TRV
1 Corinthians 14:11
Bible Versions
Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh [shall be] a barbarian unto me.
but if I don’t know what a person’s sounds mean, I will be a foreigner to the speaker and the speaker will be a foreigner to me.
If, then, I do not know the meaning of someone’s language, I am a foreigner to the speaker, and he is a foreigner to me.
If then I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be to him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh will be a barbarian unto me.
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Acts 28:2
And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold. -
1 Corinthians 14:21
¶ In the law it is written, With [men of] other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord. -
Acts 28:4
And when the barbarians saw the [venomous] beast hang on his hand, they said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live. -
Romans 1:14
I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. -
Colossians 3:11
Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond [nor] free: but Christ [is] all, and in all.
1 Corinthians 14:11 (KJV) provides a crucial insight into the importance of intelligibility in communication, especially concerning spiritual gifts within the early church at Corinth. Paul highlights that if the speaker's message is not understood by the hearer, the communication breaks down entirely, rendering both parties as foreigners to each other.
Context
This verse is part of Paul's extensive discussion in 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14 regarding spiritual gifts, their proper use, and their purpose. The Corinthian church was experiencing issues with the chaotic and unedifying exercise of certain gifts, particularly speaking in tongues without interpretation. Paul consistently emphasizes that all gifts should be used to build up, or "edify," the entire congregation, not merely for individual display. This verse follows his analogy of musical instruments in 1 Corinthians 14:7-8, where he explains that a trumpet must give a distinct sound for a soldier to prepare for battle; similarly, words must be intelligible to be useful.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The term "barbarian" comes from the Greek word barbaros (βάρβαρος). Originally, it was an onomatopoeic word used by Greeks to describe anyone who did not speak Greek, whose speech sounded like "bar-bar" to their ears. It simply signified someone speaking an unintelligible foreign language, not necessarily implying a savage or uncivilized person. In this context, Paul uses it to powerfully illustrate the complete breakdown of communication when one person's "voice" (language or message) is not understood by another, emphasizing the futility of such interaction.
Related Scriptures
Practical Application
This verse holds timeless relevance for effective communication in all areas of life, especially within the church. It underscores the vital importance of clarity in preaching, teaching, and worship so that all attendees can comprehend, learn, and be spiritually nourished. For believers, it encourages humility and consideration for others, ensuring our words build up rather than confuse or alienate. Whether in the exercise of spiritual gifts or in everyday conversation, the goal is always mutual understanding and edification, preventing us from becoming "barbarians" to one another in our interactions.