 - Hearing and Doing" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so--not being a forgetful 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title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/james/1.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/james/1.htm">New International Version</a> But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do. <a href="/nlt/james/1.htm">New Living Translation</a> But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it. <a href="/esv/james/1.htm">English Standard Version</a> But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing. <a href="/bsb/james/1.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so—not being a forgetful hearer, but an effective doer—he will be blessed in what he does. <a href="/blb/james/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> But the one having looked intently into the perfect law, that of freedom, and having continued in it, not having been a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work--this one will be blessed in his work. <a href="/kjv/james/1.htm">King James Bible</a> But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. <a href="/nkjv/james/1.htm">New King James Version</a> But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does. <a href="/nasb_/james/1.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> But one who has looked intently at the perfect law, the law of freedom, and has continued in it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an active doer, this person will be blessed in what he does. <a href="/nasb/james/1.htm">NASB 1995</a> But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does. <a href="/nasb77/james/1.htm">NASB 1977 </a> But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man shall be blessed in what he does. <a href="/lsb/james/1.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of freedom, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this man will be blessed in what he does. <a href="/amp/james/1.htm">Amplified Bible</a> But he who looks carefully into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and faithfully abides by it, not having become a [careless] listener who forgets but an active doer [who obeys], he will be blessed and favored by God in what he does [in his life of obedience]. <a href="/csb/james/1.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom and perseveres in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer who works—this person will be blessed in what he does. <a href="/hcsb/james/1.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom and perseveres in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but one who does good works—this person will be blessed in what he does. <a href="/asv/james/1.htm">American Standard Version</a> But he that looketh into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and so continueth, being not a hearer that forgetteth but a doer that worketh, this man shall be blessed in his doing. <a href="/cev/james/1.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> But you must never stop looking at the perfect law that sets you free. God will bless you in everything you do, if you listen and obey, and don't just hear and forget. <a href="/erv/james/1.htm">English Revised Version</a> But he that looketh into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and so continueth, being not a hearer that forgetteth, but a doer that worketh, this man shall be blessed in his doing. <a href="/gwt/james/1.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> However, the person who continues to study God's perfect teachings that make people free and who remains committed to them will be blessed. People like that don't merely listen and forget; they actually do what God's teachings say. <a href="/gnt/james/1.htm">Good News Translation</a> But if you look closely into the perfect law that sets people free, and keep on paying attention to it and do not simply listen and then forget it, but put it into practice--you will be blessed by God in what you do. <a href="/isv/james/1.htm">International Standard Version</a> But the one who looks at the perfect law of freedom and remains committed to it—thereby demonstrating that he is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of what that law requires—will be blessed in what he does. <a href="/msb/james/1.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so?not being a forgetful hearer, but an effective doer?he will be blessed in what he does. <a href="/net/james/1.htm">NET Bible</a> But the one who peers into the perfect law of liberty and fixes his attention there, and does not become a forgetful listener but one who lives it out--he will be blessed in what he does. <a href="/nheb/james/1.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> But he who looks into the perfect Law of freedom, and continues, not being a hearer who forgets, but a doer of the work, this person will be blessed in what he does. <a href="/wbt/james/1.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> But he who looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth in it, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. <a href="/wey/james/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> But he who looks closely into the perfect Law--the Law of freedom--and continues looking, he, being not a hearer who forgets, but an obedient doer, will as the result of his obedience be blessed. <a href="/web/james/1.htm">World English Bible</a> But he who looks into the perfect law of freedom and continues, not being a hearer who forgets but a doer of the work, this man will be blessed in what he does. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/james/1.