James, the servant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes who are in the Dispersion, greeting.

But if any of you lack wisdom, let him ask God, who gives to all cheerfully and upbraids none; and it will be given unto him.

Happy is the man who endures temptation: because, being proved, he will receive a crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him with divine love.

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of change.

Hear, my beloved brethren. Has not God chosen the poor in the world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he has promised to those who love him with divine love?

With it we bless the Lord, even the Father; and with it we scold the people, who have been made after the image of God:

Who is wise and instructed among you? Let him show forth out of beautiful conduct his works in meekness of wisdom.

But the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace to those who are making peace.

Whether do you think that the scripture says in vain, The spirit who dwells in us fights against envy?

There is one lawgiver and judge, who is able to save and to destroy: but who are you, the one judging your neighbor.

Come now, ye who are saying, To-day or to-morrow we will go into that city, and abide there a year, and trade and accumulate:

Brethren, receive the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord as an example of suffering evil and longsuffering.

Behold, we pronounce them happy who have endured: you have heard the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord, because the Lord is very merciful, and sympathetic.

Who is afflicted among you? let him pray. Who is merry? let him sing psalms.