1 Corinthians 14:34

KJV

¶ Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but [they are commanded] to be under obedience, as also saith the law.

KJV (with Strong's)

Let {G4601} your {G5216} women {G1135} keep silence {G4601} in {G1722} the churches {G1577}: for {G1063} it is {G2010} not {G3756} permitted {G2010} unto them {G846} to speak {G2980}; but {G235} they are commanded to be under obedience {G5293}, as {G2531} also {G2532} saith {G3004} the law {G3551}.

Complete Jewish Bible

let the wives remain silent when the congregation meets; they are certainly not permitted to speak out. Rather, let them remain subordinate, as also the Torah says;

Berean Standard Bible

Women are to be silent in the churches. They are not permitted to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says.

American Standard Version

let the women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but let them be in subjection, as also saith the law.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Corinthians 14:34 is a pivotal and often debated verse where the Apostle Paul instructs women to remain silent in the churches, stating that it is not permitted for them to speak but rather to be in submission, aligning with what "the law" teaches. This directive is situated within Paul's broader discourse on maintaining order, decency, and edification in public worship gatherings, particularly concerning the exercise of spiritual gifts like tongues and prophecy, aiming to prevent chaos and promote spiritual growth within the Corinthian community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Paul's comprehensive instructions regarding public worship in [1 Corinthians 14](/1_corinthians/14 "1 Corinthians 14 - Order in Worship and Spiritual Gifts"). The chapter begins with a call to eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially prophecy, emphasizing that all gifts should be exercised for the edification of the church ([1 Corinthians 14:1-5](/1_corinthians/14-1-5 "1 Corinthians 14:1-5 - Prophecy for Edification")). Paul then provides specific regulations for speaking in tongues ([1 Corinthians 14:27-28](/1_corinthians/14-27-28 "1 Corinthians 14:27-28 - Regulations for Tongues")) and for prophets ([1 Corinthians 14:29-32](/1_corinthians/14-29-32 "1 Corinthians 14:29-32 - Regulations for Prophets")), stressing that only two or three should speak, one at a time, and others should weigh what is said. Immediately preceding verse 34, Paul declares, "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints" ([1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God of Peace")). This overarching principle of order and peace directly informs the subsequent instruction concerning women, indicating that their silence is meant to contribute to the orderly conduct of the assembly.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan port city known for its diverse population and various religious cults, some of which involved ecstatic and disorderly practices. The early Christian church in Corinth was a new community navigating its identity within this complex environment. Women in Greco-Roman society generally held a subordinate position, and public speaking by women was often viewed as immodest or disruptive, particularly in formal religious or civic assemblies. While there were exceptions, societal norms often dictated a more reserved role for women in public. Within the Corinthian church, it is possible that some women, newly empowered by the gospel and spiritual gifts, were exercising their freedom in ways that were perceived as disorderly or culturally inappropriate, leading to confusion or scandal. Paul's instructions here, and elsewhere in his letters, often address specific problems or questions arising within particular congregations, rather than necessarily establishing universal, trans-cultural norms for all time.
* **Key Themes:** The primary theme permeating [1 Corinthians 14](/1_corinthians/14 "1 Corinthians 14 - Orderly Worship") is the paramount importance of **order and decency in public worship**. Paul consistently emphasizes that all activities, especially the exercise of spiritual gifts, must contribute to the **edification** (building up) of the church, not confusion or chaos. This verse also touches on the theme of **submission and authority**, a concept Paul addresses in various contexts, including within marriage ([Ephesians 5:22-24](/ephesians/5-22-24 "Ephesians 5:22-24 - Wives, Submit to Your Husbands")) and the broader church structure ([1 Timothy 2:11-12](/1_timothy/2-11-12 "1 Timothy 2:11-12 - Women in Learning and Teaching")). The reference to "the law" in verse 34 likely points to a general principle of order and established roles, possibly rooted in the Old Testament creation narrative and the fall ([Genesis 2:18-23](/genesis/2-18-23 "Genesis 2:18-23 - Creation of Woman") and [Genesis 3:16](/genesis/3-16 "Genesis 3:16 - The Curse on Woman")), rather than a specific Mosaic command for women's silence in synagogue worship.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **women (Greek, _gynḗ'_):** This term (G1135) primarily means "a woman" or "a wife." In this context, it refers specifically to the female members of the Corinthian congregation. The ambiguity of whether it refers to all women or specifically wives is a point of interpretive debate, but given the general context of the church assembly, it is most commonly understood to refer to women attending the service.