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> but he who looked into [the] perfect law—that of liberty, and continued there, not becoming a forgetful hearer, but a doer of work—this one will be blessed in his doing. <a href="/blb/james/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> But the one having looked intently into the perfect law, that of freedom, and having continued in it, not having been a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work--this one will be blessed in his work. <a href="/ylt/james/1.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and he who did look into the perfect law -- that of liberty, and did continue there, this one -- not a forgetful hearer becoming, but a doer of work -- this one shall be happy in his doing. <a href="/slt/james/1.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And he having stooped into the perfect law of liberty, and remained, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of work, he shall be happy in his doing.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/james/1.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> But he that hath looked into the perfect law of liberty, and hath continued therein, not becoming a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work; this man shall be blessed in his deed. <a href="/cpdv/james/1.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> But he who gazes upon the perfect law of liberty, and who remains in it, is not a forgetful hearer, but instead a doer of the work. He shall be blessed in what he does. <a href="/nabre/james/1.htm">New American Bible</a> But the one who peers into the perfect law of freedom and perseveres, and is not a hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, such a one shall be blessed in what he does. <a href="/nrsvce/james/1.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> But those who look into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and persevere, being not hearers who forget but doers who act—they will be blessed in their doing.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/james/1.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> But whoever looks into the perfect law of liberty, and abides in it, is not merely a hearer of the word which can be forgotten but a doer of the work, and this man shall be blessed in his work. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/james/1.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> But everyone who gazes into The Perfect Law of Liberty and continues in it, he is not a hearer who heard what is forgotten, but is a doer of the works, and this one shall be blessed in his work.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/james/1.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> But he that looks intently into the perfect law of liberty, and remains constant, being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, he shall be blessed in his deed.<CM> <a href="/godbey/james/1.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> But the one having looked into the perfect law which is the law of liberty, and having remained in it, not being a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, he shall be happy in his work. <a href="/haweis/james/1.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> But he that looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and perseveres, this man not being a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, he shall be blessed in his practice.<CM> <a href="/mace/james/1.htm">Mace New Testament</a> whereas, he that attentively considers the perfect law of liberty, and is attach'd thereto, he is not a forgetful hearer, but reduces it to practice, and his conduct is crown'd with hapiness. <a href="/wey/james/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> But he who looks closely into the perfect Law--the Law of freedom--and continues looking, he, being not a hearer who forgets, but an obedient doer, will as the result of his obedience be blessed. <a href="/worrell/james/1.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> But he who looks carefully into a perfect law?that of liberty?and remains by it, becoming not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work?this man shall be happy in his doing. <a href="/worsley/james/1.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> But he that looketh well into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. <a href="/parallel/james/1-25.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0xUBCzqsAGw?start=199" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/james/1.htm">Hearing and Doing</a> …24and after observing himself goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25<a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">But</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the one who</a> <a href="/greek/3879.htm" title="3879: parakypsas (V-APA-NMS) -- To stoop, peer in, look down, look intently. From para and kupto; to bend beside, i.e. Lean over.">looks intently</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">into</a> <a href="/greek/5046.htm" title="5046: teleion (Adj-AMS) -- From telos; complete; neuter completeness.">the perfect</a> <a href="/greek/3551.htm" title="3551: nomon (N-AMS) -- From a primary nemo; law, genitive case, specially, (including the volume); also of the Gospel), or figuratively.">law</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/1657.htm" title="1657: eleutherias (N-GFS) -- Freedom, liberty, especially: a state of freedom from slavery. From eleutheros; freedom.">of freedom,</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/3887.htm" title="3887: parameinas (V-APA-NMS) -- To remain by, abide with; met: I persevere in. From para and meno; to stay near, i.e. Remain.">continues to do so—</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">not</a> <a href="/greek/1096.htm" title="1096: genomenos (V-APM-NMS) -- A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude.">being</a> <a href="/greek/1953.htm" title="1953: epilēsmonēs (N-GFS) -- Forgetfulness, oblivion. From