1 Corinthians 7:36

Translation
King James Version
¶ But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry.
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KJV (with Strong's)
But G1161 if any man G1536 think G3543 that he behaveth himself uncomely G807 toward G1909 his G846 virgin G3933, if G1437 she pass the flower of her age G5230 G5600, and G2532 need G3784 so G3779 require G1096, let him do G4160 what G3739 he will G2309, he sinneth G264 not G3756: let them marry G1060.
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Complete Jewish Bible
Now if a man thinks he is behaving dishonorably by treating his fiancée this way, and if there is strong sexual desire, so that marriage is what ought to happen; then let him do what he wants — he is not sinning: let them get married.
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Berean Standard Bible
However, if someone thinks he is acting inappropriately toward his betrothed, and if she is beyond her youth and they ought to marry, let him do as he wishes; he is not sinning; they should get married.
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American Standard Version
But if any man thinketh that he behaveth himself unseemly toward his virgin daughter, if she be past the flower of her age, and if need so requireth, let him do what he will; he sinneth not; let them marry.
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World English Bible Messianic
But if any man thinks that he is behaving inappropriately toward his virgin, if she is past the flower of her age, and if need so requires, let him do what he desires. He doesn’t sin. Let them marry.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
But if any man thinke that it is vncomely for his virgine, if shee passe the flower of her age, and neede so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them be maried.
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Young's Literal Translation
and if any one doth think it to be unseemly to his virgin, if she may be beyond the bloom of age, and it ought so to be, what he willeth let him do; he doth not sin--let him marry.
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See also
1 Corinthians 7:371 Corinthians 7:91 Samuel 2:33
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In the KJVVerse 28,524 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

1 Corinthians 7:36 provides specific, pastoral counsel regarding a father's decision concerning his virgin daughter's marriage. It addresses the concern that a father might act improperly by keeping his daughter unmarried past her prime age for marriage, especially if she has a strong desire or need to marry. Paul reassures such a father that if these conditions are met, allowing her to marry is not a sin, but rather a permissible and appropriate course of action, balancing the ideals of singleness with the realities of human nature and societal expectations.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is situated within a comprehensive discussion in 1 Corinthians 7, where the Apostle Paul responds to various questions from the Corinthian church concerning marriage, singleness, and sexual ethics. The chapter begins by affirming the legitimacy of sexual relations within marriage as a means to avoid fornication (1 Corinthians 7:2), then transitions to Paul's personal preference for singleness, particularly "for the present distress" (1 Corinthians 7:26) and for "undistracted devotion to the Lord" (1 Corinthians 7:35). Verses 36-38 specifically address the father-daughter dynamic, providing a nuanced perspective that grants freedom while still upholding the principles of godly conduct. The immediate preceding verses (32-35) emphasize the "cares of the world" that married individuals face, contrasting them with the "care for the things of the Lord" that single individuals can pursue. This verse, therefore, serves as a practical concession and clarification for those who find the path of singleness challenging or inappropriate for their specific circumstances.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: In the Greco-Roman world, and particularly within Jewish tradition, a father held significant authority over his unmarried daughter, including the decision of her marriage. Marriage was not merely a personal choice but a crucial social and economic arrangement for families, ensuring lineage, property transfer, and social stability. Daughters were typically married off at a young age, often in their mid-to-late teens. Remaining unmarried past the "flower of her age" (i.e., beyond the prime age for marriage, perhaps late teens or early twenties) could be seen as a social stigma, potentially implying that the father had failed in his duty to provide for her future or that the daughter was somehow undesirable. Furthermore, the early Christian community lived with an acute sense of eschatological urgency, believing in the imminent return of Christ, which influenced Paul's counsel on singleness. However, the realities of human sexual desire and the need for social integration meant that not everyone could or should remain single, especially if it led to "burning" with passion or "fornication" (1 Corinthians 7:9).
  • Key Themes: This verse contributes to several key themes within 1 Corinthians 7 and Paul's broader theology. It underscores the theme of Christian Liberty and Responsibility, demonstrating that while Paul offers general guidance, he also provides freedom for individuals (and those responsible for them) to make decisions based on specific circumstances and genuine need, without incurring sin. It highlights Pastoral Pragmatism, showing Paul's ability to balance high spiritual ideals (like undistracted devotion in singleness) with practical realities of human nature and social structures. The verse also touches on Parental Authority and Care, acknowledging the father's role and concern for his daughter's well-being and honor. Finally, it reinforces the Sanctity and Permissibility of Marriage, affirming that marriage is a legitimate and sinless path, even when singleness might be presented as a more expedient option for spiritual devotion. Paul consistently frames marriage as a God-ordained institution that serves to prevent sexual immorality and provide companionship, as seen in his counsel throughout 1 Corinthians 7.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • uncomely (Greek, aschēmonéō', G807): This word, derived from aschēmon (unbecoming, indecent), means "to be (i.e., act) unbecoming" or "to behave oneself unseemly." In this context, it refers to the father's concern that by withholding marriage from his daughter, he might be acting improperly, dishonorably, or against her best interests in a societal context where marriage was expected and necessary for a woman's social standing and security. It implies a failure to fulfill a perceived duty.
  • pass the flower of her age (Greek, hypérakmos', G5230): This compound word literally means "beyond the acme" or "past the bloom." It is a figurative expression indicating that a daughter has gone past the prime or peak age for marriage, typically implying she is no longer in her youthful bloom and may face increasing social or practical difficulties in finding a suitable husband. It points to a point where remaining unmarried becomes a significant challenge or burden.
  • sinneth not (Greek, hamartánō' with ou', G264): The verb hamartánō means "to miss the mark," "to err," or "to sin," especially morally. When combined with the absolute negative particle ou ("no" or "not"), it forms a strong declaration that the action in question is entirely free from sin. Here, Paul explicitly reassures the father that allowing his daughter to marry under the specified conditions is not a moral transgression against God or His will, despite Paul's general preference for singleness in the chapter.

