1 Corinthians 15:40

KJV

[There are] also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial [is] one, and the [glory] of the terrestrial [is] another.

KJV (with Strong's)

There are also {G2532} celestial {G2032} bodies {G4983}, and {G2532} bodies {G4983} terrestrial {G1919}: but {G235}{G3303} the glory {G1391} of the celestial {G2032} is one {G2087}, and {G1161} the glory of the terrestrial {G1919} is another {G2087}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Further, there are heavenly bodies and earthly bodies; but the beauty of heavenly bodies is one thing, while the beauty of earthly bodies is something else.

Berean Standard Bible

There are also heavenly bodies and earthly bodies. But the splendor of the heavenly bodies is of one degree, and the splendor of the earthly bodies is of another.

American Standard Version

There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In the Apostle Paul employs a powerful analogy to elucidate the nature of the resurrected body, a central tenet of Christian eschatology. This verse, nestled within his comprehensive discourse on the resurrection, distinguishes between "celestial bodies" and "bodies terrestrial," asserting that each possesses a unique and distinct "glory" or inherent quality. Paul uses this observable diversity in creation to prepare his audience for the profound qualitative difference between our current perishable bodies and the imperishable, transformed bodies believers will receive at the resurrection, emphasizing that the future body will be perfectly suited for an eternal, heavenly existence.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Paul's extensive and climactic argument in [1 Corinthians chapter 15](/1-corinthians/15 "1 Corinthians 15 - The Resurrection Chapter"), which addresses significant doubts and misunderstandings within the Corinthian church regarding the resurrection of the dead. Having firmly established the historical reality and theological necessity of Christ's resurrection as the "firstfruits" of those who have fallen asleep ([1 Corinthians 15:20](/1-corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20 - Christ as the Firstfruits")), Paul transitions to answer the practical question posed by some Corinthian believers: "How are the dead raised? And with what kind of body do they come?" ([1 Corinthians 15:35](/1-corinthians/15-35 "1 Corinthians 15:35 - The Question of the Resurrected Body")). Verses 36-49 constitute a series of analogies drawn from nature—the seed, different kinds of flesh, and celestial bodies—all designed to illustrate that the resurrected body will be continuous with, yet profoundly different from, the earthly body, possessing a new, glorious, and spiritual nature.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church, situated in a major Greco-Roman city, was deeply influenced by prevailing philosophical currents. Many Greeks, influenced by Platonic thought, held a dualistic view that often denigrated the physical body as inferior or even evil, while elevating the spirit. This philosophical backdrop made the concept of a bodily resurrection, especially one involving a physical body, difficult for some to accept. Furthermore, the idea of a future bodily resurrection was a distinctively Jewish and Christian belief, often ridiculed by pagans. Paul's detailed explanation, using examples from the natural world, was a pedagogical strategy to bridge this cultural gap, demonstrating that the concept of a transformed body was not illogical but rather consistent with God's creative diversity observed in the cosmos. He was countering both philosophical skepticism and potential misinterpretations of what a resurrected body would entail.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Corinthians 15:40](/1-corinthians/15-40 "1 Corinthians 15:40 - Celestial and Terrestrial Bodies") contributes significantly to several overarching themes within [1 Corinthians chapter 15](/1-corinthians/15 "1 Corinthians 15 - The Resurrection Chapter"). Firstly, it underscores the **Diversity in Creation**, highlighting God's boundless creative power evident in the varied forms and glories of the natural world, from different kinds of flesh ([1 Corinthians 15:39](/1-corinthians/15-39 "1 Corinthians 15:39 - Diversity of Flesh")) to celestial bodies. Secondly, the verse serves as a crucial point in Paul's argument for the **Transformation of the Resurrected Body**, emphasizing that the future body will not be a mere reanimation of the old, but a qualitatively superior, imperishable, and spiritual body ([1 Corinthians 15:42-44](/1-corinthians/15-42-44 "1 Corinthians 15:42-44 - The Nature of the Resurrected Body")). Finally, it introduces the concept of **Distinct Glories**, illustrating that just as the sun, moon, and stars possess different levels of splendor ([1 Corinthians 15:41](/1-corinthians/15-41 "1 Corinthians 15:41 - Distinct Glories of Celestial Bodies")), so too will the resurrected body possess a glory distinct from, and superior to, the earthly body.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Celestial (Greek, _epouránios'_):** Derived from "upon" (epi) and "heaven" (ouranos), this term literally means "above the sky" or "heavenly." In this context, it refers to bodies existing in the heavens, such as the sun, moon, and stars, which Paul explicitly mentions in the subsequent verse. It denotes a quality or nature that is heavenly, spiritual, and distinguished by a unique splendor.
* **Terrestrial (Greek, _epígeios'_):** Formed from "upon" (epi) and "earth" (gē), this word signifies "earthly" or "on the earth." It describes bodies that belong to the earth, encompassing human, animal, and other forms of life found on land. It conveys a quality or nature that is mortal, perishable, and subject to earthly limitations.
* **Glory (Greek, _dóxa'_):** This multifaceted term, stemming from a root meaning "to seem" or "to think," refers to "glory as very apparent." It encompasses dignity, honor, praise, and worship. Here, "glory" signifies the inherent quality, splendor, or intrinsic worth that distinguishes one type of body from another. It is not merely a superficial appearance but the essential nature and radiance of a thing.
* **Another (Greek, _héteros'_):** This word signifies "other" or "different." Paul uses it to emphasize a qualitative distinction, not just a numerical one. The glory of the celestial is not just *a* glory, but a *different kind* of glory from that of the terrestrial, highlighting a fundamental difference in nature and essence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"[There are] also celestial bodies":** Paul begins by pointing to the observable reality of heavenly bodies. This phrase introduces the first category of bodies, those associated with the heavens, characterized by their unique nature, appearance, and function within the cosmos. The implicit understanding is that these bodies possess an inherent splendor.
* **"and bodies terrestrial":** This clause introduces the second category—bodies belonging to the earth. These include not only human bodies but also those of animals, birds, and fish, as mentioned in [1 Corinthians 15:39](/1-corinthians/15-39 "1 Corinthians 15:39 - Diversity of Earthly Bodies"). This highlights the diversity of physical forms and compositions found on earth.
* **"but the glory of the celestial [is] one":** Here, Paul introduces the key point of distinction. While both types of bodies exist, their "glory"—their inherent quality, splendor, or radiance—is not the same. The celestial bodies possess a specific, unique kind of glory, distinct from anything found on earth. This "one" signifies a singular, unique quality.
* **"and the [glory] of the terrestrial [is] another":** This final clause reinforces the qualitative difference. The earthly bodies, too, possess their own distinct "glory," but it is fundamentally "another" kind of glory, different in nature and quality from that of the celestial. This sets the stage for Paul's argument that the resurrected body will be as qualitatively superior to the earthly body as a celestial body is to a terrestrial one.

#### Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs several literary devices in [1 Corinthians 15:40](/1-corinthians/15-40 "1 Corinthians 15:40 - Celestial and Terrestrial Bodies") to convey his theological point. The primary device is **Analogy**, where he draws a parallel between the observable diversity in creation (celestial vs. terrestrial bodies) and the future transformation of the human body. This analogy helps the Corinthian audience grasp a complex spiritual truth by relating it to familiar natural phenomena. Closely related is **Contrast**, as Paul explicitly contrasts the "glory" of celestial bodies with that of terrestrial bodies, highlighting their fundamental differences in nature and splendor. This stark comparison prepares the reader for the subsequent contrast between the perishable earthly body and the imperishable resurrected body. Furthermore, the use of "glory" (doxa) functions as a powerful **Metaphor**, representing not just outward appearance but the intrinsic quality, inherent worth, and essential nature of a body. By stating that the "glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another," Paul uses "glory" metaphorically to signify a qualitative distinction in being and essence, rather than merely a difference in luminosity or physical form.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[1 Corinthians 15:40](/1-corinthians/15-40 "1 Corinthians 15:40 - Celestial and Terrestrial Bodies") serves as a foundational theological statement regarding the nature of the resurrected body, emphasizing not merely its existence but its transformed quality. It underscores God's sovereignty and wisdom in creation, demonstrating His capacity to create diverse forms of "glory," which then provides a compelling argument for His power to raise believers with bodies perfectly suited for eternal, heavenly existence. This verse assures believers that the resurrection is not a mere reanimation of a decaying corpse but a profound upgrade, a qualitative change from the perishable to the imperishable, from dishonor to glory, from weakness to power, and from a natural body to a spiritual one. It grounds the hope of future glory in the observable patterns of God's creative work, affirming that the future state of believers will be one of profound transformation and inherent splendor, far surpassing the limitations of our current earthly existence.

* [Philippians 3:20-21](/philippians/3-20-21 "Philippians 3:20-21 - Our Citizenship and Transformed Bodies")
* [Romans 8:11](/romans/8-11 "Romans 8:11 - The Spirit Will Give Life to Mortal Bodies")
* [1 John 3:2](/1-john/3-2 "1 John 3:2 - We Shall Be Like Him")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[1 Corinthians 15:40](/1-corinthians/15-40 "1 Corinthians 15:40 - Celestial and Terrestrial Bodies") offers profound comfort and hope to believers, transforming our perspective on mortality and the future. It assures us that our ultimate destiny is not merely survival beyond death, but a glorious transformation into a body perfectly suited for eternity, free from the decay, weakness, and limitations that characterize our present earthly existence. This promise counters the fear of physical decline and death, replacing it with an eager anticipation of a glorified state. Understanding that God, who orchestrates such diverse and distinct glories in creation, is capable of fashioning our resurrected bodies, deepens our trust in His power and wisdom. It encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, valuing spiritual realities above transient earthly concerns, and to fix our hope on the magnificent future that awaits us in Christ, where we will bear the image of the heavenly man.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the diversity of God's creation, as illustrated in this verse, deepen your faith in His power to transform and glorify all things?**
* **What comfort does the promise of a glorious, resurrected body offer you in the face of suffering, physical limitations, or the inevitability of death?**
* **How might the truth of a future, transformed body influence your daily priorities and your perspective on earthly pursuits versus eternal realities?**

