1 Corinthians 7:38

So then he that giveth [her] in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth [her] not in marriage doeth better.

So {G5620} then {G2532} he that giveth her in marriage {G1547} doeth {G4160} well {G2573}; but {G1161} he that giveth her {G1547} not {G3361} in marriage {G1547} doeth {G4160} better {G2908}.

So the man who marries his fiancée will do well, and the man who doesn’t marry will do better.

So then, he who marries the virgin does well, but he who does not marry her does even better.

So then both he that giveth his own virgin daughter in marriage doeth well; and he that giveth her not in marriage shall do better.

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Corinthians 7:38 (KJV)

1 Corinthians 7:38: "So then he that giveth [her] in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth [her] not in marriage doeth better."

Context

This verse is part of a larger discussion in 1 Corinthians Chapter 7, where the Apostle Paul addresses various questions regarding marriage, singleness, and celibacy within the Corinthian church. The specific context of verse 38 focuses on "virgins" (likely unmarried daughters or those under the care of a guardian), and the decision concerning their marriage. Paul is offering practical, Spirit-led counsel, not strict commands, often prefacing his advice with "I speak this by permission, and not of commandment" (1 Corinthians 7:6).

Key Themes

  • The Goodness of Marriage: Paul affirms that giving a virgin in marriage is a good and honorable act ("doeth well"). Marriage is a divine institution, affirmed throughout Scripture (Hebrews 13:4).
  • The Comparative Advantage of Singleness for Service: The phrase "doeth better" does not imply that marriage is inherently sinful or inferior morally. Instead, it highlights a practical advantage of singleness: the ability to serve the Lord with undivided devotion. Paul emphasizes that the unmarried person can focus on "the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord" (1 Corinthians 7:32), whereas the married person has concerns for their spouse and family.
  • Freedom of Choice and Calling: Paul does not mandate celibacy but presents it as a viable and, for some, preferable path, especially "for the present distress" (1 Corinthians 7:26), which might refer to persecution or pressing eschatological expectations. The decision is ultimately a matter of personal conviction and God-given gift (1 Corinthians 7:7).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV's use of "[her]" indicates the subject is a virgin, often interpreted as a father or guardian. The Greek phrase for "giveth in marriage" is γαμίζων (*gamizōn*), which means "to give in marriage." The key distinction lies in the comparative adverbs:

  • "Doeth well" (καλῶς ποιεῖ - *kalōs poiei*): This signifies doing something good, right, or honorable. It's a positive affirmation.
  • "Doeth better" (κρεῖσσον ποιήσει - *kreisson poiēsei*): The word κρεῖσσον (*kreisson*) means "better," "more excellent," or "superior." This is not a moral judgment of sin versus righteousness, but a statement of practical advantage or greater suitability for a specific purpose, namely, undistracted devotion to the Lord.

Practical Application

This verse offers valuable insight for believers today regarding life choices and priorities:

  • Honor Both Paths: Both marriage and singleness are honorable states before God. Neither is inherently superior in a moral sense. The choice should be guided by one's spiritual gift and calling.
  • Prioritize God's Kingdom: Paul's advice encourages individuals to consider how their marital status can best enable them to serve God and advance His kingdom. For some, singleness offers greater flexibility and focus for ministry; for others, marriage provides a unique platform for spiritual growth and witness.
  • Freedom and Wisdom: Believers should not feel pressured into marriage or singleness if it does not align with their God-given disposition. The emphasis is on seeking God's wisdom and discerning one's unique path to glorify Him.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Hebrews 13:4 (6 votes)

    Marriage [is] honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:32 (4 votes)

    But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord:

  • 1 Corinthians 7:34 (4 votes)

    There is difference [also] between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please [her] husband.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:1 (4 votes)

    ¶ Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: [It is] good for a man not to touch a woman.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:2 (4 votes)

    Nevertheless, [to avoid] fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:37 (4 votes)

    Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power over his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:8 (4 votes)

    I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.