James 1:23

Beholding [κ α τ α ν ο ο υ ν τ ι]. With the notion of attentively considering (kata, down into, or through; compare eijv, into, ver. 25). Compare Luke 12:24; Luke 12:27; Hebrews 3:1. So that the contrast is not between a hasty look and a careful contemplation (ver. 25, looketh). It is not mere careless hearing of the word which James rebukes, but the neglect to carry into practice what is heard. One may be an attentive and critical hearer of the word, yet not a doer.

His natural face [τ ο π ρ ο σ ω π ο ν τ η ς γ ε ν ε σ ε ω ς]. Lit., the countenance of his birth; the face he was born with.

In a glass [ε ν ε σ ο π τ ρ ω]. Better, Rev., a mirror; a metallic mirror. The word occurs only here and 1 Corinthians 13:12.