* **keep silence (Greek, _sigáō'_):** This word (G4601) means "to keep silent," "to hold one's peace," or "to keep secret." It implies refraining from speaking, but the nature of the silence (absolute muteness vs. refraining from disruptive or authoritative speech) is key to interpretation. In the context of 1 Corinthians 14, where Paul is regulating public speaking, it likely refers to refraining from speech that would be considered public, authoritative, or disruptive in the assembly.
* **permitted (Greek, _epitrépō'_):** This verb (G2010) means "to turn over (transfer), i.e. allow," "give leave (liberty, license), let, permit, suffer." Its use here indicates that the prohibition against speaking is not a suggestion but a clear denial of permission, underscoring the authoritative nature of Paul's instruction.
* **to be under obedience (Greek, _hypotássō'_):** This term (G5293) means "to subordinate; reflexively, to obey," "be under obedience (obedient), put under, subdue unto, (be, make) subject (to, unto), be (put) in subjection (to, under), submit self unto." It denotes a structured relationship of submission or subjection, aligning with the broader biblical principle of order and roles within the community and family.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Let your women keep silence in the churches:"** This is a direct command from Paul, instructing the women in the Corinthian congregations to refrain from speaking during the public assembly. The nature of this "silence" is debated, but given the context of regulating public speech (tongues, prophecy), it likely refers to abstaining from disruptive, authoritative, or questioning speech that would interrupt the orderly flow of the service.
* **"for it is not permitted unto them to speak;"** This clause provides the reason or justification for the command. Paul states that speaking in the manner he is prohibiting is simply "not permitted" for women in this context. This reinforces the authoritative nature of the instruction and suggests that such speech would be contrary to established norms or divine order.
* **"but [they are commanded] to be under obedience,"** This phrase presents the positive counterpoint to the prohibition. Instead of speaking in the forbidden manner, women are commanded to be in a state of submission or obedience. This emphasizes a principle of order and deference within the church structure, consistent with Paul's broader theological framework on roles and relationships.
* **"as also saith the law."** This final clause provides the ultimate authority for Paul's command. "The law" here is generally understood not as a specific Mosaic command for female silence in worship (as none exists in that form), but as an appeal to a broader biblical principle of order, hierarchy, or submission, possibly rooted in the creation order ([Genesis 2](/genesis/2 "Genesis 2 - Creation of Adam and Eve")) and the consequences of the fall ([Genesis 3:16](/genesis/3-16 "Genesis 3:16 - The Curse and Desire")). It grounds the instruction in a divine, foundational principle rather than mere cultural preference.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in 1 Corinthians 14:34. The most prominent is the **Direct Command** ("Let your women keep silence"), which conveys a clear and authoritative instruction. This is immediately followed by **Justification** ("for it is not permitted unto them to speak"), providing the rationale for the command. A **Contrast** is then drawn between what is not permitted ("to speak") and what is commanded ("to be under obedience"), highlighting the desired behavior. Finally, Paul uses **Allusion** to "the law" to lend divine authority and foundational weight to his instruction, implying that this principle is not new but rooted in established divine order, even if a specific Mosaic text for this exact scenario is not cited. This rhetorical strategy aims to persuade the Corinthian church of the necessity and divine backing for his directives on order.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The instruction in 1 Corinthians 14:34, while specific to the Corinthian context, resonates with broader theological themes concerning order, authority, and the proper functioning of the church as the body of Christ. Paul's consistent emphasis throughout his epistles is that all things in the church should be done "decently and in order" ([1 Corinthians 14:40](/1_corinthians/14-40 "1 Corinthians 14:40 - All Things Decently and in Order")), reflecting the character of God as a God of peace, not confusion ([1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God of Peace")). The concept of submission, particularly for women, is also a recurring theme in Paul's writings, often linked to the created order and the roles established by God. This verse, therefore, contributes to the larger Pauline theology of church governance, gender roles, and the pursuit of corporate edification in worship.

