1CO front intro e8ey 0 # Introduction to 1 Corinthians<br><br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of 1 Corinthians<br><br>1. Opening (1:1–9)<br>2. Against divisions (1:10–4:15)<br>3. Against sexual immorality (4:16–6:20)<br>4. On abstinence (7:1–40)<br>5. On food (8:1–11:1)<br>6. On head coverings (11:2–16)<br>7. On the Lord’s Supper (11:17-34)<br>8. On spiritual gifts (12:1–14:40)<br>9. On the resurrection of the dead (15:1–58)<br>10. On the collection and visits (16:1–12)<br>11. Closing: final commands and greetings (16:13–24)<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of 1 Corinthians?<br><br>Paul wrote 1 Corinthians. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.<br><br>Paul started the church that met in Corinth. He was staying in the city of Ephesus when he wrote this letter.<br><br>### What is the Book of 1 Corinthians about?<br><br>1 Corinthians is a letter that Paul wrote to the believers who were in the city of Corinth. Paul had heard that there were problems among the believers there. They were arguing with each other. Some of them did not understand some of the Christian teachings. And some of them were behaving badly. In this letter, Paul responded to them and encouraged them to live in a way that pleased God.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “First Corinthians.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Paul’s First Letter to the Church in Corinth.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What was the city of Corinth like?<br><br>Corinth was a major city located in ancient Greece. Because it was near the Mediterranean Sea, many travelers and traders came to buy and sell goods there. This resulted in the city having people from many different cultures. The city was famous for having people who lived in immoral ways. The people worshipped Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. As part of the ceremonies honoring Aphrodite, her worshipers had sexual intercourse with temple prostitutes.<br><br>### What was the problem with meat sacrificed to idols?<br><br>Many animals were slaughtered and sacrificed to the false gods in Corinth. Priests and worshipers kept some of the meat. Much of the meat was sold in markets. Many Christians disagreed with each other over whether it was right for them to eat this meat, because it had been dedicated to a false god. Paul writes about this problem in 1 Corinthians.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### What do “knowledge” and “wisdom” mean in 1 Corinthians?<br><br>### How are the ideas of “holy” and “sanctify” represented in 1 Corinthians in the ULT?<br><br>The scriptures use such words to indicate any one of various ideas. For this reason, it is often difficult for translators to represent them well in their versions. In translating into English, 1 Corinthians ULT uses the following principles:<br><br>* Sometimes the meaning in a passage implies moral holiness. Especially important for understanding the gospel is the fact that God considers Christians to be sinless because they are united to Jesus Christ. Another related fact is that God is perfect and faultless. A third fact is that Christians are to conduct themselves in a blameless, faultless manner in life. In these cases, the ULT uses “holy,” “holy God,” “holy ones,” or “holy people.” (See: 1:2; 3:17)<br>* Sometimes the meaning in a passage indicates a simple reference to Christians without implying any particular role filled by them. In these cases, the ULT uses “believer” or “believers.” (See: 6:1, 2; 14:33; 16:1, 15)<br>* Sometimes the meaning in the passage implies the idea of someone or something set apart for God
1CO 1 intro ud5y 0 # 1 Corinthians 1 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>1. Opening (1:1–9)<br> * Greetings and Blessing (1:1–3)<br> * Praise and Prayer (1:4–9)<br>2. Against divisions (1:10–4:15)<br> * Divisions, Leaders, and Baptism (1:10–17)<br> * Wisdom, Foolishness, and Boasting (1:18–31)<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the words of verse 19, which are from the Old Testament.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Disunity<br><br>In this chapter, Paul urges the Corinthians to stop dividing up into smaller groups that identify themselves with one specific leader. He mentions some of the leaders, including himself, in [1:12](../01/12.md). The Corinthians probably chose these leaders themselves, since there is no evidence that any of the people mentioned in [1:12](../01/12.md) were trying to create their own groups. People in the Corinthian church were probably trying to sound wiser or more powerful than other people, so they would choose a group and a leader and say they were better than others. Paul argues against these kinds of divisions first, and then he argues against anyone who tries to sound wiser and more powerful than others.<br><br>### Wisdom and foolishness<br><br>Throughout this chapter, Paul speaks of both wisdom and foolishness. These words do not refer primarily to how much or how little education someone has. Rather, they refer to how well or how poorly someone plans actions and knows how the world works. If someone creates plans and ideas that work out well, that person is wise. If someone creates plans and ideas that do not work out well, that person is foolish. The wise person makes good choices, and the foolish person makes bad choices. Use words in your language that indicate these ideas. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/fool]])<br><br>### Power and weakness<br><br>Throughout this chapter, Paul speaks of both power and weakness. These words primarily refer to how much influence and authority a person has and to how much they can accomplish. Someone who has “power” has much influence and authority and can accomplish many things. Someone who has “weakness” does not have much influence and authority and is not able to accomplish many things. Use words in your language that indicate these ideas (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/power]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphors about Christ<br><br>In this chapter, Paul says that “Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God” ([1:24](../01/24.md)) and that Christ “was made for us wisdom from God, righteousness, and also sanctification and redemption” ([1:30](../01/30.md)). With these two verses, Paul is not saying that Christ is no longer a person and is instead these abstract ideas. Rather, Paul is speaking in this way because Christ and his work for believers include all of these abstract ideas. Christ’s work is powerful and wise, and gives those who believe in him wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. For ways to translate these two statements, see the notes on these two verses.<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>Paul asks many questions in this chapter. He is not asking these questions because he wants the Corinthians to provide him with information. Rather, he is asking these questions because he wants the Corinthians to think about how they are acting and what they are thinking. The questions encourage them to think along with Paul. For ways to translate these questions, look for the notes on each verse that includes these kinds of questions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Positive and negative uses of “wisdom”<br><br>Throughout this chapter, Paul speaks about wisdom in both positive and negative ways. He uses the same words throughout the chapter, and he
1CO 1 1 m3dd figs-exclusive 0 General Information Throughout this letter the words “we,” “us,” “our,” and “ours” include the Corinthian believers unless otherwise noted. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 1 1 lihg figs-yousingular 0 General Information The words “you,” “your,” and “yours” refer to the Corinthians believers and so are plural unless otherwise noted. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
1CO 1 1 o7ie figs-123person Παῦλος 1 In this culture, letter writers would give their own names first, referring to themselves in the third person. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you can use the first person here. Or if your language has a particular way of introducing the author of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you can use it here. Alternate translation: “From Paul. I have been” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1CO 1 1 e8j3 translate-names Παῦλος 1 Paul Here and throughout the letter, this is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 1 1 qp1n figs-activepassive κλητὸς ἀπόστολος Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ 1 Sosthenes our brother If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express **called by Christ Jesus {to be} an apostle** in active form. Alternate translation: “whom Christ Jesus called {to be} an apostle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 1 qvn5 figs-possession διὰ θελήματος Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **the will** that **God** has. If it would be misunderstood in your language that this phrase refers to what God wills, you could express the idea with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “because God desired this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 1 xfbo figs-explicit καὶ Σωσθένης 1 This phrase means that Sosthenes is with Paul, and Paul writes the letter for both of them. It does not mean that Sosthenes was the scribe who wrote the letter down. It also does not mean that Sosthenes dictated the letter with Paul, since Paul uses the first person singular more than the first person plural in the letter. If there is a way in your language to indicate that Paul writes in behalf of Sosthenes, you can use it here. Alternate translation: “and I write in behalf of Sosthenes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 1 1 n9zv translate-names Σωσθένης 1 This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 1 2 r9kg figs-123person τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ τοῦ Θεοῦ…τῇ οὔσῃ ἐν Κορίνθῳ 1 to the church of God at Corinth In this culture, after giving their own names, letter writers would name those to whom they sent the letter, referring to them in the third person. If that is confusing in your language, you can use the second person here. Or if your language has a particular way of introducing the recipient of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you can use it here. Alternate translation: “This letter is for you who are members of the church of God at Corinth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1CO 1 2 e75p figs-activepassive ἡγιασμένοις 1 those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express **having been sanctified** in active form with “God” as the subject. Alternate translation: “God having sanctified you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 2 lp42 figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ**, or united to Christ, explains: (1) the means by which God has sanctified the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “by means of your union with Christ Jesus” (2) the reason why God has sanctified the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “because of your union with Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 2 e8jw figs-activepassive κλητοῖς ἁγίοις 1 who are called to be saints If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express **called {to be} saints** in active form with “God” as the subject. Alternate translation: “whom God has called {to be} saints” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 2 nz5s figs-hyperbole ἐν παντὶ τόπῳ 1 Here, Paul describes all believers as if they were **in every place**. He speaks this way to emphasize that believers can be found in many countries, towns, and villages. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could indicate that believers are found in many places around the world. Alternate translation: “in many places” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 1 2 l21m figs-idiom ἐπικαλουμένοις τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν 1 those who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ “Calling on the name of” someone is an idiom that refers to worshiping and praying to that person. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “who pray to and venerate our Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 1 2 l9rq figs-ellipsis αὐτῶν καὶ ἡμῶν 1 their Lord and ours In the phrase, Paul has left out words that may be needed in some languages to make a complete thought. If you cannot leave out these words in your language, you could supply words such as “who is” and “Lord” to make a complete thought. Alternate translation: “who is Lord over them and us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 1 3 gc2c translate-blessing χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη ἀπὸ Θεοῦ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν καὶ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 General Information: After stating his name and the name of the person to whom he is writing, Paul adds a blessing for the Corinthians. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “May you experience kindness and peace within you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus the Messiah” or “I pray that grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus the Messiah will always be with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])
1CO 1 4 zd7l figs-hyperbole πάντοτε 1 Here, **always** is an exaggeration that Paul uses to express how often he prays for the Corinthians. If **always** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that indicates frequency. Alternate translation: “consistently” or “frequently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 1 4 qoag figs-distinguish τῷ Θεῷ μου 1 When Paul speaks of **my God**, he does not mean that this is a different **God** than the one the Corinthians believe in. Rather, he simply wishes to state that this is **God** is his God. If **my God** in your translation sounds like it makes a distinction between Paul’s God and the Corinthians’ God, you could translate with a plural pronoun. Alternate translation: “to our God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1CO 1 4 t16d figs-activepassive τῇ δοθείσῃ 1 because of the grace of God that was given to you in Christ Jesus If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express **that was given** in active form with “God” or “he” as the subject. Alternate translation: “that he gave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 4 jjtn figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ**, or united to Christ, explains (1) the means by which God has given grace to the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “by means of your union with Christ Jesus” (2) the reason why God has given grace to the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “because of your union with Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 5 nl9z grammar-connect-words-phrases ὅτι 1 The word translated **For** introduces an explanation of “the grace of God that was given” in [1:4](../01/04.md). Use a word or phrase that introduces a further explanation or elaboration in your language. Alternate translation: “That is,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 5 js7f figs-metaphor ἐπλουτίσθητε 1 you have been made rich in him Here, Paul speaks as if the Corinthians had received a lot of money **in him**. With this language of being **rich**, Paul means that the Corinthians have received more than they need, and [1:7](../01/07.md) shows that what they have received are spiritual blessings and gifts. If being **made rich** would be misunderstood by your readers, you could: (1) express this idea with a phrase that refers to how much God has given them. Alternate translation: “you were given many gifts” (2) clarify that Paul speaks of spiritual riches. Alternate translation: “you were made spiritually rich” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 5 kaie figs-activepassive ἐπλουτίσθητε 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express **you were made rich** in active form, with “God” as the subject. Alternate translation: “God has made you rich” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 5 n9wn writing-pronouns ἐν αὐτῷ 1 The word translated **him** refers to Jesus, since God the Father is the one who makes the Corinthians rich. If **him** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use the words “Christ” or “Christ Jesus” to make this clear. Alternate translation: “in Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 1 5 j48t figs-abstractnouns παντὶ λόγῳ 1 in all speech If you cannot use this form in your language, you can express the idea behind the abstract noun **word** with a verb. Alternate translation: “everything you speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 1 5 qy8c figs-abstractnouns πάσῃ γνώσει 1 all knowledge If you cannot use this form in your language, you can express the idea behind the abstract noun **knowledge** with a verb. Alternate translation: “everything you know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 1 6 ef38 grammar-connect-words-phrases καθὼς 1 The word translated **just as** could introduce: (1) the reason why the Corinthians were made rich. Alternate translation: “which is due to how” (2) a comparison that illustrates how the Corinthians were made rich. Alternate translation: “in the same way that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 6 ub5r figs-exmetaphor τὸ μαρτύριον τοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐβεβαιώθη 1 In this verse, Paul speaks as if what he told the Corinthians about Christ was testimony he gave as a witness in a court of law. This testimony has been **confirmed**, just as if other evidence proved to the judge that his **testimony** was accurate. With this metaphor, he reminds the Corinthians that they have believed the message about Christ and that it is now an important part of their lives. If this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “our message about Christ has been firmly founded” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 1 6 h9zk figs-possession τὸ μαρτύριον τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 the testimony about Christ has been confirmed as true among you Here, Paul uses the possessive form to speak about a **testimony** that concerns **Christ**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could make it explicit that **Christ** is the content of the **testimony**. Alternate translation: “the testimony about Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 6 tfo3 figs-activepassive τὸ μαρτύριον τοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐβεβαιώθη 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express this idea in active form with “God” as the subject. Alternate translation: “God has confirmed the testimony of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 7 t2hd grammar-connect-words-phrases ὥστε 1 Therefore The word translated **so that** could introduce: (1) a result from “being made rich” in [1:5](../01/05.md) and from the confirmation of the “testimony” in [1:6](../01/06.md). Alternate translation: “God has made you rich and confirmed our testimony so that” (2) a result from just the confirmation in [1:6](../01/06.md). Alternate translation: “God confirmed our testimony among you so that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 7 p5y6 figs-litotes ὑμᾶς μὴ ὑστερεῖσθαι ἐν μηδενὶ χαρίσματι 1 you lack no spiritual gift Here, Paul uses two negative words, **not** and **lack**, to express a strong positive meaning. He means that the Corinthians have every spiritual gift that God gives. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea in positive form. Alternate translation: “you have every gift” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1CO 1 7 ymph grammar-connect-time-simultaneous ἀπεκδεχομένους 1 The word translated **eagerly waiting for** introduces something that happens at the same time as not lacking **in any gift**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “while you eagerly wait for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 1 7 fe4q figs-possession τὴν ἀποκάλυψιν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ; 1 the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **revelation** whose content is **our Lord Jesus Christ**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could make this explicit by translating the phrase with a verb with “God” or **our Lord Jesus Christ** as the subject. Alternate translation: “God to reveal our Lord Jesus Christ” or “our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 7 o145 figs-explicit τὴν ἀποκάλυψιν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 In this context, it is clear that Paul does not simply mean that knowledge about **our Lord Jesus Christ** will be revealed. Rather, he means that **our Lord Jesus Christ** himself will return to earth. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word such as “return” to make this idea clear. Alternate translation: “the return of our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 1 8 cqpk writing-pronouns ὃς 1 This pronoun could refer to: (1) God, who is the implied subject of all the verbs in this section. Alternate translation: “It is God who” (2) Jesus, which is the closest name. Alternate translation: “It is Jesus who” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 1 8 usci translate-unknown καὶ βεβαιώσει ὑμᾶς 1 The word translated **confirm** is the same word that Paul used in [1:6](../01/06.md), also translated “confirmed.” Paul uses the word **also** to remind the reader that he has already used **confirmed**. If possible, translate **confirmed** as you did in [1:6](../01/06.md). Just as there, here it refers to something or someone that is proved to be true or accurate. In this case, it means that God will make the Corinthians’ faith true **to the end**. Alternate translation: “will also firmly found your faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 8 qtpq figs-idiom ἕως τέλους 1 The phrase translated **to the end** means that some activity or state will continue until a definable point in the future. Here, it means that God will **confirm** the Corinthians until their earthly lives end. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “until your race is run” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 1 8 pif5 grammar-connect-logic-result ἀνεγκλήτους 1 you will be blameless The word translated **blameless** gives the result of God confirming them to the end. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could make this connection explicit. Alternate translation: “so that you will be blameless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 9 hp30 figs-activepassive δι’ οὗ ἐκλήθητε 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “who called you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 9 u2z0 figs-possession εἰς κοινωνίαν τοῦ Υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **fellowship** that is with **his Son**. If this form would be misunderstood in you language, you could (1) use a word such as “with” to make this clear. Alternate translation: “into fellowship with his Son” (2) translate **fellowship** with a verb such as “share in” or “commune with.” Alternate translation: “to commune with his Son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 9 kx3z guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τοῦ Υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ 1 his Son **Son** is an important title for Jesus and describes his relationship with God the Father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
1CO 1 10 huz1 grammar-connect-words-phrases παρακαλῶ δὲ 1 The word translated **now** indicates the beginning of a new section. Paul transitions from giving thanks to appealing to the Corinthians to avoid divisions. You could: (1) leave this word untranslated, and show the shift in topic by starting a new paragraph. Alternate translation: “I urge” (2) use a word or phrase that indicates the beginning of a new section. Alternate translation: “Next, I urge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 10 u1u1 figs-infostructure παρακαλῶ δὲ ὑμᾶς, ἀδελφοί, διὰ τοῦ ὀνόματος τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, 1 In this sentence, **I urge you** is far away from what Paul is urging. If it would be clearer in your language, you could move **I urge you** so that it comes right before **that you all speak**. Alternate translation: “Now brothers, through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, I urge you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 1 10 k7gw figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Although the word translated **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 1 10 sw54 figs-metonymy διὰ τοῦ ὀνόματος τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ Here, Paul uses the **name** of Jesus to refer to the authority of Jesus. With this language, he reminds the Corinthians that he is an apostle with authority from Jesus. If the meaning of **name** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “on behalf of our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 1 10 u4y2 figs-idiom τὸ αὐτὸ λέγητε πάντες 1 that you all agree In this language, to **speak the same thing** is an idiom that means that everyone is in agreement, not only in what they speak but also in what they believe and set as goals. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “you all see eye to eye” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 1 10 j75c translate-unknown σχίσματα 1 that there be no divisions among you The word translated **divisions** refers to when one group splits into multiple different groups because they have different leaders, beliefs, or opinions. If this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a comparable noun or a short phrase that makes this clear. Alternate translation: “opposing parties” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 10 tjkg translate-unknown κατηρτισμένοι 1 The word translated **joined together** refers to putting something into its proper position or state, often returning it to that state. Here, then, it refers to restoring the community to the unity it had and is supposed to have. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a short phrase. Alternate translation: “restored to your previous unity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 10 emt2 figs-abstractnouns ἐν τῷ αὐτῷ νοῒ καὶ ἐν τῇ αὐτῇ γνώμῃ 1 be joined together with the same mind and by the same purpose If you cannot this form in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns **mind** and **purpose** with verbs such as “think” and “decide” or “choose.” Alternate translation: “by thinking the same things and by choosing the same things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 1 11 dtsp grammar-connect-logic-result γάρ 1 The word translated **for** introduces the reason why Paul is urging them to become united together. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a short phrase to express the idea. Alternate translation: “I speak this way because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 11 tayn figs-activepassive ἐδηλώθη…μοι περὶ ὑμῶν, ἀδελφοί μου, ὑπὸ τῶν Χλόης 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could write this sentence in active form. Alternate translation: “those of Chloe have made it clear to me concerning you, my brothers,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 11 ur84 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί μου 1 Although the word translated **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to both men or women. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “my brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 1 11 e8jb figs-explicit τῶν Χλόης 1 Chloe’s people **those of Chloe** refers to people who are connected to Chloe and probably live in her house or work for her. Paul does not tell us whether they are family members, slaves, or employees. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates that these people are related to or dependent on Chloe. Alternate translation: “people connected to Chloe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 1 11 fd71 translate-names Χλόης 1 This is the name of a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 1 11 vbe6 translate-unknown ἔριδες ἐν ὑμῖν εἰσιν 1 there are factions among you The word translated **factions** refers to quarrels or strife within a community. These quarrels or fights are not physical but verbal. If possible, use a word that refers to verbal conflict or express the idea with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “you have verbal fights with each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 12 umbx grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Paul uses the word translated **Now** to introduce a further explanation of what he started talking about in [1:11](../01/11.md). If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave the word untranslated or use a word that introduces an explanation. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 12 tsn6 figs-idiom λέγω…τοῦτο, 1 Here, Paul uses the phrase **I say this** to explain what he meant in the previous verse when he mentioned “factions” ([1:11](../01/11.md)). If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom for explaining what has already been said or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “what I mean is this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 1 12 a4lo figs-explicitinfo τοῦτο, ὅτι 1 Having both **this** and **that** in this sentence may be redundant in your language. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a simpler way to introduce what Paul wants to “say.” Alternate translation: “that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo]])
1CO 1 12 wf0n figs-hyperbole ἕκαστος ὑμῶν λέγει 1 Here, Paul uses **each of them** to emphasize that many individuals within the Corinthian congregation are saying these kinds of things. He does not mean that each person says all four of these things. He also does not mean that every single person in the church is making these kinds of claims. Finally, he does not mean that these are the only four claims that they are making. If the form that Paul uses would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an expression that singles out many individuals within a group, and you could add a phrase that indicates that these are examples of what they are saying. Alternate translation: “people in your group say are saying things like” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 1 12 vpym translate-names Παύλου…Ἀπολλῶ…Κηφᾶ 1 These are the names of three men. Cephas is another name for Peter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 1 12 bfd0 figs-quotations ἐγὼ μέν εἰμι Παύλου, ἐγὼ δὲ Ἀπολλῶ, ἐγὼ δὲ Κηφᾶ, ἐγὼ δὲ Χριστοῦ 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could translate these statements as indirect quotes instead of as direct quotes. Alternate translation: “that you are of Paul, or you are of Apollos, or you are of Cephas, or you are of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 1 12 a57r figs-possession ἐγὼ μέν εἰμι Παύλου, ἐγὼ δὲ Ἀπολλῶ, ἐγὼ δὲ Κηφᾶ, ἐγὼ δὲ Χριστοῦ 1 Each one of you says Here, Paul uses the possessive form to indicate that these people claim to be part of a specific leader’s group. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a word such as “belong” or “follow.” Alternate translation: “‘I follow Paul,’ or ‘I follow Apollos,’ or ‘I follow Cephas,’ or ‘I follow Christ.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 13 iam2 figs-123person μὴ Παῦλος ἐσταυρώθη ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν, ἢ εἰς τὸ ὄνομα Παύλου ἐβαπτίσθητε 1 In this verse, Paul speaks of himself in the third person. This could sound like he is speaking about a different **Paul** than himself. If this use of **Paul** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that Paul is naming himself. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, was not crucified for you, was I? Or were you baptized in my name, that of Paul?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1CO 1 13 wf6r figs-rquestion μεμέρισται ὁ Χριστός? 1 Is Christ divided? Paul asks if **Christ** has **been divided**, but he is not really asking for information. Rather, the question assumes that the answer is “no,” and Paul uses a question to invite the Corinthians to think about how absurd their behavior is. If the meaning of this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a strong negative statement. Alternate translation: “Christ has certainly not been divided!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 1 13 w175 figs-activepassive μεμέρισται ὁ Χριστός? 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form, with an indefinite or vague subject. Alternate translation: “Have they divided Christ?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 13 aw2r figs-metaphor μεμέρισται ὁ Χριστός 1 Here, Paul speaks as if **Christ** could be **divided** into pieces and given to different groups. He speaks this way because he identifies the church with the body of Christ. If the church is divided into groups, then the body of Christ has been divided up as well. However, it is absurd to think that Christ’s body has been cut up into pieces, so it is also absurd to divide the church into pieces. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could make this connection more explicit. Alternate translation: “Has Christ’s own body been divided, just as your church has been divided?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 13 g5qh figs-rquestion μὴ Παῦλος ἐσταυρώθη ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν 1 Was Paul crucified for you? Paul asks if **Paul was not crucified**, but he is not really asking for information. Rather, the question assumes that the answer is “no,” and Paul uses a question to invite the Corinthians to think about how absurd their thinking is. If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a strong negative statement. Alternate translation: “Paul was certainly not crucified for you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 1 13 lqsy figs-activepassive μὴ Παῦλος ἐσταυρώθη ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express this idea in active form, with an indefinite or vague subject. Alternate translation: “They did not crucify Paul for you, did they?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 13 tb2i figs-rquestion ἢ εἰς τὸ ὄνομα Παύλου ἐβαπτίσθητε? 1 Were you baptized in the name of Paul? Paul asks if they **were baptized in the name of Paul**, but he is not really asking for information. Rather, the question assumes that the answer is “no,” and Paul uses a question to invite the Corinthians to think about how absurd their thinking is. If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a strong negative statement. Alternate translation: “You were certainly not baptized in the name of Paul!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 1 13 tii7 figs-activepassive ἢ εἰς τὸ ὄνομα Παύλου ἐβαπτίσθητε? 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express this idea in active form, with a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “Or did they baptize you in the name of Paul?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 13 zi1y figs-metonymy εἰς τὸ ὄνομα Παύλου 1 in the name of Paul Here, Paul uses the word **name** to refer to authority. What he means is that, when they were baptized, no one used the **name of Paul**, and therefore they do not belong to his group. Instead, he implicitly asserts that they belong to God, whose name would have been used when they were baptized. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea by using the word “authority” or by a phrase that includes the language of “belonging.” Alternate translation: “under the authority of Paul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 1 14 hhh8 grammar-connect-exceptions οὐδένα ὑμῶν ἐβάπτισα, εἰ μὴ 1 none of you, except If it would appear in your language that Paul is making a statement here and then contradicting it, you could reword the sentence to avoid using an exception clause. Alternate translation: “I baptized only two of you:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions]])
1CO 1 14 vqq6 translate-names Κρίσπον…Γάϊον 1 Crispus These are the names of two men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 1 15 hv3m grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 This was so that no one would say that you were baptized into my name The word translated **so that** introduces a purpose or result. In this case, it introduces what results from Paul not baptizing many of the Corinthians. Because he did not baptize almost any of them, they cannot say that they were baptized into his name. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that indicates result, and you could specify that it is the result of Paul not baptizing many of them. Alternate translation: “The result is that” or “Therefore,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 1 15 dwdv figs-activepassive εἰς τὸ ἐμὸν ὄνομα ἐβαπτίσθητε 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could state this in active form with an indefinite subject or with Paul as the subject. Alternate translation: “someone baptized you into my name” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 15 u8f6 figs-metonymy εἰς τὸ ἐμὸν ὄνομα 1 Here, just as in [1:13](../01/13.md), Paul uses the word **name** to refer to authority. What he means is that, when they were baptized, no one used Paul’s **name**, and therefore they do not belong to his group. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea by using the word “authority” or by a phrase that includes the language of “belonging.” Alternate translation: “under the my authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 1 16 mq74 grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Here, the word translated **Now** interrupts the argument and reintroduces the theme of [1:14](../01/14.md), which is about whom Paul baptized. If this transition would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea by using punctuation that indicates a brief aside or parenthesis, or you could use a phrase that introduces when someone remembers something. Alternate translation: “Speaking of baptizing, I remember that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 16 ed59 translate-names Στεφανᾶ 1 the household of Stephanas This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 1 16 nlzn translate-unknown οὐκ οἶδα εἴ τινα ἄλλον ἐβάπτισα 1 This statement could be more or less confident about how many people Paul baptized. It could be: (1) relatively confident that Paul has thought of everyone he baptized. Alternate translation: “I think that this is everyone that I baptized” (2) less confident that Paul has thought of everyone he baptized. Alternate translation: “I do not remember if I baptized any others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 16 qbjf figs-hypo εἴ 1 Paul here uses the condition introduced by **if** because he wishes to acknowledge that he thinks he has mentioned everyone that he baptized, but he is not sure. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that expresses uncertainty. Alternate translation: “whether” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 1 17 jkfj grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 The word translated **For** introduces an explanation for why Paul has baptized so few people. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that introduces an explanation, and you could clarify that it explains how little he baptizes. Alternate translation: “I only baptized a few people because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 17 ga5k figs-infostructure οὐ…ἀπέστειλέν με Χριστὸς βαπτίζειν, ἀλλὰ εὐαγγελίζεσθαι 1 If putting the negative statement before the positive statement would be misunderstood in your language, you could reverse them and introduce **not with wise speech** by repeating **proclaim**. Alternate translation: “Christ sent me to proclaim the gospel, not to baptize. I proclaim the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 1 17 tg7i figs-ellipsis ἀλλὰ εὐαγγελίζεσθαι 1 Christ did not send me to baptize In this clause, Paul has omitted some words that might be necessary to make a complete thought in your language. If this sentence would be misunderstood in your language, you could repeat the “sending” language. Alternate translation: “but he sent me to proclaim the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 1 17 p3cf figs-ellipsis οὐκ ἐν σοφίᾳ λόγου 1 In this clause, Paul has omitted some words that might be necessary to make a complete thought in your language. If this sentence would be misunderstood in your language, you could repeat the “proclaiming” language. Alternate translation: “I do not proclaim it with wise speech” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 1 17 u60s grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The word translated **so that** introduces the purpose for which Paul does not use “wise speech.” Here, you could use a word or phrase that normally indicates purpose. Alternate translation: “in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 1 17 zn1n figs-metaphor μὴ κενωθῇ ὁ σταυρὸς τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 clever speech … the cross of Christ should not be emptied of its power Here, Paul speaks as if the **cross of Christ** was a container that was full of power that he does not wish to empty of that power. By this, he means that he does not want to take away the power that the cross and the message about it have. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively, including the idea of power. Alternate translation: “the cross of Christ would not lose its power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 17 qdyj figs-activepassive μὴ κενωθῇ ὁ σταυρὸς τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express this idea in active form, with Paul as the subject. Alternate translation: “I would not empty the cross of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 18 j7cw grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Connecting Statement: The word translated **For** introduces an explanation of the last part of [1:17](../01/17.md). In this verse, then, Paul explains further why he does not use wise speech. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that introduces an explanation, and you could briefly restate what Paul is explaining. Alternate translation: “I speak in this way because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 18 fq4x figs-possession ὁ λόγος…ὁ τοῦ σταυροῦ 1 the message about the cross Here, Paul uses the possessive form to speak about a **word** that is about **the cross**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that the **cross** is the content of the **word**. Alternate translation: “the word about the cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 18 utr3 figs-metonymy τοῦ σταυροῦ 1 Here, the word **cross** stands for the event in which Jesus died on the cross. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could include Jesus’ death in your translation. Alternate translation: “of Jesus’s death on the cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 1 18 p4wb figs-abstractnouns μωρία ἐστίν 1 is foolishness If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **foolishness** by translating it as an adjective such as “foolish.” Alternate translation: “seems foolish” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 1 18 lq5z figs-activepassive τοῖς…ἀπολλυμένοις 1 to those who are dying If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express this in active form, with: (1) themselves as the subject. Alternate translation: “to those who will experience destruction” (2) God as the subject. Alternate translation: “to those whom God will destroy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 18 ao4m figs-activepassive τοῖς δὲ σῳζομένοις ἡμῖν 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express this clause in active form, with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “but to us whom God is saving” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 18 m66w figs-distinguish τοῖς δὲ σῳζομένοις ἡμῖν 1 The description **who are being saved** distinguishes **us** from anyone else. It is not just adding information. Use a form in your language that shows that this is a distinguishing phrase. Alternate translation: “but to us, that is, the ones who are being saved” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1CO 1 18 ji74 figs-possession δύναμις Θεοῦ ἐστιν 1 it is the power of God Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **power** that comes from **God**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that **God** is the source of the **power**. Alternate translation: “power from God” or “God working in power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 19 fdhk grammar-connect-words-phrases γάρ 1 Here, the word translated **For** introduces Paul’s evidence that what he said in [1:18](../01/18.md) is true. You could use a word that introduces evidence for a claim or leave the word untranslated. Alternate translation: “As” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 19 wx5x figs-activepassive γέγραπται 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express this in active form, with: (1) the scripture or scripture author as the subject. Alternate translation: “Isaiah has written” (2) God as the subject. Alternate translation: “God has said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 19 tc6n figs-quotations ἀπολῶ τὴν σοφίαν τῶν σοφῶν, καὶ τὴν σύνεσιν τῶν συνετῶν ἀθετήσω 1 I will frustrate the understanding of the intelligent If you cannot use this form in your language, you could translate this direct quote as an indirect quote, specifying that God is the subject and including an introductory word such as “that.” Alternate translation: “that God will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and he will frustrate the understanding of the intelligent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 1 19 kzb0 figs-possession τὴν σοφίαν τῶν σοφῶν…τὴν σύνεσιν τῶν συνετῶν 1 In both of these clauses, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **wisdom** or **understanding** that belongs to **the wise** or **the intelligent**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could indicate that **wisdom** and **understanding** belong to **the wise** or **the intelligent**. Alternate translation: “the wisdom that the wise have … the understanding that the intelligent have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 19 gft6 figs-nominaladj τῶν σοφῶν…τῶν συνετῶν 1 Paul is using the adjectives **wise** and **intelligent** as nouns in order to describe groups of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate these with noun phrases. Alternate translation: “of the people who are wise … of the people who are intelligent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 1 19 pa5n translate-unknown τῶν συνετῶν 1 The word translated **intelligent** describes someone who is good at figuring problems out, understanding new ideas, and making smart decisions. Use a word in your language that gets this general idea across. Alternate translation: “of the smart” or “of the clever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 20 m6tf figs-rquestion ποῦ σοφός? ποῦ γραμματεύς? ποῦ συνζητητὴς τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου? 1 Where is the wise person? Where is the scholar? Where is the debater of this world? With these questions, Paul is not actually asking about the location of certain people. Rather, he is suggesting to the Corinthians that these kinds of people cannot be found. If these questions would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with statements that: (1) assert that these people do not actually have real wisdom, knowledge, or skill. Alternate translation: “The wise person does not really have wisdom. The scholar does not really know much. The debater of this age is not really good at arguing” (2) assert that these people do not exist. Alternate translation: “There is no wise person. There is no scholar. There is no debater of this age” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 1 20 h0qa figs-genericnoun σοφός…γραμματεύς…συνζητητὴς 1 Paul uses these singular nouns to identify types of people, but he does not mean just one **wise person**, **scholar**, or **debater**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a form that identifies a type of person, or you could translate these nouns in plural form. Alternate translation: “the kind of person who has wisdom … the kind of person who is a scholar … the kind of person who is a debater” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 1 20 mzxx figs-possession συνζητητὴς τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **debater** who is part of **this age**. In fact, Paul may mean that the **wise person** and the **scholar** also belong to **this age**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a relative clause. Alternate translation: “the debater, who belongs in this age” or “the debater? All these kinds of people belong to this age” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 20 u5j5 translate-unknown συνζητητὴς 1 the debater The word translated **debater** refers to someone who spends much of their time arguing about beliefs, values, or actions. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a short phrase or a term that expresses this idea better. Alternate translation: “the disputant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 20 a7zl figs-rquestion οὐχὶ ἐμώρανεν ὁ Θεὸς τὴν σοφίαν τοῦ κόσμου? 1 Has not God turned the wisdom of the world into foolishness? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a statement. Alternate translation: “ God has turned the wisdom of the world into foolishness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 1 20 y5wx figs-possession τὴν σοφίαν τοῦ κόσμου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **wisdom** that seems wise according to the standard of this **world**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “the wisdom that this world values” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 21 cihg grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 The word translated **For** introduces an explanation of how God has turned the wisdom of the world into foolishness ([1:20](../01/20.md)). You could use a word that introduces an explanation in your language or a short phrase that identifies that this verse explains the previous verse. Alternate translation: “That is,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 21 eauj grammar-connect-logic-result ἐπειδὴ…οὐκ ἔγνω ὁ κόσμος διὰ τῆς σοφίας τὸν Θεόν, εὐδόκησεν ὁ Θεὸς 1 The word translated **since** introduces the reason for the second half of the verse, beginning with **God was pleased**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could make this more explicit or break the two pieces into two sentences and use a transition word that indicates result. Alternate translation: “because … the world did not know God through wisdom, therefore God was pleased” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 21 tnez figs-possession ἐν τῇ σοφίᾳ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to speak of **wisdom** that **God** uses when he makes decisions or acts. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by adding “plans” or “thinking” and translating **wisdom** with an adjective such as “wise.” Alternate translation: “in God’s wise plan” or ”in God’s wise thinking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 21 odyk figs-synecdoche ὁ κόσμος 1 Here, Paul uses the word translated **world** to refer to the humans that are part of the **world**. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate **world** with a word or phrase that refers to people who do not believe in Christ, or you could use a phrase like “people of the world.” Alternate translation: “the people of the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 1 21 d7xw figs-possession τῆς μωρίας τοῦ κηρύγματος 1 those who believe Here, Paul uses the possessive form to speak of **preaching** that is characterized by **foolishness**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by translating **foolishness** as an adjective describing **the preaching** or the content of **the preaching**. Alternate translation: “the foolish preaching” or “the foolish message that we preach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 21 lkk1 figs-irony τῆς μωρίας 1 Paul describes the **preaching** as **foolishness**. He does not actually think his message is foolish. Instead, he speaks from the perspective of **the world** and its **wisdom**, because the message is foolish to **the world**. If this way of speaking would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an expression that indicates that Paul is using irony or speaking from another person’s perspective. Alternate translation: “the so-called foolishness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 1 22 j8nh grammar-connect-words-phrases ἐπειδὴ καὶ 1 The word translated **For** sets up the contrast between this verse and what Paul preaches in the next verse. If your language has a way to begin a contrast, you could use it here. Otherwise, you could leave the word untranslated. Alternate translation: “It is indeed true that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 22 e1sy figs-hyperbole Ἰουδαῖοι…Ἕλληνες 1 By using the words translated **Jews** and **Greeks**, Paul is not saying that every single Jewish and Greek person does these things. Instead, he is generalizing, identifying common patterns among people who are Jewish and Greek. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that not all **Jews** and **Greeks** are meant. Alternate translation: “most Jews … most Greeks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 1 22 t32r translate-unknown Ἕλληνες 1 The word translated **Greeks** does not refer only to people who are ethnically Greek. However, it also does not refer to everyone who is not a Jew. Rather, it refers to people who speak the Greek language and who value the philosophy and education that are part of Greek culture. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that identifies these people by their interests and values more than by their ethnicity. Alternate translation: “people who value Greek philosophy” or “people who had a Greek education” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 23 q8sj grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 Here, Paul continues the contrast he set up in [1:22](../01/22.md). Jews seek signs, and Greeks seek wisdom, but Paul and those like him proclaim that the Messiah was crucified. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates a strong contrast between behavior or beliefs. Alternate translation: “In contrast with them,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 1 23 v9fa figs-exclusive ἡμεῖς 1 General Information: Here, the word **we** refers to Paul and others who proclaim the Gospel with him. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 1 23 ntu3 figs-activepassive Χριστὸν ἐσταυρωμένον 1 Christ crucified If you cannot use this form in your language, you could state this in active form, with: (1) **Christ** as the subject. Alternate translation: “that Christ laid down his life on the cross” (2) an indefinite or vague subject. Alternate translation: “that they crucified Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 23 krw3 figs-metaphor σκάνδαλον 1 a stumbling block Paul uses the word translated **stumbling block** to indicate that the message about “Christ crucified” causes offense or repulses many Jews. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “a repulsive concept” or “an unacceptable idea” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 23 n6u2 figs-hyperbole Ἰουδαίοις…ἔθνεσιν 1 By using the words translated **Jews** and **Gentiles**, Paul is not saying that every single Jewish and Gentile person responds to the Gospel in these ways. Instead, he is generalizing, identifying common patterns among people who are Jewish and Gentile. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that not all **Jews** and **Gentiles** are meant. Alternate translation: “to most Jews … to most Gentiles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 1 24 xgw1 grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 Here, Paul uses the word translated **But** to contrast **those who are called** and the “Jews” and “Gentiles” in [1:23](../01/23.md). If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that contrasts people and their thinking. Alternate translation: “In contrast with them,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 1 24 i7l4 figs-infostructure αὐτοῖς…τοῖς κλητοῖς, Ἰουδαίοις τε καὶ Ἕλλησιν, Χριστὸν Θεοῦ δύναμιν, καὶ Θεοῦ σοφίαν 1 Paul here puts the people he is talking about first before he makes a statement about them. If this is unnatural in your language, you could: (1) phrase the sentence so that **those who are called** is the subject of the whole sentence. Alternate translation: “those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, know that Christ {is} the power of God and the wisdom of God” (2) move **to those who are called** to the end of the sentence. Alternate translation: “Christ {is} the power of God and the wisdom of God to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 1 24 h7iw figs-123person αὐτοῖς…τοῖς κλητοῖς 1 to those whom God has called Paul uses the third person to speak about those whom God has called because he is speaking of the group as a category in comparison with Jews who find the Gospel a stumbling block and Gentiles who find the Gospel to be foolish. He does not use the third person because he excludes himself or the Corinthians from this category. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with the first person. Alternate translation: “to those of us who are called” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1CO 1 24 appp figs-activepassive τοῖς κλητοῖς 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could write this in active form, with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “whom God has called” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 24 pt5x translate-unknown Ἕλλησιν 1 The word translated **Greeks** does not refer only to people who are ethnically Greek. However, it also does not refer to everyone who is not a Jew. Rather, it refers to people who speak the Greek language and who value the philosophy and education that are part of Greek culture. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that identifies these people by their interests and values more than by their ethnicity. Alternate translation: “people who value Greek philosophy” or “people who had a Greek education” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 24 hu1s figs-metonymy Χριστὸν 1 Christ as the power and the wisdom of God Here, the word **Christ** could refer to: (1) the message about the work of Christ. Alternate translation: “the message about Christ” (2) the work of Christ, especially his death. Alternate translation: “Christ’s work” or “Christ’s death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 1 24 w9vm figs-possession Θεοῦ δύναμιν 1 the power … of God Here, Paul uses the possessive form to speak of **power** that comes from **God**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that **God** is the source of the **power**. Alternate translation: “power from God” or “God acting powerfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 24 p1hu figs-possession Θεοῦ σοφίαν 1 the wisdom of God Here, Paul uses the possessive form to speak of **wisdom** that comes from **God**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that **God** is the source of the **wisdom**. Alternate translation: “wisdom from God” or “God giving wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 25 fst8 grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 With the word translated **For**, Paul introduces the reason why the seemingly foolish message about Christ is power and wisdom ([1:24](../01/24.md)). If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that introduces a reason or a short phrase that connects this verse to the previous verse or verses. Alternate translation: “God works through foolishness because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 25 h9hh figs-irony τὸ μωρὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ…τὸ ἀσθενὲς τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the foolishness of God is wiser than people, and the weakness of God is stronger than people Paul describes God as having **foolishness** and **weakness**. He does not actually think that God is weak and foolish, but he is speaking from the perspective of the world and its wisdom. From the perspective of the world, Paul’s God is indeed foolish and weak. What Paul means to say is that what the world sees as **foolishness** and **weakness** is still **wiser** and **stronger** than anything that humans have to offer. If this way of speaking would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an expression that indicates that Paul is using irony or speaking from another person’s perspective. Alternate translation: “the apparent foolishness of God … the apparent weakness of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 1 25 esc9 figs-gendernotations τῶν ἀνθρώπων -1 The words translated **men** in both places in this verse do not refer just to male people. Rather, Paul means any human of any sex. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could use both genders or a gender-neutral word. Alternate translation: “women and men … women and men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 1 25 jydy figs-possession τὸ μωρὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ…ἐστίν 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **foolishness** that comes from **God**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a phrase that indicates that **God** does **foolishness**. Alternate translation: “the foolish things that God does are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 25 uciw figs-ellipsis σοφώτερον τῶν ἀνθρώπων ἐστίν 1 Paul does not say everything that is needed in many languages to make a complete comparison. If the sentence would be misunderstood in your language, you could add whatever is needed to make the comparison complete, such “the wisdom.” Alternate translation: “is wiser than the wisdom of men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 1 25 gnpe figs-possession τὸ ἀσθενὲς τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **weakness** that comes from **God**. If it this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate this idea with a phrase that indicates that **God** does **weakness**. Alternate translation: “the weak things that God does {are}” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 25 i7pl figs-ellipsis ἰσχυρότερον τῶν ἀνθρώπων 1 Paul does not say everything that is needed in many languages to make a complete comparison. If this sentence would be misunderstood in your language, you could add whatever is needed to make the comparison complete, such “the strength.” Alternate translation: “stronger than the strength of men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 1 26 je03 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, the word translated **For** introduces proof for or examples of what Paul has claimed so far about God choosing to work through foolishness and weakness. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces examples or support. Alternate translation: “For instance,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 26 c8sf translate-unknown τὴν κλῆσιν ὑμῶν 1 Here, the word translated **calling** primarily to who they were at the time of their **calling**. It does not primarily refer to God’s act in **calling** them. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood language, you can emphasize this aspect in your translation. Alternate translation: “who you were at your calling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 1 26 xq6b figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 Here, the word translated **brothers** does not just refer to men but to people of any sex. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could: (1) use a non-gendered word. Alternate translation: “siblings” (2) use words for both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 1 26 w6l1 figs-litotes οὐ πολλοὶ -1 Not many of you Here, Paul uses a form that can more easily be stated in inverse form in many languages. If: (1) your language would most naturally put **not** with the verb instead of **many**, you could do so here. Alternate translation: “many {were} not … many {were} not … and many {were} not” (2) your language would most naturally use a word that indicates a small number of people here, you could use it without **not**. Alternate translation: “few … few … and few” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1CO 1 26 unig writing-pronouns οὐ πολλοὶ -1 While Paul does not explicitly state that **not many** refers to the Corinthians, he is referring to the Corinthians when he says **not many**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could insert “you.” Alternate translation: “not many of you … not many of you … and not many of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 1 26 camj figs-infostructure οὐ πολλοὶ σοφοὶ κατὰ σάρκα, οὐ πολλοὶ δυνατοί, οὐ πολλοὶ εὐγενεῖς 1 Paul here uses the phrase **according to the flesh** to clarify what he means by **wise**, **powerful**, and **of noble birth**, not just **wise**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could move **according to the flesh** so that it is clear that it modifies all three of these statements. Alternate translation: “according to the flesh, not many {were} wise, not many {were} powerful, and not many {were} of noble birth (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 1 26 pws2 figs-idiom κατὰ σάρκα 1 wise according to the flesh Here, Paul uses the phrase **according to the flesh** to refer to human ways of thinking. If the meaning of thsi phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idiom **according to the flesh** with a phrase that refers to human values or perspectives. Alternate translation: “according to human definitions” or “according to what humans value” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 1 27 qjvd grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 Here, Paul introduces a contrast. hH is contrasting **God chose the foolish things** with what a person might expect about how God would treat foolish and weak people like the Corinthians. He is not contrasting how **God chose the foolish things** with the statements in the previous verse about the foolishness and weakness of the Corinthians. If this contrast would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that Paul writes **But** to contrast with what a person might expect about God. Alternate translation: “Despite what might be expected,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 1 27 qv5l figs-parallelism τοῦ κόσμου ἐξελέξατο ὁ Θεός, ἵνα καταισχύνῃ…τοῦ κόσμου ἐξελέξατο ὁ Θεός, ἵνα καταισχύνῃ 2<br> God chose … wise. God chose … strong Here, Paul repeats the exact same words: **God chose … in order that he might shame**. He does this because repeating the same idea with different examples was more convincing than just one example in his culture. If possible, translate these words the same way in both parts of the sentence to preserve the parallelism. If it is necessary, you could remove or change some of the words if it makes the sentence sound more convincing, which is what Paul intended. Alternate translation: “God chose … of the world in order that he might shame … he chose … of the world to shame” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1CO 1 27 r4ly figs-possession τὰ μωρὰ τοῦ κόσμου…τὰ ἀσθενῆ τοῦ κόσμου 1 Paul uses the possessive form twice to clarify that the **foolish things** and **weak things** are only **foolish** and **weak** from the perspective of the **world**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a phrase such as “according to the world.” Alternate translation: “things that are foolish according to the world … things that are weak according to the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 27 gdob figs-synecdoche τοῦ κόσμου -1 When Paul uses **the world** in this context, he is not referring primarily to everything that God has made. Rather, he uses **the world** to refer to human beings. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an expression that refers to human beings in general. Alternate translation: “of people … of people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 1 27 iwho grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα -1 Here, the word translated **in order that** could introduce: (1) the purpose for which **God chose the foolish things of the world** and **the weak things of the world**. Alternate translation: “so that … so that” (2) what happened when **God chose the foolish things of the world** and **the weak things of the world**. Alternate translation: “with the result that … with the result that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 1 27 vtzx figs-nominaladj τοὺς σοφούς…τὰ ἰσχυρά 1 Paul uses the adjective **wise** to describe a group of people, and he uses the adjective **strong** to describe a group of people and things. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate these two adjectives with noun phrases. Alternate translation: “people who are wise … people and things which are strong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 1 28 tqxg figs-parallelism τοῦ κόσμου…ἐξελέξατο ὁ Θεός,…ἵνα 1 In this verse, Paul repeats many of the words from the parallel parts of previous verse. He does this because repeating the same idea with different examples was more convincing than just one example in his culture. If possible, translate these words the same way that you translated them in [1:27](../01/27.md). If it is necessary, you could remove or change some of the words if it makes the sentence sound more convincing, which is what Paul intended. Alternate translation: “he chose … of the world … in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1CO 1 28 k3kd translate-unknown τὰ ἀγενῆ 1 what is low and despised The word translated **base things** is the opposite of the word translated “of noble birth” in [1:26](../01/26.md). Paul uses it to refer to things and people that were not considered important or powerful in his culture. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to people and things that have low status or low importance. Alternate translation: “the marginalized things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 28 d5pa translate-unknown τὰ ἐξουθενημένα 1 While the word translated **base things** refers to a person’s status or a thing’s status, the word translated **despised things** refers to how people treat other people or things that have low status. Usually, people badly treat others whom they consider to be of lower status, ignoring them or mocking them. That is what Paul means when he says **despised**. If this might be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to how people treat others of lower status badly. Alternate translation: “the scorned things” or “the things people treat with contempt” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 28 wir6 figs-possession τὰ ἀγενῆ τοῦ κόσμου καὶ τὰ ἐξουθενημένα 1 Here, Paul uses **of the world** to describe both **the base things** and **the despised things**. As in [1:27](../01/27.md), he uses the possessive form to clarify that **base things and the despised things** are only **base** and **despised** from the perspective of the world. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a phrase such as “according to the world.” Alternate translation: “the base things and the despised things according to the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 1 28 unyl figs-synecdoche τοῦ κόσμου 1 When Paul uses **the world** in this context, he is not referring primarily to everything that God has made. Rather, he uses **the world** to refer to human beings. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an expression that refers to human beings in general. Alternate translation: “of people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 1 28 gj19 figs-hyperbole τὰ μὴ ὄντα 1 nothing, to bring to nothing things that are held as valuable Here, Paul further describes the **base things** and **the despised things** as if they were **things that are not**. He does not mean that the **base** and **despised things** do not exist. Instead, he is identifying how people often ignore the **base** and **despised things**, just as if they did not exist at all. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “the things that people ignore” or “the nobodies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 1 28 f11p grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 things that are held as valuable Here, the word translated **in order that** could introduce: (1) the purpose for which **God chose the base things and the despised things of the world, the things that are not**. Alternate translation: “so that” (2) what happened when **God chose the base things and the despised things of the world, the things that are not**. Alternate translation: “with the result that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 1 28 f9s5 translate-unknown καταργήσῃ 1 The word translated **he might bring to nothing** refers to making something ineffective, useless, or irrelevant. What Paul means is that God has made **the things that are** unimportant and without function because he instead worked through **the things that are not**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates that a person has acted so that something else is no longer important, useful, or effective. Alternate translation: “he might sideline” or “render ineffective” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 1 28 etjg figs-idiom τὰ ὄντα 1 In this context, **the things that are** does not refer primarily to things that exist. Rather, it refers primarily to things that are important in society and culture. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that refers to important or significant things and people in your culture. Alternate translation: “the things that people care about” or “the somebodies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 1 29 unr6 grammar-connect-logic-goal ὅπως 1 The word translated **so that** introduces a final goal. In [1:28–29](../01/28–29.md), Paul uses “in order that” to introduce immediate goals, but here, **so that** is the overall goal. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a final or overall goal, making sure to distinguish it from the words you used in [1:28–29](../01/28–29.md), if possible. Alternate translation: “so that, in the end,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 1 29 q4gh figs-idiom μὴ…πᾶσα σὰρξ 1 Paul uses the word **flesh** to refer to humans. Unlike in other places in his letters, **flesh** does not indicate sinful and weak humanity. Instead, it simply refers to humans compared to their creator, God. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that commonly refers to people in general, especially if it includes the idea that people are created by God. Alternate translation: “no creature” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 1 29 fdv5 figs-metaphor ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul speaks of people not boasting **before God**, as if they were standing in front of **God**. With this way of talking, Paul means that people are acting as if they could see God and God could see them. This means that they recognize that God knows what they say and do. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that someone recognizes that God knows what they are doing and thinking. Alternate translation: “when they know that God sees them” or “while God looks on” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 30 yk4y grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 The word translated **But** introduces a slight contrast between people who might boast and the Corinthians, who are united to Christ. However, **But** primarily means that Paul is moving to the next step in his argument. If **But** would not express this idea in your language, you could use a word that indicates that the author is moving on to the next step, or you could leave it untranslated. Alternate translation: “Now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 1 30 fmr3 figs-activepassive ἐξ αὐτοῦ…ὑμεῖς ἐστε ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 because of him While **because of him, you are in Christ Jesus** is not written the way most passive sentences are, this construction is like a passive sentence and may be difficult to represent in your language. What **because of him** means is that God is the source of how the Corinthians **are in Christ Jesus**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could rephrase these words so that “God” is the subject who makes it so that **you are in Christ Jesus**. Alternate translation: “he puts you in Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 30 alyj writing-pronouns αὐτοῦ 1 The word translated **of him** refers to God. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use the name “God” here. Alternate translation: “of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 1 30 a986 figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ Jesus** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ Jesus**, or united to Christ Jesus, explains how **Christ Jesus** can be **wisdom**, **righteousness**, **sanctification**, and **redemption** for the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “in union with Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 30 f1at figs-metaphor ὃς ἐγενήθη σοφία ἡμῖν ἀπὸ Θεοῦ, δικαιοσύνη τε, καὶ ἁγιασμὸς, καὶ ἀπολύτρωσις; 1 Christ Jesus, who was made for us wisdom from God Here, Paul uses language and structure that is very similar to what he used in [1:24](../01/24.md). Refer back to that verse to help you translate this verse. When Paul says that Jesus **was made … wisdom** and **righteousness, and also sanctification and redemption**, he does not mean that Jesus has become these abstract ideas. Instead, he means that Jesus is the source of **wisdom**, **righteousness**, **sanctification**, and **redemption** for **us** who are **in Christ Jesus**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could include some clarifying words such as “the source of.” Alternate translation: “who was made for us the source of wisdom from God, the source of righteousness, and also the source of sanctification and redemption” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 1 30 lxpy figs-activepassive ὃς ἐγενήθη σοφία ἡμῖν ἀπὸ Θεοῦ 1 If you cannot write **who was made for us wisdom from God** in this form, you could state it in active form. Alternate translation: “whom God made for us wisdom from himself” or “whom God made for us wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 1 30 yyns writing-pronouns ὃς 1 The word **who** refers to **Christ Jesus**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could write the name of **Christ Jesus** instead of using **who** or along with **who**. Alternate translation: “the Christ who” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 1 30 g5um figs-abstractnouns σοφία…ἀπὸ Θεοῦ, δικαιοσύνη τε, καὶ ἁγιασμὸς, καὶ ἀπολύτρωσις 1 If you cannot write the abstract nouns **wisdom**, **righteousness**, **sanctification**, and **redemption** in your language, you could express their meaning by using verbs with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “a person through whom God taught us, judged us not guilty, and also set us apart for himself and set us free” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 1 31 dm5h grammar-connect-logic-result ἵνα 1 Paul uses the word translated **so that** to introduce (1) the result of everything he has said about God being the one who chooses and acts. If you use one of the following alternate translations, you may need to add period before it. Alternate translation: “Because of all this” or “Therefore” (2) the purpose for which God chose the weak and foolish. Alternate translation: “in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 1 31 gtv0 figs-ellipsis ἵνα καθὼς γέγραπται 1 Here, Paul leaves out some words that might be required in your language to make a complete thought. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply the needed words, such as “we should do.” Alternate translation: “so that we should behave just as it is written” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 1 31 paga figs-infostructure καθὼς γέγραπται, ὁ καυχώμενος, ἐν Κυρίῳ καυχάσθω 1 If it would be unnatural in your language to put **just as it is written** before the quotation, you could put **just as it is written** at the end of the sentence. Alternate translation: “‘Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord,’ just as it is written” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 1 31 ebvw writing-quotations καθὼς γέγραπται 1 In Paul’s culture, **just as it is written** is a normal way to introduce a quotation from an important text, in this case, the Old Testament book written by Jeremiah the prophet. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “as it can be read in the Old Testament” or “according to Jeremiah the prophet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 1 31 fym9 figs-imperative ὁ καυχώμενος, ἐν Κυρίῳ καυχάσθω 1 Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could (1) translate this one as a conditional sentence, adding “if.” Alternate translation: “If people want to boast, they should boast in the Lord” (2) translate this one using a word such as “should.” Alternate translation: “Anyone who boasts should boast in the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 1 31 mo0q figs-idiom ἐν Κυρίῳ καυχάσθω 1 When Paul says that someone can **boast in the Lord**, he does not mean that they are inside **the Lord**. Rather, he means that they are boasting about **the Lord** and what he has done. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that someone is boasting about someone else. Alternate translation: “Let … boast with reference to the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 2 intro k86p 0 # 1 Corinthians 2 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>2. Against divisions (1:10–4:15)<br> * Paul’s attitude among the Corinthians (2:1–5)<br> * The wisdom of God, revealed by the Spirit (2:6–16)<br><br>Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with the words of verses 9 and 16, which are from the Old Testament. Verse 9 quotes from Isaiah 64:4, and verse 16 quotes from Isaiah 40.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Wisdom and foolishness<br><br>Throughout this chapter, Paul continues to speak of both wisdom and foolishness. Just as in chapter one, these words do not refer primarily to how much or how little education someone has. Rather, they refer to how well or how poorly someone plans actions and knows how the world works. Continue to use the words you chose in chapter one. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/fool]])<br><br>### Power and weakness<br><br>Throughout this chapter, Paul continues to speak of both power and weakness. Just as in chapter one, these words primarily refer to how much influence and authority a person has and to how much they can accomplish. Someone who has “power” has much influence and authority and can accomplish many things. Someone who has “weakness” does not have much influence and authority and is not able to accomplish many things. Continue to use the words that you chose in chapter one. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/power]])<br><br>### The Spirit<br><br>Paul first mentions the “Spirit” in this chapter. In most places where this word appears, it refers to God’s Spirit (the Holy Spirit), who is the third person of the Trinity. However, in two places in this chapter, the word “spirit” refers to something else. First, “spirit of the world” in [2:12](../02/12.md) refers to a “spirit” that is not God’s Spirit and that originates from within the world. Paul says that this kind of “spirit” is not the kind that believers in Jesus have received. Second, the “spirit of a man” in [2:11](../02/11.md) refers to the non-physical part of a person. It does not refer to God’s Spirit or to something that God’s Spirit replaces. Sometimes Paul uses the adjective form “spiritual” ([2:13](../02/13.md); [2:15](../02/15.md)) and the adverb form “spiritually” ([2:14](../02/14.md)). Both of these forms also refer to God’s Spirit. If someone or something is “spiritual,” that means that the person or thing has or is characterized by God’s Spirit. If something is done “spiritually,” that means that it is done by the power of God’s Spirit. Once, Paul uses the word “natural” ([2:14](../02/14.md)), which is the opposite of “spiritual.” “Natural” means that the person or thing does not have and is not characterized by God’s Spirit. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holyspirit]])<br><br>### The Mystery<br><br>Paul speaks of a “mystery” in [2:1](../02/01.md); [2:7](../02/07.md). This “mystery” is not some secret truth that is hard to understand and that only a few privileged individuals can learn about. Instead, it refers to God’s plans that once were unknown but are now known to all his people. As Paul has already stated in chapter one, these plans center around the cross, which seems to be foolishness. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reveal]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### The deep things of God<br><br>In [2:10](../02/10.md), Paul says that the Spirit searches “the deep things of God.” Paul talks about God as if he were a well or a lake with parts that are deep down in order to identify things about God that humans cannot understand or find it difficult to understand. He does not mean that God is a being or location with deep parts. See the note on this verse for translation options.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### The rulers of this age<br><br>In
1CO 2 1 pxmq grammar-connect-words-phrases κἀγὼ 1 Here, the word translated **And I** introduces how Paul himself fits into the pattern he introduced in the last chapter. Just as God chooses the weak and the foolish, Paul preaches the Gospel in weak and foolish ways. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that introduces an example or a comparison. Alternate translation: “In the same way, I” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 1 qvj7 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Although the word translated **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to both men or women. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 2 1 koh8 figs-explicitinfo ἐλθὼν πρὸς ὑμᾶς…ἦλθον οὐ 1 Here, Paul twice says that he has **come** to them. This is a structure that makes sense in Paul’s language. However, if this repetition would be misunderstood in your language, you could: (1) translate the first **come** with a different word, such as “visit.” Alternate translation: “having visited you, did not come” (2) combine these two phrases. Alternate translation: “did not come to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo]])
1CO 2 1 o0vw grammar-connect-time-background ἐλθὼν πρὸς ὑμᾶς 1 The phrase **having come to you** gives background information. It describes what happened before Paul **did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify by using a word that introduces action that has already occurred. Alternate translation: “after I came to you” or “when I came to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background]])
1CO 2 1 o3ks figs-possession ὑπεροχὴν λόγου ἢ σοφίας 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **speech** and **wisdom** that have **superiority**. If the meaning of this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by translating **superiority** as an adjective. Alternate translation: “superior speech or superior wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 1 ikmt translate-unknown ὑπεροχὴν λόγου ἢ σοφίας 1 The word translated **superiority** refers to how something or someone has more authority, skill, knowledge, or power than something or someone else. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable word or a short description. Alternate translation: “greatness of speech or of wisdom” or “speech or wisdom that was better than what others have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 1 kxie grammar-connect-time-simultaneous καταγγέλλων ὑμῖν τὸ μυστήριον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 The phrase **proclaiming to you the mystery of God** gives the situation in which Paul **did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could make it explicit by including a word that indicates that these things are happening at the same time. Alternate translation: “when I proclaimed to you the mystery of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 2 1 nam8 figs-possession τὸ μυστήριον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **mystery** that is: (1) revealed by God. Alternate translation: “the mystery given by God” or “the mystery from God” (2) about God. Alternate translation: “the mystery about God” or “the mystery concerning God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 2 a2g9 figs-hyperbole οὐ…ἔκρινά τι εἰδέναι ἐν ὑμῖν, εἰ μὴ Ἰησοῦν Χριστὸν 1 I decided to know nothing … except Jesus Christ Here, Paul speaks as if he decides to forget all his knowledge and become ignorant of everything except for **Jesus Christ**. This is an exaggeration that Paul uses to emphasize his focus on **Jesus Christ** as the one thing he wished to tell the Corinthians about. If this exaggeration would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a phrase that indicates that it is an exaggeration or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “I decided to speak among you only about Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 2 2 nk9r grammar-connect-exceptions οὐ…ἔκρινά τι εἰδέναι ἐν ὑμῖν, εἰ μὴ Ἰησοῦν Χριστὸν, καὶ τοῦτον ἐσταυρωμένον 1 If it would appear in your language that Paul makes a strong statement about knowing nothing and then contradicts it, you could reword this sentence so that there is no **except**. Alternate translation: “I decided that I would only know among you Jesus Christ and him crucified” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions]])
1CO 2 2 zvge figs-activepassive τοῦτον ἐσταυρωμένον 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form, using a phrase such as “he died on the cross” or adding a vague subject. Alternate translation: “how they crucified him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 3 xen3 grammar-connect-words-phrases κἀγὼ 1 Here, the word translated **And I** is the same word Paul used to introduce [2:1](../02/01.md). It again introduces how Paul himself fits into the pattern he introduced in the last chapter. Just as God chooses the weak and the foolish, Paul himself was weak and foolish. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that introduces an example or a comparison. Alternate translation: “Just as I did not use superior words and wisdom, I myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 3 s9lp κἀγὼ…ἐγενόμην πρὸς ὑμᾶς 1 I was with you Alternate translation: “And I remained with you”
1CO 2 3 e8li figs-abstractnouns ἐν ἀσθενείᾳ, καὶ ἐν φόβῳ, καὶ ἐν τρόμῳ πολλῷ, 1 in weakness If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the abstract nouns **weakness**, **fear**, and **trembling** with adjectives or verbs. Alternate translation: “as a weak, afraid, and frequently trembling person” or “while I ailed, feared, and often trembled” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 2 4 lewv figs-ellipsis ὁ λόγος μου καὶ τὸ κήρυγμά μου, οὐκ ἐν πειθοῖς σοφίας λόγοις 1 Here, Paul does not use the verb **were** in his sentence. In English, this word is essential, so it has been included in the ULT. If you can translate this sentence without **were**, you could do so here. Otherwise, you could retain **were** as it appears in the ULT. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 2 4 g5my figs-abstractnouns ὁ λόγος μου καὶ τὸ κήρυγμά μου, οὐκ 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns **word** and **proclamation** with verbs. Alternate translation: “I spoke and proclaimed a message not” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 2 4 m23e figs-abstractnouns ἐν πειθοῖς σοφίας λόγοις 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **words** with a verb such as “speak” and the idea behind the abstract noun **wisdom** with an adverb such as “wisely.” Alternate translation: “based on speaking persuasively and wisely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 2 4 hl7e figs-possession σοφίας λόγοις 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to identify the **words** as containing **wisdom**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by translating **wisdom** with an adjective such as “wise.” Alternate translation: “wise words” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 4 chtx figs-ellipsis ἀλλ’ ἐν ἀποδείξει Πνεύματος καὶ δυνάμεως; 1 Here, Paul has omitted some words that may be necessary to make a complete thought in your language. If the sentence would be misunderstood without these words, you could add them here, supplying the idea from earlier in the verse. Alternate translation: “but my word and my proclamation were with a demonstration of the Spirit and of power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 2 4 kgnb figs-abstractnouns ἐν ἀποδείξει Πνεύματος καὶ δυνάμεως 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns **demonstration** and **power** with verbs. Alternate translation: “based on demonstrating the Spirit and how he works powerfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 2 4 qrfj figs-possession ἀποδείξει Πνεύματος καὶ δυνάμεως 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **demonstration** that: (1) comes from **the Spirit** and **power**. Alternate translation: “a demonstration by the Spirit and by power” (2) proves that the **Spirit** and **power** are present. Alternate translation: “a demonstration of the presence of the Spirit and of power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 4 s83h translate-unknown ἀποδείξει 1 The word translated **demonstration** refers to proving or showing that something is true. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable expression. Alternate translation: “a validation” or “a confirmation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 4 s6h6 figs-hendiadys Πνεύματος καὶ δυνάμεως 1 This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with **and**. The word **Spirit** tells who is acting in **power**. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use **and**. Alternate translation: “of the Spirit’s power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1CO 2 5 av3t figs-idiom ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν, μὴ ᾖ ἐν σοφίᾳ ἀνθρώπων, ἀλλ’ ἐν δυνάμει Θεοῦ 1 Here, the phrase translated **faith … in** refers to believing something (**faith**) based on (**in**) something else. It does not refer, as it does in many other places, to believing in or trusting in something. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use translate **in** with a word or phrase that indicates the basis of the **faith**. Alternate translation: “your faith might not be based on the wisdom of men but based on the power of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 2 5 ovoj figs-activepassive ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν, μὴ ᾖ 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form by translating **faith** with a verb such as “trust” or “believe.” Alternate translation: “you might believe not” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 5 rkoy figs-possession σοφίᾳ ἀνθρώπων 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe what **men** think is **wisdom**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by translating **men** with an adjective such as “human.” Alternate translation: “in human wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 5 cdw7 figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπων 1 Although the word translated **men** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “of people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 2 5 b29d figs-possession δυνάμει Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to speak of **power** that **God** has and shows. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by translating **power** as a verb or adverb with **God** as the subject. Alternate translation: “God working powerfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 6 azm7 grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Now we do speak Here, the word translated **Now** introduces a contrast with what Paul has said in [2:4–5](../02/4–5.md). In those verses, he said that he did not speak with **wisdom**. In this verse, however, he clarifies that he does **speak** with a kind of **wisdom**. If **Now** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that introduces a contrast. Alternate translation: “In spite of this,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 6 uena figs-exclusive λαλοῦμεν 1 Here, **we** refers to Paul and others like him who preach the Gospel. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 2 6 uka3 figs-abstractnouns σοφίαν -1 speak wisdom If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **wisdom** by using an adverb such as “wisely” or an adjective such as “wise.” Alternate translation: “wisely … the wise speech” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 2 6 eq1q figs-nominaladj τοῖς τελείοις 1 the mature Paul is using the adjective **mature** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate **mature** with a noun phrase or a relative clause. Alternate translation: “those who are mature” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 2 6 tm2e figs-possession σοφίαν δὲ, οὐ τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου, οὐδὲ τῶν ἀρχόντων τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **wisdom** that fits with the standards and values of **this age** and that **rulers of this age** value. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using verbal phrases. Alternate translation: “but not wisdom that fits with this age nor wisdom that the rulers of this age value” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 6 xn85 figs-ellipsis σοφίαν δὲ, οὐ 1 Here, Paul omits some words that may be needed in your language to make this a complete thought. If so, you could supply words from early in the verse. Alternate translation: “but we do not speak wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 2 6 xydl figs-possession τῶν ἀρχόντων τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **rulers** who are in power during **this age**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using language about the time in which the rulers have power or the place in which they have power. Alternate translation: “of the rulers who have power now” or “of the rulers who control this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 6 endk translate-unknown τῶν ἀρχόντων τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου 1 The **rulers of this age** could refer to: (1) humans who have power. Alternate translation: “of the people who rule this age” (2) spiritual beings that have power. Alternate translation: “of the spiritual powers that rule this age” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 6 tbnh translate-unknown τῶν καταργουμένων 1 Paul has already used the word translated **passing away** in [1:28](../01/28.md), where it is translated **bring to nothing**. Here, the word means that the **rulers** are becoming ineffective, useless, or irrelevant, which means that they will no longer have power. If possible, translate this word like you did in [1:28](../01/28.md). Alternate translation: “who are becoming ineffective” or “who are losing their power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 7 l064 figs-exclusive λαλοῦμεν…ἡμῶν 1 Here, the word **we** refers to Paul and anyone who preaches the Gospel. It does not include the Corinthians. However, the word **our** does include the Corinthians along with Paul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 2 7 bsme figs-possession Θεοῦ σοφίαν 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **wisdom** that **God** would consider to be true **wisdom**. This also means that the **wisdom** comes from **God**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that the **wisdom** comes from **God**. Alternate translation: “the wisdom from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 7 wy8u figs-abstractnouns σοφίαν 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun wisdom by using an adverb such as “wisely” or an adjective such as “wise.” Alternate translation: “the wise message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 2 7 xbye figs-explicitinfo ἐν μυστηρίῳ τὴν ἀποκεκρυμμένην 1 Here, Paul uses both **has been hidden** and **in a mystery**. Both of these phrases refer to something that is secret. If using both of these phrases is redundant and would be misunderstood in your language, you could use only one. Alternate translation: “that has been hidden” or “that is a mystery” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo]])