Verse Breakdown

  • "But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin,": This opening clause introduces the specific scenario and the father's internal deliberation. The "man" is understood to be the father or guardian of the "virgin" daughter. His concern is that his actions (or inactions, specifically by not arranging her marriage) are "uncomely" or dishonorable, perhaps bringing social discredit upon her or himself, or failing in his paternal duty to secure her future. This highlights the cultural pressures and expectations surrounding a daughter's marriage.
  • "if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require,": These are the two crucial conditions that qualify the father's decision. "If she pass the flower of her age" indicates that the daughter is beyond the typical or prime age for marriage, making her continued singleness potentially difficult or socially awkward. The phrase "and need so require" refers to a strong internal inclination or necessity on the daughter's part to marry, perhaps due to strong sexual desire (to avoid temptation) or a deep desire for companionship and the establishment of her own household. This "need" is a subjective, compelling desire or situation that makes singleness unsustainable or undesirable for her.
  • "let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry.": This final clause provides Paul's clear and pastoral resolution. Given the conditions, the father is granted full liberty ("let him do what he will") to allow his daughter to marry. Paul explicitly states, "he sinneth not," removing any moral guilt or condemnation from such a decision. The imperative "let them marry" serves as a direct affirmation and permission for the marriage to proceed, underscoring that marriage remains a legitimate and honorable option within God's design, even in the context of Paul's broader counsel on singleness.

Literary Devices

Paul employs several literary devices in this verse to convey his nuanced counsel. The primary structure is a Conditional Clause ("But if... if... then..."), which clearly sets out the circumstances under which his advice applies, demonstrating a logical and pragmatic approach to a complex issue. The phrase "pass the flower of her age" is a clear Euphemism or Figurative Language, delicately referring to a woman being past her youthful prime for marriage without being blunt or offensive. This reflects sensitivity to the cultural context. Furthermore, Paul uses Direct Instruction and Imperative Mood ("let him do what he will," "let them marry") to provide clear, authoritative guidance, reassuring the father and explicitly granting permission. This directness serves to alleviate anxiety and remove any sense of guilt associated with choosing marriage over singleness in these specific circumstances.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