a derivative of epilanthanomai; negligence.">a forgetful</a> <a href="/greek/202.htm" title="202: akroatēs (N-NMS) -- A hearer of, a listener to. From akroaomai; a hearer.">hearer,</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but</a> <a href="/greek/2041.htm" title="2041: ergou (N-GNS) -- From a primary ergo; toil; by implication, an act.">an effective</a> <a href="/greek/4163.htm" title="4163: poiētēs (N-NMS) -- (a) a maker, poet, (b) a doer, carrier out, performer. From poieo; a performer; specially, a poet.">doer—</a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: houtos (DPro-NMS) -- This; he, she, it. ">he</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: estai (V-FIM-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">will be</a> <a href="/greek/3107.htm" title="3107: makarios (Adj-NMS) -- Happy, blessed, to be envied. A prolonged form of the poetical makar; supremely blest; by extension, fortunate, well off.">blessed</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tē (Art-DFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">what</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autou (PPro-GM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">he</a> <a href="/greek/4162.htm" title="4162: poiēsei (N-DFS) -- A doing, making, performance. From poieo; action, i.e. Performance.">does.</a> 26If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not bridle his tongue, he deceives his heart and his religion is worthless.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/matthew/7-24.htm">Matthew 7:24-27</a> Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. / The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock. / But everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. ... <a href="/luke/11-28.htm">Luke 11:28</a> But He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” <a href="/john/13-17.htm">John 13:17</a> If you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. <a href="/romans/2-13.htm">Romans 2:13</a> For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but it is the doers of the law who will be declared righteous. <a href="/galatians/6-7.htm">Galatians 6:7-9</a> Do not be deceived: God is not to be mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return. / The one who sows to please his flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; but the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. / Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. <a href="/philippians/4-9.htm">Philippians 4:9</a> Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me, put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. <a href="/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12</a> For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/1_john/3-22.htm">1 John 3:22-24</a> and we will receive from Him whatever we ask, because we keep His commandments and do what is pleasing in His sight. / And this is His commandment: that we should believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, and we should love one another just as He commanded us. / Whoever keeps His commandments remains in God, and God in him. And by this we know that He remains in us: by the Spirit He has given us. <a href="/psalms/1-1.htm">Psalm 1:1-3</a> Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. / But his delight is in the Law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. / He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does. <a href="/psalms/19-7.htm">Psalm 19:7-11</a> The Law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is trustworthy, making wise the simple. / The precepts of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart; the commandments of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. / The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever; the judgments of the LORD are true, being altogether righteous. ... <a href="/psalms/119-1.htm">Psalm 119:1-2</a> Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the Law of the LORD. / Blessed are those who keep His testimonies and seek Him with all their heart. <a href="/psalms/119-9.htm">Psalm 119:9-11</a> How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to Your word. / With all my heart I have sought You; do not let me stray from Your commandments. / I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You. <a href="/psalms/119-97.htm">Psalm 119:97-100</a> Oh, how I love Your law! All day long it is my meditation. / Your commandments make me wiser than my enemies, for they are always with me. / I have more insight than all my teachers, for Your testimonies are my meditation. ... <a href="/proverbs/4-20.htm">Proverbs 4:20-22</a> My son, pay attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. / Do not lose sight of them; keep them within your heart. / For they are life to those who find them, and health to the whole body. <a href="/proverbs/10-17.htm">Proverbs 10:17</a> Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, but he who ignores reproof goes astray.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>But whoever looks into the perfect law of liberty, and continues therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.looketh.<a href="/proverbs/14-15.htm">Proverbs 14:15</a> The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going.<a href="/isaiah/8-20.htm">Isaiah 8:20</a> To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.<a href="/2_corinthians/13-5.htm">2 Corinthians 13:5</a> Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?the perfect.<a href="/james/2-12.htm">James 2:12</a> So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.<a href="/psalms/19-7.htm">Psalm 19:7-10</a> The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple… <a href="/psalms/119-32.htm">Psalm 119:32,45,96-105</a> I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart… liberty.