richmahn_en_tn/jas/01/23.md

730 B

For if anyone is a hearer of the word

"For if anyone listens to the God's message in the scriptures"

but not a doer

The word "is" and "of the word" are understood from the previous phrase. The noun "doer" can also be expressed with the verbs "do" or "obey." Alternate translation: "but is not a doer of the word" or "but does not obey the word" (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis)

he is like a man who examines his natural face in a mirror

A person who hears God's word is like someone who looks in the mirror. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile)

his natural face

The word "natural" clarifies that James is using the ordinary meaning of the word "face." Alternate translation: "his face"