1 Timothy 2:11

Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.

Let {G3129} the woman {G1135} learn {G3129} in {G1722} silence {G2271} with {G1722} all {G3956} subjection {G5292}.

Let a woman learn in peace, fully submitted;

A woman must learn in quietness and full submissiveness.

Let a woman learn in quietness with all subjection.

Commentary

1 Timothy 2:11, "Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection," is a verse that addresses the conduct of women within the early Christian assembly, specifically concerning learning and their demeanor during instruction.

Context of 1 Timothy 2:11

This verse is part of a larger section (1 Timothy 2:8-15) where the Apostle Paul provides instructions to Timothy, his protégé, regarding proper conduct and order in the church at Ephesus. These instructions are given in the context of public worship and the roles of men and women within that setting. The preceding verses discuss prayer and modest apparel, while the subsequent verse, 1 Timothy 2:12, directly elaborates on the teaching role. Paul's emphasis here appears to be on maintaining a peaceful, orderly, and respectful environment for learning and worship, possibly addressing specific issues or cultural challenges present in the Ephesian church.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Importance of Learning: The phrase "Let the woman learn" unequivocally highlights that women were encouraged, and indeed expected, to engage in theological learning and spiritual instruction. This was significant in a culture where formal education for women was often limited.
  • Orderly Conduct: The instruction to learn "in silence" (Greek: hēsychia - ἡσυχία) does not necessarily imply absolute muteness, but rather a quiet, peaceful, and non-disruptive demeanor. It contrasts with contentious debate, loud interruptions, or usurping authority. The aim is for an environment conducive to teaching and receiving truth.
  • Subjection, Not Inferiority: "With all subjection" (Greek: hypotagē - ὑποταγή) refers to an orderly submission or respectful deference to the established leadership and teaching structure within the church. This concept of submission is found throughout the New Testament for various relationships (e.g., citizens to rulers, children to parents, Christ to the Father) and relates to recognizing roles rather than implying inherent inferiority. It aligns with Paul's broader instructions on church order and conduct.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "silence," hēsychia, conveys a sense of tranquility, quietness, and peacefulness. It is often used elsewhere in the New Testament to describe a peaceful and quiet life (e.g., 1 Thessalonians 4:11). It suggests an attitude of receptiveness and attentiveness, rather than a complete absence of speech. The term for "subjection," hypotagē, is a compound word meaning "to arrange under" or "to place oneself under," signifying a voluntary alignment with a proper order or authority.

Related Scriptures

  • 1 Timothy 2:12: This immediate follow-up verse clarifies the specific limitation on women's teaching and authority.
  • 1 Corinthians 14:34-35: Contains similar, though often debated, instructions regarding women's silence in Corinthian church meetings.
  • Ephesians 5:21: Paul's teaching on mutual submission within the body of Christ provides a broader theological framework for understanding submission in various relationships.
  • Galatians 3:28: This verse affirms the profound truth of equality in Christ, emphasizing that instructions on roles do not negate spiritual standing or worth.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Timothy 2:11 underscores several enduring principles: the universal importance of spiritual learning for all, regardless of gender; the value of maintaining order and a respectful atmosphere during corporate worship and teaching; and the concept of submitting to appropriate authority structures for the good of the community. While specific applications regarding gender roles continue to be a subject of theological discussion, the underlying call to humble learning, peaceful conduct, and a spirit of cooperation remains vital for a healthy church environment.

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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

  • 1 Corinthians 14:34

    ¶ 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.

  • 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.

  • Ephesians 5:22

    Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.

  • Ephesians 5:24

    Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so [let] the wives [be] to their own husbands in every thing.

  • 1 Corinthians 11:3

    But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman [is] the man; and the head of Christ [is] God.

  • Colossians 3:18

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

  • 1 Peter 3:5

    For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:
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