### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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