5:3 5:3

2 Corinthians 5:4

5:5 5:5

Bible Versions

For we that are in [this] tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.
For {G2532}{G1063} we that are {G5607} in {G1722} this tabernacle {G4636} do groan {G4727}, being burdened {G916}: not {G3756} for that {G1894} we would {G2309} be unclothed {G1562}, but {G235} clothed upon {G1902}, that {G2443} mortality {G2349} might be swallowed up {G2666} of {G5259} life {G2222}.
Yes, while we are in this body, we groan with the sense of being oppressed: it is not so much that we want to take something off, but rather to put something on over it; so that what must die may be swallowed up by the Life.
So while we are in this tent, we groan under our burdens, because we do not wish to be unclothed but clothed, so that our mortality may be swallowed up by life.
For indeed we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened; not for that we would be unclothed, but that we would be clothed upon, that what is mortal may be swallowed up of life.

2 Corinthians 5:4 KJV speaks to the Christian's deep longing for ultimate redemption and transformation, moving beyond the limitations of the earthly body to embrace eternal life. It’s a powerful expression of hope in the face of mortality.

Context

This verse is a continuation of Paul's discourse on the nature of Christian hope and the future of believers. In 2 Corinthians 5:1-3, Paul contrasts the temporary "earthly house of this tabernacle" (our mortal body) with a "building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." The "groaning" mentioned in verse 4 highlights the burden and fragility of our present existence, expressing a fervent desire for the glorious, immortal body that awaits believers.

Key Themes

  • The Temporary Nature of the Earthly Body: Paul likens our physical bodies to a "tabernacle" (a tent or temporary dwelling), emphasizing their fragility and transient nature. This perspective helps believers understand present suffering and mortality within an eternal framework.
  • Longing for Transformation: The "groaning, being burdened" signifies a deep spiritual yearning. It's not a desire for death or to be "unclothed" (disembodied), but rather for a divine transformation—to be "clothed upon" with a glorified, spiritual body, bypassing the state of being naked or disembodied.
  • Victory of Life Over Mortality: The ultimate hope expressed is "that mortality might be swallowed up of life." This speaks to the complete triumph of eternal life over the decay, weakness, and death inherent in our mortal existence. It points to the resurrection and the promise of an everlasting, perfected state.

Linguistic Insights

The word "tabernacle" (Greek: skēnos) reinforces the idea of a temporary, portable dwelling, contrasting sharply with a permanent, eternal structure. The term "groan" (Greek: stenazō) conveys a deep, inward sigh or anguish, often associated with spiritual longing or the burden of present circumstances, not just physical discomfort. The phrase "swallowed up" (Greek: katapithō) is a powerful image of complete absorption or vanquishing, signifying total victory, much like in 1 Corinthians 15:54 where death is 'swallowed up in victory'.

Related Scriptures

Practical Application

This verse offers immense comfort and hope to believers facing physical ailments, the aging process, or the reality of death. It reminds us that our current struggles are temporary and that a glorious, eternal future awaits. It encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that God's plan involves not merely an end to suffering, but a complete transformation where "mortality is swallowed up of life." This hope motivates us to endure hardships with patience and to focus on spiritual realities over transient earthly concerns.

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.

  • 1 Corinthians 15:53

    For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal [must] put on immortality.

  • 1 Corinthians 15:54

    So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

  • 2 Corinthians 5:2

    For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven:

  • Isaiah 25:8

    He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken [it].

  • 2 Peter 1:13

    Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting [you] in remembrance;
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