<a href="/john/8-32.htm">John 8:32,36</a> And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free… <a href="/romans/8-15.htm">Romans 8:15</a> For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.<a href="/2_corinthians/3-17.htm">2 Corinthians 3:17,18</a> Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty… and.<a href="/1_samuel/12-14.htm">1 Samuel 12:14</a> If ye will fear the LORD, and serve him, and obey his voice, and not rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall both ye and also the king that reigneth over you continue following the LORD your God:<a href="/john/8-31.htm">John 8:31</a> Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;<a href="/john/15-9.htm">John 15:9,10</a> As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love… a forgetful.<a href="/james/1-23.htm">James 1:23,24</a> For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: … this.<a href="/psalms/19-11.htm">Psalm 19:11</a> Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_timothy/2-13.htm">Abides</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-33.htm">Acts</a> <a href="/james/1-12.htm">Blessed</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-16.htm">Closely</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-1.htm">Continue</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-24.htm">Continues</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-24.htm">Continueth</a> <a href="/philemon/1-14.htm">Deed</a> <a href="/james/1-23.htm">Doer</a> <a href="/james/1-4.htm">Effect</a> <a href="/hebrews/4-7.htm">Fixes</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-2.htm">Forgetful</a> <a href="/james/1-24.htm">Forgets</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-18.htm">Free</a> <a href="/hebrews/10-1.htm">Freedom</a> <a href="/james/1-15.htm">Gives</a> <a href="/james/1-24.htm">Goes</a> <a href="/james/1-23.htm">Hearer</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-13.htm">Intently</a> <a href="/james/1-24.htm">Looks</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-28.htm">Makes</a> <a href="/james/1-24.htm">Memory</a> <a href="/hebrews/9-22.htm">Obedience</a> <a href="/james/1-22.htm">Obedient</a> <a href="/james/1-17.htm">Perfect</a> <a href="/james/1-21.htm">Putting</a> <a href="/james/1-4.htm">Result</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-9.htm">Therein</a> <a href="/james/1-18.htm">True.</a> <a href="/hebrews/10-24.htm">View</a> <a href="/james/1-20.htm">Work</a> <a href="/james/1-20.htm">Worketh</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_peter/1-25.htm">Abides</a> <a href="/james/2-12.htm">Acts</a> <a href="/james/5-11.htm">Blessed</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-10.htm">Closely</a> <a href="/james/4-13.htm">Continue</a> <a href="/2_peter/3-4.htm">Continues</a> <a href="/exodus/9-34.htm">Continueth</a> <a href="/james/3-16.htm">Deed</a> <a href="/james/4-11.htm">Doer</a> <a href="/james/2-23.htm">Effect</a> <a href="/john/6-40.htm">Fixes</a> <a href="/2_peter/1-9.htm">Forgetful</a> <a href="/genesis/27-45.htm">Forgets</a> <a href="/james/1-27.htm">Free</a> <a href="/james/2-12.htm">Freedom</a> <a href="/james/2-12.htm">Gives</a> <a href="/james/3-10.htm">Goes</a> <a href="/psalms/65-2.htm">Hearer</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-10.htm">Intently</a> <a href="/leviticus/13-31.htm">Looks</a> <a href="/james/2-10.htm">Makes</a> <a href="/2_peter/1-9.htm">Memory</a> <a href="/james/2-8.htm">Obedience</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-14.htm">Obedient</a> <a href="/james/2-22.htm">Perfect</a> <a href="/james/3-6.htm">Putting</a> <a href="/james/2-21.htm">Result</a> <a href="/1_peter/5-12.htm">Therein</a> <a href="/james/3-14.htm">True.</a> <a href="/1_peter/1-2.htm">View</a> <a href="/james/2-9.htm">Work</a> <a href="/revelation/21-27.htm">Worketh</a><div class="vheading2">James 1</div>1. <a href="/james/1-1.htm">James greets the twelve tribes among the nations;</a> 2. <a href="/james/1-2.htm">exhorts to rejoice in trials and temptations;</a> 5. <a href="/james/1-5.htm">to ask patience of God;</a> 13. <a href="/james/1-13.htm">and in our trials not to impute our weakness, or sins, to him,</a> 19. <a href="/james/1-19.htm">but rather to hearken to the word, to meditate on it, and to do thereafter.</a> 26. <a href="/james/1-26.htm">Otherwise men may seem, but never be, truly religious.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/james/1.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/james/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/james/1.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom This phrase emphasizes the importance of deep and careful examination of God's Word. The "perfect law of freedom" refers to the Gospel, which liberates believers from the bondage of sin. In the context of James, this law is not a set of legalistic rules but a guide to living a life that reflects Christ's teachings. The concept of freedom here aligns with Jesus' words in <a href="/john/8-32.htm">John 8:32</a>, "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." The idea of looking intently suggests a deliberate and focused study, akin to the Bereans in <a href="/acts/17-11.htm">Acts 17:11</a>, who examined the Scriptures daily.and continues to do so This phrase highlights the necessity of perseverance in studying and applying God's Word. It is not enough to merely glance at the Scriptures; one must persist in their study and application. This continuous action is reminiscent of the call to meditate on the law day and night as seen in <a href="/psalms/1-2.htm">Psalm 1:2</a>. The ongoing nature of this study reflects a lifestyle of discipleship and commitment to spiritual growth.not being a forgetful hearer This part of the verse warns against the danger of hearing God's Word without retaining or acting upon it. The cultural context of the time placed a strong emphasis on oral tradition and memory, making the act of forgetting particularly significant. Jesus' parable