This verse beautifully illustrates the balance between spiritual ideals and practical realities within Christian living. While Paul often extols the virtues of singleness for undivided devotion to the Lord, he never elevates it to a command for all, nor does he disparage marriage. Instead, he demonstrates a profound pastoral sensitivity, acknowledging that human needs, cultural pressures, and individual inclinations must be considered within a framework of godly conduct. The core theological message is that marriage is a good and honorable institution, affirmed by God, and a legitimate path for believers who are called to it or for whom singleness proves difficult or leads to temptation. It underscores God's grace in providing avenues for human flourishing that are free from sin, even when they diverge from what might be considered the "more spiritual" path by some.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

1 Corinthians 7:36 offers timeless wisdom, even as cultural contexts shift. While fathers no longer typically "give away" their daughters in the same manner, the underlying principles of parental guidance, wisdom in life decisions, and the freedom to choose marriage without guilt remain profoundly relevant. For individuals, this verse reminds us that God's will is not a rigid, one-size-fits-all decree, but often encompasses the freedom to make choices that align with our genuine needs and desires, provided they are made in faith and without sin. It encourages us to consider our own capacity for singleness, our desires, and the practical implications of our choices, always seeking to honor God. For parents, it underscores the responsibility to guide their children wisely, discerning their needs and supporting their godly choices, whether toward marriage or singleness. Ultimately, it affirms that marriage is a blessed and legitimate path for those for whom it is appropriate, and that pursuing it under the right circumstances is not a compromise of faith but an expression of God's grace.

Questions for Reflection

  • How does this verse challenge or affirm your understanding of God's will concerning marriage and singleness?
  • In what ways might societal or cultural expectations today influence decisions about marriage, similar to or different from Paul's time?
  • How can individuals discern their "need" or calling regarding marriage or singleness in a way that honors God?
  • What does "he sinneth not" teach us about Christian liberty in decisions that are not explicitly commanded or forbidden?

FAQ

Does "pass the flower of her age" imply that there's a specific age limit for marriage, or that older women shouldn't marry?

Answer: No, "pass the flower of her age" (Greek: hypérakmos) is a cultural and figurative expression, not a strict biological or chronological age limit. It refers to a woman being past her youthful prime for marriage, which in ancient societies often meant late teens or early twenties, when women were typically married. The concern was that remaining unmarried beyond this point could lead to social difficulty, stigma, or increased temptation. The verse does not imply that older women should not marry, but rather addresses the specific concern of a father who might feel he is acting "uncomely" by keeping his daughter unmarried when she is past the customary age and has a strong "need" to marry. Paul's point is that if these conditions are met, allowing her to marry is perfectly acceptable and not sinful.

Is Paul contradicting his earlier preference for singleness in this chapter?

Answer: Paul is not contradicting himself but rather providing nuanced, pastoral counsel that accounts for individual circumstances and human realities. Throughout 1 Corinthians 7, Paul expresses a personal preference for singleness, especially "for the present distress" (1 Corinthians 7:26) and for "undistracted devotion to the Lord" (1 Corinthians 7:35). However, he consistently balances this with the understanding that not everyone has the gift of singleness and that marriage is a legitimate and God-ordained institution, particularly to avoid sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 7:2) or if one cannot "contain" (1 Corinthians 7:9). This verse (1 Corinthians 7:36) is an example of his practical wisdom, granting freedom and affirming that choosing marriage under certain conditions is not sinful but a wise and godly decision.

Does this verse apply to modern dating and marriage decisions, given the cultural shift from arranged marriages?

