[1]Beloved brothers, Do not any one of you be burdened to teach; but know that the penalty will be greater. [2]Because we sin in many things, and he who has not sinned in anything is a holy man and is able to control all the body. [3]But see that we lead horses with the bridle in order to lead them according to our desire. [4]And moreover, ships, although great, move strongly like the winds, albeit they are led by way of a small helm; which is in the hand of the Messenger. [5]Thus, in the same way, the tongue is a small organ, and achieves great things. See, a small fire is a burner of a great forest. [6]And also, the tongue full of wickedness, is like a fire in the world. Thus, the tongue, in our organs, causes all the body to sin, and reveals us in our walks, as if it is revealed from Gehinnom. [7]Because the nature of all the beasts, fowl and the serpents on dry land or in the sea is like the nature of a man. [8]But the tongue no man is able to bridle, because it is evil and full of the poison of death. [9]By the tongue we praise 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 the Father; and by it we curse the man who is in the image of Elohim; [10]from one mouth goes out praises and curses. And it should not be so, beloved brothers. [11]And is there a spring that has salty and sweet water? [12]Or is there a fig tree that could give oil, or a vine, figs? Therefore, the spring will not give both salty and fresh water. [13]Who that is clever and wise among you, demonstrates to me his good walk in wisdom. [14]But if there is jealousy and hatred in your hearts, do not boast and do not deceive as a witness of the truth. [15]Because this is not wisdom that comes from above, but only from the earth, from man and from the satans. [16]Because those who have jealousy and hatred have many bad things. [17]However, wisdom is from above: from the beginning: pure, and afterwards, shalom, then rest, then to be able to quickly appease, and to fully hear of mercy, and lastly, for good and not burdened within or flattery. [19]But the fruits of righteousness are sown in peace, for those who make peace.
Footnotes
[3:12] Mishnaic verb form of ליתן [liten] is a result of Aramism with the added י [yod].
[3:17] From Aramaic לפייסה [lefa'isa], Peal verb binyan [pattern], meaning "appease" or "reconcile."
 
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