The Epistle of James, traditionally attributed to James, the brother of Jesus and a leader in the early Jerusalem church, opens with a succinct yet profound greeting. This greeting sets the tone for the entire letter, which is rich in practical wisdom and ethical exhortation.

Biblical Text:
The greeting is found in James 1:1 : "James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes in the Dispersion: Greetings."

Authorship and Identity:
James identifies himself as "a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ." This self-designation highlights his humility and dedication to the service of both God the Father and Jesus Christ. Despite his familial relationship with Jesus, James does not assert any special status but rather emphasizes his role as a servant, underscoring the Christian principle of servanthood.

Audience:
The letter is addressed "to the twelve tribes in the Dispersion." This phrase refers to Jewish Christians living outside of Palestine, scattered throughout the Roman Empire. The use of "twelve tribes" evokes the historic unity and identity of Israel, suggesting that James views the Christian community as the continuation of God's covenant people. The term "Dispersion" (or "Diaspora") indicates the widespread nature of the audience, reflecting the early church's mission to reach believers across diverse regions.

Purpose of the Greeting:
The greeting serves as an introduction to the epistle's themes of faith, wisdom, and righteous living. By addressing the dispersed believers, James acknowledges their trials and challenges, setting the stage for his subsequent teachings on perseverance, faith in action, and the pursuit of godly wisdom.

Theological Implications:
James's greeting encapsulates key theological concepts. His identification as a servant of both God and Jesus Christ affirms the divinity and lordship of Jesus, a central tenet of Christian faith. The reference to the "twelve tribes" connects the New Testament church with the Old Testament people of God, emphasizing continuity in God's redemptive plan.

Practical Application:
For contemporary readers, James's greeting is a reminder of the call to servanthood and the importance of living out one's faith in practical ways. It encourages believers to see themselves as part of a larger community, united in Christ and committed to living according to His teachings, regardless of geographical or cultural differences.

In summary, the greeting from James is more than a mere salutation; it is a theological and pastoral introduction that frames the epistle's message of faith, endurance, and ethical conduct for believers dispersed throughout the world.