1CO 2 7 fd3s figs-activepassive τὴν ἀποκεκρυμμένην 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form, with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “that God has hidden” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 7 ctb4 writing-pronouns ἣν 1 The word translated **that** refers to **the wisdom**, not **a mystery**. If what **that** refers to would be misunderstood in your language, you could repeat **wisdom** here. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add a comma before it. Alternate translation: “the wisdom that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 2 7 k2ct figs-idiom πρὸ τῶν αἰώνων 1 before the ages Paul uses the phrase translated **before the ages** to say that God **predestined** before he made anything. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “before the beginning of time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 2 7 q2z9 grammar-connect-logic-goal εἰς δόξαν ἡμῶν 1 for our glory Here, the phrase translated **for our glory** introduces the purpose for which **God predestined** the **wisdom**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a purpose. Alternate translation: “so that we might have glory” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 2 8 bw5i writing-pronouns ἣν 1 Just as in [2:7](../02/07.md), the word translated **which** refers to “the wisdom,” not to “a mystery.” If what **which** refers to would be misunderstood in your language, you could repeat “wisdom” here. Alternate translation: “the wisdom that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 2 8 imbk figs-possession τῶν ἀρχόντων τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου 1 Just as in [2:6](../02/06.md), Paul uses the possessive form to describe **rulers** who are in power during **this age**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using language about the time in which **the rulers** have power or the place in which they have power. Alternate translation: “of the rulers who have power now” or “of the rulers who control this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 8 ur15 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 The word translated **for** introduces Paul’s proof that **the rulers** did not understand. If the meaning of this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea using a word that customarily introduces proof or evidence. Alternate translation: “which is true because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 8 ji1o grammar-connect-condition-contrary εἰ…ἔγνωσαν, οὐκ ἂν τὸν Κύριον τῆς δόξης ἐσταύρωσαν; 1 Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a scenario that he knows is not true. He wants to point out that the **rulers** were the ones who **crucified** Jesus, and this proves that they did not understand God’s wisdom. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by reversing the two clauses and making **they understood it** negative and **they would not have crucified the Lord of glory** positive. Alternate translation: “they crucified the Lord glory, which means that they did not understand it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]])
1CO 2 8 zc89 figs-possession τὸν Κύριον τῆς δόξης 1 the Lord of glory Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **the Lord** who has **glory**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by translating **glory** with an adjective or a relative clause. Alternate translation: “the Lord who has glory” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 9 fu1y grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 Things that no eye … arisen, the things … who love him The word translated **But** introduces a contrast with the hypothetical statement in [2:8](../02/08.md) about how the rulers would not have crucified the Lord if they had understood God’s wisdom. The **But** reminds the reader that this hypothetical statement is not true, and Paul wishes to introduce further statements about how people do not understand God’s wisdom. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave **But** untranslated or use a word or phrase that would signal that Paul is now longer speaking hypothetically. Alternate translation: “But no,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 2 9 wuar figs-ellipsis ἀλλὰ καθὼς γέγραπται 1 Here, Paul has omitted some words that may be necessary in your language to form a complete thought. If necessary, you can supply a summary from [2:8](../02/08.md) of what the rulers did not understand and how they acted. Alternate translation: “But the rulers did not understand, just as it is written” or “But the rulers did do these things, just as it is written” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 2 9 qcb2 writing-quotations καθὼς γέγραπται 1 In Paul’s culture,** just as it is written** is a normal way to introduce a quotation from an important text, in this case, the Old Testament book written by Isaiah the prophet. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “as it can be read in the Old Testament” or “according to Isaiah the prophet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 2 9 pt3m figs-infostructure ἃ ὀφθαλμὸς οὐκ εἶδεν, καὶ οὖς οὐκ ἤκουσεν, καὶ ἐπὶ καρδίαν ἀνθρώπου οὐκ ἀνέβη, ἃ ἡτοίμασεν ὁ Θεὸς τοῖς ἀγαπῶσιν αὐτόν 1 In this quotation, **What eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and has not arisen in the heart of man** are the **things God has prepared**. If hearing **What eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and has not arisen in the heart of man** before **God has prepared** would be misunderstood in your language, you could reverse the order. Alternate translation: “God has prepared for those who love him what eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and has not arisen in the heart of man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 2 9 j9ib figs-synecdoche ἃ ὀφθαλμὸς οὐκ εἶδεν, καὶ οὖς οὐκ ἤκουσεν, καὶ ἐπὶ καρδίαν ἀνθρώπου οὐκ ἀνέβη 1 Things that no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has imagined Here, the words **eye**, **ear**, and **heart** refer to the parts of the person that see, hear, and think. In each case, the word means that the whole person sees, hears, and thinks. If this way of speaking would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that refers to a person as a whole instead of just a part of that person. Alternate translation: “What a person has not seen, and a person has not heard, and has not arisen when a person thinks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 2 9 xe03 figs-idiom ἐπὶ καρδίαν ἀνθρώπου οὐκ ἀνέβη 1 The phrase **heart of man** refers to the place where humans think. If something “arises” there, that means that a human has thought about that thing. If the meaning of **arisen in the heart of man** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “man has not thought about” or “man has not imagined” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 2 9 pigi figs-possession καρδίαν ἀνθρώπου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **heart** that belongs to a **man**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate **man** with an adjective such as “human.” Alternate translation: “the human heart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 9 yw0a figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπου 1 Although the word translated **man** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “of people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 2 9 us5y grammar-collectivenouns ἀνθρώπου 1 Here, even though **man** is written in singular form, it refers to anyone who would be considered a **man**, that is, any human. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you can make **man** plural. Alternate translation: “of men” or “of humans” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
1CO 2 10 z472 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 The word translated **For** introduces an explanation of the last line of the quote from [2:9](../02/09.md): “these things God has prepared for those who love him.” Paul wants to explain that these are the things that **God has revealed** to those who believe. If the meaning of **For** would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave the word untranslated or use a word or phrase that introduces an explanation. Alternate translation: “In fact,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 10 hp6w grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 2 Here, the word translated **For** introduces an explanation for why God’s revelation is made **to us through the Spirit**. It is because the **Spirit searches everything** and knows everything that is **revealed**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable word or phrase that introduces this kind of explanation. Alternate translation: “He works through the Spirit because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 10 zccl translate-unknown ἐραυνᾷ 1 Here, the word translated **searches** refers to how someone can explore or know about something else. If the meaning of **searches** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use another word for “exploring” or “knowing.” Alternate translation: “comprehends” or “knows about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 10 bhyv translate-unknown τὰ βάθη τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 The phrase **deep things of God** refers to things about God that are hard to understand or things about God that no one can fully comprehend. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable expression or state the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “secrets about God” or “things about God that no one knows” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 11 h4p8 figs-rquestion τίς γὰρ οἶδεν ἀνθρώπων τὰ τοῦ ἀνθρώπου, εἰ μὴ τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τὸ ἐν αὐτῷ? 1 For who knows a person’s thoughts except the spirit of the person in him? Here, Paul uses question because he thinks that everyone will agree with him, for this information is common knowledge in his culture. He does not use a question because he is not sure about the answer. If using a question here would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a form that presents information that everyone knows and agrees with. Alternate translation: “For it is a well-known fact that no one among men knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man that {is} within him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 2 11 gw3u grammar-connect-exceptions τίς γὰρ οἶδεν ἀνθρώπων τὰ τοῦ ἀνθρώπου, εἰ μὴ τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τὸ ἐν αὐτῷ? οὕτως καὶ τὰ τοῦ Θεοῦ οὐδεὶς ἔγνωκεν, εἰ μὴ τὸ Πνεῦμα τοῦ Θεοῦ. 1 no one knows the deep things of God except the Spirit of God In both parts of this verse, Paul makes a negative claim and then gives an exception to that claim. If it would appear in your language that Paul is contradicting himself, you could use a different structure that also singles out one possibility and negates all other possibilities. Alternate translation: “For the spirit of the man that {is} within him is the only one among men that knows the things of a man, right? So also, the Spirit of God is the only one that knows the things of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions]])
1CO 2 11 li8e figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπων…ἀνθρώπου…τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τὸ ἐν αὐτῷ 1 Although the words translated **men**, **man**, and **him** are masculine, Paul is using them to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “among people … of a person … of the person that {is} within that person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 2 11 lmzi figs-genericnoun ἀνθρώπου…τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τὸ ἐν αὐτῷ 1 Paul uses the word **man** to speak of people in general, not one specific person. If the meaning of **man** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a form that indicates people in general in your language. Alternate translation: “of a certain man … of that certain man that {is} within him” or “of men … of men that {is} within them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 2 11 wfr2 figs-idiom τίς…ἀνθρώπων 1 The phrase **who among men** is a way of asking about people or things that belong to a specific category. Paul means to ask if there are any **men** who can know **the things of a man**. He uses this phrase because God also **knows the things of a man**, so he must limit his question to only **men**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a phrase that asks about people or things, but only those that belong in a specific category. Alternate translation: “which man” or “out of all men, who” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 2 11 mi27 figs-idiom τὰ τοῦ ἀνθρώπου…τὰ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the phrases **the things of a man** and **the things of God** to refer to everything that makes up the person, including personality, thoughts, actions, desires, possessions, and many more similar categories. Paul is intentionally general and does not narrow down which of these categories he has in mind. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an expression that refers to all the aspects of a person that makes that person unique. Alternate translation: “all the details about a man … all the details about God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 2 11 i47d translate-unknown τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τὸ ἐν αὐτῷ 1 spirit of the person The word translated **spirit** is the same word that Paul uses for the Holy **Spirit**. It refers to the interior life of a person, to the part of them that people cannot see, including their thoughts and desires. If possible, use the same word here that you will use later in the verse for the **Spirit**, since Paul is drawing an analogy between the human **spirit** and God’s **Spirit**. If you cannot use the word for God’s **Spirit** to describe a human being, you could: (1) refer simply to a human without specifying which part of the human **knows**. Alternate translation: “the man himself” (2) use an expression that refers to the interior life of a human. Alternate translation: “the consciousness of the man that {is} within him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 11 to3t figs-idiom τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ ἀνθρώπου τὸ ἐν αὐτῷ 1 In this culture, people would speak of the non-physical part of human beings as if it were inside the physical part of human beings. Here, Paul speaks in this way when he says that the **spirit of the man** is **within him**. By using **within him**, Paul is identifying the **spirit** as the one that belongs to **the man**. It is not some other man’s **spirit**. If the meaning of **within him** would be misunderstood in your language, you could: (1) use a word or phrase that identifies that the **spirit** belongs to **the man** only. Alternate translation: “that man’s own spirit” (2) express the idea by using a phrase that describes where a human being’s non-physical part would be in your culture. Alternate translation: “the spirit of the man that permeates him” or “the spirit of the man that suffuses him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 2 12 zbv8 grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 General Information: Here, the word translated **But** introduces the next part of Paul’s argument. If the meaning of **But** would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave it untranslated or use a word or phrase that signifies that the argument is moving on. Alternate translation: “Now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 12 evts figs-infostructure ἡμεῖς…οὐ τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ κόσμου ἐλάβομεν, ἀλλὰ τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 If stating the negative before the positive would be misunderstood in your language, you could reverse the order of the **not** statement and the **but** statement. Alternate translation: “we received the Spirit who {is} from God, not the spirit of the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 2 12 emse translate-unknown τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ κόσμου 1 The phrase **spirit of the world** could refer to: (1) a **spirit** that does not actually exist. In other words, Paul is saying that the Spirit they received did not come from the **world** but rather came from **God**. Alternate translation: “a spirit that comes from the world” (2) human ways of thinking and understanding, which could be called a **spirit**. In other words, Paul is saying that they did not receive human ways of thinking but rather ways of thinking that God’s Spirit brings. Alternate translation: “human ways of thinking” ((See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 12 ev7j figs-possession τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ κόσμου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **spirit** that comes from or has its source in **the world**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates that **the world** is the source or origin of this **spirit**. Alternate translation: “the spirit from the world” or “the spirit that comes from the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 12 vw4v figs-ellipsis ἀλλὰ τὸ Πνεῦμα 1 Here, Paul omits some words that may be needed in your language to make a complete thought. If this shortened form would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply some words from earlier in the sentence. Alternate translation: “but we received the Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 2 12 w1qd figs-activepassive τὸ Πνεῦμα τὸ ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could make God the subject of the **who** statement. Alternate translation: “the Spirit whom God sent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 12 n1c7 figs-activepassive τὰ ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ χαρισθέντα ἡμῖν 1 freely given to us by God If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “the things that God has freely given to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 13 nan2 figs-exclusive λαλοῦμεν 1 Here, the word **we** refers to Paul and others who proclaim the Gospel with him. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 2 13 u797 figs-infostructure οὐκ ἐν διδακτοῖς ἀνθρωπίνης σοφίας λόγοις, ἀλλ’ ἐν διδακτοῖς Πνεύματος 1 The Spirit interprets spiritual words with spiritual wisdom If putting the negative statement before the positive statement would be misunderstood in your language, you could reverse them, putting **words** with the positive statement. Alternate translation: “in words taught by the Spirit, not in those taught by human wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 2 13 yg45 figs-activepassive διδακτοῖς ἀνθρωπίνης σοφίας λόγοις 1 The Spirit interprets spiritual words with spiritual wisdom If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “words that human wisdom teaches” or “words that humans teach as wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 13 ywbw figs-activepassive διδακτοῖς Πνεύματος 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “those that the Spirit teaches” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 13 gueq translate-unknown πνευματικοῖς πνευματικὰ συνκρίνοντες 1 Here, the phrase **combining spiritual things with spiritual words** could mean: (1) that Paul and those with him interpret **spiritual things** and ideas with **spiritual words**. Alternate translation: “interpreting spiritual things with spiritual words” (2) that Paul and those with him explain **spiritual things** to **spiritual** people. Alternate translation: “explaining spiritual things to spiritual people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 13 kinz grammar-connect-time-simultaneous συνκρίνοντες 1 Here, the word translated **combining** introduces an action that takes place at the same time as when **we speak**. The idea is that **combining spiritual things with spiritual words** is the way that **we speak these things**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by including a word or phrase that indicates that **combining** is the way in which **we speak**. Alternate translation: “by means of combining” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 2 13 mnpq translate-unknown συνκρίνοντες 1 The word translated **combining** could mean: (1) interpreting or explaining an idea. Alternate translation: “interpreting” (2) putting two things together, either to compare or blend them together. Alternate translation: “comparing” or “compounding” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 14 i8jw grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 The word translated **But** introduces a new part of Paul’s argument, and it also introduces a contrast with how Paul and those with him speak by the power of the Spirit in [2:13](../02/13.md). Unlike Paul and those with him, the **natural person** does not have the Spirit and does not use spiritual words. If the meaning of **But** would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave it untranslated or use a word that introduces a contrast. Alternate translation: “However,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 2 14 hq3u translate-unknown ψυχικὸς…ἄνθρωπος 1 unspiritual person The phrase **the natural person** describes a person who does not have God’s Spirit. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that describes someone who has not received God’s Spirit. Alternate translation: “the person without the Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 14 cve2 figs-genericnoun ψυχικὸς…ἄνθρωπος, οὐ δέχεται…αὐτῷ…οὐ δύναται 1 General Information: Paul uses the words **person**, **him**, and **he** to speak of people in general, not one specific man. If the meaning of these words would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a form that indicates people in general in your language. Alternate translation: “any natural person does not receive … to him or her … he or she is not able” or “natural people do not receive … to them … they are not able” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 2 14 vvju figs-gendernotations αὐτῷ…οὐ δύναται 1 Here, the words translated **him** and **he** are written in masculine form, but they refer to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **he** and **him** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “to that person … that person is not able” or “to him or her … he or she is not able” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 2 14 fye5 figs-activepassive μωρία…αὐτῷ ἐστίν 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could reverse the structure and make **him** the subject of a verb such as “think” or “consider.” Alternate translation: “for he thinks that they are foolishness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 14 gwe3 figs-activepassive πνευματικῶς ἀνακρίνεται 1 because they are spiritually discerned If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form with vague or non-specific subject. Alternate translation: “people can only discern them spiritually” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 14 vznr πνευματικῶς ἀνακρίνεται 1 Alternate translation: “they are discerned by the power of the Spirit” or “they are discerned by people who are indwelt by the Spirit”
1CO 2 15 w4q7 translate-unknown ὁ…πνευματικὸς 1 the one who is spiritual Here, Paul uses **the spiritual one** as the opposite of “the natural person” in [2:14](../02/14.md). The phrase **the spiritual one** describes a person who does have God’s Spirit. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that describes someone who has received God’s Spirit. Alternate translation: “the person with the Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 2 15 gcv7 figs-genericnoun ὁ…πνευματικὸς ἀνακρίνει…αὐτὸς…ἀνακρίνεται 1 Paul uses the words **spiritual one** and **he himself** to speak of people in general, not one specific man. If the meaning of these words would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a form that indicates people in general. Alternate translation: “any spiritual person discerns … he himself or she herself” or “spiritual people discern … they themselves are discerned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 2 15 ap89 figs-hyperbole τὰ πάντα 1 Here, Paul uses phrase translated **all things** as an exaggeration to emphasize that the **spiritual one** can discern God’s gifts and the message of the Gospel. He does not mean that every **spiritual** person is able to discern everything there is to know. If this exaggeration would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a phrase such as “many things,” and express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “many things indeed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 2 15 ji5n figs-activepassive αὐτὸς…ὑπ’ οὐδενὸς ἀνακρίνεται 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “no one discerns him himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 2 15 ypl6 figs-gendernotations αὐτὸς…ἀνακρίνεται 1 Here, the words translated **he himself** are written in masculine form, but they refer to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **he himself** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “that person is discerned” or “he himself or she herself is discerned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 2 15 zg4b figs-explicit αὐτὸς…ὑπ’ οὐδενὸς ἀνακρίνεται 1 Here, Paul wishes to say that it is impossible for someone without the Spirit to properly understand or make judgments about the person who does have the Spirit. If this implication would be missed by your readers, you could make it more explicit that Paul speaking about the possibility of someone without the Spirit “discerning” someone with the Spirit. Alternate translation: “he himself cannot be discerned by anyone who is not spiritual” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 2 16 ye98 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, the word translated **For** introduces proof from Scripture to support what Paul has said about the “natural person” and the “spiritual” person in [2:14–15](../02/14–15.md). If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates that Paul is introducing proof. Alternate translation: “You can tell that these things are true because” or “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 2 16 tj79 writing-quotations γὰρ 1 The word translated **For** is the only word that Paul has used to introduce this quotation from the Old Testament, in this case, from the book written by Isaiah the prophet. If introducing a quotation in this way would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “For, as it can be read in the Old Testament,” or “For, according to Isaiah the prophet,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 2 16 m4pu figs-rquestion τίς…ἔγνω νοῦν Κυρίου, ὃς συμβιβάσει αὐτόν? 1 For who can know the mind of the Lord, that he can instruct him? Here, the passage that Paul quotes from the book of Isaiah uses a question to indicate that no human **has known the mind of the Lord**, and no human **will instruct him**. The question is not asking for information. Instead, it assumes that the answer is “no one,” and the author uses a question to make a negative claim that is stronger than a simple statement. If the question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a strong negative statement. Alternate translation: “no one has known the mind of the Lord—no one will instruct him.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 2 16 wacc figs-possession νοῦν Κυρίου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **mind** that the **Lord** has or uses. If it would be misunderstood that the **Lord** is one who is thinking with **the mind**, you could express the idea by using a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “the thoughts that the Lord thinks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 2 16 r18k figs-metaphor νοῦν Χριστοῦ ἔχομεν 1 Here, Paul speaks as if **we** are people who possess **the mind of Christ**. Paul means that **we** are able to understand what Christ thinks and share the same ways of thinking with him. He does not mean that we have taken Christ’s **mind** from him or that we no longer have our own **mind**. If “having someone else’s mind” would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable metaphor or with a verb such as “share.” Alternate translation: “think the same thoughts as Christ does” or “share in the mind of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 2 16 pr9b figs-possession νοῦν Χριστοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **mind** that **Christ** has or uses. If it would be misunderstood that **Christ** is one who is thinking with **the mind**, you could express the idea by using a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “the thoughts that Christ thinks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 3 intro g6ku 0 # 1 Corinthians 3 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>2. Against divisions (1:10–4:15)<br> * Paul identifies the divisions (3:1–5)<br> * Farming metaphor (3:6–9a)<br> * Building metaphor (3:9b–15<br> * Temple metaphor (3:16–17)<br> * Wisdom and folly (3:18–20)<br> * All things are yours (3:21–23)<br><br>Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page to make them easier to read. The ULT does this with the quoted words of verses 19 and 20. Verse 19 quotes from Job 5:13, and verse 20 quotes from Psalm 94:11.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Fleshly people<br><br>In [3:1–4](../03/01–04.md), Paul calls the Corinthian believers “fleshly.” In [3:3](../03/03.md), he defines “fleshly” as “walking according to men.” The word “fleshly” thus refers to people who think and behave from a merely human point of view, without thinking and behaving from God’s perspective. The opposite of “fleshly” is “spiritual,” which refers to those who think and behave by the power of the Spirit (see [3:1](../0/01.md)). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/flesh]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]])<br><br>### Fire and judgment<br><br>In Paul’s culture, fire was commonly associated with the day when God would come to judge everyone. Paul uses this association when he makes use of the metaphor of a building. When a building catches on fire, it shows how well it was build. Similarly, when the fire of God’s judgment comes, it will show who has taught the gospel correctly. Fire fits within the metaphor of a building, but it is not just a part of that metaphor. If it is possible, retain the language of fire for God’s judgment. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/judgmentday]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fire]])<br><br>### Wisdom and Foolishness<br><br>Throughout this chapter, Paul continues to speak of both wisdom and foolishness. Just as in chapters one and two, these words do not refer primarily to how much or how little education someone has. Rather, they refer to how well or how poorly someone plans actions and knows how the world works. Continue to use the words you chose in chapters one and two. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/wise]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/fool]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Infants and food metaphor<br><br>In [3:1–2](../03/01–02.md), Paul speaks as if the Corinthians are infants who were, and still are, unable to eat any solid food but can only drink milk. By speaking about them as if they were infants, Paul wishes to tell the Corinthians that they are spiritually immature. They are immature enough that they can only drink milk. Paul uses “milk” to refer to the very basic teachings about Christ, while he uses “solid food” to refer to the more advanced teachings. In translating this metaphor, use words that identify what very small children can eat (milk) and what they cannot eat (solid food). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])<br><br>### Farming metaphor<br><br>In [3:6–9a](../03/06–09.md), Paul speaks as if he and Apollos were farmers. Paul first proclaimed the gospel to the Corinthians, so he is like a farmer who plants seeds. Apollos taught the Corinthians more about the gospel, so he is like a farmer who waters the plants when they start to grow. However, God is the one who makes seeds grow into plants and the one who enables believers to accept and learn more about the gospel. With this metaphor, Paul wishes to emphasize that he and Apollos are equal in that they both teach about the gospel. However, neither one of them is significant in comparison to God, who is the one who actually enables people to accept and believe in the gospel. If possible, preserve the farming metaphor, even if you need to adjust some of the details. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])<br><br>### Building metaphor<br><br>In [3:9b–15](../03/09–15.md), Paul speaks of the Corinthians as if
1CO 3 1 zfdg grammar-connect-words-phrases κἀγώ 1 The word translated **And I** is the same word that appears at the beginning of [2:1](../02/01.md). Just as there, Paul uses **And I** here to introduce how his own experience visiting the Corinthians fits into the general pattern he has outlined at the end of chapter 2. Here, however, his experience with the Corinthians is the opposite of what he would have liked. Therefore, the words **And I** introduce a contrast with what he said in [2:16](../02/16.md) about having the mind of Christ. If the meaning of **And I** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that introduces a specific example or a word or phrase that introduces a contrast. Alternate translation: “But I” or “As for me, I” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 3 1 r4iw figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Although the word translated **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If **brothers** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 3 1 jn0q figs-infostructure οὐκ ἠδυνήθην λαλῆσαι ὑμῖν ὡς πνευματικοῖς, ἀλλ’ ὡς σαρκίνοις, ὡς νηπίοις ἐν Χριστῷ. 1 If stating the negative before the positive would be misunderstood in your language, you could reverse the order of the **not** statement and the **but** statements. Alternate translation: “had to speak to you as to fleshly, as to infants in Christ, not as to spiritual” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 3 1 jx17 figs-nominaladj πνευματικοῖς…σαρκίνοις 1 spiritual people Paul is using the adjectives **spiritual** and **fleshly** as nouns in order to describe groups of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate these with noun phrases. Alternate translation: “to spiritual people … to fleshly people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 3 1 r5w5 figs-ellipsis ἀλλ’ ὡς σαρκίνοις, ὡς νηπίοις 1 fleshly people Here, Paul leaves out some words that might be required in your language to make a complete thought. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply the needed words from earlier in the sentence. Alternate translation: “but I spoke to you as to fleshly, I spoke to you as to infants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 3 1 ja6t figs-metaphor νηπίοις ἐν Χριστῷ 1 as to little children in Christ Here, Paul speaks as if the Corinthians were **infants**. He wants the Corinthians to think about how **infants** are immature, do not have much knowledge, and are unable to understand most things. By calling the Corinthians **infants in Christ**, he means that in their relationship with Jesus, they were immature, had little knowledge, and were unable to understand very much. If calling the Corinthians **infants** would be misunderstood in your language, you could a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “to beginners in Christ” or “to those who could understand very little about their faith in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 3 1 m588 figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ 1 Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ**, or being united to Christ, explains in what area of their lives they were like **infants**. They acted like **infants** in their relationship with Christ. If the meaning of **in Christ** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by referring to their “faith” in **Christ** or their “relationship” with **Christ**. Alternate translation: “in their faith in Christ” or “in their relationship with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 3 2 vg2v figs-metaphor γάλα ὑμᾶς ἐπότισα, οὐ βρῶμα 1 I fed you milk, not solid food Paul refers to **milk** because it is the food of “infants,” whom Paul already mentioned in [3:1](../03/01.md). The **milk** is the only thing that the “infants” can eat, and Paul thus uses **milk** to refer to the very simplest things that the Corinthians were able to understand about the Gospel. “Infants” do not eat **solid food**, because they are not yet able to properly chew or digest it. So, Paul uses **solid food** to refer to the more complex things about the Gospel that he could not teach the Corinthians because they were “infants,” that is, people who could not understand such complex teachings. If that metaphor about **milk** and **solid food** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “I taught you the basics, not the full picture” or “I taught you things that are easy to understand, not things that are hard to understand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 3 2 fujt figs-ellipsis οὐ βρῶμα 1 Here, Paul has omitted some words that may be necessary to make a complete thought in your language. If the sentence would be misunderstood without these words, you could add a phrase such as “to eat.” Alternate translation: “not solid food to eat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 3 2 d2x5 figs-ellipsis οὔπω…ἐδύνασθε…οὐδὲ νῦν δύνασθε 1 Here, Paul has omitted some words that may be necessary to make a complete thought in your language. If the sentence would be misunderstood without these words, you could add them here, supplying the idea from earlier in the verse. Alternate translation: “you were not yet able to eat solid food … even now, you are not able to eat solid food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 3 2 i3r5 grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλ’ 1 The word translated **Indeed** functions to contrast the time when Paul visited the Corinthians with the time when Paul is writing this letter. He speaks of these two different times to say that the Corinthians could not to eat the **solid food** at either time. If the meaning of **Indeed** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that contrasts two times or a word that introduces additional information. Alternate translation: “But” or “In fact” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 3 3 m712 figs-nominaladj σαρκικοί -1 still fleshly Paul is using the adjective **fleshly** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this adjective with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “fleshly people … fleshly people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 3 3 o618 figs-abstractnouns ὅπου…ἐν ὑμῖν ζῆλος καὶ ἔρις 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns **jealousy** and **strife** by using verbs such as “being jealous” and “fighting.” Alternate translation: “where you are jealous and fight with one another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 3 3 s1uy figs-metonymy ὅπου 1 The word translated **where** often refers to space. However, here Paul uses it to refer to time. Instead of identifying a specific location, it identifies a specific time. If the meaning of **where** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that refers to time. Alternate translation: “when there is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 3 3 k5ll figs-rquestion οὐχὶ σαρκικοί ἐστε καὶ κατὰ ἄνθρωπον περιπατεῖτε? 1 are you not living according to the flesh, and are you not walking by human standards? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information or for agreement or disagreement. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a statement that draws a conclusion from the **jealousy** and the **strife**. Alternate translation: “you are fleshly and walking according to men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 3 3 oz5v figs-hendiadys καὶ 2 Here, Paul uses the word translated **and** to introduce a definition of what **fleshly** means. It means **walking according to men**. If you cannot use **and** to introduce a definition or explanation, you could use another word or phrase that does introduce a definition or explanation. If you use one of the following alternate translations, you may need to add a comma before it. Alternate translation: “that is, are you not” or “which means” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1CO 3 3 as2u figs-metaphor κατὰ ἄνθρωπον περιπατεῖτε 1 Paul speaks of behavior in life as if it were **walking**. If **walking** would not be understood as a description of a person’s way of life in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “behaving as men do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 3 3 ljri figs-idiom κατὰ ἄνθρωπον 1 Here, Paul speaks of behavior that is **according to men**. By using this phrase, he wishes to identify behaviors that people who think and act in only human ways do. These people do not have God’s Spirit, so they “walk” according to the values and goals of this world. If the phrase **according to men** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that refers to things and behaviors that people who do not believe value. Alternate translation: “according to what mere humans value” or “according to this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 3 3 y8b4 figs-gendernotations ἄνθρωπον 1 Although the word translated **men** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “humans” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 3 4 cidr grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 Here, the word translated **For** introduces further evidence for Paul’s argument that the Corinthians in acting in merely humans ways. If that meaning for **For** would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave **For** untranslated or express the idea using a word or phrase that introduces more evidence or examples. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 3 4 g8zt writing-pronouns λέγῃ τις…ἕτερος 1 Here, Paul uses the pronouns **one** and **another** to give two examples of some people in the Corinthian church who are sayings these kinds of things. He does not mean that only two people are saying these things. He also does not mean that these are the only things that people in the church are saying. If the form that Paul uses would be misunderstood in your language, you could use words that introduce examples of a larger pattern, and you could add a phrase that indicates that the words **I am of Paul** and **I am of of Apollos** are two examples of the kinds of things that they are saying. Alternate translation: “some people among you say things like … other people among you say things like” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 3 4 rmtq figs-quotations ἐγὼ…εἰμι Παύλου…ἐγὼ Ἀπολλῶ 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could translate these statements as indirect quotes instead of as direct quotes. Alternate translation: “that he or she is of Paul … that he or she is of Apollos” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 3 4 g68p figs-possession ἐγὼ…εἰμι Παύλου…ἐγὼ Ἀπολλῶ 1 Just as in [1:12](../01/12.md), Paul uses the possessive form to indicate that people are claiming to be part of a specific leader’s group. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express this idea with a word such as “belong” or “follow.” Alternate translation: “‘I follow Paul’ … ‘I follow Apollos’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 3 4 zsby translate-names Παύλου…Ἀπολλῶ 1 These are the names of two men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 3 4 s96g figs-rquestion οὐκ ἄνθρωποί ἐστε? 1 are you not living as human beings? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information or for agreement or disagreement. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a statement that draws a conclusion from what Paul says the Corinthians are saying. Alternate translation: “you are men” or “this shows that you are men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 3 4 mmlq figs-explicit ἄνθρωποί 1 When Paul says that the Corinthians are **men**, he means that they are “only” or “merely” **men**. He is not identifying them as humans. Rather, he means that they are acting and speaking from “merely human” perspective rather than from God’s perspective, a perspective they can share if they have God’s Spirit. If the meaning of **men** would be misunderstood in your language, you could add a word or phrase that clarifies that **men** refers to a “merely human” view of the world. Alternate translation: “merely men” or “speaking from a human perspective” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 3 4 te5r figs-gendernotations ἄνθρωποί 1 Although the word translated **men** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If **men** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “humans” or “men and women” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 3 5 typo grammar-connect-words-phrases οὖν 1 The word translated **then** introduces a further stage in Paul’s argument. He has argued in [3:3](../03/04.md) that **Paul** and **Apollos** should not be treated as leaders of groups. In this verse, he goes on to explain how he thinks that **Paul** and **Apollos** should be treated, which is as servants of Christ. Thus, the word translated **then** introduces who **Paul** and **Apollos** really are. If how **then** functions would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave it untranslated or use a word that introduces the next step in an argument. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add a comma before it. Alternate translation: “therefore,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 3 5 m463 figs-rquestion τί οὖν ἐστιν Ἀπολλῶς? τί δέ ἐστιν Παῦλος? διάκονοι 1 Who then is Apollos? And who is Paul? Here, Paul uses these questions to do two things. First, the questions imply that **Apollos** and **Paul** are not very important. Therefore, an implied answer to these questions would be that **Apollos** and **Paul** are “not very much.” Second, Paul uses the questions to introduce his own answer to these questions. After using the questions to imply that he and **Apollos** are not much, he then states that they are **servants**. If using questions in these ways would be misunderstood in your language, you could express them as a statement about the status of **Apollos** and **Paul** as **servants**, and you could use a word such as “only” or “merely” to express the idea that they are not very important. Alternate translation: “Apollos and Paul are merely servants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 3 5 i9d0 translate-names Ἀπολλῶς…Παῦλος 1 These are the names of two men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 3 5 lq6n figs-123person ἐστιν Παῦλος? 1 And who is Paul? In this verse, **Paul** speaks of himself in the third person. This could sound like he is speaking about a different **Paul** than himself. If this use of **Paul** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that **Paul** is naming himself. Alternate translation: “am I, Paul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1CO 3 5 qmy2 figs-ellipsis διάκονοι δι’ ὧν ἐπιστεύσατε 1 Servants through whom you believed Here, Paul omits several words that may be required in your language to make a complete thought. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could include the words needed to make a complete thought, such as “we are” or “they are.” Alternate translation: “We are servants through whom you believed” or “They are servants through whom you believed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 3 5 edod figs-explicit διάκονοι δι’ ὧν ἐπιστεύσατε 1 When **Paul** says that he and **Apollos** are those **through whom** the Corinthians **believed**, he is implying that the Corinthians believed in someone other than **Paul** and **Apollos**. That is, they believed in Christ. If this implication about **whom** the Corinthians **believed** in would be misunderstood in your language, you could make it explicit by including what the Corinthians **believed** in, which is “Christ” and not **Apollos** or **Paul**. Alternate translation: “Servants through whom you believed in Christ” or “Servants through whom you believed in Christ, not in us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 3 5 h2jv grammar-connect-words-phrases καὶ…ὡς 1 Here, the words translated **even as** introduce the way in which **Apollos** and **Paul** act as **servants**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that could introduce the ways in which **Apollos** and **Paul** asre servants. Alternate translation: “who do what” or “serving just as” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 3 5 f6wm figs-ellipsis καὶ ἑκάστῳ ὡς ὁ Κύριος ἔδωκεν 1 Servants through whom you believed, to each of whom the Lord gave tasks Here, Paul omits what **the Lord gave** because it would be clear that he means that **the Lord gave** a specific job or task **to each one** of them. If **the Lord gave to each one** would be misunderstood in your language, you could add a word or phrase that indicates that **the Lord gave** a specific job or task. Alternate translation: “even as the Lord gave a task to teach one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 3 5 e8tb writing-pronouns ἑκάστῳ 1 The word translated **to each one** directly refers back to **Apollos** and **Paul**. However, it also probably refers to everyone who serves the Lord. If you can refer to multiple individuals considered separately in your language, you could use that form here. Alternate translation: “to each and every one who serves him” or “per person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 3 6 iah7 figs-exmetaphor ἐγὼ ἐφύτευσα, Ἀπολλῶς ἐπότισεν, ἀλλὰ ὁ Θεὸς ηὔξανεν. 1 I planted Paul speaks about the roles that God gave to him and to **Apollos** as if they were farmers who **planted** and **watered** their crops. The one who “plants” is the person who begins the farming process, just like Paul first introduced the Corinthians to the gospel. The one who “waters” is the person who continues the farming process by making sure the plants receive what they need to grow, just like **Apollos** continued to proclaim the gospel to the Corinthians. It is a well-known fact in Paul’s culture that plants grow because God enables them to do so, just like God enabled to the Corinthians to receive the gospel and learn more about God. If the way Paul uses farming language to describe how the Corinthians received the Gospel would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “I invested the money, Apollos managed the portfolio, but God gave the return on investment” or “I introduced you to the gospel, Apollos taught you more about the gospel, but God enabled you to believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 6 ic6x figs-ellipsis ἐγὼ ἐφύτευσα, Ἀπολλῶς ἐπότισεν, ἀλλὰ ὁ Θεὸς ηὔξανεν. 1 Paul never states what it is that he **planted**, that **Apollos watered**, and that **God caused to grow**. He does not state what it is because he wishes to use a general statement about farming practices. If you need to state what is **planted** and **watered**, you could include a general word or words such as “seed,” “plant,” or “crop.” Alternate translation: “I planted the seeds, Apollos watered the plants, but God caused the them to grow” or “I planted the crop, Apollos watered it, but God caused it to grow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 3 6 iq9n grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἐφύτευσα, Ἀπολλῶς ἐπότισεν, ἀλλὰ ὁ Θεὸς 1 but God gave the growth Here, Paul uses **but** to contrast himself and **Apollos** with **God**. The point is that what he did and what **Apollos** did are at the same level of importance, but God’s work is the most important. Another way to understand this contrast is to notice that Paul and **Apollos** assist in the process of plants growing, but **God** is the only one who actually makes them grow. Again, the main point is that Paul and **Apollos** are simply “servants” of God ([3:5](../03/05.md)) in a process that God oversees. If **but** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that puts Paul and **Apollos** together in contrast with **God**. Alternate translation: “planted, and Apollos watered. However, it was God who” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 3 7 g78n grammar-connect-logic-result ὥστε 1 Paul uses the word translated **so then** to introduce a conclusion or inference from what he said about watering, planting, and growth in [3:6](../03/06.md). Here, he wishes to explain that the difference between **God** who **causes the growth** and anyone who **plants** or **waters** is about their importance in the process. It is **God** who is important, because he is the only one who **causes the growth**, just as he stated in [3:6](../03/06.md). If that meaning of **so then** would be misunderstood in your language, you could a comparable word or phrase that introduces a conclusion or an inference. Alternate translation: “Therefore” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 3 7 c4wy figs-exmetaphor οὔτε ὁ φυτεύων ἐστίν τι, οὔτε ὁ ποτίζων, ἀλλ’ ὁ αὐξάνων, Θεός. 1 Paul now speaks in general about the tasks that God has given to those who proclaim the gospel. He continues to speak as if those who proclaim the gospel were farmers who planted and watered their crops. The **one who plants** is the person who begins the farming process, just like the person who first proclaims the gospel. The **one who waters** is the person who continues the farming process by making sure the plants receive what they need to grow, just like the person who continues to teach the gospel. It is a well-known fact in Paul’s culture that plants grow because God enables them to do so, just like God enables those who believe to receive the gospel and learn more about God. If the way Paul uses farming language to describe how people proclaim the gospel and how God enables others to receive it would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “neither the one who invests the money nor the one who manages the portfolio is anything, but God {is} the one who gives the return on investment” or “neither the person who introduces believers to the gospel nor the person who teaches believers more about the gospel is anything, but God {is} the one who enables believers to have faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 7 dl3z figs-genericnoun ὁ φυτεύων…ὁ ποτίζων 1 neither he who plants is anything … but God is the one who causes the growth When Paul speaks of **the one who plants**, he has himself in mind. When he speaks of **the one who waters**, he has Apollos in mind. This is clear from what he says in the last verse ([3:6](../03/06.md)). However, he is now speaking in more general terms. He does not mean just **one** person who does “planting” and one person who does “watering.” Rather, he wishes to refer to anyone who does either of these tasks. If the phrase **the one who** would not be understood to mean that in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to any person who does the task. Alternate translation: “any person who plants … any person who waters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 3 7 uutk figs-ellipsis ὁ φυτεύων…ὁ ποτίζων 1 Paul never states what it is that someone **plants** and that someone else **waters**. He does not state what it is because he wishes to use a general statement about farming practices. If you need to state what is planted and watered, you could include a general word or words such as “seed,” “plant,” or “crop.” Alternate translation: “the one who plants the seeds … the one who waters the plants” or “the one who plants the crop … the one who waters it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 3 7 jrb1 figs-hyperbole τι 1 Here, the word translated **anything** is an exaggeration that emphasizes how unimportant the people who plant and water are. It is as if they are nothing, as if they do not exist. Paul does not mean that they do not exist. Instead, he uses this exaggeration to show how unimportant the people who plant and water are compared to God. If the meaning of **anything** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates “importance.” Alternate translation: “important” or “significant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 3 7 hmk6 figs-ellipsis ἀλλ’ ὁ αὐξάνων, Θεός. 1 Here, Paul does not directly finish the contrast between the people who plant and water and **God**. What he means is that **God** is the one who is important because he **causes the growth**. If the meaning of this contrast would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply the words that Paul omits, including a word or phrase about how God is “important.” Alternate translation: “but God, who is the one who causes the growth, is the important one” or “but God is the significant one because he causes the growth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 3 7 c68g figs-abstractnouns αὐξάνων 1 but God is the one who causes the growth If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **growth** with a verb such as “grow.” Alternate translation: “who makes it grow” or “who causes things to grow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 3 8 dmfs grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Here, the word translated **Now** introduces the next step in Paul’s argument. If the meaning of **Now** would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave it untranslated or use a word or phrase that introduces the next step in an argument. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 3 8 s16b figs-exmetaphor ὁ φυτεύων…καὶ ὁ ποτίζων, ἕν εἰσιν; ἕκαστος δὲ τὸν ἴδιον μισθὸν λήμψεται, κατὰ τὸν ἴδιον κόπον. 1 he who plants and he who waters are one Here, Paul continues to speak as if those who proclaim the gospel were farmers who planted and watered their crops. The **one who plants** is the person who begins the farming process, just like the person who first proclaims the gospel. The **one who waters** is the person who continues the farming process by making sure the plants receive what they need to grow, just like the person who continues to teach the gospel. The **one who plants** and the **one who waters** will receive **wages** that match the kind of **labor** they did. In the same way, those who first proclaim the gospel and those who teach more about the gospel will receive rewards from God that match the task they accomplished. If the way Paul uses farming language to describe how people proclaim the gospel and how God rewards those who do so, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “the one who invests the money and the one who manages the portfolio are one, and each will receive his own paycheck according to his own job” or “the person who introduces believers to the gospel and the person who teaches believers more about the gospel are one, and each will receive his own reward from God according to his own task” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 8 ydx8 figs-genericnoun ὁ φυτεύων…ὁ ποτίζων 1 Just as in [3:7](../03/07.md), when Paul speaks of **the one who plants**, he has himself in mind. When he speaks of **the one who waters**, he has Apollos in mind. This is clear from what he says in [3:6](../03/06.md). However, he is now speaking in more general terms. He does not mean just **one** person who does “planting” and one person who does “watering.” Rather, he wishes to refer to anyone who does either of these tasks. If the phrase **the one who** would not be understood to mean that in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to any person who does the task. Alternate translation: “any person who plants … any person who waters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 3 8 fsj6 figs-ellipsis ὁ φυτεύων…ὁ ποτίζων 1 Paul never states what it is that someone **plants** and that someone else **waters**. He does not state what it is because he wishes to use a general statement about farming practices. If you need to state what is planted and watered, you could include a general word or words such as “seed,” “plant,” or “crop.” Alternate translation: “the one who plants the seeds … the one who waters the plants” or “the one who plants the crop … the one who waters it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 3 8 za43 figs-metaphor ἕν εἰσιν 1 are one Paul here speaks as if the **one who plants** and the **one who waters** are the same person. He speaks in this way in order to: (1) show that the **one who plants** and the **one who waters** do the same kind of work with the same goal in mind. Alternate translation: “share a common goal” or “do the same kind of work” (2) state that the **one who plants** and the **one who waters** have equal status. Alternate translation: “are of equal importance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 3 8 dfhn figs-gendernotations τὸν ἴδιον -1 Here, the words translated **his** are written in masculine form, but they refer to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **his** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “his or her own … his or her own” or “that person’s own … that person’s own” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 3 9 vphl grammar-connect-words-phrases γάρ 1 Here, the word translated **For** introduces a summary statement that concludes the whole section in which Paul compares those who proclaim the gospel to farmers ([3:5–8](../03/05–08.md)). If this meaning of **For** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that introduces a summary statement. Alternate translation: “Thus,” or “In the end,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 3 9 gj26 figs-exclusive ἐσμεν 1 we are brutally beaten Here, **we** refers to Paul, Apollos, and others who proclaim the gospel. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 3 9 r9sn figs-possession Θεοῦ…συνεργοί 1 God’s fellow workers Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe: (1) **fellow workers** who work for **God**. Alternate translation: “coworkers under God’s leadership” (2) **workers** who join **God** in God’s work. Alternate translation: “people who work with God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 3 9 iaan figs-infostructure Θεοῦ γεώργιον, Θεοῦ οἰκοδομή ἐστε. 1 Here, Paul switches from a metaphor about farming to a metaphor about building. He makes this switch without using any connecting words, and he makes the switch within one sentence. Consider whether your language would include the introduction of a new topic at the end of the previous section or at the beginning of a new section, and put **God’s building** where it would be understood as introducing a new section, including **you are** again if it would be necessary. Additionally, if beginning a new section without using a connecting word or phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use such a word or phrase here. Alternate translation: “you are God’s field. In fact, you are also God’s building” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 3 9 lqg1 figs-metaphor Θεοῦ γεώργιον 1 God’s garden Here, Paul concludes the farming metaphor he began in [3:6](../03/06.md). He identifies the Corinthians as a **field** that is owned by **God**. It is in this field that those who proclaim the gospel “plant” and “water” the crop. By calling the Corinthians a **God’s field**, Paul means to say that they belong to God and that they are the people among whom those who proclaim the gospel work. If the meaning of this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “God’s portfolio” or “people who belong to God and among whom we work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 3 9 l2fq figs-exmetaphor Θεοῦ οἰκοδομή 1 God’s building Here, Paul introduces a new metaphor that compares the Corinthians to a building. This building belongs to God, and those who proclaim the gospel, including Paul, help to construct the building. He uses this metaphor and variations of it in [3:9–17](../03/09–17.md). Here, he calls the Corinthians **God’s building**, by which he means basically the same thing as when he calls them **God’s field**. They belong to God, and he and others who proclaim the gospel work among them. If the meaning of this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “God’s movie” or “people who belong to God and among whom we work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 10 iln9 figs-activepassive τοῦ Θεοῦ τὴν δοθεῖσάν μοι 1 According to the grace of God that was given to me If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “that God gave me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 3 10 a69q figs-exmetaphor ὡς σοφὸς ἀρχιτέκτων θεμέλιον ἔθηκα, ἄλλος δὲ ἐποικοδομεῖ. ἕκαστος δὲ βλεπέτω, πῶς ἐποικοδομεῖ. 1 I laid a foundation Paul began using the metaphor of a house in [3:9](../03/09.md). Here he continues that metaphor by speaking about himself as a **wise master builder** who lays **a foundation**. By speaking in this way, he means that he is the one who first introduced them to the gospel, just like a **master builder** first lays **a foundation**. He then speaks of people who build **on** that foundation. By speaking in this way, he means that others who proclaim more about the gospel can only do this by using and continuing from the good news that Paul already proclaimed. If this extended metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “I proposed an idea for a movie as a skilled script writer, and another is filming that movie, but let each person be careful how they film that movie” or “as a wise church planter, I first proclaimed the gospel to you, and another is teaching you more about that gospel, but let each one be careful how he teaches you more” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 10 nw8f figs-infostructure ὡς σοφὸς ἀρχιτέκτων θεμέλιον ἔθηκα 1 The phrase **as a wise master builder** could describe: (1) the way in which Paul **laid a foundation**. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add a comma before it. Alternate translation: “I laid a foundation as a wise master builder” (2) the specific **grace** that God gave to Paul. Alternate translation: “to be a wise master builder, I laid a foundation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 3 10 mpxl translate-unknown σοφὸς ἀρχιτέκτων 1 Here, the word translated **master builder** refers to the person who is in charge of an entire construction project, including designing it and making sure that the building is constructing according to the design. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable word or phrase. Alternate translation: “a wise architect” or “a wise construction manager” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 3 10 mqb8 writing-pronouns ἄλλος…ἐποικοδομεῖ 1 Here, the word translated **another** refers to anyone who **is building on** the foundation, including Apollos. However, Paul does not mean to identify one specific person who **is building**. If it would be misunderstood that **another** refers to any builder, you could use a word or phrase that identifies any person who does a specific task. Alternate translation: “other people are building on it” or “someone else is building on it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 3 10 pwi7 figs-imperative ἕκαστος…βλεπέτω 1 another is building on it Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “should.” Alternate translation: “each one should be careful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 3 10 px9c writing-pronouns ἕκαστος 1 each man Here, the word translated **each one** refers to any person who **builds** on the **foundation**. If the meaning of **each one** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that identifies any person who falls into a certain category. Alternate translation: “every person who builds on it” or “each builder” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 3 10 krd6 writing-pronouns ἐποικοδομεῖ 2 Here, the word translated **he** is written in masculine form, but it refers to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **he** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “he or she builds on it” or “each one builds on it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 3 11 m4j2 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Here, the word translated **for** introduces the reason why the people who build on the foundation should “be careful how” they build “on it” ([3:10](../03/10.md)). They need to “be careful” because what they build must match the only **foundation** that exists, which is **Jesus Christ**. If **for** would not indicate this connection in your language, you could express the idea with a word that gives a reason or basis for a command. Alternate translation: “This is because” or “because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 3 11 qd1o figs-exmetaphor θεμέλιον…ἄλλον οὐδεὶς δύναται θεῖναι, παρὰ τὸν κείμενον, ὅς ἐστιν Ἰησοῦς Χριστός. 1 In this verse, Paul continues the metaphor about houses by continuing to speak about a **foundation**. Here, he reminds the Corinthians that each house has only one **foundation**, and once that **foundation** has been **laid**, no one lays another **foundation** for the house. He speaks in this way to remind them that only one person can introduce them to the gospel, and anyone who tries to introduce them to another gospel is building a different house, not the same house. Paul then directly states that the **foundation** refers to the message about **Jesus Christ** that he preached to them. Paul speaks in this way to indicate that the message about **Jesus Christ** that he proclaimed to them should be the starting point and basis for everything else they learn about the gospel. If the meaning of this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “no one can write a script other than the one that has already been written, that is, Jesus Christ” or “no one can first proclaim a gospel to you other than the one that I already proclaimed to you, which is Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 11 jt2b figs-activepassive τὸν κείμενον 1 no one can lay a foundation other than the one that has been laid If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form, with Paul as the person who is doing the “laying.” Alternate translation: “the one that I already laid” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 3 11 yh1f ὅς ἐστιν Ἰησοῦς Χριστός. 1 If you use the second alternate translation, you may need to add period before it. Alternate translation: “which is Jesus Christ” or “That foundation is Jesus Christ”
1CO 3 11 azm0 figs-metonymy Ἰησοῦς Χριστός 1 Here, Paul uses the words translated **Jesus Christ** to refer to the message he proclaimed to them about **Jesus Christ**. If the meaning of **Jesus Christ** would be misunderstood in your language, you could include a word or phrase that refers to Paul’s message about **Jesus Christ**. Alternate translation: “the good news about Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 3 12 nuza grammar-connect-words-phrases δέ 1 Here, the word translated **Now** introduces the next step in Paul’s argument. If the meaning of **Now** would be misunderstood in your language, you could leave it untranslated or use a word or phrase that introduces the next step in an argument. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 3 12 nbu2 figs-exmetaphor εἰ…τις ἐποικοδομεῖ ἐπὶ τὸν θεμέλιον χρυσόν, ἄργυρον, λίθους τιμίους, ξύλα, χόρτον, καλάμην 1 Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw Here, Paul continues the metaphor about building a house. He compares those who teach more about the gospel with builders who construct a house on its foundation. These builders can use a variety of different materials to construct the house, and Paul lists six. The first three, **gold, silver, precious stones**, are more durable, while the last three, **wood, hay, straw**, are less durable. It is clear that Paul is interested in durability because of the next verse, where he states that all of these materials will be tested with fire ([3:13](../03/13.md)). By speaking this way, he indicates that those who proclaim more about the gospel can teach things that are more or less true and acceptable to God. If this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “if anyone films the movie with expensive and sturdy cameras and film or with cheap and fragile cameras and film” or “if anyone teaches you more about the gospel with words that are acceptable to God or words that are not acceptable to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 12 f8oa grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ…τις ἐποικοδομεῖ ἐπὶ τὸν θεμέλιον 1 Here, Paul uses a conditional **if**, but he does not think that this is a hypothetical situation or something that is likely not true. Instead, Paul thinks that people are “building” on the foundation, and he wants to talk about how they are doing so. Additionally, the “then” part of the **if** statement does not begin until the next verse. If this form and structure would be misunderstood in your language, you could rephrase the condition into a circumstance or an assumption. Alternate translation: “people build on the foundation, using” or “when anyone builds on the foundation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
1CO 3 12 tzgf translate-unknown χρυσόν, ἄργυρον, λίθους τιμίους, ξύλα, χόρτον, καλάμην, 1 These six things are all materials that could be used in constructing buildings. The first three will survive if the building catches on fire, but the last three will not (for the fire, see [3:13–15](../03/13–15.md)). In your culture, you may not use all of these materials for constructing buildings. In that case, you could include just some of these materials or include materials that you do use for constructing buildings in your culture, making sure to include some materials will not burn up and others that will burn up. Alternate translation: “steel, concrete, lumber, or cloth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 3 13 ndu3 figs-exmetaphor ἑκάστου τὸ ἔργον φανερὸν γενήσεται; ἡ γὰρ ἡμέρα δηλώσει, ὅτι ἐν πυρὶ ἀποκαλύπτεται; καὶ ἑκάστου τὸ ἔργον, ὁποῖόν ἐστιν, τὸ πῦρ αὐτὸ δοκιμάσει 1 For it will be revealed in fire. The fire will test the quality of what each one had done Here, Paul continues the metaphor about building a house. He speaks as if **the day** of God’s judgment is like a fire that **will test** the building and show what kind of building materials the builders used. Paul speaks in this way to illustrate how God’s judgment will reveal whether what those who proclaim more about the gospel teach is pleasing to him or not. If this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “the work of each one will become evident, for opening night will display it; for opening night always draws critics, and the critics will test of what value is the work of each one” or “the truth of what each one has taught you will become evident, for God will show how true it is when he comes to judge everyone; when he comes, he will judge everyone, and his judgment will reveal whether what each person has taught is true or not” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 13 wv4h figs-synecdoche ἑκάστου τὸ ἔργον 1 Here, Paul uses the word translated **work** to refer to the product or result of the **work**, not the action of “working.” If that meaning for **work** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that refers to the product of the **work**. Alternate translation: “what each one has made” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 3 13 t2mk figs-activepassive ἑκάστου τὸ ἔργον φανερὸν γενήσεται 1 his work will be revealed If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea using words such as “God will reveal.” Alternate translation: “God will reveal the work of each one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 3 13 mv14 figs-explicit ἡ…ἡμέρα δηλώσει 1 for the daylight will reveal it Here, Paul uses the word translated **day** in the same way the Old Testament uses it: to refer to an event in which God saves his people and punishes his enemies. Paul specifically refers to the event in which Jesus returns to judge everyone. If that meaning of **day** would be misunderstood in your language, you could include more words that clarify what Paul means by **day**. Alternate translation: “the day of Christ’s return will display” or “when Christ returns, he will display it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 3 13 lyny figs-activepassive ἐν πυρὶ ἀποκαλύπτεται 1 If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “God reveals it in fire” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 3 13 x48s writing-pronouns ἀποκαλύπτεται 1 Here, **it** refers to **the day**. It does not refer to the **work**. If the meaning of **it** would be misunderstood in your language, you clarify that **it** refers to **the day**. Alternate translation: “that day is revealed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 3 13 ozx6 ἀποκαλύπτεται 1 Here, Paul speaks as if the day **is revealed** right now. In his language, he can use the present tense to speak about the way in which something happens in general, even if it is not happening in the present moment. If this use of the present tense would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using the future tense. Alternate translation: “it will be revealed”
1CO 3 13 rgfy ἐν πυρὶ 1 Alternate translation: “with fire” or “in a fiery way”
1CO 3 14 wexj figs-hypo εἴ τινος τὸ ἔργον μενεῖ, ὃ ἐποικοδόμησεν, μισθὸν λήμψεται. 1 Here and in [3:15](../03/15.md), Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that a person’s **work** might remain, or it might not. He then specifies the result for each possibility. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “Anyone whose work that he built will remain will receive a reward” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 3 14 ygva figs-exmetaphor εἴ τινος τὸ ἔργον μενεῖ, ὃ ἐποικοδόμησεν, μισθὸν λήμψεται. 1 Here, Paul continues the metaphor about building a house. In this verse, he notes that builders whose structures survive a fire receive rewards. He speaks in this way to indicate that God will reward those who proclaim more about the gospel if God finds their teachings to be accurate and acceptable to him when he judges everyone. The **reward** includes public recognition and other blessings. If this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “If anyone’s film that he created receives good reviews on opening night, he will receive an award” or “If anyone teaches you more about the gospel with words that are acceptable to God, he will be honored by God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 14 iddt figs-explicitinfo τινος τὸ ἔργον…ὃ ἐποικοδόμησεν 1 Here, Paul speaks both of **work** and what **he built**. If using both of these terms would be misunderstood or redundant in your language, you could combine the ideas into one expression. Alternate translation: “anyone’s building project” or “what anyone built” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo]])
1CO 3 14 s4u3 figs-synecdoche τὸ ἔργον 1 work remains Here, Paul uses the word translated **work** to refer to the product or result of the **work**, not the action of “working.” If that meaning for **work** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that refers to the product of the **work**. Alternate translation: “project” or “house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 3 14 ge6s figs-gendernotations τινος…ἐποικοδόμησεν…λήμψεται 1 Here, the word translated **he** is written in masculine form, but it refers to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **he** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “anyone’s … he or she built … he or she will receive” or “people’s … they built … they will receive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 3 15 vax6 figs-hypo εἴ τινος τὸ ἔργον κατακαήσεται, ζημιωθήσεται 1 Here, just as in [3:14](../03/14.md), Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that a person’s work might remain, or it might not. He then specifies the result for each possibility. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “Anyone whose work will be burned up will suffer loss” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 3 15 ysjz figs-exmetaphor εἴ τινος τὸ ἔργον κατακαήσεται, ζημιωθήσεται; αὐτὸς δὲ σωθήσεται, οὕτως δὲ ὡς διὰ πυρός. 1 Here, Paul continues the metaphor about building a house. In this verse, he notes that builders whose structures do not survive a fire **suffer loss**. The builders themselves do not die, but they are in trouble, almost as if they were in the building and barely escaped as it burned to the ground. Paul speaks in this way to indicate that God will not reward those who proclaim more about the gospel if God finds their teachings to be inaccurate and unacceptable to him when he judges everyone. The **loss** includes lack of honor and rewards from God. However, those who proclaim more about God in inaccurate and unacceptable ways are not condemned to punishment by God. Instead, just like someone escaping from a burning building, they are just barely accepted by God. If this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “If anyone’s film that he created receives bad reviews on opening night, he will lose money on the film, but he himself will not face financial ruin, but as though through bankruptcy” or “If anyone teaches you more about the gospel with words that are not acceptable to God, he will receive no honor or blessing when God judges everyone, but he himself will be accepted by God, although just barely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 15 c2xj figs-activepassive τινος τὸ ἔργον κατακαήσεται 1 if anyone’s work is burned up If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with “fire” as the subject. Alternate translation: “fire burns up anyone’s work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 3 15 fyfr figs-activepassive τὸ ἔργον 1 Here, Paul uses the word translated **work** to refer to the product or result of the **work**, not the action of “working.” If that meaning for **work** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that refers to the product of the **work**. Alternate translation: “project” or “house” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 3 15 b2l8 figs-gendernotations τινος…ζημιωθήσεται…αὐτὸς…σωθήσεται 1 Here, the words translated **he** and **himself** are written in masculine form, but they refer to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **he** and **himself** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “anyone’s … he or she will suffer loss … he himself or she herself will be saved” or “people’s … they will suffer loss … they themselves will be saved” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 3 15 ups4 translate-unknown ζημιωθήσεται 1 he will suffer loss The phrase **he will suffer loss** expresses the opposite of “receiving a reward.” Instead of gaining honor and money, the person loses honor and money. If the phrase **he will suffer loss** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a phrase that refers to losing honor and money. Alternate translation: “he will lose honor and money” or “he will be deprived of any reward” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 3 15 w1zv figs-activepassive αὐτὸς δὲ σωθήσεται 1 but he himself will be saved If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with **he** saving **himself** or **he** not perishing. Alternate translation: “but he will save himself” or “but he will not perish” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 3 16 uq2g figs-rquestion οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι ναὸς Θεοῦ ἐστε, καὶ τὸ Πνεῦμα τοῦ Θεοῦ οἰκεῖ ἐν ὑμῖν? 1 Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that the Spirit of God lives in you? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information or for agreement or disagreement. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing by reminding them of something that they should already know. The question assumes that the answer is “yes.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with an emphatic statement. Alternate translation: “you know that you are a temple of God, and you know that the Spirit of God lives in you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 3 16 yc1g figs-exmetaphor οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι ναὸς Θεοῦ ἐστε, καὶ τὸ Πνεῦμα τοῦ Θεοῦ οἰκεῖ ἐν ὑμῖν? 1 Here, Paul develops the metaphor about constructing a building in a new way. First, he says that the Corinthians together are **a temple of God**, which is a specific type of building. The **temple of God** was the place where God was present in a special way. Paul is thus identifying the Corinthians as people among whom God is present in the same kind of special way. Second, he says that the Corinthians together are the house or city in which the **Spirit of God lives**. The house or city in which someone lives is where they are always present. Paul is thus saying that the Holy Spirit is always present with the Corinthians. If the meaning of Paul’s metaphors would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea in non-figurative language. Alternate translation: “Do you not know that you are the sacred shrine where God dwells, and you are the country in which the Spirit of God has residency?” or “Do you not know that God is present among you, and the Spirit of God is always with you?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 17 pc0d figs-exmetaphor εἴ τις τὸν ναὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ φθείρει, φθερεῖ τοῦτον ὁ Θεός; ὁ γὰρ ναὸς τοῦ Θεοῦ ἅγιός ἐστιν, οἵτινές ἐστε ὑμεῖς. 1 Here, Paul finishes the metaphor about the temple that he began in [3:16](../03/16.md). He notes that, because God’s temple is **holy**, God will **destroy** anyone who **destroys** the temple. He then again repeats that the Corinthians **are** the temple. By speaking in this way, Paul wishes to remind everyone among the Corinthian believers that “destroying” the unity of the believers is like “destroying” the **temple**, and God will act in response to this like he would if someone “destroyed” his **temple**. If this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “If anyone desecrates God’s sacred shrine, God will punish that person. For the sacred shrine is holy, and you are God’s sacred shrine” or “If anyone divides the place of God’s presence, God will punish that person. For wherever God’s presence can be found is holy, and you are the place where God’s presence can be found” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 3 17 pv8w figs-hypo εἴ τις τὸν ναὸν τοῦ Θεοῦ φθείρει, φθερεῖ τοῦτον ὁ Θεός 1 Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that a person might destroy God’s temple, or that person might not. He then specifies the result for if someone does destroy God’s temple. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “God will destroy anyone who destroys the temple of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 3 17 vcuv writing-pronouns οἵτινές ἐστε ὑμεῖς 1 Here, the word translated **which** could refer to: (1) **the temple of God**. Alternate translation: “which temple you are” (2) **holy**. Alternate translation: “and you too are holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 3 18 glg8 figs-imperative μηδεὶς ἑαυτὸν ἐξαπατάτω…μωρὸς γενέσθω 1 Let no one deceive himself In this verse, Paul uses two third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use them here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the ideas using a word such as “should.” Alternate translation: “No one should deceive himself … he should become a ‘fool’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 3 18 s57s figs-gendernotations μηδεὶς ἑαυτὸν ἐξαπατάτω; εἴ τις δοκεῖ σοφὸς εἶναι ἐν ὑμῖν ἐν τῷ αἰῶνι τούτῳ, μωρὸς γενέσθω, ἵνα γένηται σοφός. 1 Here, the words translated **himself**, **he**, and **him** are written in masculine form, but they refer to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **himself**, **he**, and **him** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using words that do not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “Let no one deceive himself or herself. If anyone among you thinks he or she is wise in this age, let him or her become a ‘fool,’ that he or she may become wise” or “Let no people deceive themselves. If any people among you think they are wise in this age, them become ‘fools,’ that they may become wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 3 18 p3wi figs-hypo εἴ τις δοκεῖ σοφὸς εἶναι ἐν ὑμῖν ἐν τῷ αἰῶνι τούτῳ, μωρὸς γενέσθω 1 in this age Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that a person might think that **he is wise**, or that person might not think this. He then specifies the result for if someone does think that **he is wise**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “Let whoever among you thinks he is wise in this age become a ‘fool’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 3 18 p53y ἐν τῷ αἰῶνι τούτῳ 1 Alternate translation: “according to the standards of this age”
1CO 3 18 s7xi figs-irony μωρὸς γενέσθω, ἵνα γένηται σοφός 1 let him become a “fool” Here, Paul commands any **wise** person among the Corinthians to become a **fool**. He does not actually think that doing what he commands makes a person a **fool**, which is why **fool** appears in quotation marks. Rather, he knows that many will call doing what he commands becoming a **fool**. To make this clearer, he then says that becoming what many will call **a “fool”** will actually lead to becoming truly **wise**. If Paul’s use of the word **fool** would be misunderstood by your readers, you could use a form in your language that indicates that Paul is speaking from the perspective of other people. Alternate translation: “let him become a so-called ‘fool,’ that he may become truly wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 3 18 pvt3 grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 Here, the word translated **that** introduces the goal or purpose for which a person should **become a “fool”**. If the meaning of **that** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that introduces a goal or purpose. Alternate translation: “in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 3 19 m0gd figs-possession ἡ…σοφία τοῦ κόσμου τούτου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe what **this world** considers to be **wisdom**. If **the wisdom of this world** would be not be understood in your language as **wisdom** from the perspective of **this world**, you could use a different form that makes this meaning clear. Alternate translation: “what this world considers to be wisdom” or “worldly wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 3 19 uqb3 figs-idiom παρὰ τῷ Θεῷ 1 Here, Paul uses the phrase **with God** to identify God’s perspective. If **with God** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that identifies that this is **foolishness** according to how God views the world. Alternate translation: “from God’s perspective” or “in God’s eyes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 3 19 ayvv writing-quotations γέγραπται γάρ 1 In Paul’s culture, **For it is written** is a normal way to introduce a quotation from an important text, in this case, the Old Testament book titled “Job.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “For it can be read in the Old Testament” or “For the book of Job says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 3 19 zws3 figs-quotations γέγραπται…ὁ δρασσόμενος τοὺς σοφοὺς ἐν τῇ πανουργίᾳ αὐτῶν 1 He catches the wise in their craftiness If you cannot use this form in your language, you could translate these statements as indirect quotes instead of as direct quotes. Alternate translation: “it is written that God catches the wise in their craftiness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 3 19 wxz2 figs-metaphor δρασσόμενος τοὺς σοφοὺς ἐν τῇ πανουργίᾳ αὐτῶν 1 Here, Paul speaks as if God reaches out and grabs **the wise** as they act in **craftiness**. By speaking in this way, he means that even “crafty” or clever people cannot avoid God when he wishes to “catch” them. God is not deceived, and he can disrupt their clever plans. If **catches** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “interrupts the clever plans of the wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 3 19 j0ga figs-nominaladj τοὺς σοφοὺς 1 Paul is using the adjective **wise** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this adjective with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “wise people” or “those who are wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 3 19 x6ts figs-abstractnouns τῇ πανουργίᾳ 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **craftiness** by using a phrase such as “crafty plans” or “clever planning.” Alternate translation: “crafty plans” or “clever planning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 3 20 n5pu writing-quotations καὶ πάλιν 1 In Paul’s culture, **And again** is a normal way to introduce another quotation from an important text that supports the same point. In this case, Paul quotes from the Old Testament book titled “Psalms.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is introducing another quotation from an important text. Alternate translation: “It can be read in another place in the Old Testament” or “And the book of Psalms also says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 3 20 la6x figs-quotations Κύριος γινώσκει τοὺς διαλογισμοὺς τῶν σοφῶν, ὅτι εἰσὶν μάταιοι 1 The Lord knows that the reasoning of the wise is futile If you cannot use this form in your language, you could translate these statements as indirect quotes instead of as direct quotes. Alternate translation: “that the Lord knows the reasonings of the wise, that they are futile” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 3 20 gvyq figs-explicitinfo γινώσκει τοὺς διαλογισμοὺς τῶν σοφῶν, ὅτι εἰσὶν μάταιοι 1 If the form **the reasonings of the wise, that they** would be redundant in your language, you could express the idea without the redundant words. Alternate translation: “knows that the reasonings of the wise are futile” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo]])
1CO 3 20 ot38 figs-abstractnouns τοὺς διαλογισμοὺς τῶν σοφῶν 1 If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **reasonings** with a verb such as “reason” or “plan.” Alternate translation: “the things that the wise reason” or “the things that the wise plan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 3 20 tlk9 figs-nominaladj τῶν σοφῶν 1 Paul is using the adjective **wise** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this adjective with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “of wise people” or “of those who are wise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 3 20 kz2u εἰσὶν μάταιοι 1 futile Alternate translation: “they will come to nothing” or “they are worthless”
1CO 3 21 molu figs-imperative μηδεὶς καυχάσθω ἐν ἀνθρώποις 1 Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “should.” Alternate translation: “no one should boast in men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 3 21 xyti figs-idiom μηδεὶς καυχάσθω ἐν ἀνθρώποις 1 The phrase **boast in men** means that a person is boasting “about” humans. If **boast in** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that clarifies that the “boasting” has **men** as its content. Alternate translation: “let no one boast about men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 3 21 k9i3 figs-explicit ἐν ἀνθρώποις 1 The next verse makes it clear that here Paul specifically has leaders in mind. He wishes to tell the Corinthians that they should not boast about having a specific leader that they follow. If this meaning of **in men** would not be understood in your language, you could include some words that clarify that it refers to following leaders. Alternate translation: “in men that they follow” or “in men whose group they are part of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 3 21 ogfq figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώποις 1 Although the word translated men is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “in people” or “in men or women” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 3 21 g0hr figs-explicit πάντα…ὑμῶν ἐστιν 1 Here, **all things are yours** also implies that **boasting in men** is foolish. If the Corinthians have everything, then boasting about following a specific leader does not make sense. All the Corinthians have all the leaders, and much more beyond that (see [3:22](../03/22.md)). If it would be misunderstood in your language that **all things are yours** implies these conclusions, you could include a phrase that states these conclusions. Alternate translation: “all things are yours, including all leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 3 22 lrlg translate-names Παῦλος…Ἀπολλῶς…Κηφᾶς 1 These are the names of three men. They are the same men who were mentioned in [1:12](../01/12.md) as leaders whom the Corinthians were claiming to follow. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 3 22 x1w6 εἴτε Παῦλος, εἴτε Ἀπολλῶς, εἴτε Κηφᾶς, εἴτε κόσμος, εἴτε ζωὴ, εἴτε θάνατος, εἴτε ἐνεστῶτα, εἴτε μέλλοντα; 1 Paul does not want his readers to think that this list tells the Corinthians everything that they have. Rather, he uses the list to give examples. If the use of this list would be misunderstood in your language, you could include a word or phrase that shows that the list gives examples. Alternate translation: “including Paul and Apollos and Cephas and the world and life and death and things present and things to come”
1CO 3 22 o3k5 figs-explicit εἴτε ζωὴ, εἴτε θάνατος 1 When Paul says that **life** and **death** are theirs, he means that neither **life** nor **death** has control over the Corinthians. Rather, they have control over **life** and **death**. What this means is that they can live their lives without being afraid of what will happen while they are alive or afraid of losing their lives when they die. If the meaning of the **life** and **death** would be misunderstood in your language, you could add some words that clarify their meaning. Alternate translation: “or confidence in life or peace in death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 3 22 pyir figs-explicit εἴτε ἐνεστῶτα, εἴτε μέλλοντα 1 Here, Paul refers to **things present** because it refers to what was happening at the time when Paul wrote this letter. On the other hand, **things to come** refers to what is going to happen in the future, specifically when Jesus comes back. The **things present** is the way the world works right now. The **things to come** is the way the world will work when Jesus returns. If the meaning of these phrases would be misunderstood in your language, you could add some words that clarify their meaning. Alternate translation: “or the current order or the order that Jesus will bring” or “or what happens now or what will happen soon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 3 22 jt0x figs-infostructure πάντα ὑμῶν 1 Here, Paul uses the same phrase he used at the end of [3:21](../03/21.md): **all things are yours**. He repeats the phrase here to explain that the list provides examples of **all things** and also to introduce the point he is about to make in the next verse. Because **all things are yours** ends the list and also introduces the next idea, the ULT begins a new sentence with **all things are yours**. Use whatever form in your language most clearly identifies a conclusion that also introduces the next statement. Alternate translation: “Thus, all things are yours,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 3 23 nj48 figs-possession ὑμεῖς…Χριστοῦ 1 you are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s Here, Paul uses the possessive form to show the Corinthians that they belong to Christ. If the meaning of this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a phrase such as “belong to” or a verb such as “has.” Alternate translation: “you belong to Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 3 23 dc6v figs-possession Χριστὸς…Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to show the Corinthians that **Christ** belongs to who **God** is. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a phrase such as “belongs to” or a verb such as “includes.” Alternate translation: “Christ belongs to God” or “who God is includes Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 intro vg5z 0 # 1 Corinthians 4 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and Formatting<br><br>1. Against divisions (1:10–4:15)<br> * God alone is judge (4:1–5)<br> * Present weakness (4:6–15)<br>2. Against sexual immorality (4:16–6:20)<br> * Paul’s planned visit (4:16–21)<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Judgment<br><br>In [4:3–5](../04/03.md), Paul refers to three different judgments. The first judgment is what humans think of each other, including what they think of Paul. The second is Paul’s own judgment of himself. The third is God’s judgment, which occurs when the Lord returns. Paul argues that the first two judgments are not important and carry no weight. Rather, the only judgment that matters is God’s judgment. Therefore, Paul argues that no one should issue a final verdict about anything until God has performed his judgment ([4:5](../04/05.md)). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/discernment]])<br><br>### Pride<br><br>Paul mentions the Corinthians’ pride many times in this chapter. He speaks specifically of being “puffed up” ([4:6](../04/06.md); [4:18–19](../04/18.md)), and boasting ([4:7](../04/07.md)). In contrast, Paul describes himself and the other apostles as humble and weak ([4:9–13](../04/09.md)). By making this contrast, Paul wants the Corinthians to rethink their opinions about themselves. If the apostles, the leaders of the church, are weak and humble, they need to think again about whether they really are as great as they think they are.<br><br>### Word and power<br><br>In [4:19–20](../04/19.md), Paul contrasts “word” with “power.” This is common comparison in his culture that contrasts talk and deeds. Anyone can say they are capable of doing something, but only those with “power” can actually do what they claim. Paul introduces this contrast because he is coming to see if those who claim greatness (“word”) can do what they claim (“power”). He argues that “power” is what matters more than “word” because God’s kingdom is a matter of “power,” not “word.” It is about action, not just talk. If your language has a standard comparison between “talk” and “deeds,” you could use it in these verses.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Paul as father<br><br>In [4:14–15](../04/14.md), Paul identifies the Corinthians as his children, which makes him their father. He became their father when he preached the gospel to them. Thus, he is their spiritual father, the one who helped bring them into the Christian life. In the metaphor, Paul does not specify who the mother is, and he does not intend his audience to make an inference as to who it might be. In [4:17](../04/17.md), Paul continues this metaphor by claiming Timothy as his spiritual child. If possible, use words in your language that do not always require biological relationships. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/father]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/children]])<br><br>### The spectacle<br><br>In [4:9](../04/09.md), Paul speaks of the “spectacle” that he and the other apostles participate in. The “spectacle” could be a victory parade in which Paul and the other apostles are prisoners who will be killed, or it could be a gladiatorial performance in an arena in which Paul and the other apostles are destined to die. See the notes on the verse for translation options. Whichever “spectacle” Paul refers to, he is presenting himself and the other apostles as people who are going to be humiliated and killed in public. With this metaphor he continues the theme of Christ working in power through his and others’ weakness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>### Irony<br><br>In [4:8](../04/08.md), Paul says that the Corinthians are satisfied, rich, and reigning. In the second half of the verse, however, he says that he “wishes” that they were actually reigning. The first part of the verse, then, presents how the Corinthians think about themselves. Paul speaks from their perspective in order
1CO 4 1 nkda figs-explicitinfo οὕτως ἡμᾶς λογιζέσθω ἄνθρωπος ὡς 1 If the form **In this manner let a man regard us: as** would be redundant in your language, you could express the idea without the redundant words. Alternate translation: “Let a man regard us as” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo]])
1CO 4 1 k1v5 figs-imperative ἡμᾶς λογιζέσθω ἄνθρωπος 1 Connecting Statement: Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “should.” Alternate translation: “a man should regard us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 4 1 xt4u figs-gendernotations ἄνθρωπος 1 Although the word translated **man** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “man or woman” or “human” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 4 1 fk8c figs-genericnoun ἄνθρωπος 1 Paul uses the word **man** to speak of people in general, not one specific person. If the meaning of **man** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a form that indicates people in general in your language. Alternate translation: “everybody” or “any person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 4 1 px42 figs-exclusive ἡμᾶς 1 Here, **us** refers to Paul, Apollos, and others who proclaim the gospel. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 1 if6t figs-possession οἰκονόμους μυστηρίων Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **stewards** who are in charge of **the mysteries of God**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “manage” or “oversee.” Alternate translation: “stewards who manage the mysteries of God” or “stewards who oversee the mysteries of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 1 duab figs-possession μυστηρίων Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **mysteries** that are: (1) revealed by **God**. Alternate translation: “of the mysteries given by God” or “of the mysteries from God” (2) about **God**. Alternate translation: “of the mysteries about God” or “of the mysteries concerning God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 2 th8e grammar-connect-words-phrases ὧδε λοιπὸν 1 what is required of stewards Here, Paul uses the phrase **In this case** to introduce further information about what it means to be **stewards**. Since he is talking about himself and others who proclaim the gospel as **stewards**, it is important to understand what it is that **stewards** are **required** to do. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces more information about a topic. Alternate translation: “Now” or “Speaking of stewards,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 4 2 de61 figs-explicit ζητεῖται ἐν τοῖς οἰκονόμοις, ἵνα πιστός τις εὑρεθῇ 1 While Paul does not directly apply this sentence to himself and others who proclaim the gospel, it is clear that he intends the reader to apply it to him and these others. Paul then means that he and others who proclaim the gospel are required to do so faithfully by God. If this implication would not be understood by your readers, you could a word or phrase that makes it clear by identifying Paul as one of the stewards. Alternate translation: “it is required in stewards like us that we be found faithful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 4 2 qek0 figs-activepassive ζητεῖται 1 If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with a vague subject or “masters” as the subject. Alternate translation: “people require” or “a master requires” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 2 dpeo figs-activepassive πιστός τις εὑρεθῇ 1 If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with a vague subject or “masters” as the subject. Alternate translation: “people find one faithful” or “a master finds one faithful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 2 yesr writing-pronouns τις 1 Here, Paul uses **one** to refer to any of the **stewards**. If **one** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a plural pronoun such as “they.” Alternate translation: “they” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 4 3 t133 ἐμοὶ…ἐστιν 1 Alternate translation: “I consider it” or “from my perspective”
1CO 4 3 fspp figs-idiom εἰς ἐλάχιστόν ἐστιν 1 When Paul says that **it is a very small thing** for him to **be examined**, what he means is that their “examination” of him is unimportant to him. Whether they think he has been faithful or not does not matter to him at all. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “it is no big deal” or “it has no significance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 4 3 k6nc figs-activepassive ὑφ’ ὑμῶν ἀνακριθῶ, ἢ ὑπὸ ἀνθρωπίνης ἡμέρας; 1 it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “you or a human court would examine me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 3 l2tt translate-unknown ἀνθρωπίνης ἡμέρας 1 Here, the words translated **a human court** refer to an official legal proceeding where whether Paul was faithful or not could be judged by those in charge. Here, he uses the words primarily to refer to any people who are in charge of this legal proceeding. If this language would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to an official meeting to decide whether someone is innocent or guilty or a word or phrase that refers to who is in charge at such a meeting. Alternate translation: “a court of law” or “a human jury” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 3 skwh grammar-connect-words-phrases ἀλλ’ 1 Here, the word translated **For** introduces an even stronger statement about how little Paul cares about being **examined** by humans. He cares so little that he does not even **examine** himself. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that normally introduces a further, stronger statement. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 4 4 u9jd figs-idiom οὐδὲν…ἐμαυτῷ σύνοιδα 1 I am not aware of any charge being made against me Paul says that he is **aware of nothing against** himself. By this, he means that he does not know about anything that could be used to accuse him. He is not aware of anything he has done wrong. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “I have a clear conscience” or “I cannot think of any wrong things I have done” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 4 4 h3wl figs-activepassive οὐκ ἐν τούτῳ δεδικαίωμαι; 1 that does not mean I am innocent. It is the Lord who judges me If you cannot use this form in your language, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “this does not justify me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 4 bulo writing-pronouns τούτῳ 1 The word translated **this** refers back to the whole idea that Paul is **aware of nothing against** himself. If the meaning of **this** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that it refers back to the whole previous statement. Alternate translation: “what I am aware of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 4 4 hjob grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 Paul uses the word translated **but** to introduce a contrast with everyone else who might “examine” Paul (see [4:3–4](../04/03.md)). If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a contrast with several previous statements. Alternate translation: “Instead,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 4 4 f6bb ὁ…ἀνακρίνων με Κύριός ἐστιν. 1 Alternate translation: “the Lord is the one who judges me”
1CO 4 5 qi3g figs-explicitinfo πρὸ καιροῦ…ἕως ἂν ἔλθῃ ὁ Κύριος 1 Therefore If the form **before the time, until the Lord comes** contains redundant information that would be unnatural to state in your language, you could express the idea without the redundant words. Alternate translation: “before the Lord comes” or “until the Lord comes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo]])
1CO 4 5 wl3i figs-metaphor ὃς καὶ φωτίσει τὰ κρυπτὰ τοῦ σκότους 1 He will bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the purposes of the heart Here, Paul speaks as if **the Lord** will bring a flashlight or torch when he comes, and he will use that torch or flashlight to shine **light** on things that are currently **hidden** in the **darkness**. By speaking in this way, Paul means that **the Lord** will reveal what no person knows right now. If the meaning of this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “who will both disclose what people do not know about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 5 dcje figs-possession τὰ κρυπτὰ τοῦ σκότους 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **things** that are **hidden** in **darkness**. If the **hidden things** would not be understood to be in **darkness** in your language, you could express the idea by using a word such “in” or “within.” Alternate translation: “the things hidden in darkness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 5 ywuk figs-abstractnouns τὰ κρυπτὰ τοῦ σκότους 1 If your language does not use the abstract noun **darkness**, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that describes something that cannot be seen because there is no light, such as “in shadow.” Alternate translation: “the hidden things in shadow” or “the things hidden where no light shines” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 4 5 spwh figs-possession τὰς βουλὰς τῶν καρδιῶν 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **purposes** that come from or are created in **the hearts**. If it would be misunderstood in your language that **the purposes** are located in **the hearts**, you could express the idea by using a word such as “from” or “in.” Alternate translation: “the purposes in the hearts” or “the purposes from the hearts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 5 tgdg translate-unknown τὰς βουλὰς 1 Here, **purposes** refers to how humans have specific goals in mind and plan ways of attaining those goals. If the meaning of **purposes** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word such as “plans” or “intentions.” Alternate translation: “the plans” or “the intentions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 5 tgox figs-metonymy τῶν καρδιῶν 1 In Paul’s culture, **hearts** are the places where humans think and plan. If that meaning of **hearts** would be misunderstood in your language, you could refer to the place where humans think in your culture or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “of the minds” or “that humans plan” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 4 5 pw6r figs-idiom ὁ ἔπαινος γενήσεται ἑκάστῳ ἀπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul speaks as if **praise** were something that could **come** or travel from **God** to humans. Paul means that **God** is the source of the **praise** that **each one** will receive. If the meaning of this sentence would be misunderstood in your language, you could make **God** the person who gives the **praise**. Alternate translation: “God will give praise to each one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 4 5 kcya figs-explicit ὁ ἔπαινος γενήσεται ἑκάστῳ ἀπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Here, Paul seems to say that every person will receive some **praise** from **God**. However, Paul does not mean this. Instead, he only gives the example of the person who has been faithful to God, not the example of the person who has not been faithful to God. If using only one example would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that this example is only about those who are faithful, or you could include the opposite example about those who have been unfaithful. Alternate translation: “the praise from God will come to each faithful one” or “the praise and blame from God will come to teach one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 4 6 agfz writing-pronouns ταῦτα 1 The word translated **these things** refers back to everything Paul has said about himself and Apollos in [3:4–23](../03/04.md). If what **these things** refers to would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that it refers to what Paul has said about farming and building. Alternate translation: “what I have said about farming and building” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 4 6 ijn5 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Although the word translated **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 4 6 xxp2 translate-names Ἀπολλῶν 1 This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 4 6 ymxi figs-exclusive ἡμῖν 1 Here, the word **us** refers to Paul and Apollos only. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 6 ziz9 figs-quotations μάθητε, τό μὴ ὑπὲρ ἃ γέγραπται 1 for your sakes If you your language does not use this form, you could translate this statement as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. Alternate translation: “you might learn not to go beyond what is written” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 4 6 o02a figs-explicit τό μὴ ὑπὲρ ἃ γέγραπται, 1 Here, Paul quotes a short phrase that is not from the Old Testament but that would have been well-known to the Corinthians. The phrase **what is written** could refer to: (1) the Old Testament scriptures. Paul is telling the Corinthians that they should only act in ways that the Old Testament approves of. Alternate translation: “Not beyond what the scriptures say” (2) general principles of life that everyone knows about. Paul is telling the Corinthians that they should only act in ways that are generally approved and accepted. Alternate translation: “Not beyond proper standards” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 4 6 hk55 figs-infostructure ἵνα 2 The statement introduced by **so that** could be the purpose of (1) learning that they should not go **beyond what is written**. Alternate translation: “with the goal that” (2) Paul applying **these things** to himself and Apollos. Alternate translation: “so that, in the end,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 4 6 e79m figs-activepassive μὴ εἷς…φυσιοῦσθε 1 If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with **no one** as the subject and the object. Alternate translation: “no one would puff himself or herself up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 6 hjfu writing-pronouns τοῦ ἑνὸς…τοῦ ἑτέρου 1 The words translated **the one** and **the other** refer to any specific leaders the Corinthians might praise or blame. Perhaps Paul specifically has himself and Apollos in mind, but he intentionally uses words that would include any leader whom the Corinthians could praise or blame. If the meaning of **the one** and **the other** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that indicates that Paul is speaking generally of any leaders here. Alternate translation: “of any leader … any other leader” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 4 7 fnu3 figs-yousingular σε…ἔχεις…ἔλαβες…ἔλαβες…καυχᾶσαι…λαβών 1 between you … do you have that you did not … you have freely … do you boast … you had not In this verse, Paul uses the singular form for **you**. He does this in order to directly address each specific person among the Corinthian believers. In the next verse, he again uses the plural form of “you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
1CO 4 7 gtb5 figs-rquestion τίς…σε διακρίνει? 1 For who makes you superior? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “no one.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea as an emphatic statement. Alternate translation: “there is no one who makes you superior.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 4 7 r6yw figs-rquestion τί…ἔχεις ὃ οὐκ ἔλαβες? 1 What do you have that you did not freely receive? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “nothing.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea as an emphatic statement. Alternate translation: “there is nothing that you have that you did not receive.” or “you received everything that you have.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 4 7 eixw grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ δὲ καὶ ἔλαβες 1 Paul is speaking as if “receiving it” were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “And since you indeed received it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
1CO 4 7 e8l2 figs-rquestion τί καυχᾶσαι ὡς μὴ λαβών? 1 why do you boast as if you had not done so? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. Here, there is no answer to the question, since that is exactly Paul’s point. There is no reason for them to **boast**. If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea as an imperative or a “should” statement. Alternate translation: “do not boast as if you did not receive it.” or “you should not boast as if you did not receive it.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 4 7 p0hg writing-pronouns ἔλαβες…λαβών 2 Here, both uses of **it** refer back to **what** the Corinthians **have**. If your language does not use **it** to refer to an unstated “thing,” you could use a word or phrase that does refer clearly back to **what** the Corinthians **have**. Alternate translation: “you received everything … you did … receive everything” or “you received what you have … you did … receive what you have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 4 8 yp8s figs-irony ἤδη κεκορεσμένοι ἐστέ, ἤδη ἐπλουτήσατε, χωρὶς ἡμῶν ἐβασιλεύσατε 1 General Information: With these statements, Paul is stating what he thinks the Corinthians would say about themselves. He does not mean that he believes that these things are true. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could include some words that clarify that Paul is speaking from the Corinthians’s perspective, such as “it is as if” or “you say.” Alternate translation: “Already it is as if you are satisfied! Already it is as if you have become rich! It is as if you began to reign apart from us” or “Already you say that you are satisfied! Already you say that you have become rich! You say that you have begun to reign apart from us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 4 8 v77u figs-metaphor κεκορεσμένοι ἐστέ 1 Here, Paul speaks as if the Corinthians have had more than enough food to eat and beverages to drink. By this, he means that (they think that) they have so many spiritual blessings that there are no more that they can receive. If the meaning of **satisfied** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “you are stuffed with blessings” or “you have every spiritual gift” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 8 uc7s figs-metaphor ἐπλουτήσατε 1 Here, Paul speaks as if the Corinthians have become wealthy people. He speaks in this way to again emphasize that (they think that) they have more spiritual blessings than they need. If the meaning of **become rich** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “you have become fat” or “you have an excess of spiritual gifts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 8 mpir figs-exclusive ἡμῶν…ἡμεῖς 1 Here, **us** and **we** refer to Paul and others who proclaim the gospel. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 9 bb41 grammar-connect-words-phrases γάρ 1 God has put us apostles on display Here, the word translated **For** introduces evidence that Paul and the other apostles are not “reigning” right now. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a contrast word such as “rather” or use a word or phrase that indicates that this sentence provides evidence that Paul is not “reigning.” Alternate translation: “Rather,” or “You can tell we are not reigning, since” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 4 9 v0bg translate-unknown δοκῶ 1 Here, the word translated **I think** introduces Paul’s own opinion of what he and other **apostles** are meant to do and experience. If the meaning of **I think** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that introduces a person’s interpretation or opinion. Alternate translation: “in my opinion,” or “it seems to me that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 9 lz8v figs-exclusive ἡμᾶς…ἐγενήθημεν 1 Here, **we** and **us** refer to Paul and his fellow apostles. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 9 vfq3 figs-metaphor ἡμᾶς τοὺς ἀποστόλους ἐσχάτους ἀπέδειξεν, ὡς ἐπιθανατίους 1 has put us apostles on display Here, Paul uses a metaphor that identifies himself and other apostles as those who receive public humiliation and are put to death. The metaphor itself: (1) could refer to a Roman gladiatorial contest. The apostles, then, would be **exhibited** in the arena as part of the **last** event. As those who are **sentenced to death**, they would then die in this last event. Alternate translation: “has exhibited us apostles in the last event of the gladiatorial games, in which we are destined to die” (2) could refer to a victory parade. The apostles, then, would be **exhibited** at the end of the parade, or **last**. As the **last** prisoners, they are **sentenced to death**, and will be killed soon after the parade ends. Alternate translation: “has exhibited us apostles at the end of the victory parade, in the place where prisoners who are sentenced to death march” (3) could be misunderstood in your language. If this is the case, you could express the idea in non-figurative language. Alternate translation: “has chosen us apostles to be humiliated, and we are destined to die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 9 ayu9 translate-unknown ἐσχάτους 1 The word translated **last of all** could identify: (1) the time when the **apostles** are **exhibited**, which would be as the last event held in the arena. Alternate translation: “at the end” (2) the place where the **apostles** are **exhibited**, which would be at the end of the victory parade. Alternate translation: “last in line” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 9 e4i1 figs-metaphor θέατρον ἐγενήθημεν τῷ κόσμῳ, καὶ ἀγγέλοις καὶ ἀνθρώποις 1 Here, Paul speaks as if he and other apostles were part of a gladiatorial game or a theatrical show. He speaks in this way to show that the humiliation and death he and other apostles suffer happens in public, with everyone watching to see what happens. If this metaphor would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “we live in full view of the world—both of angels and of men” or “we undergo these things publicly, before the world—both angels and men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 9 cqh4 figs-infostructure τῷ κόσμῳ, καὶ ἀγγέλοις καὶ ἀνθρώποις 1 to the world—to angels, and to human beings This structure could mean that: (1) Paul wants to define the **world** as **angels** and **men**. Alternate translation: “to the world, that is, both to angels and to men” (2) Paul is listing three different things. Alternate translation: “to the world, to angels, and to men.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 4 9 d8da figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώποις 1 Although the word translated **men** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether men or women. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “to men and women” or “to people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 4 10 ds54 figs-ellipsis ἡμεῖς μωροὶ διὰ Χριστόν, ὑμεῖς δὲ φρόνιμοι ἐν Χριστῷ; ἡμεῖς ἀσθενεῖς, ὑμεῖς δὲ ἰσχυροί; ὑμεῖς ἔνδοξοι, ἡμεῖς δὲ ἄτιμοι 1 In Paul’s language, he did not need to include the word translated **{are}**. However, many languages, including English, must add **{are}**, which is why the ULT includes it in brackets. If your language would not use **{are}** here, you could leave it unexpressed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 4 10 johq figs-exclusive ἡμεῖς -1 Here, the word **we** refers to Paul and the other “apostles.” It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 10 fkw2 figs-irony ἡμεῖς μωροὶ…ἡμεῖς ἀσθενεῖς…ἡμεῖς…ἄτιμοι 1 We are fools … in dishonor With these statements, Paul identifies what he and the other apostles are like from the perspective of this world. They are **fools**, **weak**, and **dishonored**. Paul does know that from God’s perspective they are actually “wise,” “strong,” and “honored.” However, he speaks from the perspective of this world to help the Corinthians change their thinking. Instead of wanting to be **wise**, **strong**, and **honored**, the Corinthians need to realize that following God will instead make them appear to this world as **fools**, **weak**, and **dishonored**. If the meaning of these statements would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that clarifies that they are spoken from a different perspective. Alternate translation: “We {seem to be} fools … We {seem to be} weak … we {seem to be} dishonored” or “According to the world, we {are} fools … According to the word, we {are} weak … according to the world, we {are} dishonored’ (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 4 10 ufj2 figs-irony ὑμεῖς δὲ φρόνιμοι…ὑμεῖς δὲ ἰσχυροί…ὑμεῖς ἔνδοξοι 1 With these statements, Paul identifies what the Corinthians think about themselves. They think they are **wise**, **strong**, and **honored** from the perspective of this world. Paul contrasts what the Corinthians think about themselves and how he and other apostles look from the world’s perspective in order to make the Corinthians reconsider what they think about themselves. If these statements would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that identifies that they are spoken from the perspective of the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “but you consider yourselves wise … but you consider yourselves strong … You consider yourselves honored” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 4 10 wqh7 figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ 1 You are held in honor Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ**, or united to Christ, explains: (1) the means by which God has made the Corinthians **wise**. Alternate translation: “by means of your union with Christ” (2) the reason why God has made the Corinthians **wise**. Alternate translation: “because of your union with Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 10 d1s9 figs-infostructure ὑμεῖς ἔνδοξοι, ἡμεῖς δὲ ἄτιμοι. 1 Paul changes the order of the last item in the list, putting **You** in front of **we**. In his culture, this is one way to identify the last item in a list. If the change in order would be misunderstood in your language, you could change the order to match the order Paul uses for the first two items. Alternate translation: “We {are} dishonored, but you {are} honored” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 4 11 i298 figs-idiom ἄχρι τῆς ἄρτι ὥρας 1 Up to this present hour In Paul’s culture, the phrase **Up to this present hour** means that what Paul is about to say has been happening and continues to happen up to the time when he writes this letter. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “To this very day” “All the time we serve Christ,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 4 11 k3f1 figs-exclusive πεινῶμεν 1 Here, the word **we** refers to Paul and the other “apostles.” It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 11 hqco translate-unknown γυμνιτεύομεν 1 The word translated **are poorly clothed** means that the clothing is old and worn and barely covers a person’s body. If the meaning of **are poorly clothed** would be misunderstood in your language, use a word or phrase that identifies clothing that barely covers a person. Alternate translation: “are clothed in rags” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 11 jj2y figs-activepassive καὶ κολαφιζόμεθα, καὶ 1 we are brutally beaten If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form with a vague or indefinite subject. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add a comma before it. Alternate translation: “and people brutally beat us, and we” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 11 yhf4 translate-unknown ἀστατοῦμεν 1 we are homeless The word translated **are homeless** means that Paul and the other apostles do not have a permanent residence or a house that they own. It does not mean that they never had a place to stay. If the meaning of **are homeless** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates that Paul and the other apostles do not have a permanent residence. Alternate translation: “do not own homes” or “are always on the move” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 12 exfo figs-exclusive ἰδίαις…εὐλογοῦμεν…ἀνεχόμεθα 1 Here, the words **our** and **we** refer to Paul and other “apostles.” They do not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 12 ushf figs-doublet κοπιῶμεν, ἐργαζόμενοι 1 Here, the words **working hard** and **working** mean basically the same thing. Paul uses both words to emphasize how **hard** he is working. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these words and indicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “are working very hard” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1CO 4 12 e0mz figs-idiom ἐργαζόμενοι ταῖς ἰδίαις χερσίν 1 In Paul’s culture, the phrase **with our own hands** indicates that Paul and other apostles were doing manual labor. In fact, we know that Paul himself made tents (see [Acts 18:3](../act/018/03.md)), so that is probably the manual labor which he refers to here. If **with our hands** would not refer to manual labor in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or an expression that refers to manual labor. Alternate translation: “doing physically demanding work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 4 12 z6fg grammar-connect-time-simultaneous λοιδορούμενοι…διωκόμενοι 1 The phrases **Being reviled** and **being persecuted** identify the situations in which Paul and other apostles **bless** and **endure**. If this relationship would be misunderstood in your language, you could (1) include a word such as “when” to indicate that these actions happen at the same time. Alternate translation: “Any time we are reviled … any time we are persecuted” (2) include a word such as “although” to indicate that these actions are in contrast with each other. Alternate translation: “Although we are reviled … although we are persecuted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 4 12 n389 figs-activepassive λοιδορούμενοι 1 When we are reviled, we bless If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “Others reviling us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 12 o7jz translate-unknown λοιδορούμενοι 1 Here, the word translated **Being reviled** refers to someone abusing another person with words. If that meaning for **Being reviled** would not be obvious in your language, you could use a word or phrase that does refer to using abusive words about another person. Alternate translation: “Being slandered” or “Being attacked verbally” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 12 l71q figs-explicit εὐλογοῦμεν 1 Here, Paul does not state whom or what they **bless**. He could mean that they **bless**: (1) the people who “revile” them. Alternate translation: “we bless in return” (2) God, even though they are suffering. Alternate translation: “we bless God anyway” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 4 12 kue7 figs-activepassive διωκόμενοι 1 When we are persecuted If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “Others persecuting us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 13 xvn4 figs-exclusive παρακαλοῦμεν…ἐγενήθημεν 1 Here, the word **we** refers to Paul and other “apostles.” It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 4 13 l3ns grammar-connect-time-simultaneous δυσφημούμενοι 1 The phrase **being slandered** identifies the situation in which Paul and other apostles **comfort**. If this relationship would be misunderstood in your language, you could (1) include a word such as “when” to indicate that these actions happen at the same time. Alternate translation: “Any time we are slandered” (2) include a word such as “although” to indicate that these actions are in contrast with each other. Alternate translation: “Although we are slandered” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 4 13 a6hp figs-activepassive δυσφημούμενοι 1 When we are slandered If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “others slandering us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 13 p0fd figs-simile ὡς περικαθάρματα τοῦ κόσμου ἐγενήθημεν, πάντων περίψημα 1 Here, Paul says that he and other apostles are like **scum** and **refuse**, both of which are words that describe garbage. Paul speaks in this way to show that **the world** considers him and other apostles to be worthless, just like garbage is worthless and should be thrown away. If the meaning of this simile would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable image or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “We have no value according to the world’s perspective” or “We have become like a heap of garbage” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1CO 4 13 uubg figs-doublet περικαθάρματα τοῦ κόσμου…πάντων περίψημα 1 Here, Paul uses two different words for garbage. The word **scum** refers to what people throw away after they clean something. The word **refuse** refers to dirt or filth that people wipe or scrub off an object. Paul uses two very similar words in order to emphasize that the world thinks that he and other apostles are like garbage. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “the filthy scum of all the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1CO 4 13 gqxj figs-possession περικαθάρματα τοῦ κόσμου 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe what **the world** identifies as **scum**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a short phrase to clarify that **scum** is what **the world** thinks he and other apostles are. Alternate translation: “what the world considers scum” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 13 flf9 figs-synecdoche τοῦ κόσμου 1 When Paul uses **the world** in this context, he is not referring primarily to everything that God has made. Rather, he uses **the world** to refer to human beings who do not believe in Jesus. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an expression that refers to human beings in general. Alternate translation: “of human beings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 4 13 ip6p figs-possession πάντων περίψημα 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe **refuse** that: (1) comes from **all things**. Alternate translation: “the refuse from all things” (2) **all** people consider to be garbage. Alternate translation: “what all people consider to be refuse” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 13 z4tt figs-idiom ἕως ἄρτι 1 Here, Paul ends this sentence in a similar way to how he began his sentence in [4:11](../04/11.md). In Paul’s culture, the phrase **even until now** means that what Paul speaks about has been happening and continues to happen up to the time when he writes this letter. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “to this very day” “all the time we serve Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 4 14 k1at figs-infostructure οὐκ ἐντρέπων ὑμᾶς γράφω ταῦτα, ἀλλ’ ὡς τέκνα μου ἀγαπητὰ, νουθετῶ 1 I do not write these things to shame you, but to correct you If putting the negative statement before the positive statement would be misunderstood in your language, you could reverse them. Alternate translation: “I correct {you} as my beloved children. I do not write these things as shaming you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 4 14 r9pj grammar-connect-logic-goal ἐντρέπων ὑμᾶς 1 Here, the phrase **as shaming you** introduces what Paul did **not write** to do. If **as shaming** would be understood as a purpose in your language, you could use a word or phrase that does clearly indicate purpose. Alternate translation: “in order to shame you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 4 14 nlzx writing-pronouns ταῦτα 1 The word translated **these things** refers back to what Paul has already written, focusing on [4:6–13](../04/06.md). If that meaning for **these things** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers back to what Paul has just finished writing. Alternate translation: “what I have said about us apostles and you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 4 14 t8jc grammar-connect-logic-result ὡς τέκνα μου ἀγαπητὰ 1 correct Here, the phrase **as my beloved children** introduces (1) the reason why Paul corrects the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “because you are my beloved children” (2) the way in which he corrects the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “as a father corrects his beloved children, so” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 4 14 ruu5 figs-metaphor τέκνα μου ἀγαπητὰ 1 my beloved children Here, Paul speaks of the Corinthians as if they were his **beloved children**. He speaks in this way because he is their spiritual father, the one who first preached the good news to them. Also, he loves them in the same way a father loves his own children. If Paul calling the Corinthians his **beloved children** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “my beloved younger siblings” or “fellow believers whom I love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 15 ur1i grammar-connect-condition-contrary ἐὰν…μυρίους παιδαγωγοὺς ἔχητε ἐν Χριστῷ 1 Here, Paul is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he is already convinced that the condition is not true. He knows that the Corinthians do not have **myriads of guardians**, but he speaks in this way to emphasize that they have only one spiritual father, no matter how many **guardians** they have. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “even if you somehow had myriads of guardians in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]])
1CO 4 15 n8c1 figs-hyperbole μυρίους παιδαγωγοὺς 1 ten thousand guardians Here, **myriads of guardians** is an exaggeration that the Corinthians would have understood to mean a large number of **guardians**. If that would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to a large number. Alternate translation: “many guardians” or “a large number of guardians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 4 15 nkcc figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ 1 Here, Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ**, or united to Christ, identifies: (1) that these **guardians** are helping the Corinthians in their union with Christ. Alternate translation: “who work to unite you more strongly to Christ” (2) the guardians as fellow believers in Jesus. Alternate translation: “who believe in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 15 d25x figs-ellipsis οὐ πολλοὺς πατέρας 1 Here, Paul omits some words that may be essential in your language to create a complete thought. In English, these words are essential, so they have been included in the ULT in brackets. If you can translate this sentence without these words, you could do so here. Otherwise, you could retain these words as they appear in the ULT. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 4 15 j01t figs-exmetaphor οὐ πολλοὺς πατέρας; ἐν γὰρ Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ διὰ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου, ἐγὼ ὑμᾶς ἐγέννησα. 1 Here, Paul speaks of himself as a “father” to the Corinthian believers. He became their father **through the gospel**, which means that he is their spiritual father. He is the one who preached the **gospel** to them when they became united to **Christ Jesus**, and that makes him the one who **fathered** them. If how Paul speaks about **fathers** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that Paul refers to “spiritual” **fathers**. Alternate translation: “{you would} not {have} many spiritual fathers; for I fathered you spiritually in Christ Jesus through the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 4 15 m9ek figs-metaphor ἐν…Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 2 I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel Here, Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ Jesus** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ**, or united to Christ, explains: (1) that the Corinthians became united to Christ when Paul preached the good news to them. Alternate translation: “when you were united to Christ Jesus” (2) Paul is their father in the Christian family, the family that is united to Christ. Alternate translation: “in the Christian family” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 16 vkao figs-abstractnouns μιμηταί μου γίνεσθε 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **imitators**, you could express the idea by using a verbal such as “imitate.” Alternate translation: “imitate me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 4 17 lrqn writing-pronouns διὰ τοῦτο 1 Here, **this** refers back to what Paul said in the previous verse about imitating him. If **this** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that it refers back to the previous verse. Alternate translation: “For that reason” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 4 17 r7z7 ἔπεμψα 1 Sometimes, Paul uses the past tense **sent** with reference to the person who carries the letter to its destination. However, Paul later speak of Timothy visiting them as only a possibility (see [16:10](../16/10.md)). Therefore, the visit to which Paul refers here could: (1) have already happened by the time Paul is writing this letter. Timothy would be visiting the Corinthians while Paul is writing this letter, since Paul uses the future tense to refer to how Timothy **will remind** them of Paul’s ways. Alternate translation: “I have sent” (2) be when Timothy brings the letter to them, at which time he **will remind** them of his ways. Alternate translation: “I am sending”
1CO 4 17 hi7w figs-metaphor ὅς ἐστίν μου τέκνον, ἀγαπητὸν καὶ πιστὸν 1 my beloved and faithful child in the Lord Here, Paul speaks of **Timothy** as if he were his own **child**. This continues the metaphor about Paul as a spiritual father from [4:15](../04/15.md). Paul is Timothy’s spiritual father, and Paul loves **Timothy** in the way a father loves his child. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “who is my beloved and faithful spiritual child” or “whom I love and who is faithful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 17 nwqz figs-metaphor ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 Here, Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in the Lord** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in the Lord**, or united to the Lord, identifies Timothy as someone who faithfully does what he is called to do in his union with **the Lord**. Alternate translation: “in his union with the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 17 oqd7 figs-metaphor τὰς ὁδούς μου τὰς ἐν 1 Here, Paul speaks of how he lives and what he does as **my ways**, which refers to the paths that Paul walks on. This way of speaking is related to how Paul has already spoken of behavior as “walking” (see [3:3](../03/03.md)). The phrase **my ways** could identify: (1) how Paul thinks and lives. Alternate translation: “the way that I live in” (2) the principles that Paul follows concerning how to think and live. Alternate translation: “the principles that I follow in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 17 cq9z figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Here, Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in Christ Jesus** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in Christ Jesus**, or united to Christ Jesus, describes Paul’s **ways** as ways that are appropriate for those united to Christ Jesus. Alternate translation: “appropriate in union with Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 17 j6gj figs-explicit καθὼς…διδάσκω 1 Here, Paul does not explicitly state what it is that he is teaching. From the previous words, however, it is clear that he teaches his **ways**, the same **ways** that Timothy will **remind** them about. If you need to clarify what Paul teaches, you could refer to the **ways** explicitly. Alternate translation: “the same ways that I teach” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 4 17 xs5y figs-hyperbole πανταχοῦ ἐν πάσῃ ἐκκλησίᾳ 1 Here, Paul speaks as if Paul has been **everywhere** and visited **every church**. The Corinthians would have understood this to refer to **everywhere** and **every church** that Paul has visited. If **everywhere** and **every church** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that Paul refers to **every** place and church he has visited. Alternate translation: “everywhere I go and in every church that I visit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 4 18 v4fn grammar-connect-time-sequential δέ 1 Now Here, the word translated **Now** introduces a development in the argument. Paul starts addressing some of the Corinthians who are proud. If **Now** does not introduce a new part of the argument in your language, you could use a word or phrase that does do this. Alternate translation: “Moving on,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])
1CO 4 17 wdug figs-doublet πανταχοῦ ἐν πάσῃ ἐκκλησίᾳ 1 Here, the words **everywhere** and **in every church** have very similar meanings. Paul repeats the idea to emphasize that he teaches the **ways** in every church, not just among the Corinthians. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine the two phrases into one. Alternate translation: “in every church” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1CO 4 18 th6i writing-pronouns τινες 1 The word **some** refers to **some** of the Corinthians. If the reference of **some** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that it identifies **some** Corinthian believers. Alternate translation: “some from among you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 4 18 flbr figs-activepassive ἐφυσιώθησάν 1 If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with “themselves” as the object. Alternate translation: “have puffed themselves up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 18 gap0 grammar-connect-condition-contrary ὡς 1 Here, Paul speaks of him **not coming** as something that is a possibility. However, he is convinced that this is not true, since he will “come” to them. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “as if” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]])
1CO 4 19 jdk5 grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 I will come to you Here, **But** introduces a contrast with what some people are thinking in the previous verse, that is, that Paul is not going to visit them. In this verse, he says that he will visit them soon. Use a word or phrase in your language that introduces a strong contrast. Alternate translation: “Despite what they think,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 4 19 y1sl figs-infostructure ἐλεύσομαι…ταχέως πρὸς ὑμᾶς, ἐὰν ὁ Κύριος θελήσῃ 1 If your language would put the **if** statement first, you could rearrange these two clauses. Alternate translation: “if the Lord wills, I will come to you soon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 4 19 eyq3 figs-hypo ἐὰν ὁ Κύριος θελήσῃ 1 Here, Paul says that he will only visit the Corinthians **if the Lord wills**. He is not sure whether the Lord will “will” or not. Use a form in your language that indicates a true hypothetical. Alternate translation: “only if the Lord wills, of course” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 4 19 tdbk figs-explicit τὸν λόγον…τὴν δύναμιν 1 The contrast between **word** and **power** was well-known in Paul’s culture. The contrast states that people can say many things, but they cannot always do what they say they can. If your language has a way to express this contrast between “talk” and “action,” you could use it here. Alternate translation: “the talk … their deeds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 4 19 kbp1 figs-metonymy τὸν λόγον τῶν πεφυσιωμένων 1 Here, **word** figuratively represents what someone says in words. If **word** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “what these who have been puffed up say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 4 19 fz8n figs-activepassive τῶν πεφυσιωμένων 1 If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea in active form, with “themselves” as the object. Alternate translation: “of these people who have puffed themselves up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 4 19 m92u figs-abstractnouns τὴν δύναμιν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **power**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “powerful.” Alternate translation: “how powerful they are” or “their powerful deeds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 4 20 iucw figs-metaphor οὐ…ἐν λόγῳ ἡ Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἀλλ’ ἐν δυνάμει 1 Here, Paul speaks as if **the kingdom of God** exists **in**, not **word**, but **power**. By this, he means that **the kingdom of God** does not consist in what people say but in what they do. To say it another way, **word**, or what people say, by itself does not make people part of God’s kingdom. Rather, it takes God’s **power** working for and through people to make them part of God’s kingdom. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “the kingdom of God consists not in word but in power” or “the kingdom of God is not about word but about power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 20 shgb figs-abstractnouns ἐν λόγῳ…ἀλλ’ ἐν δυνάμει 1 The contrast between **word** and **power** was well-known in Paul’s culture. The contrast states that people can say many things, but they cannot always do what they say they can. If your language has a way to express this contrast between “talk” and “action,” you could use it here. Alternate translation: “not in talk but in deeds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 4 20 gfhp figs-metonymy λόγῳ 1 Here, **word** figuratively represents what someone says in words. If **word** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “what people say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 4 20 wzpo figs-abstractnouns δυνάμει 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **power**, you could express the idea another way. Alternate translation: “powerful deeds” or “what people powerfully do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 4 21 ix5g figs-rquestion τί θέλετε? 1 What do you want? Paul asks the Corinthians **What** they **want** because he wants them to realize that their behavior will show him how to respond to them. He does not want the Corinthians to tell him all their desires. Rather, he presents two options in the rest of the verse, and the question **What do you want?** shows the Corinthians that they can choose between those two options by listening to Paul or choosing not to listen to him. If your language does not use a question to express this idea, you could translate the question in statement form. Alternate translation: “Depending on what you do, I will behave towards you in one of two ways.” or “How you respond to me will tell me how to respond to you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 4 21 wv61 figs-rquestion ἐν ῥάβδῳ ἔλθω πρὸς ὑμᾶς, ἢ ἐν ἀγάπῃ, πνεύματί τε πραΰτητος? 1 Shall I come to you with a rod or with love and in a spirit of gentleness? Here, Paul uses a question to present the two options for how he could act toward the Corinthians when he “comes” to them. He asks a question for the same reason he asked the first question in this verse. He wants them to realize that how they choose to respond to him will dictate how he will act when he visits. If they do not listen to him, he will **come with a rod**. If they do listen, he will come **with love and a spirit of gentleness**. If your language does not use a question to express this idea, you could translate the question in statement form. Alternate translation: “I will either come to you with a rod or with love and a spirit of gentleness.” or “If you do not listen, I will come to you with a rod. If you do listen, I will come to you with love and a spirit of gentleness.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 4 21 bl1d figs-metaphor ἐν ῥάβδῳ 1 Paul speaks of coming **with a rod** as if he is going to physically beat the Corinthians to teach them to listen to him. This metaphor may continue the way in which he speaks of himself as a “father” in [4:14–15](../04/14.md), since fathers could punish their children physically **with a rod** if they did not obey. By speaking in this way, Paul thus refers to discipline or punishment, but the discipline he threatens will not be physical. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that would describe discipline or punishment, or you could express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “to punish you” or “with a harsh rebuke” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 4 21 h4oj figs-abstractnouns ἐν ἀγάπῃ…τε 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **love**, you could express the idea by using an adverb such as “lovingly” or a verb such as “love.” Alternate translation: “shall I love you with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 4 21 u7b9 figs-possession πνεύματί…πραΰτητος 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to describe a **spirit** that is characterized by **gentleness**. If your language would not use the possessive form to express that idea, you could express the idea by translating **gentleness** as an adjective, such as “gentle.” Alternate translation: “a gentle spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 4 21 hpmb translate-unknown πνεύματί 1 Here, **spirit** does not refer to God’s Spirit, the Holy Spirit. Rather, it refers to Paul’s spirit. In Paul’s culture, **as spirit of** something is a way to describe a person’s attitude that is characterized by that thing. Here, then, Paul speaks about an attitude that is gentle. If **spirit** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word such as “attitude” to express the idea. Alternate translation: “an attitude” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 4 21 ix7l figs-abstractnouns πραΰτητος 1 of gentleness If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **gentleness**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “gentle.” Alternate translation: “that is gentle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 5 intro vb3l 0 # 1 Corinthians 5 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>3. Against sexual immorality (4:16–6:20)<br> * Paul condemns a sexually immoral man (5:1–5)<br> * Passover festival metaphor (5:6–8)<br> * Explanation of previous letter (5:9–13)<br><br>Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page to make them easier to read. The ULT does this with the quoted words of verse 13. Verse 13 quotes from Deuteronomy 17:7.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Sexual immorality<br><br>This chapter deals mostly with what Paul calls “sexual immorality” ([5:1](../05/01.md), [9–11](../05/9.md)). The word Paul uses for “sexual immorality” is a general term for sexual behavior that is considered improper. The specific type of “sexual immorality” that Paul addresses in this chapter is a man having sex with his step-mother. In some languages, there is a specific word for this. English uses the word “incest.” However, since Paul uses a general term and then brings up a specific situation, you also should use a general term for “sexual immorality” in this chapter. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fornication]])<br><br>### Judgment<br><br>Paul refers to “judgment” or “judging” in [5:3](../05/03.md), [12–13](../05/12.md). “Judging” refers to deciding whether someone is guilty or innocent. Paul emphasizes in this chapter that Christians should “judge” other Christians in the proper setting (see [5:3–5](../05/03.md)). However, they do not need to “judge” people who are not Christians. Paul states that “judging” them is God’s responsibility ([5:12–13](../05/12.md)). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]])<br><br>### Excommunication<br><br>In [5:2](../05/02.md), Paul speaks about “removing” the person who committed the sexual sin from among the Corinthians, and he makes a similar command in [5:13](../05/13.md). The phrase “hand this man over to Satan” in [5:5](../05/05.md) has a similar meaning. Finally, when Paul tells them to “clean out the old yeast” ([5:7](../05/07.md)), this is a metaphor for the same action. Paul is commanding the Corinthians to stop including in their group the man who committed the sexual sin. It is not totally clear whether the man can be accepted back into the group if he stops committing the sin.<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Euphemisms<br><br>As is the case in many cultures, sexual behavior is a delicate topic. Paul thus uses euphemisms to avoid sounding crude or nasty. When he says that “someone has his father’s wife” ([5:1](../05/01.md)), this is a delicate way to refer to someone consistently having sex with his father’s wife, whether married or not. He later on calls this behavior “a deed” ([5:2](../05/02.md)) or “such a thing” ([5:3](../05/03.md)). These phrases are ways of referring back to the man having sex with his father’s wife without using crude words. If your language has similar euphemisms for delicately referring to sexual behavior, you could use them here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])<br><br>### Passover metaphor<br><br>In [5:6–8](../05/06.md), Paul speaks of “yeast” and “Passover.” Passover was Jewish festival in which the people celebrated how God delivered them from serving as slaves in Egypt. The Israelites sacrificed lambs and spread the blood on their doors, and they ate bread without yeast in it because they would have to leave quickly. Then, God sent a destroying angel who killed the firstborn child in every house that did not have blood on its door. When this happened, the ruler of Egypt told the Israelites to leave immediately. You can read about these events in [Exodus 12](../exo/12/01.md). Later generations of Israelites celebrated this day by removing the yeast from their houses and by sacrificing a lamb. Paul refers to this festival in these verses. He uses the festival of Passover as a metaphor to encourage the Corinthians to r
1CO 5 1 k55t translate-unknown ὅλως ἀκούεται 1 The word translated **actually** can: (1) emphasize that something is really true. Alternate translation: “It is really reported that” (2) emphasize that many people know about what is going on in the Corinthian church. Alternate translation: “It is everywhere reported that” or “It is reported by many people that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 5 1 wrj1 figs-activepassive ὅλως ἀκούεται 1 Here, Paul intentionally uses a passive form to avoid stating who told him about the **sexual immorality**. If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea by making Paul the subject of a verb such as “learn” or by using a form that avoids naming a person. Alternate translation: “Some people have actually reported to me that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 5 1 dlj2 figs-doublet ἐν ὑμῖν πορνεία, καὶ τοιαύτη πορνεία ἥτις οὐδὲ ἐν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν 1 which does not even exist among the Gentiles Here, Paul repeats **sexual immorality** in order to emphasize how shocked and upset he is that people among the Corinthians are committing sexual sins. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these two statements and express Paul’s shock in another way. Alternate translation: “{there is} sexual immorality among you that even the Gentiles condemn” or “you overlook flagrant sexual immorality, a kind which even the Gentiles do not accept” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1CO 5 1 bnnc figs-explicit ἥτις οὐδὲ ἐν τοῖς ἔθνεσιν 1 While Paul does not explicitly say why this **immorality** is not **among the Gentiles**, the Corinthians would have understood him to mean that the **Gentiles** do not permit such behavior and prohibit it by law or social practice. If this information would not be implied in your language, you could include a word or phrase that indicates that Paul refers to the attitude of **Gentiles** towards this kind of **sexual immorality**. Alternate translation: “which even the Gentiles avoid” or “which even the Gentiles find shocking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 5 1 q8p7 translate-unknown τοῖς ἔθνεσιν 1 Here, Paul does not use **the Gentiles** primarily to refer to non-Jews, since there were non-Jewish members of the church. Rather, Paul uses **the Gentiles** to describe anyone who does not worship the true God. If **the Gentiles** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that identifies those who do not worship or serve God. Alternate translation: “the pagans” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 5 1 b9xn γυναῖκά τινα τοῦ πατρὸς ἔχειν 1 a man has his father’s wife In Paul’s culture, if man **has** a woman, it refers to a long-term sexual relationship. Often this would be a marriage, but it could also be a sexual relationship without marriage. Here, it is not clear whether the person (**someone**) marries **his father’s wife** or not. What is clear is that he is in a long-term sexual relationship with **his father’s wife**. If possible use a word or phrase that indicates this kind of general relationship. Alternate translation: “someone is living with his father’s wife” or “someone is sleeping with his father’s wife” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 5 1 lxp1 translate-kinship γυναῖκά…τοῦ πατρὸς 1 father’s wife Here, **his father’s wife** identifies a woman who is married to a man’s father but who is not the man’s mother. If your language has a specific word for this relationship, you could use it here. If your language does not have a word for this relationship, you could describe the relationship with a phrase, much like the ULT does. Alternate translation: “his father’s wife who is not his mother” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]])
1CO 5 2 idwe figs-activepassive ὑμεῖς πεφυσιωμένοι ἐστέ 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form, with “yourselves” as the object. Alternate translation: “you puff yourselves up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 5 2 uwco grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα ἀρθῇ…ὁ, τὸ ἔργον τοῦτο ποιήσας 1 The word translated **so that** could introduce: (1) a purpose for the “mourning.” Alternate translation: “in order that the one who did this deed might be removed (2) a command. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add period before it. Alternate translation: “The one who did this deed should be removed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 5 2 rr93 figs-activepassive ἵνα ἀρθῇ ἐκ μέσου ὑμῶν ὁ, τὸ ἔργον τοῦτο ποιήσας 1 The one who did this must be removed from among you If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form with the Corinthians as the subject. Alternate translation: “so that you remove the one who did this deed from among you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 5 2 ffwt figs-doublet ὁ, τὸ ἔργον τοῦτο ποιήσας 1 In Paul’s culture, it was normal to use both **did** and **deed** to refer to performing an act. If your language would not use both **did** and **deed** here, you could express the idea with just one of these two words. Alternate translation: “the one who did this” or “the one who acted out this deed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1CO 5 2 qwja figs-idiom ἀρθῇ ἐκ μέσου ὑμῶν 1 When someone is **removed from among** a group, it means that he or she is no longer part of the group. If your language has a specific word or phrase to describe expelling a member of a group, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “might be banned from your group” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 5 3 rm6l grammar-connect-logic-result γάρ 1 Here, the word **For** introduces the reason why the man who has committed the sexual sin should be “removed from among you” ([5:2](../05/02.md)). The reason is because Paul has already **passed judgment** on him, and so the Corinthians should be enacting the punishment. Use a word or phrase in your language that introduces a reason. Alternate translation: “He should be removed since” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 5 3 u5a2 figs-idiom ἀπὼν τῷ σώματι 1 In Paul’s culture, **being absent in body** is a figurative way to speak about not being present in person. If **being absent in the body** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable expression or translate the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “not being there with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 5 3 xm4e παρὼν…τῷ πνεύματι 1 I am present in spirit In Paul’s culture, **being present in spirit** is a figurative way to speak of thinking about and caring about that person. If **being present in spirit** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “still being connected to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 5 3 gfep τῷ πνεύματι 1 Here, **spirit** could refer to: (1) Paul’s **spirit**, which would be the part of him that connects with the Corinthians across a distance. Alternate translation: “in my spirit” (2) the Holy Spirit, which connects Paul with the Corinthians, even though they are not physically together. Alternate translation: “in God’s Spirit” or “by the power of God’s Spirit”
1CO 5 3 ax3u ἤδη κέκρικα…τὸν οὕτως τοῦτο κατεργασάμενον 1 I have already passed judgment on the one who did this Here, Paul has **already passed judgment**, which means that he has declared the man to be guilty. Two verses down ([5:4](../05/04.md)), Paul specifies what the punishment that results from the **judgment** should be: the man should be “handed over to Satan.” Here, then, use a word or phrase that indicates a decision about guilt, not a punishment. Alternate translation: “have already judged the one who did such a thing to be guilty”
1CO 5 3 sac6 figs-abstractnouns ἤδη κέκρικα 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **judgment**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “judge” instead of **passed judgment on**. Alternate translation: “have already judged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 5 3 v4o9 figs-euphemism τὸν οὕτως τοῦτο κατεργασάμενον 1 Paul does not wish to repeat the ugly details of the man having sex with his stepmother. Instead, Paul uses general words to refer back to what he has already said about the man. If possible, preserve how Paul avoids repeating the details of the sin in your translation. You could use vague language like Paul does, or you could use a similar euphemism. Alternate translation: “the man who committed this sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 5 3 g8b6 grammar-connect-condition-contrary ὡς παρὼν 1 Here, Paul makes a conditional statement that might sound hypothetical but that he knows is not true. He knows that he is not present with them, but he wants to emphasize that his **judgment** is just as effective **as if** he were **present**. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “even though I am absent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]])
1CO 5 4 xc3z grammar-connect-time-simultaneous συναχθέντων ὑμῶν καὶ τοῦ ἐμοῦ πνεύματος 1 The phrase **You and my spirit, having been assembled** gives the time and situation in which the Corinthians should “hand this man over to Satan” ([5:5](../05/05.md)). If this phrase would not indicate timing or a situation in your language, you could use a word or phrase that does indicate time or situation. Alternate translation: “One of the times when you and my spirit have been assembled” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 5 4 m9yz figs-activepassive συναχθέντων 1 When you are assembled If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form by using a verb such as “gather together” or “meet.” Alternate translation: “meeting together” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 5 4 t83d figs-idiom ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 in the name of our Lord Jesus Acting **in the name of** a person means representing that person. Representatives, those who do anything **in the name of** someone else, act with the authority of the people they represent. If **in the name of** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom for representing someone or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “as representatives of our Lord Jesus Christ” or “as people who act for our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 5 4 fznv figs-infostructure ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, συναχθέντων ὑμῶν καὶ τοῦ ἐμοῦ πνεύματος, 1 The phrase **in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ** could modify: (1) how Paul has “passed judgment” in [5:3](../05/03.md). Alternate translation: “I passed this judgment in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. You and my spirit, having been assembled,” (2) how they have **been assembled**. See ULT. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 5 4 rhdc figs-idiom καὶ τοῦ ἐμοῦ πνεύματος 1 Just as in [5:3](../05/03.md), Paul speaks of his “spirit.” Just as there, Paul’s **spirit** being **assembled** with them is a figurative way to speak of how Paul thinks about and cares about them. Here, it has the additional implication that what they do when **assembled** carries Paul’s own authority. If **my spirit** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “and my thoughts” or “with my authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 5 4 ku2d τοῦ ἐμοῦ πνεύματος 1 Here, **my spirit** could refer to: (1) Paul’s **spirit**, which would be the part of him that connects with the Corinthians across a distance. Alternate translation: “my own spirit” (2) the Holy Spirit, which connects Paul with the Corinthians, even though they are not physically together. Alternate translation: “my share of God’s Spirit” or “I, by the power of God’s Spirit”
1CO 5 4 jz43 figs-abstractnouns σὺν τῇ δυνάμει τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **power**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “empower” or “authorize.” Alternate translation: “as people who are empowered by our Lord Jesus” or “as people whom our Lord Jesus has empowered” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 5 5 pqbs figs-infostructure παραδοῦναι τὸν τοιοῦτον 1 **hand this man over** identifies the punishment that goes with the verdict that Paul reached when he “judged” him ([5:3](../05/03.md)). If possible, express **hand this man over** as the result or the implication of Paul having “already judged” him. Alternate translation: “since I have declared this man guilty, hand him over” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 5 5 xcf6 figs-metaphor παραδοῦναι τὸν τοιοῦτον τῷ Σατανᾷ 1 hand this man over to Satan The phrase **hand** someone **over to** someone else refers to transferring a person from one authority to another. Here, then, Paul wants the Corinthians to transfer **this man** from under the authority of the church to under the authority of **Satan**. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable idiom or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “turn this man over to Satan” or “put this man under Satan’s authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 5 5 xmig grammar-connect-logic-result εἰς ὄλεθρον τῆς σαρκός 1 Here, **for** introduces the result of “handing this man over to Satan.” If **for** would not indicate result in your language, use a word or phrase that does introduce a result. Alternate translation: “with the result that his flesh is destroyed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 5 5 nq4y translate-unknown εἰς ὄλεθρον τῆς σαρκός 1 for the destruction of the flesh This phrase could be a reference to the **destruction** of: (1) the parts of the **man** that are weak and sinful, which would indicate cleansing or sanctification. Alternate translation: “so that he will not continue to live sinfully” (2) the man’s physical body, which would indicate either be physical suffering or death. Alternate translation: “so that he suffers in his body” or “for the death of his body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 5 5 jg1u figs-possession ὄλεθρον τῆς σαρκός 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to clarify that **destruction** will happen to **the flesh**. If your language does not use this form to express that idea, you could translate **destruction** with a verb such as “destroy.” Alternate translation: “destroying the flesh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 5 5 nqn8 figs-abstractnouns εἰς ὄλεθρον τῆς σαρκός 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **destruction**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “destroy.” Alternate translation: “to destroy the flesh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 5 5 tit6 grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 While **for the destruction of the flesh** is the result of the “handing over,” the words **so that** introduce the purpose of the “handing over.” Use a word or phrase in your language that introduces a purpose. Alternate translation: “in order that” or “with the goal that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 5 5 z2cl figs-activepassive τὸ πνεῦμα σωθῇ 1 so that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “God may save his spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 5 5 eibc translate-unknown τὸ πνεῦμα 1 Here, **spirit** refers to the parts of **this man** that are not **flesh**. Therefore, the **spirit** is not just the non-physical part of the person but rather a reference to the whole person apart from his or her sins and weaknesses. If that meaning of **spirit** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to the salvation of the whole person. Alternate translation: “he” or “his soul” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 5 5 ny5b figs-explicit ἐν τῇ ἡμέρᾳ τοῦ Κυρίου 1 Here, Paul uses the words translated **day of the Lord** in the same way the Old Testament uses them: to refer to an event in which God saves his people and punishes his enemies. Paul specifically refers to the event in which Jesus returns to judge everyone. If that meaning of **day of the Lord** would be misunderstood in your language, you could include more words that clarify what Paul means by **day**. Alternate translation: “on the day when the Lord returns” or “when the Lord comes to judge everyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 5 6 h2hk οὐ καλὸν τὸ καύχημα ὑμῶν 1 Your boasting is not good Alternate translation: “Your boasting is bad”
1CO 5 6 mucf figs-explicit μικρὰ ζύμη, ὅλον τὸ φύραμα ζυμοῖ 1 In [5:6–8](../05/6.md), Paul speaks about **yeast** and “dough.” Verses 7–8 clarify that Paul is thinking about the “Passover.” In this Jewish festival, people would remove all the **yeast** from their houses and only bake dough that was not fermented (“unleavened bread”). See [Exodus 12:1–28](../exo/12/01.md). In this verse, then, the **yeast** does not represent a good thing. Rather, it is supposed to be removed from the house, but any **yeast** that is left will still “leaven” a whole loaf. If your language would not consider **yeast** to be a bad thing when mixed into dough, you could include a word or phrase that indicates that the **yeast** is not wanted in the dough. Alternate translation: “a little yeast leavens a whole loaf that is meant to be unleavened” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 5 6 n9w0 figs-rquestion οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι μικρὰ ζύμη, ὅλον τὸ φύραμα ζυμοῖ? 1 Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information or for agreement or disagreement. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing by reminding them of something that they should already know. The question assumes that the answer is “yes.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with an emphatic statement. Alternate translation: “you know that a little yeast leavens the whole loaf” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 5 6 ng4m figs-exmetaphor μικρὰ ζύμη, ὅλον τὸ φύραμα ζυμοῖ 1 Do you not know that a little yeast leavens the whole loaf? Here, the word translated **yeast** refers to anything that is added to bread dough to make it ferment and rise. This could be **yeast** itself or dough that is already fermented (“leaven”). Paul here uses this metaphor to indicate that, just like even a little bit of **yeast** will “leaven” **the whole loaf**, so a little bit of sin, or one person who sins, will affect the whole church. Therefore, the Corinthians believers should not “boast,” since the one person who is sinning among them denigrates the whole church. Since this metaphor is based on material from the Old Testament, you should try to preserve the form in your language. You could use a simile, or if necessary, you could use a comparable metaphor. Alternate translation: “sin is like yeast: a little yeast leavens the whole loaf” or “a bad apple spoils the whole barrel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 5 7 b8fi figs-explicit ἐκκαθάρατε τὴν παλαιὰν ζύμην, ἵνα ἦτε νέον φύραμα, καθώς ἐστε ἄζυμοι. καὶ γὰρ τὸ Πάσχα ἡμῶν ἐτύθη, Χριστός 1 Just as in [5:6](../05/06.md) and [5:8](../05/08.md), Paul is thinking about the Jewish festival of **Passover**. During this festival, people would remove all the **yeast** from their houses and only bake **unleavened bread**, that is, bread that is not fermented. Additionally, a **lamb** would be sacrificed and eaten. The **lamb** would remind the people about how God had delivered them from slavery in the land of Egypt. See [Exodus 12:1–28](../exo/12/01.md). If your readers would not infer this information, you could include a footnote that explains **Passover** and how it relates to **yeast** and a **Lamb**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 5 7 mpra figs-exmetaphor ἐκκαθάρατε τὴν παλαιὰν ζύμην, ἵνα ἦτε νέον φύραμα, καθώς ἐστε ἄζυμοι 1 Here, Paul speaks about Jews would **clean out the old yeast** during the festival of Passover and only bake with **unleavened bread**. Just like in [5:6](../05/06.md), he compares sin to **yeast**. By speaking in this way, he urges the Corinthians to **clean out** the person who is sinning. Then, they will be like **new dough**, like **unleavened bread**, that is, without sin. Since this metaphor is based on material from the Old Testament, you should try to preserve the form in your language. You could use a simile, or if necessary, you could use a comparable metaphor. Alternate translation: “Clean out the old yeast, that is, sin, so that you may be new dough, just as you are unleavened bread” or “Clean out the bad apple so that you may be a fresh barrel, just as you are fresh apples” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 5 7 z7vq translate-unknown καθώς ἐστε ἄζυμοι 1 When Paul says that they **are unleavened bread**, this means that they are danger of encountering the **yeast**, that is, sin. This is why they must **clean out the old yeast**. If they remain **unleavened** by avoiding contact with **old yeast**, they will be **new dough**. If **you are unleavened bread** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that Paul calls them this because it shows that **yeast** is a threat to them. Alternate translation: “for you are currently unleavened bread” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 5 7 x3pt grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Here, Paul introduces the reason why his metaphor about **yeast** is appropriate. **Christ** is like the **Passover lamb**. Since Christ has **been sacrificed** like that **lamb**, the Corinthians are supposed to live as if it is **Passover**. This means avoiding sin in their group. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could make it more explicit. Alternate translation: “You should act like people observing Passover because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 5 7 ret3 figs-explicit καὶ…τὸ Πάσχα ἡμῶν ἐτύθη, Χριστός 1 Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed When God delivered the Jewish people from Egypt, he required them to sacrifice a lamb and spread its blood on their doors. God did not harm anyone who had the blood on their door, but the firstborn son of anyone who did not have the blood on their door died. Because of this, the **lamb** that was sacrificed at **Passover** represented God delivering the Jewish people by accepting the **lamb**’s death in place of the firstborn son. See [Exodus 12:1–28](../exo/12/01.md). The implication here is that **Christ**’s death also functioned in this way, in place of those whom he delivers. If this implication would be misunderstood by your readers, you could add a footnote explaining the function of the **lamb** at **Passover**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 5 7 qhrz figs-exmetaphor καὶ…τὸ Πάσχα ἡμῶν ἐτύθη, Χριστός 1 Here, Paul compares **Christ** to the **Passover lamb**, since both died to save someone else. Since this metaphor is based on material from the Old Testament, you should try to preserve the form in your language, or you could use a simile. Alternate translation: “Christ, who is like our Passover lamb, has also been sacrificed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 5 7 yzjl figs-activepassive καὶ…τὸ Πάσχα ἡμῶν ἐτύθη, Χριστός 1 Paul intentionally does not state who **sacrificed** the **Passover lamb**, who is **Christ**. If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in another way. If possible, do not state who **sacrificed** **Christ**. Alternate translation: “Christ, our Passover lamb, has also died as a sacrifice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 5 8 ouhj figs-explicit ὥστε ἑορτάζωμεν, μὴ ἐν ζύμῃ παλαιᾷ, μηδὲ ἐν ζύμῃ κακίας καὶ πονηρίας, ἀλλ’ ἐν ἀζύμοις εἰλικρινείας καὶ ἀληθείας. 1 Just as in [5:6–7](../05/6.md), here Paul speaks about **yeast** and “dough.” In this Jewish **festival** of Passover, people would remove all the **yeast** from their houses and only bake dough that was not fermented (**unleavened bread**). See [Exodus 12:1–28](../exo/12/01.md). Here, then, the **yeast** is what is meant to be removed, and the **unleavened bread** is what is meant to be eaten. If your readers would not understand this background, you could include a footnote that gives extra information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 5 8 donb figs-exmetaphor ὥστε ἑορτάζωμεν, μὴ ἐν ζύμῃ παλαιᾷ, μηδὲ ἐν ζύμῃ κακίας καὶ πονηρίας, ἀλλ’ ἐν ἀζύμοις εἰλικρινείας καὶ ἀληθείας. 1 Here, Paul finishes the metaphor about **yeast** and Passover that he began in [5:6](../06/06.md). Paul encourages the Corinthians to **celebrate the festival** by getting rid of the **old yeast**. He then identifies that the **yeast** stands for **evil and wickedness**, while the **unleavened bread** that they are supposed to eat stands for **sincerity and truth**. With this metaphor Paul exhorts the Corinthians to expel the man who has sinned from their group, just as one would remove yeast from one’s house during the **festival**. Since this metaphor is based on material from the Old Testament, you should try to preserve the form in your language. You could use a simile, or you could include a footnote that explains the metaphor. Alternate translation: “So then, we should be like those who celebrate the festival, not with old yeast, nor with yeast of evil and wickedness, but with unleavened bread of sincerity and truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 5 8 hoew figs-explicit ἑορτάζωμεν 1 Because of what Paul has said in [5:7](../05/7.md), this **festival** must be the festival connected with Passover. If your readers would not understand this from the context, you could include the name “Passover” here. Alternate translation: “we might celebrate the Passover festival” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 5 8 ph92 figs-doublet μὴ ἐν ζύμῃ παλαιᾷ, μηδὲ ἐν ζύμῃ κακίας καὶ πονηρίας 1 Here, Paul repeats **yeast** in order to define what he means by **old yeast**. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine the two phrases and introduce the definition in another way. Alternate translation: “not with old yeast, which is evil and wickedness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1CO 5 8 xvx4 figs-possession ζύμῃ κακίας καὶ πονηρίας 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive from to identify the **yeast** as **evil and wickedness**. If your language does not use this form for that idea, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that renames or identifies something. Alternate translation: “yeast, that is, evil and wickedness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 5 8 fo1r figs-abstractnouns κακίας καὶ πονηρίας 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **evil** and **wickedness**, you could express the ideas by using adjectives that describe actions or “behavior.” Alternate translation: “of evil and wicked behavior” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 5 8 ymus figs-doublet κακίας καὶ πονηρίας 1 Here, the words **evil** and **wickedness** mean almost the same thing. The word **evil** refers to something that is morally “bad,” while the word **wickedness** refers to something that is characterized by “vice.” If your language does not have two words that are this similar, you could express the idea with one word. Alternate translation: “of evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1CO 5 8 viwj figs-possession ἀζύμοις εἰλικρινείας καὶ ἀληθείας 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive from to identify the **unleavened bread** as **sincerity and truth**. If your language does not use this form for that idea, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that renames or identifies something. Alternate translation: “unleavened bread, that is, sincerity and truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 5 8 olbn figs-abstractnouns εἰλικρινείας καὶ ἀληθείας 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **sincerity** and **truth**, you could express the ideas by using adjectives that describe actions or “behavior.” Alternate translation: “of sincere and true behavior” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 5 8 mybu translate-unknown εἰλικρινείας 1 The word **sincerity** identifies people who act with only one intention or goal. They do not say or pretend one thing while doing something else. If this word would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that identifies someone who acts honestly and with one goal in mind. Alternate translation: “of integrity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 5 9 mcrl figs-explicit ἔγραψα ὑμῖν ἐν τῇ ἐπιστολῇ 1 Here, Paul refers to a letter that he wrote and sent to the Corinthians before he began this letter. The phrase does not refer to this letter but to a previous letter. If **I wrote to you in my letter** would be misunderstood by your readers, you could include a word that clarifies that **the letter** is one that Paul has already sent. Alternate translation: “I already wrote to you in my previous letter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 5 9 le8i translate-unknown συναναμίγνυσθαι 1 The word translated **to associate with** often refers to two groups of people meeting together. The idea here is that **sexually immoral people** should not be a part of the Corinthians’ group. If **to associate with** does not have this meaning in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that refers to including people in one’s group. Alternate translation: “to consistently meet with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 5 10 vkid grammar-connect-words-phrases οὐ πάντως 1 Paul uses the words translated **by no means** to introduce a clarification about what he wrote to them previously ([5:9](../05/09.md)). When he told “not to associate with sexually immoral people,” he did not mean **people of this world**. Rather, as the next verse clarifies, he meant fellow believers. If **by no means** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a qualification to a previous statement. Alternate translation: “not that you should not associate at all with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 5 10 pgwb translate-unknown τοῦ κόσμου τούτου 1 The phrase **of this world** clarifies that the **immoral people** are not part of the church. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that identifies the **immoral people** as unbelievers. Alternate translation: “who do not believe” or “who are not part of the church” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 5 10 grud figs-nominaladj τοῖς πλεονέκταις 1 Paul is using the adjective **greedy** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “greedy people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 5 10 taf5 translate-unknown ἅρπαξιν 1 the greedy Here, **swindlers** identifies people who take money from others dishonestly. If **swindlers** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that refers to such people. Alternate translation: “thieves” or “embezzlers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 5 10 m59j grammar-connect-condition-contrary ἐπεὶ ὠφείλετε ἄρα ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου ἐξελθεῖν 1 you would need to go out of the world Here, Paul draws the logical conclusion from what he did not mean in his letter. Thus, while Paul does not think that the basis for the exhortation is true, he does think that this is the logical result of that basis. He gives this exhortation to show that it is absurd, since they cannot **go out from the world**. Therefore, the basis for this exhortation is also absurd. If **since then** in your language would not introduce a result from a reason that Paul thinks is not true, you could use a word or phrase that would introduce such an idea. Alternate translation: “If that were what I had meant, then you would need to go out from the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]])
1CO 5 10 egcx translate-unknown ἐκ τοῦ κόσμου ἐξελθεῖν 1 This phrase is not a euphemism for dying. Instead, Paul is saying that the Corinthians would need to travel off earth to get away from the **immoral people of this world**. In his culture and time, this was impossible. If **go out from the world** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to traveling off earth. Alternate translation: “to leave earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 5 11 nys9 νῦν δὲ ἔγραψα ὑμῖν 1 Here, Paul speaks about: (1) the letter he is writing **now**, in contrast to the letter he already wrote ([5:9](../05/09.md)). He uses the past tense **wrote** because the “writing” will be in the past when the letter is read to the Corinthians. Use the tense that would be appropriate in your language for this situation. Alternate translation: “But now I have written to you” (2) the letter he already wrote, but he wants them to understand it correctly **now**. Alternate translation: “But what I really wrote to you was”
1CO 5 11 mi6t translate-unknown συναναμίγνυσθαι 1 The word translated **to associate with** often refers to two groups of people meeting together. The idea here is that **sexually immoral** people who claim to belong to the Corinthians’ group should not be considered part of the group. If **to associate with** does not have this meaning in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that refers to including people in one’s group. Alternate translation: “to consistently meet with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 5 11 cyrp figs-distinguish ἐάν τις ἀδελφὸς ὀνομαζόμενος 1 Here, **who is called a brother** distinguishes **anyone** from the people mentioned in the last verse. Paul did not require the Corinthians **not to associate** with those people, but he does require them **not to associate** with any person **who is called a brother**. Use a construction in your language that indicates that Paul is distinguishing, not informing. Alternate translation: “any person called a brother” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1CO 5 11 w9w8 figs-activepassive ὀνομαζόμενος 1 anyone who is called If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form with “you” or “the brother” as the subject. Alternate translation: “who calls himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 5 11 b4us figs-gendernotations ἀδελφὸς 1 brother Although the word translated **brother** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to a man or a woman. If **brother** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “a brother or a sister” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 5 11 xob7 translate-unknown λοίδορος 1 Here, **verbally abusive** describes someone who shows anger by using vicious words to attack others. Use a word in your language that describes this kind of person. Alternate translation: “vocally vicious” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 5 11 ypib translate-unknown ἅρπαξ 1 Here, **swindler** identifies a person who takes money from others dishonestly. If **swindler** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that refers to such people. Alternate translation: “a thief” or “an embezzler” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 5 11 fq7j figs-explicit τῷ τοιούτῳ μηδὲ συνεσθίειν 1 In Paul’s culture, to **eat with** someone meant that you accepted them into your social group. Here, he wants the Corinthians not to accept such people into their group. If “eating with” someone does not signify accepting them in your culture, you may need to make that idea explicit. Alternate translation: “Do not even include such a person in your group’s meals” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 5 12 kj1x grammar-connect-logic-result γάρ 1 Here, **For** introduces further reasons why Paul wants the Corinthians to focus on “judging” fellow believers but not **those outside**. These reasons continue into the next verse ([5:13](../05/13.md)). If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that would introduce further reasons. Alternate translation: “Further,” or “For more proof,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 5 12 xeu7 figs-rquestion τί…μοι τοὺς ἔξω κρίνειν? 1 how am I involved with judging those who are outside the church? Here, Paul asks **what to me to judge those outside**, but he is not really asking for information. Rather, the question assumes that the answer is “nothing” or “it does not matter to me,” and Paul uses the question to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a strong negative statement. Alternate translation: “it is nothing to me to judge those outside” or “it is not my business to judge those outside” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 5 12 jmxt figs-ellipsis τί…μοι 1 Here, Paul omits some words that may be required in your language to make a full sentence. You could supply words such as “is it” or “does it matter” to complete the thought. Alternate translation: “what is it to me” or “what does it matter to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 5 12 n6on figs-123person μοι 1 Here, Paul speaks of himself only, but he wants the Corinthians to have the same opinion that he has. If **to me** would cause your readers to misunderstand this point, you could include the Corinthians in this question as well. Alternate translation: “to us” or “to you and me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1CO 5 12 ncl1 figs-idiom τοὺς ἔξω…τοὺς ἔσω 1 The phrase **those outside** identifies people who do not belong to the group of believers in Corinth. The phrase **those inside** identifies the opposite: people who do belong to the group of believers in Corinth. If these phrases would be misunderstood in your language, you could use words or phrases that refer to people who belong to and do not belong to a specific group. Alternate translation: “the outsiders … the insiders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 5 12 m4s6 figs-rquestion οὐχὶ τοὺς ἔσω ὑμεῖς κρίνετε? 1 Are you not to judge those inside? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a strong affirmation or statement of obligation. Alternate translation: “But you should judge those inside” or “You do indeed judge those inside” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 5 13 hvo1 figs-pastforfuture κρίνει 1 Here, the word translated **judges** makes a general statement about what God does. The present tense does not mean that God is currently passing final judgment on **those outside** and will not do so in the future. Rather, Paul has the final judgment in mind. If the present tense of **judges** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use the future tense here. Alternate translation: “will judge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
1CO 5 13 z45o figs-idiom τοὺς…ἔξω 1 The phrase **those outside** identifies people who do not belong to the group of believers in Corinth. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refer to people who do not belong to a specific group. Alternate translation: “the outsiders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 5 13 kx9j writing-quotations ἐξάρατε τὸν πονηρὸν ἐξ ὑμῶν αὐτῶν 1 Here, Paul quotes a command from the Old Testament book named Deuteronomy. If your readers would not recognize this command as a quotation, you could introduce it in the same way that you have already introduced quotations from the Old Testament (see [1:31](../01/31.md)). Alternate translation: “As it can be read in the Old Testament, ‘Remove the evil from among yourselves’” or “According to the book of Deuteronomy, ‘Remove the evil from among yourselves’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 5 13 al7v figs-quotations ἐξάρατε τὸν πονηρὸν ἐξ ὑμῶν αὐτῶν 1 If you cannot use this form in your language, you could translate this command as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. Alternate translation: “The scripture says that you should remove the evil from among yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 5 13 h6ry figs-nominaladj τὸν πονηρὸν 1 Paul is using the adjective **evil** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who are evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 6 intro s6hb 0 # 1 Corinthians 6 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and Formatting<br><br>3. Against sexual immorality (4:16–6:20)<br> * Against public lawsuits (6:1–8)<br> * Sins and salvation (6:9–11)<br> * Flee from sexual immorality (6:12–20)<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Lawsuits<br><br>In [6:1–8](../06/01.md), Paul speaks about believers taking other believers to court in lawsuits. Paul critiques them for taking their disputes before unbelievers rather than settling them within the church. By the end of the section, Paul says that lawsuits themselves are a “complete defeat” of believers. Paul’s point is that believers will judge angels and the world, so they are quite able to resolve disputes within the church. Therefore, believers should never take other believers to court. In this section, use words and language that describe legal matters in your language. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/judge]])<br><br>### Sexual immorality<br><br>In [6:12–20](../06/12.md), Paul discusses “sexual immorality.” This phrase refers generally to any kind of improper sexual activity, and Paul does speak generally in this section. He mentions particularly having sex with prostitutes, but the commands he gives apply to all kinds of sexual activity. The Corinthians seemed to think that they could do whatever they wanted with their bodies, including having sex with anyone. Paul responds that their bodies are united to Christ, and any sexual activity they participate in needs to fit with their union with Christ. Use general words for improper sexual activity in this section. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fornication]])<br><br>### Redemption<br><br>In [6:20](../06/20.md), Paul tells the Corinthians that they have been “bought with a price.” He does not state what the price is or whom God bought the Corinthians from. However, it is clear that Paul is speaking about what we call “redemption” here. Paul thinks of the Corinthians as slaves up for sale, and God buys them from their previous owner by paying a price. The previous owner can be understood as sin, death, and evil powers, while the price is Jesus the Son dying for believers. You should not include all these implications in your translation, but you should use words that can be interpreted in this way. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/redeem]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### “Members” of Christ or of a prostitute<br><br>In [6:15–17](../06/15.md), Paul speaks of a person’s connection to Christ and to a prostitute with the language of “members” and “joining.” When he refers to “members,” he is speaking as if the believer were either a body part of Christ or a body part of a prostitute. He shows how bad it is to be “joined” with a prostitute by speaking as if someone cut a body part off of Christ and attached it to a prostitute instead. That is how closely a person is joined either to Christ or to a prostitute. If possible, preserve the body parts language here. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/other/member]])<br><br>### Body as temple<br><br>In [6:19](../06/19.md), Paul speaks as if believers’s bodies were temples of the Holy Spirit. Sometimes he speaks as if the church as a whole is a temple, but here he means that individual believers are all temples. A temple is where a god is specially present, so Paul means that the Holy Spirit is specially present in believers’s bodies. If possible, preserve this metaphor since it connects to themes throughout the whole Bible. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>In [6:1–7](../06/01.md), [9](../06/09.md), [15–16](../06/15.md), [19](../06/19.md), Paul uses rhetorical questions. He is not asking these questions because he wants the Corinthians to provide him with information. Rather, he is asking these questions because he wants the Corinthians to think about how they are acting and what they are thinking. The questions encourage them to think along with P
1CO 6 1 gmy5 figs-rquestion τολμᾷ τις ὑμῶν, πρᾶγμα ἔχων πρὸς τὸν ἕτερον, κρίνεσθαι ἐπὶ τῶν ἀδίκων, καὶ οὐχὶ ἐπὶ τῶν ἁγίων? 1 does he dare to go … saints? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. Here, the answer to the question is “they are, but they should not.” Paul asks to question to get the Corinthians to realize how bad going **to court before the unrighteous** is. If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a “should” statement or a statement of fact. Alternate translation: “Some of you actually dare, having a dispute with another, to go to court before the unrighteous, and not before the saints.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 1 q5d3 translate-unknown τολμᾷ 1 dispute The word translated **Do … dare** refers to having confidence or boldness when one should not have confidence or boldness. Use a word or phrase in your language that indicates improper confidence. Alternate translation: “Do … have the audacity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 6 1 qi57 grammar-connect-time-simultaneous πρᾶγμα ἔχων πρὸς τὸν ἕτερον 1 The phrase **having a dispute with another** provides the situation in which they are going **to court**. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “if you have a dispute with another” or “whenever you have a dispute with another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 6 1 jsgt figs-explicit τὸν ἕτερον 1 Here, **another** identifies the other person as a fellow believer. If this would be misunderstood in your language you could add a word or phrase that identifies **another** as a believer. Alternate translation: “another believer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 6 1 umgg figs-idiom κρίνεσθαι ἐπὶ…ἐπὶ 1 The phrase **to go to court before** refers to settling a lawsuit or other legal dispute **before** a judge. If **go to court before** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom that refers to setting a dispute in a court of law. Alternate translation: “to resolve your lawsuit in the presence of … in the presence of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 6 2 r8sj grammar-connect-words-phrases ἢ 1 The word **Or** introduces an alternate to what Paul speaks about in [6:1](../06/01.md). They currently think that going to court in public is fine. Paul gives the true alternative: they **will judge the world** and thus should not need to take their quarrels and lawsuits anywhere else. If **Or** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that signifies a contrast or gives an alternative. Alternate translation: “Rather,” or “On the other hand,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 6 2 i1m5 figs-rquestion ἢ οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι οἱ ἅγιοι τὸν κόσμον κρινοῦσιν? 1 Or do you not know that the believers will judge the world? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a strong affirmation. Alternate translation: “You already know that the saints will judge the world.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 2 i67f figs-rquestion ἀνάξιοί ἐστε κριτηρίων ἐλαχίστων? 1 If then, you will judge the world, are you not able to settle matters of little importance? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “no.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a strong negative or positive statement. Alternate translation: “you are definitely not unworthy of the smallest cases” or “you are definitely worthy of the smallest cases (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 2 py6h grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ ἐν ὑμῖν κρίνεται ὁ κόσμος 1 Paul is speaking as if **the world is judged by you** were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “because the world is judged by you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
1CO 6 2 yq8e figs-activepassive ἐν ὑμῖν κρίνεται ὁ κόσμος 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “you judge the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 2 jqvf figs-pastforfuture κρίνεται 1 Here, the word translated **is judged** makes a general statement about what **you**, that is, the **saints**, do. The present tense does not mean that the **saints** are currently passing final judgment will not do so in the future. Rather, Paul uses the present tense to state a general fact about the **saints**. The judgment itself will occur in the future. If the present tense of **is judged** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use the future tense here. Alternate translation: “will be judged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
1CO 6 2 stvc figs-idiom ἀνάξιοί…κριτηρίων ἐλαχίστων 1 Here, to be **unworthy of** something means that one is not capable of doing that thing or is not qualified to do it. If **unworthy of** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “unqualified concerning the smallest cases” “not able to judge the smallest cases” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 6 2 dmi6 translate-unknown κριτηρίων ἐλαχίστων 1 The word translated **cases** could refer to: (1) legal disputes that are resolved in a court of law. Alternate translation: “of the smallest legal disputes” (2) the court of law that decides the legal dispute. Alternate translation: “of the lowest courts of law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 6 3 us55 figs-rquestion οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι ἀγγέλους κρινοῦμεν, 1 Do you not know that we will judge the angels? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea as an emphatic statement. Alternate translation: “Surely you know that we will judge angels.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 3 x6h3 figs-rquestion μήτι γε βιωτικά? 1 How much more, then, can we judge matters of this life? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the reader agrees. If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea as an emphatic statement. Alternate translation: “How much more the matters of this life!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 3 hxzn figs-ellipsis μήτι γε βιωτικά 1 Here, Paul omits some words that may be required in your language to make a full sentence. You could supply words such as “can we judge” or “are we able to judge” to complete the thought. Alternate translation: “How much more can we judge the matters of this life” or “How much more are we able to judge the matters of this life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 6 3 h3z0 grammar-connect-logic-result μήτι γε 1 Here, Paul’s argument assumes that judging **angels** is a greater and more difficult thing than judging **the matters of this life**. The phrase **How much more** implies that people who can do a great and difficult thing like judging **angels** can easily do a less impressive and easier thing like judging **the matters of this life**. If **How much more** does not express that connection in your language, you could use a word or phrase that does express that connection. Alternate translation: “If we can do that, can we not judge” or “Should it not be easy, then, to judge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 6 3 h374 translate-unknown βιωτικά 1 matters of this life Here, the word translated **the matters of this life** refers to anything that is a part of people’s ordinary or daily lives. Paul uses the word to identify the lawsuits among the Corinthians as simply matters of ordinary life and insignificant in comparison with something like judging **angels**. If **the matters of this life** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to features of daily or regular life. Alternate translation: “what happens in our daily lives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 6 4 xn32 figs-hypo βιωτικὰ…κριτήρια ἐὰν ἔχητε 1 If then you have to make judgments that pertain to daily life Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that they might **have legal disputes**, or they might not **have legal disputes**. He then specifies the result for if they do **have legal disputes**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by introducing it with a word such as “whenever” or “when.” Alternate translation: “when you have legal disputes about things of this life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 6 4 v80t translate-unknown κριτήρια…ἔχητε 1 The word translated cases could refer to: (1) legal disputes that are resolved in a court of law. Alternate translation: “you have lawsuits” (2) the court of law that decides the legal dispute. Alternate translation: “you participate in a court of law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 6 4 cu0s figs-hypo βιωτικὰ 1 Here, the word translated **about things of this life** refers to anything that is a part of people’s ordinary or daily lives. Paul uses the word to identify the lawsuits among the Corinthians as matters of ordinary life. If **about things of this life** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to features of daily or regular life. Alternate translation: “about what happens in your daily lives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 6 4 vw5t figs-rquestion τοὺς ἐξουθενημένους ἐν τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ, τούτους καθίζετε? 1 If then you have to make judgments that pertain to daily life, why do you lay such cases as these before those who have no standing in the church? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “there is no good reason.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea as an emphatic statement or a command. Alternate translation: “do not appoint as judges those who are of no account in the church!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 4 e791 translate-unknown τοὺς ἐξουθενημένους ἐν τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ 1 why do you lay such cases as these before those who have no standing in the church? Here, those **who are of no account in the church** could be: (1) people who are not members of the church in Corinth. Alternate translation: “who do not believe” (2) people who are members of the church in Corinth but whom other believers do not respect. Alternate translation: “whom the fellow believers do not respect” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 6 5 dvq3 writing-pronouns λέγω 1 The phrase **I say this** could refer: (1) to what Paul has already said, probably all of [6:1–4](../06/01.md). Alternate translation: “I say those things” (2) to what Paul is saying throughout this whole section ([6:1–8](../06/01.md)). Alternate translation: “I am saying these things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 6 5 xnd7 figs-idiom πρὸς ἐντροπὴν ὑμῖν 1 Here, **to your shame** means that the things that Paul has said should make the Corinthians feel **shame**. If **to your shame** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “to embarrass you” or “to make you feel ashamed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 6 5 ebh6 figs-abstractnouns πρὸς ἐντροπὴν ὑμῖν λέγω 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **shame**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “shame.” Alternate translation: “to shame you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 6 5 hk4q figs-idiom οὕτως οὐκ ἔνι…οὐδεὶς σοφὸς 1 The phrase **{Is it} thus {that} there is not any wise man** identifies a situation in which no **wise man** can be found. If this phrase would be confusing or misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable expression that identifies a situation in which there are no wise people. Alternate translation: “Is there not a man wise man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 6 5 fue4 figs-rquestion οὕτως οὐκ ἔνι ἐν ὑμῖν οὐδεὶς σοφὸς, ὃς δυνήσεται διακρῖναι ἀνὰ μέσον τοῦ ἀδελφοῦ αὐτοῦ? 1 Is there no one among you wise enough to settle a dispute between brothers? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing, specifically by making them feel ashamed. The question assumes that the answer is “there should be.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a “should” statement or introduce a statement with “surely.” Alternate translation: “You should have a wise man among you who will be able to discern between his brothers.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 5 xma9 figs-gendernotations οὐκ ἔνι…σοφὸς…αὐτοῦ 1 Although the words translated **wise man** and **his** are masculine, Paul is using them to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “there are not any wise people … their” or “there is not any wise man or woman … his or her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 6 5 l1hd figs-gendernotations τοῦ ἀδελφοῦ 1 brothers Although the word translated **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 6 5 o28z translate-unknown διακρῖναι ἀνὰ μέσον 1 The phrase **to discern between** refers to making decisions about disputes between people. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that refers to deciding which party is in the right in a dispute. Alternate translation: “to judge between” or “to settle disputes between” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 6 6 m7ls figs-rquestion ἀδελφὸς μετὰ ἀδελφοῦ κρίνεται, καὶ τοῦτο ἐπὶ ἀπίστων? 1 But brother goes to court against brother, and this before unbelievers! Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that there is verbal answer. Rather, the question is supposed to make the Corinthians answer by feeling ashamed. If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with statement that expresses shock or condemnation. Alternate translation: “brother really goes to court against brother, and this before unbelievers!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 6 fyq8 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφὸς…ἀδελφοῦ 1 Although the words translated **brother** are masculine, Paul is using these words to refer to any believer, whether man or woman. If **brother** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use non-gendered words or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “a brother or sister … a brother or sister” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 6 6 dv5g figs-ellipsis καὶ τοῦτο ἐπὶ ἀπίστων 1 In this clause, Paul has omitted some words that might be necessary to make a complete thought in your language. If this sentence would be misunderstood in your language, you could include what action is happening. Alternate translation: “and they do this before unbelievers” or “and they go to court before unbelievers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 6 7 kvva figs-infostructure ἤδη μὲν οὖν ὅλως ἥττημα ὑμῖν ἐστιν, ὅτι κρίματα ἔχετε μεθ’ ἑαυτῶν 1 Here, Paul gives the reason for the **defeat** after he mentions the **defeat**. If your language would state the reason first, you could reverse the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “Therefore, since you have lawsuits among yourselves, this is indeed already a complete defeat for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 6 7 topu ἤδη…ὅλως ἥττημα ὑμῖν 1 Here, **already** refers to how the Corinthians do not suffer **defeat** in the court of law but rather before that, when the dispute begins. If **already** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that the time in view is before the legal dispute is decided. Alternate translation: “a complete defeat for you even before you enter the court of law”
1CO 6 7 lvc1 figs-metaphor ὅλως ἥττημα 1 Here, **complete defeat** refers to total failure in attempting to accomplish some goal. The **defeat** does not require an opponent, since one can suffer **defeat** because of other obstacles. If **complete defeat** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “a total derailing” or “a total failure” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 7 tn9m figs-rquestion διὰ τί οὐχὶ μᾶλλον ἀδικεῖσθε? διὰ τί οὐχὶ μᾶλλον ἀποστερεῖσθε? 1 Why not rather suffer the wrong? Why not rather allow yourselves to be cheated? Paul does not ask these questions because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks them to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The questions assume that the reader agrees that it would be better to **be wronged** and **cheated**. If these questions would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the ideas as emphatic comparisons. Alternate translation: “It would be better to be wronged! It would be better to be cheated!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 7 ruiy figs-doublet διὰ τί οὐχὶ μᾶλλον ἀδικεῖσθε? διὰ τί οὐχὶ μᾶλλον ἀποστερεῖσθε? 1 Here, Paul repeats his first question with almost exactly the same words. He does this to emphasize the point he is making. If this repetition would be misunderstood in your language, you could combine the questions and express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “Why not rather be wronged or cheated?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1CO 6 7 i5n5 figs-activepassive ἀδικεῖσθε 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form with a “fellow believer” as the subject. Alternate translation: “let a fellow believer wrong you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 7 vpy9 figs-activepassive ἀποστερεῖσθε 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form with a “fellow believer” as the subject. Alternate translation: “let a fellow believer cheat you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 8 yfos grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 Here, **But** introduces a contrast with what Paul wants them to do, which is to “be wronged” and “cheated” rather than take a fellow believer to court. Here, Paul says that they do the exact opposite. Rather than “be wronged” and “cheated,” they actually **wrong** and **cheat** fellow believers. If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a phrase that clarifies what Paul is contrasting. Alternate translation: “But instead of being wronged and cheated,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 6 8 ixb9 figs-ellipsis καὶ τοῦτο ἀδελφούς 1 In this clause, Paul has omitted some words that might be necessary to make a complete thought in your language. If this phrase would be misunderstood in your language, you could include what action is happening. Alternate translation: “and you do this to your brothers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 6 8 kk7b figs-gendernotations ἀδελφούς 1 your own brothers Although the word translated **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using this word to refer to any believer, whether man or woman. If **brothers** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “to your brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 6 9 i2ln 0 In [6:9–10](../06/09.md), Paul lists people who do things that are unrighteous. Many of these words are the same words he used in the similar lists in [5:10–11](../05/10.md). It may be helpful to refer to how you translated the words there.
1CO 6 9 ojaf grammar-connect-words-phrases ἢ 1 The word **Or** introduces Paul’s question as an alternative to “wronging and cheating brothers” in [6:7](../06/07.md). If they do indeed **know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God**, they not be “wronging and cheating brothers.” Paul uses the word **Or** to show that these two things are not compatible. If **Or** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an alternative. Alternate translation: “Against that,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 6 9 h17l figs-rquestion οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι ἄδικοι Θεοῦ Βασιλείαν οὐ κληρονομήσουσιν? 1 Or do you not know that Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes, we know.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a strong affirmation. Alternate translation: “surely you know that the unrighteous will not enter the kingdom of God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 9 slcx figs-nominaladj ἄδικοι 1 Paul is using the adjective **unrighteous** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who are unrighteous” or “unrighteous people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 6 9 t1rt figs-metaphor οὐ κληρονομήσουσιν 1 will inherit Here, Paul speaks of the **kingdom of God** as if it were property that a parent could pass on to their child when the parent dies. Here, Paul uses the word **inherit** to refer to being able to live in the **kingdom of God**. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “will not live in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 9 eywd figs-activepassive μὴ πλανᾶσθε 1 If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form by using a verb such as “gather together” or “meet.” Alternate translation: “When you meet together” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 9 vtlq figs-nominaladj πόρνοι 1 Paul is using the adjective phrase **sexually immoral** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who are sexually immoral” or “sexually immoral people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 6 9 h2na translate-unknown οὔτε μαλακοὶ, οὔτε ἀρσενοκοῖται, 1 male prostitutes, those who practice homosexuality The word translated **male prostitutes** identifies men who are penetrated during sexual acts with other men. The word translated **those who practice homosexuality** identifies men who penetrate other men during sexual acts. Your language may have specific words for these behaviors. If so, you could use them here. If your language does not have specific words for these behavior, you could either use descriptive phrases, or you could combine the two words and refer to homosexual activity in general. Alternate translation: “nor bottoms nor tops” or “nor men who practice homosexuality” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 6 9 blc7 figs-abstractnouns ἀρσενοκοῖται 1 male prostitutes If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **homosexuality**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “homosexual,” or you could use a descriptive phrase. Alternate translation: “those who are homosexual” or “those who have same-sex intercourse” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 6 10 zzb5 figs-nominaladj πλεονέκται 1 Paul is using the adjective **greedy** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who are greedy” or “greedy people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 6 10 bgj9 translate-unknown λοίδοροι 1 the greedy Here, **slanderers** is the same word that is translated “verbally abusive” in [5:11](../05/11.md). It describes someone who shows anger by using vicious words to attack others. Use a word in your language that describes this kind of person. Alternate translation: “vocally vicious people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 6 10 yzdx translate-unknown ἅρπαγες 1 Here, **swindlers** is the same word that is translated “swindler” in [5:11](../05/11.md). It identifies a person who takes money from others dishonestly. If **swindlers** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word that refers to such people. Alternate translation: “embezzlers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 6 10 h6aa figs-metaphor κληρονομήσουσιν 1 Here, Paul speaks of the **kingdom of God** as if it were property that a parent could pass on to their child when the parent dies. Here, Paul uses the word **inherit** to refer to being able to live in the **kingdom of God**. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “will live in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 11 j49p writing-pronouns ταῦτά 1 Here, **that** refers to the list of unrighteous behaviors that Paul gave in [6:9–10](../06/09.md). Paul identifies **some** of the Corinthians as people who behaved in those ways. If **that** would be misunderstood in your language, you could more clearly refer back to the list of unrighteous behaviors. Alternate translation: “those kinds of people {are what}” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 6 11 pxp6 figs-doublet ἀλλὰ ἀπελούσασθε, ἀλλὰ ἡγιάσθητε, ἀλλὰ ἐδικαιώθητε 1 Here Paul repeats **but you were** in order to emphasize the contrast between what the Corinthians **were** and what they have now experienced. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could use one **but you were** and express the strong contrast in another way. Alternate translation: “But now you have been washed, sanctified, and justified” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1CO 6 11 v5yq figs-activepassive ἀπελούσασθε…ἡγιάσθητε…ἐδικαιώθητε 1 you have been cleansed If your language does not use these passive forms, you could express the ideas in active form with “God” as the subject. Alternate translation: “God washed you … God sanctified you … God justified you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 11 rri7 figs-metaphor ἀπελούσασθε 1 Here, Paul speaks as if the Corinthians had been **washed** with water. By speaking in this way, Paul emphasizes that they have been cleansed from sin, just like washing with water cleanses a person from dirt. Paul may have baptism in mind. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “you were washed clean” or “you were purified” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 11 s55x figs-idiom ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ When something is done **in the name of** a person, it is done with the authority or power of that person. Here the cleansing, sanctification, and justification are done with the authority or power of Jesus, since they are done **in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ**. If **in the name of** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “with the power of the Lord Jesus Christ” or “by the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 6 11 gzrh figs-possession τῷ Πνεύματι τοῦ Θεοῦ ἡμῶν 1 Here Paul uses the possessive form to identify the **Spirit** as **our God**, that is, as the Holy Spirit. He does not mean that the **Spirit** is something that belongs to **our God**. If your language would not use that form to identify the **Spirit** as **our God**, you could use a word or phrase that does identify the **Spirit** as **our God** or the “Holy Spirit.” Alternate translation: “the Spirit who is our God” or “the Holy Spirit, our God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 6 12 c3bs figs-doublet πάντα μοι ἔξεστιν, ἀλλ’ οὐ πάντα συμφέρει. πάντα μοι ἔξεστιν, ἀλλ’ οὐκ ἐγὼ ἐξουσιασθήσομαι ὑπό τινος. 1 Here Paul repeats **Everything is lawful for me** to make two separate comments on the statement. By repeating **Everything is lawful for me**, Paul emphasizes his qualifications or objections to this statement. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could state **Everything is lawful for me** once and include both comments after that. Alternate translation: ““Everything is lawful for me,’ but not everything is beneficial, and I will not be mastered by anything” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1CO 6 12 sw2e writing-quotations πάντα μοι ἔξεστιν, ἀλλ’ -1 Connecting Statement: In this verse, Paul twice quotes what some people in the Corinthian church are saying. The ULT indicates that these claims are quotations by using quotation marks. If your readers would misunderstood **Everything is lawful for me** and think that Paul is claiming this, you could clarify that some of the Corinthians are saying this, and Paul is saying the words that occur after **but**. Alternate translation: “You say, ‘Everything is lawful for me,’ but I respond that … You say, ‘Everything is lawful for me,’ but I respond that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 6 12 r4mx figs-explicit πάντα -1 Everything is lawful for me Here, **everything** refers to any action or behavior that one might pursue. If **everything** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that Paul is referring to any action or behavior. Alternate translation: “Every behavior … every behavior … Every behavior” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 6 12 y6kn figs-explicit συμφέρει 1 Here Paul does not say to whom **everything** is not **beneficial**. He means that **everything** is not **beneficial** to the person or people who say that **Everything is lawful** for them. If your language would include for whom **everything** is not **beneficial**, you could include a phrase such as “for you” here. Alternate translation: “is beneficial for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 6 12 c8vz figs-activepassive οὐκ ἐγὼ ἐξουσιασθήσομαι ὑπό τινος 1 I will not be mastered by any of them If your language does not use this passive form, you could express the idea in active form. Alternate translation: “nothing will master me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 12 p0d8 translate-unknown οὐκ…ἐξουσιασθήσομαι ὑπό 1 Here, **be mastered** refers to being under the authority of something else. Paul here means that some things, when a person habitually does them, begin to have power or control over that person. Here, then, he wishes to tell the Corinthians that, while such things might be **lawful**, they should avoid doing these things because they will **be mastered** by these things. If **be mastered** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using words that refer to “power” or “control.” Alternate translation: “will not be controlled by” or “will not be under the power of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 6 13 jz55 writing-quotations τὰ βρώματα τῇ κοιλίᾳ, καὶ ἡ κοιλία τοῖς βρώμασιν;…δὲ 1 “Food is for the stomach, and the stomach is for food,” but God will do away with both of them In this verse, Paul quotes what some people in the Corinthian church are saying, just like he did in [6:12](../06/12.md). The ULT indicates that this claim is a quotation by using quotation marks. If your readers would misunderstood **Food {is} for the stomach, and the stomach for food** and think that Paul is claiming this, you could clarify that some of the Corinthians are saying this, and Paul is saying the words that occur after **but**. Alternate translation: “You say, ‘Food {is} for the stomach, and the stomach for food,’ but I respond that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 6 13 gt0n figs-ellipsis τὰ βρώματα τῇ κοιλίᾳ, καὶ ἡ κοιλία τοῖς βρώμασιν…τὸ…σῶμα οὐ τῇ πορνείᾳ, ἀλλὰ τῷ Κυρίῳ, καὶ ὁ Κύριος τῷ σώματι 1 In these two sentences, Paul omits **is** multiple times. If your language does not need to state **is** to express the idea, you could omit **is** throughout these two sentences. If your language does need to state **is** to express the idea, you could: (1) include **is** the first time it is needed in each sentence. See the ULT. (2) include **is** every time it is needed. Alternate translation: “Food {is} for the stomach, and the stomach {is} for food … the body {is} is not for sexual immorality, but {is} for the Lord, and the Lord {is} for the body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 6 13 uc1v translate-unknown καταργήσει 1 do away with Here, **will do away with** refers to making something ineffective, useless, or irrelevant. What Paul means is that God will make **food** and **the stomach** unimportant and without function. If **will do away with** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates that a God has acted so that **food** and **the stomach** are no longer important, useful, or effective. Alternate translation: “will render ineffective” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 6 13 scrh writing-pronouns καὶ ταύτην καὶ ταῦτα 1 Here, **this** refers to **stomach**, and **those** refers to **food**, since **food** is plural here. If what **this** and **those** refer to would be misunderstood in your language, you could use the names **stomach** and **food** instead. Alternate translation: “both stomach and food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 6 13 pd10 grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 2 Here, **Now** introduces a development based on what Paul has said about **food** and **the stomach**. While **food** is indeed **for the stomach**, the **body** is not **for sexual immorality**. Paul agrees with the Corinthians about **food** and **the stomach**, but he disagrees that **sexual immorality** and **the body** should be understood in the same way. Instead, **the body** exists **for the Lord**. Paul further explains in the next verse ([6:14](../06/14.md)) that, unlike **food** and **the stomach**, God will not **do away with** the **body**, since we will be resurrected. If **Now** would not introduce a difference between **the stomach** and **the body**, you could use a word or phrase that does introduce such a contrast. Alternate translation: “On the other hand,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 6 13 r1co writing-pronouns τῇ πορνείᾳ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **immorality**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “immoral.” Alternate translation: “for what is sexually immoral” or “sexually immoral behavior” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 6 13 d9q7 figs-explicit τῷ Κυρίῳ 1 Here Paul means that the **body** is meant to serve and please **the Lord**. If **for the Lord** would be misunderstood in your language, you could include a verbal phrase that indicates that the **body** should serve **the Lord**. Alternate translation: “it is intended to please the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 6 13 zpx9 figs-explicit ὁ Κύριος τῷ σώματι 1 Here, **the Lord for the body** expresses the idea that: (1) the **Lord** works for the human **body** and not just the human “soul” or non-physical part. Alternate translation: “the Lord works for the body” (2) the **Lord** is human now and in a **body**, which would explain why Paul speaks about the resurrection of the **Lord** in the next verse. Alternate translation: “the Lord is in a human body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 6 14 tayy grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Here, **Now** introduces one way in which “the Lord is for the body” (). Human bodies are important and are not for sexual immorality because God will raise those who believe to new life, and this includes human bodies. If **Now** would not introduce a further development of the argument in your language, you could use a word or phrase that does function in this way. Alternate translation: “Further,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 6 14 ev9l figs-idiom τὸν Κύριον ἤγειρεν, καὶ ἡμᾶς ἐξεγερεῖ 1 raised the Lord Paul uses the words **raised** and **raise up** to refer to someone who had died coming back to life. If your language does not use these words to describe coming back to life, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “restored the Lord to life and will also restore us to life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 6 14 jvng ἤγειρεν…ἐξεγερεῖ 1 Here, **raised** and **raise up** have the same meaning. Paul uses a slightly different word for variety or because he is referring to the future. In your translation, you could use the same word for **raised** and **raise up**. Alternate translation: “raised … will … raise”
1CO 6 14 wgh4 figs-abstractnouns διὰ τῆς δυνάμεως αὐτοῦ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **power**, you could express the idea by using an adverb such as “powerfully” or an adjective such as “powerful.” Alternate translation: “by working powerfully” or “by his powerful action” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 6 15 gt2x figs-metaphor μέλη Χριστοῦ…τὰ μέλη τοῦ Χριστοῦ…πόρνης μέλη 1 Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Here, Paul speaks as if the Corinthians were **members**, which are body parts, that belong to **Christ** or to a **prostitute**. He speaks in this way to indicate how closely joined the Corinthians are to **Christ** or to a **prostitute**. This union is as close as the union between a finger and the body to which it belongs. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “united to Christ … people who are united to Christ …unite with a prostitute” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 15 io5p figs-rquestion οὐκ οἴδατε, ὅτι τὰ σώματα ὑμῶν μέλη Χριστοῦ ἐστιν? 1 Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes, we know.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong affirmation. Alternate translation: “You should know that your bodies are members of Christ.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 15 agvy figs-metaphor ἄρας…τὰ μέλη τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 Here Paul speaks about **taking away the members of Christ** as if he could remove a body part from **Christ**, like cutting off a finger. He speaks in this way to show how bad it is to remove a person from union with **Christ**. It is as bad as cutting a finger, arm, or leg off a person’s body. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “having removed people from union with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 15 f4vd figs-rquestion ἄρας…τὰ μέλη τοῦ Χριστοῦ, ποιήσω πόρνης μέλη? 1 Shall I then take away the members of Christ and join them to a prostitute? May it not be! Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “no, you should not.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong negation. Alternate translation: “I should never take away the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 15 h21r figs-123person ποιήσω 1 Shall I then take away the members of Christ and join them to a prostitute? May it not be! Here Paul speaks in the first person because he is using himself as an example. If your readers would misunderstand why Paul uses the first person here, you could include a word or phrase that clarifies that Paul is treating himself as an example, or you could use a form that would naturally provide an example in your language. Alternate translation: “should I, for example, make them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1CO 6 15 kmt2 figs-idiom μὴ γένοιτο 1 May it not be! Here, **May it never be!** gives Paul’s own response to his question. The phrase is one of the strongest negatives Paul could use. Use a strong word or phrase that answers a question with a no. Alternate translation: “Never!” or “Absolutely not!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 6 16 seg6 figs-rquestion ἢ οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι ὁ κολλώμενος τῇ πόρνῃ, ἓν σῶμά ἐστιν? 1 Do you not know that … her? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes, we know.” If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea as an emphatic statement. Alternate translation: “You know for sure that the one who is joined to the prostitute is one body.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 16 zcgg figs-euphemism ὁ κολλώμενος τῇ πόρνῃ 1 Do you not know that … her? Here, being **joined to the prostitute** is a euphemism for having sex with a **prostitute**. Paul uses this euphemism in order to be polite. He also picks this specific euphemism because it can also refer to being **joined** to someone without sexual implications. He uses the phrase in this way in the next verse to speak about union with Christ ([6:17](../06/17.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **joined to the prostitute**, you could use a similar polite euphemism in your language. If possible, use a euphemism that can also work to describe the non-sexual union with Christ in the next verse. Alternate translation: “the one who lives with the prostitute” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 6 16 z54k figs-activepassive ὁ κολλώμενος τῇ πόρνῃ 1 he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one flesh with her If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that the person did it to himself. Alternate translation: “the one who joins himself to the prostitute” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 16 w1am figs-genericnoun τῇ πόρνῃ 1 he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one flesh with her Jesus is speaking of prostitutes in general, not of one particular **prostitute**. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use a phrase that refers in general to “prostitutes.” Alternate translation: “to any prostitute” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 6 16 up28 figs-ellipsis ἓν σῶμά ἐστιν 1 he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one flesh with her Here Paul is pointing out that the **one who is joined** and the **prostitute** make up **one body** together. He is not arguing that the **one who is joined** by himself is **one body**. If your readers would misunderstand this point, you could include some words that Paul implies. Alternate translation: “is one body with her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 6 16 fioa figs-metaphor ἓν σῶμά ἐστιν 1 he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one flesh with her Here Paul is speaking as if the **one who is joined** and the **prostitute** together share **one body** when they have sex. He speaks in this way to emphasize the unity that these two people have when they have sex, which is as close as if they had only one body. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “shares all things with her” or “is united to her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 16 m2gm writing-quotations γάρ, φησίν, 1 he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one flesh with her In Paul’s culture, **For it says** is a normal way to introduce a quotation from an important text, in this case, the Old Testament book titled “Genesis” (see [Genesis 2:24](gen/02/24.md)). If your readers would misunderstand this, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “For it can be read in the Old Testament” or “For the book of Genesis says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 6 16 vv2n figs-quotations ἔσονται…φησίν, οἱ δύο εἰς σάρκα μίαν 1 he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one flesh with her If you do not use this form in your language, you could translate these statements as indirect quotes instead of as direct quotes. Alternate translation: “it says that the two will become as one flesh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 6 16 ks89 figs-explicit ἔσονται…οἱ δύο εἰς σάρκα μίαν 1 he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one flesh with her The passage that Paul quotes here comes from the book of Genesis. The story is about God creating Adam and Eve, the first man and woman. When God brings Eve, the woman, to the man named Adam, the narrative comments that this is why “a man will leave his father and his mother, and he will cling to his wife, and they will become one flesh” ([Genesis 2:24](gen/02/24.md)). Paul quotes the end of this sentence here. If your readers would misunderstand what this quote refers to, you could include a footnote explaining the context. Additionally, you could clarify what the word **two** refers to. Alternate translation: “A man and a woman will become as one flesh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 6 17 zyjd figs-metaphor ὁ…κολλώμενος τῷ Κυρίῳ 1 he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him Here, being **joined to the Lord** refers to what Paul elsewhere describes as being “in Christ” or “united to Christ.” Paul uses this specific phrase because he used it in the last verse to refer to union with a “prostitute” (see [6:16](../06/16.md)). If your readers would misunderstand **joined to the Lord**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. If possible, use the same words you that you used in the last verse for “joined to the prostitute.” Alternate translation: “the one who lives with the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 17 c2tb figs-activepassive ὁ…κολλώμενος τῷ Κυρίῳ 1 he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that the person did it to himself. Alternate translation: “the one who joins himself to the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 17 z273 figs-ellipsis ἓν πνεῦμά ἐστιν 1 he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him Here Paul is pointing out that the **one who is joined** and the **Lord** make up **one spirit** together. He is not arguing that the **one who is joined** by himself is **one spirit**. If your readers would misunderstand this point, you could include some words that Paul implies. Alternate translation: “is one spirit with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 6 17 vv1s figs-metaphor ἓν πνεῦμά ἐστιν 1 he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him Here Paul is speaking as if the **one who is joined** and the **Lord** together share **one spirit** when the **one who is joined** believes in the **Lord**. He speaks in this way to emphasize the unity between a believer and Jesus, which is as close as if they had only one spirit. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “shares all things with him spiritually” or “is spiritually united to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 17 kt2x πνεῦμά 1 he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him Here, **spirit** could refer to: (1) a person’s **spirit** in contrast to his or her “body.” While a prostitute and a man can have “one body” ([6:16](../06/16.md)), which is a physical union, the Lord and a believer can have **one spirit**, which is a spiritual union. Alternate translation: “spiritually” (2) the Holy Spirit, who unites the Lord and the believer. Alternate translation: “in the Holy Spirit”
1CO 6 18 ex92 figs-metaphor φεύγετε 1 Flee from Here Paul wants the Corinthians to avoid **sexual immorality** as urgently as if it were an enemy or danger that they might **flee from**. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “Carefully stay away from” or “Fight against” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 18 nhpq figs-abstractnouns τὴν πορνείαν 1 Flee from If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **immorality**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “immoral.” Alternate translation: “what is sexually immoral” or “sexually immoral behavior” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 6 18 sc9d grammar-connect-exceptions πᾶν ἁμάρτημα ὃ ἐὰν ποιήσῃ ἄνθρωπος ἐκτὸς τοῦ σώματός ἐστιν, ὁ δὲ πορνεύων εἰς τὸ ἴδιον σῶμα ἁμαρτάνει 1 immorality! Every other sin that a person commits is outside the body, but If it would appear in your language that Paul was making a statement here and then contradicting it, you could reword this to avoid using exception language. Alternate translation: “Almost every sin that a man might commit is outside the body, but the one who is sexually immoral sins against his own body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions]])
1CO 6 18 dfck figs-gendernotations ἄνθρωπος…τὸ ἴδιον 1 immorality! Every other sin that a person commits is outside the body, but Although **man** and **his** are masculine, Paul is using these words to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If your readers would misunderstand **man** and **his**, you could use non-gendered words or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “a man or woman … his or her own” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 6 18 jr46 figs-metaphor ἐκτὸς τοῦ σώματός ἐστιν 1 sin that a person commits Here, Paul speaks as if sins were located **outside the body**. By speaking in this way, he means that most sins do not affect the **body** the way **sexual immorality** does. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could express the idea non-figuratively or with a comparable metaphor. Alternate translation: “does not directly affect the body” or “is apart from the body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 19 i5bt grammar-connect-words-phrases ἢ 1 Do you not know … God? … that you are not your own? The word **Or** introduces an alternate to what Paul speaks about in [6:18](../06/18.md). Some people are indeed “sinning against their bodies.” Paul gives the correct alternative: they should **know** that their bodies are “temple” of the **Holy Spirit**. If your readers would misunderstood **Or**, you could use a word that signifies a contrast or gives an alternative. Alternate translation: “Rather,” or “On the other hand,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 6 19 qy5j figs-rquestion ἢ οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι τὸ σῶμα ὑμῶν, ναὸς τοῦ ἐν ὑμῖν Ἁγίου Πνεύματός ἐστιν, οὗ ἔχετε ἀπὸ Θεοῦ? 1 Do you not know … God? … that you are not your own? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes, we know.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong affirmation. Alternate translation: “You certainly know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit in you, whom you have from God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 6 19 bb35 grammar-collectivenouns τὸ σῶμα ὑμῶν 1 your body The word **body** is a singular noun that refers to multiple “bodies.” Paul makes this clear by using a plural **your**. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “each of your bodies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
1CO 6 19 d2mc figs-metaphor ναὸς τοῦ ἐν ὑμῖν Ἁγίου Πνεύματός 1 temple of the Holy Spirit Here, Paul speaks of the relationship between the believer and the **Holy Spirit** as if the believer were a **temple** and the **Holy Spirit** were the god that dwelled in that temple. In Paul’s culture, deities had specific temples, and they would be specially present to their worshipers in those temples. Paul applies this thinking to believers. Each believer is a **temple**, and the **Holy Spirit** is **in** each believer. This means that the Holy Spirit is specially present with each believer. This is a significant metaphor in the Bible, so if possible, preserve the metaphor or express the idea by using a simile. Alternate translation: “is a temple in which the Holy Spirit dwells” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 19 cg8m οὗ ἔχετε ἀπὸ Θεοῦ 1 temple of the Holy Spirit Alternate translation: “whom God has given to you”
1CO 6 20 vzz8 figs-metaphor ἠγοράσθητε…τιμῆς 1 For you were bought with a price Here Paul speaks if the Corinthians were slaves whom God had **bought with a price** from someone else. Paul is speaking of what we often call “redemption.” The **price** is Christ’s death on the cross, which “redeems” believers from sin and evil powers. This is an important biblical metaphor, so if possible preserve the metaphor or express it as an analogy. Alternate translation: “you were bought with a price, which is the Messiah’s death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 6 20 qv47 figs-activepassive ἠγοράσθητε…τιμῆς 1 For you were bought with a price If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God bought you with a price” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 6 20 y7fe ἐν τῷ σώματι ὑμῶν 1 Therefore Alternate translation: “with your body” or “with what you do with your body”
1CO 7 intro a25m 0 # 1 Corinthians 7 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and Formatting<br><br>4. On abstinence (7:1–40)<br> * Directions on sex in marriage (7:1–7)<br> * Directions on marriage and divorce (7:8–16)<br> * Believers should remain as God called them (7:17–24)<br> * Benefit of staying as one is, whether single or married (7:25–35)<br> * Exceptions for engaged Christians and widows (7:36–40)<br><br>## Special Concepts in this Chapter<br><br>### The letter from the Corinthians to Paul<br><br>In [7:1](../07/01.md), Paul says that the Corinthians wrote to him. In fact, the second half of the verse is probably a quote from their letter to Paul. To show this, the ULT puts the quotation inside quotation marks. We do not know what else the letter included about marriage and sex. In the rest of the chapter, though, Paul responds to what they wrote to him.<br><br>### Sex and marriage<br><br>Throughout this chapter, Paul speaks at length about sex and marriage. While he does not argue this here, he assumes that sex should only happen within a marriage. This is clear when he makes lack of sexual self-control a good reason to get married in [7:9](../07/09.md). Further, he has four categories of people in mind: those who have never gotten married, those who are engaged to be married, those who are no longer married (whether through divorce or death of a spouse), and those who are currently married. Whether your language has more or fewer categories for marital status, make the distinctions between these four categories as clear as possible.<br><br>### Sanctification of unbelieving spouse and children<br><br>In [7:12–16](../07/12.md), Paul addresses Christian men and women who have an unbelieving spouse. He specifically argues that they should stay together unless the unbelieving spouse wishes to leave the marriage. He argues that they should stay together because the unbelieving spouse and the children are “sanctified” by the believing spouse. By “sanctified,” Paul does not mean that the unbelieving spouse and the children are considered to be Christians whom God will save. Rather, “sanctified” identifies the unbelieving spouse and the children as appropriate family for the believing spouse. In other words, having an unbelieving spouse does not make one’s marriage and children improper before God. Instead, God “sanctifies” them. If your language has a way to refer to an improper or unacceptable marriage, you might be able to use those kinds of words here.<br><br>### Divorce<br><br>In this passage, Paul uses a number of words and phrases to refer to what we call divorce: “being separated” ([7:10–11](../07/10.md)), “divorce” ([11–13](../07/11.md)), “departing” ([15](../07/15.md)), and “being released” ([27](../07/27.md)). In Paul’s culture, the rules for divorce were different in different places, and some divorces would have been more formal and legal than others. Additionally, in many places both men and women could divorce a spouse, but in a few places only men could divorce their wives. If Paul’s language would be understood in your language, you should try to preserve the different words and phrases he uses. If you need to make his language more consistent, use a word or phrase that refers generally to ending a marriage. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/divorce]])<br><br>### The “virgin”<br><br>In [7:25–38](../07/25.md), Paul refers repeatedly to “virgins.” With this word, he identifies a woman who has never been married. The word does not necessarily mean that the woman has never had any sexual experiences. When Paul identifies the virgin as “his virgin,” he refers either to a woman who is engaged to be married to a man or to a daughter who is under the authority of her father (see the last section in this introduction). In your language, use a word or phrase that refers to a woman who has never been married.<br><br>### The “coming distress”<br><br>In [7:26](../07/26.md), Paul speaks of the “coming distress.” Th
1CO 7 1 y4lx grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Now Here, **Now** introduces a new topic in the letter. Paul begins to discuss things that the Corinthians asked him about in a letter. If **Now** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a new topic. Alternate translation: “Next,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 7 1 jq21 figs-explicit ὧν ἐγράψατε 1 the issues you wrote about The phrase **what you wrote** implies that the Corinthians had previously written a letter to Paul in which they asked him questions. Paul now begins to answer those questions. If **what you wrote** would not imply that the Corinthians had already written a letter to Paul, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “what you wrote to me in your letter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 7 1 erl5 figs-explicit ἐγράψατε, καλὸν ἀνθρώπῳ, γυναικὸς μὴ ἅπτεσθαι 1 “It is good for a man not to touch a woman.” Here Paul could be (1) quoting what the Corinthians said in their letter so that he can respond to it, much like he did in [6:12–13](../06/12.md). Alternate translation: “you wrote: you say, ‘It is good for a man not to touch a woman.’” (2) expressing his own views about men and women. Alternate translation: “you wrote: It is true that it is good for a man not to touch a woman” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 7 1 inrh καλὸν ἀνθρώπῳ, γυναικὸς μὴ ἅπτεσθαι; 1 Alternate translation: “When a man does not touch a woman, that is good”
1CO 7 1 cm7y figs-explicit ἀνθρώπῳ, γυναικὸς 1 for a man While the words **man** and **woman** could refer specifically to “husband” and “wife,” Paul is quoting a more general statement here that refers to men and women in general. If **man** and **woman** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use words that refer more specifically to the sex of the people involved. Alternate translation: “for a male … a female” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 7 1 z9j5 figs-genericnoun ἀνθρώπῳ, γυναικὸς 1 Here, Paul refers to **man** and **woman** in the singular, but he is speaking generically of all any **man** and any **woman**. If your language does not use the singular form to refer to people in general, you could use a form that does refer generically to people in your language. Alternate translation: “for men … women” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 7 1 mx7w figs-euphemism ἀνθρώπῳ, γυναικὸς μὴ ἅπτεσθαι 1 not to touch a woman Here, **for a man** to **touch a woman** is a euphemism for having sex. This is a general statement about having sex, although Paul primarily speaks about sex within marriage in the verses that follow. The Corinthians used this euphemism in their letter to Paul in order to be polite. If **for a man not to touch a woman** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a similar polite euphemism in your language. Alternate translation: “for a man not to sleep with a woman” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 7 2 c3uq grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 But because Here, **But** introduces the qualifications Paul wishes to give for the statement in the previous verse: “{It is} good for a man not to touch a woman.” Paul wishes to give qualifications whether that statement is from the Corinthians or is Paul’s own statement. Use a word or phrase in your culture that introduces qualifications to a claim. Alternate translation: “However,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 7 2 fys4 figs-abstractnouns διὰ…τὰς πορνείας 1 But because of temptations for many immoral acts, each If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **immorality**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “immoral.” Alternate translation: “because people are immoral” or “because of immoral behavior” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 2 ktqd figs-metonymy διὰ…τὰς πορνείας 1 Here, **immorality** refers to how people desire to commit **immorality** and do commit **immorality**. Paul does not refer to **immorality** in the abstract. If **immorality** would be misunderstood in your language, you could include a word or phrase that refers to “temptation” or “behavior.” Alternate translation: “because of the temptation of immorality” or “because people act immorally” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 7 2 r822 figs-imperative ἕκαστος τὴν ἑαυτοῦ γυναῖκα ἐχέτω, καὶ ἑκάστη τὸν ἴδιον ἄνδρα ἐχέτω 1 Here Paul uses two third person imperatives. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use them here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea by using a word such as “should” or “allow.” Alternate translation: “allow each man to have his own wife, and allow each woman to have her own husband” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 7 2 j4wc figs-idiom ἕκαστος τὴν ἑαυτοῦ γυναῖκα ἐχέτω, καὶ ἑκάστη τὸν ἴδιον ἄνδρα ἐχέτω 1 The phrases “to have a wife” and “to have a husband” refer primarily to the ongoing state of being married, which includes continuing to have sex. However, the idiom primarily emphasizes remaining in a state of marriage with one’s current spouse. If “to have a wife or husband” would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or refer directly to staying married. Alternate translation: “let each man continue in marriage with his own wife, and let each woman continue in marriage with her own husband” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 7 3 he0c figs-genericnoun τῇ γυναικὶ ὁ ἀνὴρ…ἡ γυνὴ τῷ ἀνδρί 1 Here Paul refers to **the husband** and **the wife** in the singular, but he is speaking generically about any **husband** and **wife**. If your language does not use the singular form to refer to people in general, you could use a form that does refer generically to people in your language. Alternate translation: “each husband … to his wife … each wife … to her husband” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 7 3 xv9s figs-imperative ὁ ἀνὴρ…ἀποδιδότω 1 Here Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “should” or “must.” Alternate translation: “A husband should give” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 7 3 mj8l figs-euphemism τῇ γυναικὶ ὁ ἀνὴρ τὴν ὀφειλὴν ἀποδιδότω 1 sexual rights Here Paul uses **duty** to refer to married couples having sex. He uses this word to be polite and also because he wishes to emphasize that having sex is an obligation for married couples. If **duty** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable euphemism or refer directly to how married couples “should” have sex. Alternate translation: “Let the husband fulfill his sexual obligations to the wife” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 7 3 vhv1 figs-ellipsis ὁμοίως…καὶ ἡ γυνὴ τῷ ἀνδρί 1 likewise the wife to her husband Here Paul omits some words that may be required in your language to make a full sentence. You could supply words from the first half of the verse to complete the thought. Alternate translation: “likewise let the wife also give to the husband the duty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 7 4 px2s figs-genericnoun ἡ γυνὴ…ὁ ἀνήρ…ὁ ἀνὴρ…ἡ γυνή 1 Just as in [7:3](../07/03.md), Paul here refers to **the husband** and **the wife** in the singular, but he is speaking generically about any **husband** and **wife**. If your language does not use the singular form to refer to people in general, you could use a form that does refer generically to people in your language. Alternate translation: “each wife … her husband {does} … each husband … his wife {does}” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 7 4 a7nb figs-abstractnouns τοῦ ἰδίου σώματος οὐκ ἐξουσιάζει -1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **authority**, you could express the idea by using a verb or verbal phrase such as “control” or “claim as one’s own.” Alternate translation: “does not control her own body … does not control his own body” or “does not claim her body as her own … does not claim his body as his own” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 4 sspg figs-ellipsis ὁ ἀνήρ…ἡ γυνή 1 In both these places, Paul omits some words that may be required in your language to make a full sentence. You could supply words from the first half of each statement in order to complete the thought, as the ULT does. Alternate translation: “the husband has authority over her body … the wife has authority over his body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 7 5 qq7u figs-euphemism μὴ ἀποστερεῖτε ἀλλήλους 1 Do not deprive each other Here Paul omits a direct reference to having sex in order to be polite. The Corinthians would have understood him to mean that they should not **deprive each other** of having sex. If your readers also would understand this, you can express the idea the same way Paul did. If your readers would not understand this, you may need to include a word or phrase that politely refers to having sex. Alternate translation: “Do not deprive each other of sleeping together” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 7 5 wzeh grammar-connect-exceptions μὴ ἀποστερεῖτε ἀλλήλους, εἰ μήτι ἂν ἐκ συμφώνου 1 If it would appear in your language that Paul was making a statement here and then contradicting it, you could reword this to avoid using an exception clause. Alternate translation: “You should deprive each other only in one situation: by mutual agreement” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions]])
1CO 7 5 cnr5 figs-abstractnouns ἐκ συμφώνου 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **agreement**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “agree.” Alternate translation: “when you both agree” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 5 d3cr figs-idiom πρὸς καιρὸν 1 Here, **for a season** identifies a short, undefined period of time. The word **season** does not refer to winter or summer. If **for a season** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers vaguely to a short time. Alternate translation: “for a short period of time” “for a brief time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 7 5 gh0e grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 Here, **so that** introduces the purpose for which the Corinthians can **deprive each other**. In other words, it gives the purpose for the **except** statement. If what **so that** refers back to would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that it explains why the Corinthians can **deprive each other**. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add period before it. Alternate translation: “You may deprive each only so that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 7 5 uq6x translate-unknown σχολάσητε τῇ προσευχῇ 1 so that you may devote yourselves to prayer Here, **devote yourselves** refers to making time to focus on something specific. Paul argues that the only time to avoid having sex with one’s spouse is so that both one and one’s spouse have extra time to focus on praying to God. If **devote yourselves** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable expression. Alternate translation: “you may make more time for prayer” or “you may spend more time in prayer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 5 nww5 figs-abstractnouns τῇ προσευχῇ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **pray**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “praying.” Alternate translation: “to praying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 5 s1ya figs-euphemism ἐπὶ τὸ αὐτὸ ἦτε 1 come together again Here, **be together again** is a polite way to refer to having sex. If **be together again** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable phrase that politely refers to having sex. Alternate translation: “sleep together” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 7 5 mdj0 grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 2 Here, **so that** introduces the purpose for which (1) the Corinthians need quickly to **be together again**. It is because Satan will **tempt** them unless they are **together**. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add period before it. Alternate translation: “Be together again soon so that” (2) the Corinthians should not **deprive each other**. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add period before it. Alternate translation: “The point of not depriving each other is so that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1CO 7 5 md2z grammar-connect-logic-result διὰ 1 Here, **because** introduces the reason why (1) **Satan** may **tempt** them. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add a comma before it. Alternate translation: “which he would do because of” (2) they should soon **be together again**. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add period before it. Alternate translation: “You should do this because of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 7 5 ii8n figs-abstractnouns διὰ τὴν ἀκρασίαν ὑμῶν 1 because of your lack of self-control If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **self-control**, you could express the idea by using a verbal phrase such as “cannot restrain.” Alternate translation: “because you cannot restrain yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 6 wrma writing-pronouns τοῦτο 1 Here, **this** could refer to (1) what Paul has said about the one situation in which they can “deprive each other” in [7:5](../07/05.md). Alternate translation: “this about when you can deprive each other” (2) what Paul has said about how married couples should regularly have sex in [7:2–5](../07/02.md). Alternate translation: “this about being married” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 7 6 hprb figs-infostructure κατὰ συνγνώμην, οὐ κατ’ ἐπιταγήν 1 If your language would express the negative statement before the positive, you could reverse the order of these two phrases. Alternate translation: “not as a command but as a concession” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 7 6 ncig translate-unknown συνγνώμην 1 Here, **a concession** is something that one allows even though one does not entirely agree with it. Usually, the **concession** is made because one wishes to avoid antagonizing the person one is dealing with. If **concession** would be misunderstood here, you could express the idea by using a comparable word or phrase. Alternate translation: “a compromise” or “an allowance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 6 zsy3 figs-abstractnouns κατὰ συνγνώμην, οὐ κατ’ ἐπιταγήν 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **concession** and **command**, you could express the idea by using verb such as “concede” and “command.” Alternate translation: “because I concede it, not because I command it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 7 b7xz grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Here, **But** introduces a contrast with everything that Paul has said in [7:1–6](../07/01.md). In those verses, he speaks about how believers should act when they are already married. Now, however, he begins to talk about getting married, and he says that he wishes that people stayed unmarried like he does. The **But** introduces a new stage in the argument that deals with getting married. If **But** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a new but related topic. Alternate translation: “Now” or “Moving on,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 7 7 rbe7 figs-explicit εἶναι ὡς καὶ ἐμαυτόν 1 were as I am When Paul wrote this letter, he was not married, and as far as we know he was never married. When Paul says that he wishes that all people were **even as myself**, he is referring to how he is unmarried. If **to be even as myself** would be misunderstood in your language, you could include the fact that Paul is not married. Alternate translation: “to be unmarried as I am” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 7 7 mlsi figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπους…ἴδιον 1 Although **men** and **him** are masculine, Paul is using these words to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If **men** and **him** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use non-gendered words or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “men and women … his or her own” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 7 7 zima figs-metaphor χάρισμα 1 Here Paul speaks about the way of life that God has called each person to live in as if it were a **gift** that each person receives from God. By using **gift**, Paul emphasizes that the person receives the **gift** freely from God and that the **gift** is a good thing. If **gift** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea non-figuratively or with a comparable metaphor. Alternate translation: “blessing” or “calling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 7 w9ld figs-ellipsis ὁ μὲν οὕτως, ὁ δὲ οὕτως 1 But each one has his own gift from God. One has this kind of gift, and another that kind Here Paul omits some words that may be necessary in your language to make a complete thought. If your language needs more words, you could include a phrase such as “acts in” or “live in.” Alternate translation: “one indeed acts in this way, and another acts in that way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 7 8 y6lc translate-unknown τοῖς ἀγάμοις 1 Here, **unmarried** could refer to (1) people who are not currently married, whether they never have been married or are no longer married. Alternate translation: “to those without spouses” (2) men whose wives have died, which pairs well with **widows**. Alternate translation: “to the widowers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 8 n401 figs-nominaladj τοῖς ἀγάμοις 1 Paul is using the adjective **unmarried** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate **unmarried** with a noun phrase or a relative clause. Alternate translation: “to those who are unmarried” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 7 8 s7s9 translate-unknown ταῖς χήραις 1 Here, **widows** refers specifically to women whose husbands have died. It does not refer to men whose wives have died. Alternate translation: “to women who are widowed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 8 f43d figs-hypo ἐὰν 1 Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that people might **remain** as Paul is or they might not. He specifies that it is **good** if they do **remain**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “whenever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 7 8 r27x figs-explicit μείνωσιν ὡς κἀγώ 1 it is good Just as in [7:7](../07/07.md), Paul again assumes that his readers know that he is unmarried. When Paul says that it is good for **the unmarried** and **the widows** to **remain as I also am**, he is referring to how he is unmarried. If **remain as I also am** would be misunderstood in your language, you could include the fact that Paul is not married. Alternate translation: “remain without a spouse as I also am” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 7 9 o4j5 figs-hypo εἰ…οὐκ ἐνκρατεύονται, γαμησάτωσαν 1 Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that people might **have self-control** or they might not. Here he gives instructions for if they **do not have self-control**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “whoever does not have self-control should marry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 7 9 bxa2 figs-abstractnoun οὐκ ἐνκρατεύονται 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **self-control**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “self-controlled” or a verbal phrase such as “control themselves.” Alternate translation: “they are not self-controlled” or “they do not control themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 9 jy8g figs-imperative γαμησάτωσαν 1 Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “let” or “should,” as the ULT does. Alternate translation: “let them marry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 7 9 ty79 figs-metaphor πυροῦσθαι 1 to burn with desire Here, **to burn** is a way to refer to sexual desire. Paul uses **burn** because he represents the desire as hard to fight and as something that consumes a person like fire consumes a building. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable metaphor or by including a reference to sexual desire. Alternate translation: “to burn with desire” or “to lust after someone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 10 gxni figs-nominaladj τοῖς…γεγαμηκόσιν 1 Paul is using the adjective **married** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate **married** with a noun phrase or a relative clause. Alternate translation: “to those who are married” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 7 10 zwgk grammar-connect-logic-contrast οὐκ ἐγὼ, ἀλλὰ ὁ Κύριος 1 Here Paul clarifies that he is not the authority behind this command. It is **the Lord** who is the authority here. Paul specifically has in mind what **the Lord** said about marriage and divorce while he was on earth (see [Mark 10:5–12](mrk/10/05.md)). If **not I, but the Lord** would be misunderstood in your language, you could either identify that it is not Paul “alone” who gives the command, or you could clarify that Paul is referring to what **the Lord** said. Alternate translation: “not I alone, but the Lord also” or “and here I refer to what the Lord said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 7 10 ywsy figs-genericnoun γυναῖκα ἀπὸ ἀνδρὸς 1 Here Paul is speaking of wives and husbands in general, not just of one **wife** and **husband**. If **wife** and **husband** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable way to refer generically to wives and husbands. Alternate translation: “each wife … from her husband” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 7 10 hc5p figs-idiom ἀπὸ…μὴ χωρισθῆναι 1 should not separate from Here, **to be separated from** is technical language for ending a marriage before death. The phrase does not distinguish between “separation” and “divorce.” If possible, use a similar general phrase in your language. Alternate translation: “is not to divorce or separate from” or “it not to break up with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 7 10 h049 figs-activepassive μὴ χωρισθῆναι 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “is not to separate” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 11 wtbo figs-infostructure ἐὰν δὲ καὶ χωρισθῇ, μενέτω ἄγαμος ἢ τῷ ἀνδρὶ καταλλαγήτω 1 The ULT puts this clause in parentheses because it is a qualification of what Paul said in [7:11](../07/11.md) and because one can read [7:10–11](../07/10.md) smoothly together without this clause. In this clause, Paul issues commands about what the wife is supposed to do if the divorces her husband despite what Paul has said. Use a form in your language that would indicate a qualification or a parenthesis. Alternate translation: “if she is separated despite what I have said, let her remain unmarried, or let her be reconciled to the husband” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 7 11 r5oz figs-genericnoun χωρισθῇ…τῷ ἀνδρὶ…ἄνδρα…γυναῖκα 1 Here Paul is speaking of wives and husbands in general, not just of one **wife** and **husband**. If **wife** and **husband** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable way to refer generically to wives and husbands. Alternate translation: “one of the wives might be separated … to her husband … each husband … his wife” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 7 11 pqr9 figs-hypo ἐὰν δὲ καὶ χωρισθῇ, μενέτω 1 Here, Paul uses **even if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that a wife **might be separated** or she might not. He then specifies the result for if **she** is **separated**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the if statement by introducing it with a word such as “whenever” or with a relative clause. Alternate translation: “but let whichever wife might be separated remain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 7 11 phpw figs-activepassive χωρισθῇ 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “she separates” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 11 lj79 figs-ellipsis χωρισθῇ 1 Here Paul omits some words that might be needed in your language to make a complete thought. Paul omits them because he already used them in [7:10](../07/10.md) and he assumes his audience will infer them from there. If you need to include these words, you can insert the words “from her husband.” Alternate translation: “she might be separated from her husband” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 7 11 tvo2 figs-imperative μενέτω ἄγαμος ἢ τῷ ἀνδρὶ καταλλαγήτω 1 Here Paul uses two third person imperatives. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use them here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea by using a word such as “should” or “must.” Alternate translation: “she must remain unmarried, or she must be reconciled to the husband” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 7 11 lxf7 figs-activepassive τῷ ἀνδρὶ καταλλαγήτω 1 be reconciled to her husband If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “let her reconcile with the husband” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 11 k7ju ἄνδρα γυναῖκα μὴ ἀφιέναι 1 Alternate translation: “a husband should not divorce a wife”
1CO 7 12 k9yd τοῖς…λοιποῖς 1 agrees Here, **the rest** could refer to (1) people in other situations than those already named, particularly those who are married to an unbelieving spouse. Alternate translation: “to the rest of those who are married” (2) everything else Paul is about to say. Alternate translation: “about other situations”
1CO 7 12 xn88 grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἐγώ, οὐχ ὁ Κύριος 1 Here **I, not the Lord** is the opposite of what Paul said in [7:10](../07/10.md). Paul wishes to clarify that he is the authority behind this command. Of course, **the Lord** made him an apostle and gave him authority, but he wants the Corinthians to know that he is speaking out of that authority here and not referring to what **the Lord** said while he was on earth. If **I, not the Lord** would be misunderstood in your language, you could either identify that it is Paul “alone” who gives the command, or you could clarify that **the Lord** did not say anything about this topic. Alternate translation: “I alone” or “on my own authority, since the Lord did not speak about this topic” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 7 12 rrfp figs-hypo εἴ τις ἀδελφὸς γυναῖκα ἔχει ἄπιστον, καὶ αὕτη συνευδοκεῖ οἰκεῖν μετ’ αὐτοῦ, μὴ ἀφιέτω 1 Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that a **brother** might have **an unbelieving wife**, and she might agree **to live with him**, or this situation might not happen. He then specifies the result for if this situation does happen. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by introducing it with a word such as “whenever” or by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “but let any brother who has an unbelieving wife who agrees to live with him not divorce” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 7 12 ae1u figs-idiom οἰκεῖν μετ’ αὐτοῦ 1 Here, **to live with him** refers to staying married. If **to live with him** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom that refers to staying married. Alternate translation: “to stay with him” or “to remain married to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 7 12 jej3 figs-imperative μὴ ἀφιέτω αὐτήν 1 Here Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “must” or “should.” Alternate translation: “he must not divorce her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 7 13 gtxx figs-hypo γυνὴ εἴ τις ἔχει ἄνδρα ἄπιστον, καὶ οὗτος συνευδοκεῖ οἰκεῖν μετ’ αὐτῆς, μὴ ἀφιέτω 1 Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that a **woman** might have **an unbelieving husband**, and he might agree **to live with her**, or this situation might not happen. He then specifies the result for if this situation does happen. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by introducing it with a word such as “whenever” or by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “but let any woman who has an unbelieving husband who agrees to live with her not divorce” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 7 13 q39l figs-idiom οἰκεῖν μετ’ αὐτῆς 1 Here, **to live with her** refers to staying married. If **to live with her** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom that refers to staying married. Alternate translation: “to stay with her” or “to remain married to her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 7 13 fsbq figs-imperative μὴ ἀφιέτω τὸν ἄνδρα 1 Here Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “must” or “should.” Alternate translation: “she must not divorce the husband” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 7 14 hv30 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 Here, **For** introduces the reason or basis for Paul’s commands in [7:12–13](../07/12.md). When one spouse is not a believer, Paul wants them to stay together, and the reason is that the unbelieving spouse is **sanctified**. If **For** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces the basis for a command. Alternate translation: “You should do this because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 7 14 k0qs figs-genericnoun ὁ ἀνὴρ ὁ ἄπιστος ἐν τῇ γυναικί…ἡ γυνὴ ἡ ἄπιστος ἐν τῷ ἀδελφῷ 1 Here Paul is speaking of wives and husbands in general, not just of one **wife** and **husband**. If **wife** and **husband** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable way to refer generically to wives and husbands. Alternate translation: “any unbelieving husband … through his wife … any unbelieving wife … through her husband” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 7 14 l84p figs-activepassive ἡγίασται…ὁ ἀνὴρ ὁ ἄπιστος ἐν τῇ γυναικί; καὶ ἡγίασται ἡ γυνὴ ἡ ἄπιστος ἐν τῷ ἀδελφῷ 1 For the unbelieving husband is set apart because of his wife If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God sanctifies the unbelieving husband through the wife, and God sanctifies the unbelieving wife through the brother” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 14 b9rb translate-unknown ἡγίασται -1 Here, **sanctified** is a reference to purity. It does not mean that the **unbelieving husband** or **unbelieving wife** is considered to be a believer. Rather, Paul’s point is that believing spouse is not made unclean by the unbelieving spouse. Just the opposite: the marriage is clean and pure because of the believing spouse. If **sanctified** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that identifies an acceptable or pure marriage partner. Alternate translation: “is made clean … is made clean” or “is considered an acceptable spouse … is considered an acceptable spouse” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 14 i1x4 figs-explicit τῷ ἀδελφῷ 1 the brother Here, **the brother** refers to a believing man, in this case the believing husband. If **the brother** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that **the brother** is the **unbelieving wife**’s spouse. Alternate translation: “the husband” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 7 14 x9vy figs-explicit ἐπεὶ ἄρα τὰ τέκνα ὑμῶν ἀκάθαρτά ἐστιν 1 Here, **Otherwise** refers to what the situation would be like if what Paul has just said were not true. Paul does not actually think that **your children are unclean**, but that would be true if he was wrong about the unbelieving spouse being **sanctified**. If **Otherwise** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a form that refers to a situation that the author thinks is not true. Alternate translation: “If that were not so, your children would be unclean” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]])
1CO 7 14 iy14 figs-123person ὑμῶν 1 Here, **your** refers to anyone among the Corinthians who has an unbelieving spouse. Thus, it refers back to **the wife** and **the brother**. If your language would not use **your** in this situation, you could use **their** instead. Alternate translation: “their” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1CO 7 14 qtbz grammar-connect-logic-contrast νῦν δὲ ἅγιά ἐστιν 1 Here, **but now** provides the contrast with **Otherwise your children are unclean**. The word **now** does not refer to time but rather identifies that what Paul has said about the unbelieving spouse being **sanctified** really is true. If **now** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that identifies that what Paul has said is true. Alternate translation: “but since the unbelieving spouse is sanctified, they are holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 7 14 fmu5 translate-unknown ἀκάθαρτά…ἅγιά 1 they are set apart Here, **holy** is a reference to purity, and **unclean** is a reference to impurity. The word **holy** does not mean that the **children** are considered to be believers. Rather, Paul’s point is that the **children** are not made **unclean** by having an unbelieving parent. Just the opposite: the **children** are clean and pure because of the believing parent. If **unclean** and **holy** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use words or phrases that identify the **children** as those born in a “clean” or “honorable” way. Alternate translation: “not pure … pure” or “dishonored … honorable” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 15 rdwy figs-hypo εἰ…ὁ ἄπιστος χωρίζεται, χωριζέσθω 1 Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that **the unbeliever** might depart, or he or she might not. He then specifies the result for if **the unbeliever departs**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “whichever unbeliever departs, let him go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 7 15 qjmw figs-idiom εἰ…ὁ ἄπιστος χωρίζεται, χωριζέσθω 1 Here, **departs** refers breaking the marriage, that is, leaving the spouse. The phrase **let him go** refers to allowing the spouse to break the marriage or leave. If these words would not refer to breaking a marriage or getting divorced in your language, you could use a comparable expression. Alternate translation: “if the unbeliever wants a divorce, let him divorce you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 7 15 t5tf figs-gendernotations ὁ ἄπιστος…χωριζέσθω 1 Although **him** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer back to **the unbeliever**, which could refer to either a man or a woman. If **him** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “the unbeliever … let him or her go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 7 15 uefj figs-genericnoun ὁ ἄπιστος…ὁ ἀδελφὸς ἢ ἡ ἀδελφὴ 1 Here Paul is speaking of unbelievers, brothers, and sisters in general and not of just one **unbeliever**, **brother**, or **sister**. If these words would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable way to refer generically to unbelievers, brothers, and sisters. Alternate translation: “one of the unbelievers … the brother or the sister involved” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 7 15 h9qc figs-imperative χωριζέσθω 1 Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “should” or “allow.” Alternate translation: “allow him to go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 7 15 jef4 figs-metaphor οὐ δεδούλωται ὁ ἀδελφὸς ἢ ἡ ἀδελφὴ 1 In such cases, the brother or sister is not bound to their vows Here, **bound** could refer to (1) the marriage with an unbelieving spouse. Paul is saying that the **brother or the sister** does not need to try to preserve the marriage. They are not **bound** to the unbeliever but can accept the divorce. Alternate translation: “the brother or the sister is not bound to the unbeliever” (2) the rules that Paul laid out for staying with a spouse in [7:10–13](../07/10.md). Paul is saying that **the brother or the sister** does not have to follow those rules about staying with a spouse, and perhaps he is even saying that they can marry someone else. Alternate translation: “the brother or the sister is not bound to remain unmarried” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 15 v76o figs-explicit ὁ ἀδελφὸς ἢ ἡ ἀδελφὴ 1 In such cases, the brother or sister is not bound to their vows Here Paul uses **brother** and **sister** to identify the people involved as believers of both genders. The people he refers to are **brother** and **sister** of the Corinthian believers, not of the **unbeliever**. Rather, **the brother or the sister** is married to the **unbeliever**. If **the brother or the sister** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to believing husbands and wives. Alternate translation: “the believing husband or wife” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 7 15 q6k2 figs-activepassive οὐ δεδούλωται ὁ ἀδελφὸς ἢ ἡ ἀδελφὴ 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “the marriage” does not bind the **brother** or **sister**. Alternate translation: “the brother or the sister is free” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 15 z5nz grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 2 Here, **but** introduces how Paul wants the Corinthians to act in general. Whether their spouse leaves or not, they should act in **peace**. If **but** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that introduces a general principle. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add period before it. Alternate translation: “In every case,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 7 15 tli3 figs-abstractnoun εἰρήνῃ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **peace**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “peaceful” or an adverb such as “peaceably.” Alternate translation: “act peaceably” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 16 l559 figs-yousingular οἶδας…τὸν ἄνδρα σώσεις…οἶδας…τὴν γυναῖκα σώσεις 1 do you know, woman … you will save your husband … do you know, man … you will save your wife Here Paul addresses specific individuals within the Corinthian church. Because of this, **you** in this verse is always singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
1CO 7 16 h5td figs-rquestion τί…οἶδας, γύναι, εἰ τὸν ἄνδρα σώσεις? ἢ τί οἶδας, ἄνερ, εἰ τὴν γυναῖκα σώσεις? 1 how do you know, woman, whether you will save your husband? Paul does not ask these questions because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks them to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The questions assume that the answer is “we do not know for sure.” Paul could be using these questions to show the Corinthians that (1) they should have little confidence about unbelieving spouses becoming Christians. The questions thus support how Paul allows divorces initiated by an unbelieving spouse in [6:21](../07/15.md). Alternate translation: “it is unlikely, woman, that you will save the husband. And it is unlikely, man, that you will save the wife.” (2) show the Corinthians that they should have much confidence about unbelieving spouses becoming Christians. The questions thus support how Paul says that the unbelieving spouse is “holy” in [7:14](../07/14.md). Alternate translation: “it is likely, woman, that you will save the husband. And it is likely, man, that you will save the wife.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 7 16 nd1k figs-infostructure τί γὰρ οἶδας, γύναι, εἰ…τί οἶδας, ἄνερ, εἰ 1 how do you know, man, whether you will save your wife? Here, **woman** and **man** are direct addresses to people in the audience. If your language would put these words someone else in the sentence, you could move them to where they sound natural. Alternate translation: “For woman, how do you know whether… man, how do you know whether” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 7 16 dbz6 τί…οἶδας, γύναι, εἰ τὸν ἄνδρα σώσεις? ἢ τί οἶδας, ἄνερ, εἰ τὴν γυναῖκα σώσεις? 1 how do you know, man, whether you will save your wife? Here Paul directly addresses a **woman** and a **man** in the audience. The Corinthians would have understood him to mean a **woman** or **man** in their group who was married to an unbelieving spouse. If **woman** or **man** would be misunderstood in your language, you express the direct address in a different way. Alternate translation: “how does any woman know whether she will save the husband? Or how does any man know whether he will save the wife?”
1CO 7 16 b5zw figs-genericnoun γύναι…τὸν ἄνδρα…ἄνερ…τὴν γυναῖκα 1 how do you know, man, whether you will save your wife? Here, Paul refers to **woman**, **husband**, **man**, and **wife** in the singular, but he is speaking generically of any person who fits into these categories. If your language does not use the singular form to refer to people in general, you could use a form that does refer generically to people in your language. Alternate translation: “each of you women … your husband … each of you men … your wife” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 7 16 jt3c figs-metonymy σώσεις -1 how do you know, man, whether you will save your wife? Here Paul speaks of husbands or wives leading their spouses to faith in Jesus as “saving” them. By this, Paul means that the **woman** or **man** is the means by which God will **save** the **husband** or **wife**. If **you will save** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to leading someone towards “salvation,” that is, helping them to believe in Jesus. Alternate translation: “God will use you to save … God will use you to save” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 7 17 ivee grammar-connect-words-phrases εἰ μὴ 1 each one Here, **However** acknowledges the exception about “walking” **as the Lord has assigned to each one** that he just included: if an unbelieving spouse wishes to divorce a believing spouse, that is permissible. Paul acknowledges this exception but wishes to emphasize the main point: the believers should remain in the state they are in. If **However** would not have the meaning of acknowledging an exception to a claim, you could use a word or phrase that does do so. Alternate translation: “In every other case” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 7 17 l5lu figs-infostructure ἑκάστῳ ὡς ἐμέρισεν ὁ Κύριος, ἕκαστον ὡς κέκληκεν ὁ Θεός, οὕτως περιπατείτω 1 each one If your language would state the command to **walk** before explaining how to **walk**, you could rearrange these clauses so that they read more naturally. Alternate translation: “let each one walk as the Lord has assigned to each one, as God has called each one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 7 17 ya76 figs-ellipsis ὡς ἐμέρισεν ὁ Κύριος 1 each one Here, Paul omits some words that might be needed in your language to make a complete sentence. If necessary, you could include what it is that **the Lord has assigned** by using a word such as “task” or “position.” Alternate translation: “as the Lord has assigned a position” or “as the Lord has assigned a task” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 7 17 hl43 figs-metaphor περιπατείτω 1 each one Paul speaks of behavior in life as if it were “walking.” If **let him walk** would not be understood as a description of a person’s way of life in your language, you could express the idea non-figuratively or with a comparable metaphor. Alternate translation: “let him live his life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 17 c7b9 figs-imperative περιπατείτω 1 each one Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “should” or “must.” Alternate translation: “he must walk” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 7 17 o6v2 figs-gendernotations περιπατείτω 1 each one Here, **he** is written in masculine form, but it refers to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **he** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “let him or her walk” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 7 17 iid2 καὶ οὕτως ἐν ταῖς ἐκκλησίαις πάσαις διατάσσομαι 1 I direct in this way in all the churches Alternate translation: “This is what I require from all the churches”
1CO 7 18 zo3j figs-gendernotations μὴ ἐπισπάσθω…μὴ περιτεμνέσθω 1 Was anyone called when he was circumcised? Here Paul is speaking of male circumcision only. Therefore, the masculine words in this verse should be retained in translation if possible. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 7 18 unc4 figs-rquestion περιτετμημένος τις ἐκλήθη? μὴ ἐπισπάσθω 1 Was anyone called when he was circumcised? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to identify people who fit into the situation he describes. If someone answered “yes” to this question, then the following command applies to them. If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a different way to identify to whom the command applies. Alternate translation: “If anyone was called, having been circumcised, let him not be uncircumcised.” or “Some of you were called, having been circumcised. If that is you, do not be uncircumcised.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 7 18 gpav figs-activepassive τις ἐκλήθη…κέκληταί τις 1 Was anyone called when he was circumcised? If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “Did God call anyone … Did God call anyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 18 xt7p figs-activepassive περιτετμημένος 1 Was anyone called when he was circumcised? If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, use an indefinite or vague subject. Alternate translation: “someone having circumcised them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 18 tkn4 translate-unknown μὴ ἐπισπάσθω 1 Was anyone called when he was circumcised? To **be uncircumcised** refers to a physical procedure by which one could make one’s penis appear to have a foreskin, even though one had been circumcised. If your language has a word for this procedure, you could use it here. If your language does not have such a word, you could use a phrase that identifies this procedure. Alternate translation: “Let him not hide his circumcision” or “Let him not undo his circumcision” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 18 cejz figs-imperative μὴ ἐπισπάσθω…μὴ περιτεμνέσθω 1 Was anyone called when he was circumcised? In this verse, Paul uses two third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use them here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the ideas using a word such as “should” or “must.” Alternate translation: “He must not be uncircumcised … he must not be circumcised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 7 18 uwuw figs-activepassive μὴ ἐπισπάσθω…μὴ περιτεμνέσθω 1 Was anyone called when he was circumcised? If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, use an indefinite or vague subject. Alternate translation: “Let someone not uncircumcise him … Let someone not circumcise him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 18 fqv6 figs-rquestion ἐν ἀκροβυστίᾳ κέκληταί τις? μὴ περιτεμνέσθω 1 Was anyone called in uncircumcision? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to identify people who fit into the situation he describes. If someone answered “yes” to this question, then the following command applies to them. If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a different way to identify to whom the command applies. Alternate translation: “If anyone was called in uncircumcision, let him not be circumcised.” or “Some of you were called in uncircumcision. If that is you, do not be circumcised.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 7 18 a8g3 figs-abstractnouns ἐν ἀκροβυστίᾳ 1 Was anyone called in uncircumcision? If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **uncircumcision**, you could express the idea by using an adjective such as “uncircumcised.” Alternate translation: “while uncircumcised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 19 oajz figs-hyperbole ἡ περιτομὴ οὐδέν ἐστιν, καὶ ἡ ