The Greek word enálios, represented by G1724, is derived from ἐν and ἅλς and means in the sea, i.e. marine. It appears just 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible, where it is translated as "thing in the sea."
The single biblical occurrence of G1724 is in James 3:7. Here, the term is used within a comprehensive list of the animal kingdom to illustrate a point about self-control. The passage states that every kind of beast, bird, serpent, and "things in the sea" can be subjected to human will. The inclusion of enálios serves to make the list all-encompassing, covering every category of creature that has been tamed by mankind James 3:7.
Several related words from its context in James 3:7 help clarify its role in the passage:
- G1150 damázō (to tame): This verb is central to the verse, as it describes the action that mankind has performed on every kind of animal, including "things in the sea." The passage states that every kind "is tamed, and hath been tamed" James 3:7.
- G2342 thēríon (a dangerous animal): This word for beasts begins the list of creatures, establishing the scope of humanity's dominion over the animal world James 3:7.
- G4071 peteinón (a flying animal, i.e. bird): This term for birds is another category listed as being subject to human taming, alongside the creatures of the sea James 3:7.
- G2062 herpetón (a reptile, i.e. ... a small animal): Translated as serpents, this word helps complete the picture of terrestrial and airborne creatures before the verse extends the scope to marine life with G1724 James 3:7.
The theological weight of G1724 is found entirely in its illustrative function within the broader argument about the power of the tongue.
- Illustration of Dominion: The use of G1724 helps to establish the vast scope of human dominion over the created world. By including things in the sea, the author makes it clear that no category of animal is outside of mankind's ability to subdue James 3:7.
- A Point of Contrast: The primary purpose of this list of tamable creatures is to create a powerful contrast. While humanity can control every type of animal, it is unable to tame its own tongue, which is described as an "unruly evil" James 3:8.
- Foundation for Moral Teaching: The word plays a small but necessary role in a significant moral lesson. It helps build the case that controlling one's speech is a uniquely difficult and supernaturally-empowered aspect of the Christian walk, more challenging than subduing the entire animal kingdom.
In summary, G1724 is a specific and rare biblical term. Its sole appearance in James 3:7 is not as a subject of theological doctrine itself, but as a crucial component of an illustration. By referring to things in the sea, the passage emphasizes that mankind's God-given ability to tame creation is total, which in turn magnifies the profound failure to control the tongue. The word demonstrates how even a simple descriptive term can support a weighty theological argument about human nature and the need for spiritual discipline.
TRV