of the sower in <a href="/matthew/13-19.htm">Matthew 13:19-23</a> illustrates how the Word can be snatched away if not properly received and remembered. The call is to internalize the teachings, much like the Israelites were instructed to bind the law on their hearts (<a href="/deuteronomy/6-6.htm">Deuteronomy 6:6-9</a>).but an effective doer This phrase underscores the importance of action in the Christian faith. James consistently emphasizes that faith without works is dead (<a href="/james/2-26.htm">James 2:26</a>). The effective doer is one who not only hears the Word but also puts it into practice, reflecting the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount (<a href="/matthew/7-24.htm">Matthew 7:24-27</a>). This active obedience is a demonstration of genuine faith and aligns with the biblical principle that true belief results in transformed behavior.he will be blessed in what he does The promise of blessing is a recurring theme in Scripture, often associated with obedience to God's commands. This blessing is not necessarily material but encompasses spiritual prosperity and fulfillment. <a href="/psalms/1-3.htm">Psalm 1:3</a> describes the blessed man as one who delights in the law of the Lord and prospers in all he does. The assurance of blessing serves as motivation for believers to live out their faith actively and consistently, trusting in God's faithfulness to reward those who diligently seek Him.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/j/james.htm">James</a> The author of the epistle, traditionally identified as James, the brother of Jesus and a leader in the early Jerusalem church. He writes to Jewish Christians scattered abroad. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_perfect_law_of_freedom.htm">The Perfect Law of Freedom</a> Refers to the teachings of Christ and the moral law fulfilled in Him, emphasizing liberty from sin and the bondage of legalism. 3. <a href="/topical/h/hearers_and_doers.htm">Hearers and Doers</a> James contrasts those who merely hear the word with those who actively live it out, emphasizing the importance of action in faith.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_intentional_study.htm">The Importance of Intentional Study</a> The phrase "looks intently" suggests a deep, careful examination of God's Word. Believers are encouraged to study Scripture diligently, seeking to understand and apply it. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_memory_and_action.htm">The Role of Memory and Action</a> Being a "forgetful hearer" implies neglecting to internalize and act upon God's Word. True blessing comes from remembering and doing. <a href="/topical/f/freedom_in_obedience.htm">Freedom in Obedience</a> The "perfect law of freedom" suggests that true liberty is found in obedience to God's Word, freeing us from sin's bondage. <a href="/topical/c/consistency_in_practice.htm">Consistency in Practice</a> The call to "continue to do so" highlights the need for perseverance in living out our faith, not just occasional obedience. <a href="/topical/b/blessing_through_obedience.htm">Blessing Through Obedience</a> The promise of being "blessed in what he does" assures believers that God rewards faithful obedience with spiritual and sometimes material blessings.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_james_1.htm">Top 10 Lessons from James 1</a> <a href="/q/what_is_the_law_of_liberty.htm">What is the Law of Liberty?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'love_fulfills_the_law'_mean.htm">What is the benefit of being obedient?</a> <a href="/q/bible's_view_on_human_trafficking.htm">What is the Bible's stance on human trafficking?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_the_benefit_of_being_obedient.htm">What is the benefit of being obedient?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/james/1.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(25) But whoso looketh . . .--Translate, But he who looked into the perfect law of liberty and continued therein. The past tense is still kept to enforce the figure of the preceding verse. The earnest student of the Scriptures stoops down in humility of body and mind to learn what the will of their Author may be. He reads, as it were, upon his knees; and if he finds therein a law, it is one of liberty and not slavery, life and not death--although, as Dean Alford observes here, "not in contrast with a former law of bondage, but as viewed on the side of its being the law of the new life and birth, with all its spontaneous and free development of obedience."Not a forgetful hearer . . .--Literally, not a hearer of forgetfulness, but a doer of work. Thus rendered, the words of the sentence balance each other, and comment is needless.This man shall be blessed in his deed.--Or, as in the margin, doing. A return perhaps in thought to the Beatitudes, and the close of that Sermon on the Mount, of which they were the opening words. The blessedness of this humbly active Christian is like that of the wise man there spoken of "which built his house upon a rock" (<a href="/context/matthew/7-24.htm" title="Therefore whoever hears these sayings of mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man, which built his house on a rock:">Matthew 7:24-25</a>).<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/james/1.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 25. - Application of the illustration in the form of a contrast. Looketh into (παρακύψας). For the literal sense of the word, see <a href="/john/20-5.htm">John 20:5, 11</a>; <a href="/luke/24-12.htm">Luke 24:12</a>. The figurative meaning occurs only here and in <a href="/1_peter/1-12.htm">1 Peter 1:12</a>. Properly it signifies to "peep into." See its use in the LXX., <a href="/genesis/26-8.htm">Genesis 26:8</a>; <a href="/proverbs/7-6.htm">Proverbs 7:6</a>; Ecclus. 