James 3:9

9 With it we bless ADONAI, the Father; and with it we curse people, who were made in the image of God.g

James 3:9 Meaning and Commentary

James 3:9

Therewith bless we God, even, the Father
Of Jesus Christ, and of spirits, and of mercies: this is the instrument that is used in blessing God daily every meal that is eaten; and in joining with the saints, though only verbally and outwardly, in blessing God for all spiritual blessings in Christ, both in prayer, and in singing psalms:

and therewith curse we men:
make imprecations, and wish evils upon them:

which are made after the similitude of God
as man was originally, ( Genesis 1:26 Genesis 1:27 ) and though sin has greatly defaced it, yet there are still some remains of it: and now, what an absurd and monstrous thing is this, that one and the same instrument should be used in blessing God, the Father of all creatures, and in cursing his children, his offering, as all men are by creation, and bear some resemblance to him.

James 3:9 In-Context

7 For people have tamed and continue to tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures;

8 but the tongue no one can tame - it is an unstable and evil thing, full of death-dealing poison!

9 With it we bless ADONAI, the Father; and with it we curse people, who were made in the image of God.g

10 Out of the same mouth come blessing and cursing! Brothers, it isn't right for things to be this way.

11 A spring doesn't send both fresh and bitter water from the same opening, does it?