13:4 13:4

1 Corinthians 13:5

13:6 13:6

Bible Versions

Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
Doth {G807} not {G3756} behave itself unseemly {G807}, seeketh {G2212} not {G3756} her own {G1438}, is {G3947} not {G3756} easily provoked {G3947}, thinketh {G3049} no {G3756} evil {G2556};
not proud, rude or selfish, not easily angered,
and it keeps no record of wrongs.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs.
doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not its own, is not provoked, taketh not account of evil;

Commentary on 1 Corinthians 13:5 (KJV)

This verse is part of the famous "Love Chapter" (1 Corinthians 13), where the Apostle Paul describes the essential nature and characteristics of true Christian love, often referred to by the Greek word agape. Following descriptions of love's patience and kindness, verse 5 details several ways love manifests itself in interpersonal relationships, contrasting it with selfish or negative behaviors.

Context

Paul is addressing the Corinthian church, which was experiencing divisions and issues related to spiritual gifts. He emphasizes that while gifts like prophecy, tongues, and knowledge are valuable, they are temporary and incomplete. Love, however, is the "more excellent way" (1 Corinthians 12:31) and is eternal. Chapter 13 serves as the pinnacle of his argument, defining this foundational virtue against the backdrop of the Corinthians' struggles.

Key Themes

  • Propriety and Respect: "Doth not behave itself unseemly" suggests that love acts appropriately and with decorum. It is not rude, offensive, or disrespectful in its conduct towards others.
  • Selflessness: "Seeketh not her own" is a powerful statement about love's orientation. True love prioritizes the well-being and interests of others over its own desires or convenience. This characteristic is central to the nature of agape love, mirroring Christ's own example of looking out for the interests of others.
  • Patience and Calmness: "Is not easily provoked" means love is not quick-tempered or easily angered. It endures minor irritations and slights without becoming inflamed. This speaks to a deep inner stability and being slow to wrath.
  • Absence of Malice or Suspicion: "Thinketh no evil" implies that love does not hold grudges, keep a record of wrongs, or attribute malicious motives to others without cause. It tends to give others the benefit of the doubt and does not dwell on past hurts.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "unseemly" is aschemon, meaning indecent, uncomely, or improper. "Seeketh not her own" comes from ou zetei ta heautes, literally "does not seek the things of itself." "Is not easily provoked" translates ou paroxynetai, meaning is not sharpened, stimulated to anger, or exasperated. "Thinketh no evil" is from ou logizetai to kakon, which can mean does not calculate, take into account, or reckon evil against someone.

Reflection and Application

This verse provides a challenging mirror for examining our own actions and attitudes. It calls believers to move beyond selfish impulses and reactive emotions, demonstrating love through respectful conduct, genuine selflessness, patient endurance, and a refusal to harbor resentment or suspicion. Living out these qualities is a practical expression of Christian character in daily interactions.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Corinthians 10:24

    Let no man seek his own, but every man another's [wealth].

  • Philippians 2:3

    [Let] nothing [be done] through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

  • Philippians 2:5

    Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

  • 1 John 3:16

    Hereby perceive we the love [of God], because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down [our] lives for the brethren.

  • 1 John 3:17

    But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels [of compassion] from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?

  • James 1:19

    ¶ Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

  • Philippians 2:21

    For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's.
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