21:23. When used figuratively, it conveys the idea of looking into, but scarcely with that intensive force which is often given to it and for which ἐγκύπτειν would be required (see Dr. Field's 'Otium Norvicense,' p. 147). Its use in St. Peter, loc. cit., is easy enough to explain. Angels desire even a glimpse of the mysteries. But what are we to say of its use hero? Is it that, though the man took a good look at himself in the glass (κατανοεῖν, consider, is a very strong word; cf. <a href="/romans/4-19.htm">Romans 4:19</a>), yet he forgot what he was like, while the man who only peeps into the law of liberty is led on to abide (παραμείνας) and so to act? The perfect law of liberty; rather, the perfect law, even the law of liberty; νόμον τέλειον τὸν τῆς ἐλευθερίας. The substantive is anarthrous, yet the attributive has the article. This construction serves to give greater prominence to the attributive, and requires the rendering given above (see Winer, § 20:4). The conception of the gospel as a "law" is characteristic of St. James (cf. <a href="/james/2-8.htm">James 2:8</a>, "the royal law," and <a href="/james/4-11.htm">James 4:11</a>). A forgetful hearer (ἀκροατὴς ἐπιλησμονής); i.e. a hearer characterized by forgetfulness, contrasted with ποιητὴς ἐργοῦ, a doer characterized by work. <a href="/commentaries/james/1-25.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>But δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. the [one who] ὁ (ho) Article - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. looks intently παρακύψας (parakypsas) Verb - Aorist Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3879.htm">Strong's 3879: </a> To stoop, peer in, look down, look intently. From para and kupto; to bend beside, i.e. Lean over. into εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. [the] perfect τέλειον (teleion) Adjective - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5046.htm">Strong's 5046: </a> From telos; complete; neuter completeness. law νόμον (nomon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3551.htm">Strong's 3551: </a> From a primary nemo; law, genitive case, specially, (including the volume); also of the Gospel), or figuratively. of freedom, ἐλευθερίας (eleutherias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1657.htm">Strong's 1657: </a> Freedom, liberty, especially: a state of freedom from slavery. From eleutheros; freedom. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. continues to do so— παραμείνας (parameinas) Verb - Aorist Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3887.htm">Strong's 3887: </a> To remain by, abide with; met: I persevere in. From para and meno; to stay near, i.e. Remain. not οὐκ (ouk) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. being γενόμενος (genomenos) Verb - Aorist Participle Middle - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1096.htm">Strong's 1096: </a> A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude. a forgetful ἐπιλησμονῆς (epilēsmonēs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1953.htm">Strong's 1953: </a> Forgetfulness, oblivion. From a derivative of epilanthanomai; negligence. hearer, ἀκροατὴς (akroatēs) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_202.htm">Strong's 202: </a> A hearer of, a listener to. From akroaomai; a hearer. but ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. an effective ἔργου (ergou) Noun - Genitive Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2041.htm">Strong's 2041: </a> From a primary ergo; toil; by implication, an act. doer— ποιητὴς (poiētēs) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4163.htm">Strong's 4163: </a> (a) a maker, poet, (b) a doer, carrier out, performer. From poieo; a performer; specially, a 'poet'. [he] οὗτος (houtos) Demonstrative Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3778.htm">Strong's 3778: </a> This; he, she, it. will be ἔσται (estai) Verb - Future Indicative Middle - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. blessed μακάριος (makarios) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3107.htm">Strong's 3107: </a> Happy, blessed, to be envied. A prolonged form of the poetical makar; supremely blest; by extension, fortunate, well off. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. what τῇ (tē) Article - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. he αὐτοῦ (autou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. does. ποιήσει (poiēsei) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4162.htm">Strong's 4162: </a> A doing, making, performance. From poieo; action, i.e. Performance. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/james/1-25.htm">James 1:25 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/james/1-25.htm">James 1:25 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/james/1-25.htm">James 1:25 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/james/1-25.htm">James 1:25 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/james/1-25.htm">James 1:25 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/james/1-25.htm">James 1:25 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/james/1-25.htm">James 1:25 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/james/1-25.htm">James 1:25 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/james/1-25.htm">James 1:25 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/james/1-25.htm">James 1:25 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/james/1-25.htm">NT Letters: James 1:25 But he who looks into the perfect (Ja Jas. Jam) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/james/1-24.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="James 1:24"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="James 1:24" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/james/1-26.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="James 1:26"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="James 1:26" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>