1 Corinthians 7 38

1 Corinthians 7:38 kjv

So then he that giveth her in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth her not in marriage doeth better.

1 Corinthians 7:38 nkjv

So then he who gives her in marriage does well, but he who does not give her in marriage does better.

1 Corinthians 7:38 niv

So then, he who marries the virgin does right, but he who does not marry her does better.

1 Corinthians 7:38 esv

So then he who marries his betrothed does well, and he who refrains from marriage will do even better.

1 Corinthians 7:38 nlt

So the person who marries his fianc?e does well, and the person who doesn't marry does even better.

1 Corinthians 7 verses

1 Corinthians 7 38 Meaning

He who marries his betrothed does well, but he who does not marry her does even better.

1 Corinthians 7 38 Context

This verse is part of Paul's extensive discussion in 1 Corinthians chapter 7 regarding marriage, singleness, divorce, and widowhood. The Corinthian church was likely facing questions and possible internal conflicts related to these matters, possibly influenced by ascetic tendencies or a misinterpretation of spiritual gifts. Paul addresses these issues by emphasizing that both marriage and singleness can honor God, but he personally expresses a preference for the advantages of singleness in light of the "present distress" (v. 26), which may refer to persecution or general instability of the times. This specific verse addresses the status of one who is betrothed or engaged to be married.

1 Corinthians 7 38 Word Analysis

• οὕτως (houtōs): Thus, so, in this way. It links this conclusion to the preceding statements.
• δὲ (de): But, and. A connective particle indicating contrast or addition.
• ὁ (ho): The (masculine nominative singular article). Refers to "he" who performs the action.
• γależόμενος (galezomenos): Lending, giving in marriage, giving in marriage (present active participle of γαλέω, galeō). While some manuscripts use a variant form, the sense is "to give in marriage." The common reading often relates to providing for or a form of affectionate engagement/giving to be married.
• καλῶς (kalōs): Well, rightly, becomingly, nobly. It indicates that the act of marrying is good.
• ποίησει (poiesei): He will do, he will make (3rd person singular future active indicative of ποιέω, poieō). Indicates the future consequence of the action.
• ἐὰν δὲ (ean de): But if, and if. Introduces a conditional clause.
• μὴ (mē): Not. A negation particle.
• γαλέσῃ (galesēi): He marries, he gives in marriage (3rd person singular aorist subjunctive active of γαλέω, galeō). Referring to marrying or being married.
• βέλτιον (beltion): Better (comparative adverb or adjective of ἀγαθός, agathos, good, or καλος, kalos, good/beautiful). It expresses a higher degree of goodness.

Words-group analysis:

• "He who marries his betrothed does well": This clause affirms the goodness and propriety of proceeding with a marriage that has been engaged. It is a commendable action.
• "but he who does not marry her does even better": This second clause presents singleness as a superior option, not due to inherent sin in marriage, but for pragmatic reasons, allowing for undivided devotion to the Lord, especially given the challenging times. The "better" is comparative, indicating a preferred state for achieving certain spiritual goals without making the married state sinful or less honorable.

1 Corinthians 7 38 Bonus Section

The Greek word used for "marries" or "gives in marriage" (γαλέω, galeō) can have nuances. While often translated as "marry," its root suggests "to give in marriage," highlighting the active decision and societal act involved in uniting in marriage. The comparative "better" (βέλτιον, beltion) is key. Paul consistently contrasts states rather than advocating for their inherent moral value. His perspective is pragmatic, focused on unhindered service to Christ amidst persecution or distress. This reflects an eschatological urgency where a focus on eternal matters is prioritized. It is not an absolute statement that marriage is bad, but a relative statement concerning the advantages for devotion in a specific context.

1 Corinthians 7 38 Commentary

Paul's instruction here is nuanced. He affirms that proceeding with a marriage commitment is good and permissible, aligning with God's design for companionship and proper relationship. However, he then elevates the state of remaining unmarried as "better." This "better" is not a condemnation of marriage but a pragmatic assessment of how to best navigate difficult times and maintain an undivided focus on the Lord. It implies that while marriage is a good path, singleness offers fewer potential entanglements and allows for greater freedom and singular devotion to Christ in a world often fraught with troubles. It's about strategic spiritual focus.