* [1 Timothy 2:11-12](/1_timothy/2-11-12 "1 Timothy 2:11-12 - Women Learning and Teaching")
* [Ephesians 5:22-24](/ephesians/5-22-24 "Ephesians 5:22-24 - Wives, Submit to Your Husbands")
* [Colossians 3:18](/colossians/3-18 "Colossians 3:18 - Wives, Be Subject to Your Husbands")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Corinthians 14:34 challenges contemporary readers to grapple with the tension between cultural context and timeless biblical principles. While the specific application of "silence" remains a subject of ongoing debate, the underlying principles of order, respect for authority, and the edification of the body of Christ are universally applicable. Believers today are called to discern how these principles translate into their own worship contexts, ensuring that all participation serves to build up the church and honor God, rather than causing confusion or disorder. This requires a humble posture of seeking God's will, understanding the historical backdrop of the text, and applying its core truths with wisdom and grace in diverse cultural settings. The goal is always to foster an environment where the Holy Spirit can move freely, and all members can grow in faith and knowledge, reflecting the peace and order of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the principle of "order and decency" in worship, as emphasized by Paul, apply to our church gatherings today?**
* **In what ways might we, as individuals or as a church, inadvertently contribute to "confusion" rather than "peace" in our corporate worship?**
* **Considering the historical and cultural context of Corinth, what are the enduring theological principles from this verse that transcend time and culture?**
* **How can we ensure that all members, regardless of gender, are encouraged to use their gifts for the edification of the church while maintaining biblical order?**

### FAQ

**Does "silence" in 1 Corinthians 14:34 mean women cannot sing, pray aloud, or participate in any way in church?**

Answer: The interpretation of "silence" (Greek: _sigáō_) is one of the most debated aspects of this verse. Some interpret it as an absolute prohibition against any verbal participation by women in public church services, including singing, praying aloud, or testifying. However, many scholars argue that the context of [1 Corinthians 14](/1_corinthians/14 "1 Corinthians 14 - Order in Worship")—which deals with regulating public speaking, particularly prophecy and tongues—suggests that Paul is prohibiting disruptive, authoritative, or challenging speech that would usurp male leadership or cause disorder. This view is supported by [1 Corinthians 11:5](/1_corinthians/11-5 "1 Corinthians 11:5 - Women Praying and Prophesying"), where Paul assumes women *do* pray and prophesy in public, provided they do so with proper cultural decorum (head coverings). Therefore, "silence" likely refers to refraining from public teaching, authoritative speaking, or questioning that would disrupt the established order, rather than a blanket prohibition on all vocal participation.

**What does Paul mean by "as also saith the law"? Which law is he referring to?**

Answer: Paul's reference to "the law" (Greek: _nómos_) in [1 Corinthians 14:34](/1_corinthians/14-34 "1 Corinthians 14:34 - Women Keep Silence") is not to a specific Mosaic command found in the Old Testament that explicitly states women must be silent in religious assemblies. Instead, it is widely understood as an appeal to a broader biblical principle of order, hierarchy, and submission established from creation. This could allude to the creation account in [Genesis 2](/genesis/2 "Genesis 2 - Creation of Adam and Eve"), where Adam was created first, or the consequences of the fall in [Genesis 3:16](/genesis/3-16 "Genesis 3:16 - The Curse on Woman"), which speaks of the woman's desire for her husband and his rule over her. Paul often grounds his instructions in these foundational principles, indicating that the command for women to be in submission aligns with a divine order that predates the Mosaic Law and is consistent with God's character as a God of peace and order ([1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God of Peace")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Corinthians 14:34 addresses specific issues of order and roles within the early church, its underlying principles find their ultimate fulfillment and redefinition in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Christ himself embodies perfect submission to the Father's will ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience")), demonstrating that true authority is often expressed through humble service and obedience. In Christ, the old distinctions and societal hierarchies are transformed, as Paul declares there is "neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - One in Christ Jesus")). This does not erase all distinctions or roles, but it elevates the inherent dignity and spiritual equality of all believers, regardless of gender, in their access to God and their participation in the body of Christ. The emphasis on order and edification in [1 Corinthians 14](/1_corinthians/14 "1 Corinthians 14 - Order in Worship") ultimately points to the church's mission to reflect Christ's character—a character of peace, love, and unity—to a watching world. Thus, any application of this verse must be filtered through the lens of Christ's reconciling work and His call for His church to be a community where all gifts are exercised for mutual upbuilding, in a manner that honors God and reflects the harmonious order found in the Trinity itself.

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.

Cross-References

1 Timothy 2:11

Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.

1 Timothy 2:12

But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.

Genesis 3:16

¶ Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire [shall be] to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.

Numbers 30:3

¶ If a woman also vow a vow unto the LORD, and bind herself by a bond, [being] in her father's house in her youth;

Numbers 30:13

Every vow, and every binding oath to afflict the soul, her husband may establish it, or her husband may make it void.

Colossians 3:18

¶ Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.

1 Corinthians 14:35

And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.