### FAQ

**What is the "glory" Paul refers to in this verse?**

Answer: The "glory" (Greek: _dóxa_) in [1 Corinthians 15:40](/1-corinthians/15-40 "1 Corinthians 15:40 - Celestial and Terrestrial Bodies") refers to the inherent quality, splendor, or intrinsic worth that distinguishes one type of body from another. It's not merely about outward shine or luminosity, but the essential nature, characteristics, and dignity of a thing. Paul uses the observable differences in the "glory" of the sun, moon, and stars ([1 Corinthians 15:41](/1-corinthians/15-41 "1 Corinthians 15:41 - Distinct Glories of Celestial Bodies")) to illustrate that the resurrected body will possess a distinct and superior "glory" compared to our current earthly bodies, perfectly suited for an eternal, heavenly existence.

**Does this verse imply that our resurrected bodies will literally look like stars or other celestial objects?**

Answer: No, Paul is using an **analogy** to illustrate a principle, not to describe the literal appearance of resurrected bodies. The point of the comparison between celestial and terrestrial bodies is to demonstrate that different kinds of bodies can exist, each with its own unique and distinct "glory" or nature. Just as a star has a different glory than a human body, so too will our resurrected bodies have a different, more glorious nature than our current mortal bodies. The emphasis is on the qualitative difference and transformation, not a literal resemblance to astronomical objects. The resurrected body will be "spiritual" and "imperishable" ([1 Corinthians 15:42-44](/1-corinthians/15-42-44 "1 Corinthians 15:42-44 - The Nature of the Resurrected Body")), suited for eternity.

**How does this verse relate to the overall message of 1 Corinthians 15?**

Answer: [1 Corinthians 15:40](/1-corinthians/15-40 "1 Corinthians 15:40 - Celestial and Terrestrial Bodies") is a crucial piece in Paul's comprehensive argument for the resurrection of the dead in [1 Corinthians chapter 15](/1-corinthians/15 "1 Corinthians 15 - The Resurrection Chapter"). After establishing the certainty of Christ's resurrection as the "firstfruits" ([1 Corinthians 15:20](/1-corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20 - Christ as the Firstfruits")), Paul addresses the practical question of *how* the dead are raised and *with what kind of body* ([1 Corinthians 15:35](/1-corinthians/15-35 "1 Corinthians 15:35 - The Question of the Resurrected Body")). This verse, along with other natural analogies (like the seed in [1 Corinthians 15:37](/1-corinthians/15-37 "1 Corinthians 15:37 - The Seed Analogy")), helps to explain that the resurrected body will be continuous with the earthly body but profoundly transformed and glorious, perfectly suited for eternal life with God. It moves the discussion from the *fact* of resurrection to the *nature* of the resurrected body.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[1 Corinthians 15:40](/1-corinthians/15-40 "1 Corinthians 15:40 - Celestial and Terrestrial Bodies"), while an analogy drawn from creation, finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the resurrection of Jesus Christ Himself. Christ's glorified body serves as the prototype and guarantee for the resurrection of believers. Just as Paul highlights a distinct "glory" for celestial bodies compared to terrestrial ones, so too does Christ's resurrected body possess a glory fundamentally different from His pre-resurrection, mortal body, yet it was undeniably physical ([Luke 24:39](/luke/24-39 "Luke 24:39 - Jesus' Physical Resurrected Body"), [John 20:27](/john/20-27 "John 20:27 - Thomas Touches Jesus' Wounds")). He is the "firstfruits" of those who sleep ([1 Corinthians 15:20](/1-corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20 - Christ as the Firstfruits")), meaning His resurrection sets the pattern and initiates the harvest of all who are in Him. Our future resurrected bodies, though distinct from our current earthly forms, will be "conformed to His glorious body" ([Philippians 3:21](/philippians/3-21 "Philippians 3:21 - Conformed to His Glorious Body")), bearing the image of the "heavenly man" ([1 Corinthians 15:49](/1-corinthians/15-49 "1 Corinthians 15:49 - Bearing the Image of the Heavenly Man")). Thus, the diverse glories Paul describes in creation point forward to the ultimate glory revealed in Christ's resurrection, which promises a similar, though derivative, transformation for all who believe, ensuring our eternal dwelling with Him in perfect, glorified bodies.

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.