Answer: While the specific cultural context of a father's absolute authority over his daughter's marriage has changed in many societies, the underlying principles of 1 Corinthians 7:36 remain relevant. The verse speaks to the importance of wise decision-making regarding marriage, considering both spiritual devotion and practical human needs. It affirms that marriage is honorable and not sinful, especially when there is a genuine desire or "need" for it. For individuals today, it encourages self-awareness about one's capacity for singleness, the desire for companionship, and the avoidance of temptation. For parents, it highlights the ongoing responsibility to offer godly counsel and support to their adult children in their life choices, including marriage, respecting their autonomy while guiding them toward God-honoring paths. The core message is that God grants liberty within godly boundaries for such significant life decisions.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While 1 Corinthians 7:36 directly addresses a father's decision regarding his daughter's marriage, its Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the broader freedom and wisdom that Christ provides for all of life's decisions, including those pertaining to relationships and family. Jesus Himself affirmed the sanctity of marriage as a divine institution from creation (Matthew 19:4-6), even as He also spoke of those who choose singleness "for the sake of the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 19:12). Paul's counsel in this verse, therefore, reflects the liberty found in Christ, where believers are not bound by legalistic constraints but are free to make choices that honor God and serve their well-being, without sin. Christ's work on the cross liberates us from the burden of unrighteousness, allowing us to pursue marriage or singleness with a clear conscience, knowing that both states can be lived out for God's glory. Ultimately, our decisions, whether to marry or remain single, are to be rooted in a desire to serve Christ and to live in a way that reflects His love and truth, understanding that He is the ultimate fulfillment of all human longing and need, whether met in singleness or within the covenant of marriage (Colossians 3:17).

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Commentary on 1 Corinthians 7 verses 36–38

In this passage the apostle is commonly supposed to give advice about the disposal of children in marriage, upon the principle of his former determination. In this view the general meaning is plain. It was in that age, and those parts of the world, and especially among the Jews, reckoned a disgrace for a woman to remain unmarried past a certain number of years: it gave a suspicion of somewhat that was not for her reputation. "Now," says the apostle, "if any man thinks he behaves unhandsomely towards his daughter, and that it is not for her credit to remain unmarried, when she is of full age, and that upon this principle it is needful to dispose of her in marriage, he may use his pleasure. It is no sin in him to dispose of her to a suitable mate. But if a man has determined in himself to keep her a virgin, and stands to this determination, and is under no necessity to dispose of her in marriage, but is at liberty, with her consent, to pursue his purpose, he does well in keeping her a virgin. In short, he that gives her in marriage does well; but he that keeps her single, if she can be easy and innocent in such a state, does what is better; that is, more convenient for her in the present state of things, if not at all times and seasons." Note, 1. Children should be at the disposal of their parents, and not dispose of themselves in marriage. Yet, 2. Parents should consult their children's inclinations, both to marriage in general and to the person in particular, and not reckon they have uncontrollable power to do with them, and dictate to them, as they please. 3. It is our duty not only to consider what is lawful, but in many cases, at least, what is fit to be done, before we do it.

But I think the apostle is here continuing his former discourse, and advising unmarried persons, who are at their own disposal, what to do, the man's virgin being meant of his virginity. Tērein tēn heautou parthenon seems to be rather meant of preserving his own virginity than keeping his daughter a virgin, though it be altogether uncommon to use the word in this sense. Several other reasons may be seen in Locke and Whitby, by those who will consult them. And it was a common matter of reproach among Jews and civilized heathens, for a man to continue single beyond such a term of years, though all did not agree in limiting the single life to the same term. The general meaning of the apostle is the same, that it was no sin to marry, if a man thought there was a necessity upon, to avoid popular reproach, much less to avoid the hurrying fervours of lust. But he that was in his own power, stood firm in his purpose, and found himself under no necessity to marry, would, at that season, and in the circumstances of Christians at that time, at least, make a choice every way most for his own conveniency, ease, and advantage, as to his spiritual concerns. And it is highly expedient, if not a duty, for Christians to be guided by such a consideration.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 36–38. Public domain.
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Methodius of OlympusAD 311
Methodius Discourse III. Thaleia
Wherefore he rejects those of the more incontinent, who, under the influence of vain-glory, would advance to this state, advising them to marry, lest in their time of manly strength, the flesh stirring up the desires and passions, they should be goaded on to defile the soul. For let us consider what he lays down:
AmbrosiasterAD 384
COMMENTARY ON PAUL’S EPISTLES
Paul always wants the best out of Christians. If someone really wants to get married, then it is better to marry publicly according to the permission given than to behave badly and be ashamed in private.
John ChrysostomAD 407
Homily on 1 Corinthians 19
"But if any man think that he behaveth himself unseemly toward his virgin."

Here he seems to be talking about marriage; but all that he says relates to virginity; for he allows even a second marriage, saying, "only in the Lord." Now what means, "in the Lord?" With chastity, with honor: for this is needed everywhere, and must be pursued for else we cannot see God.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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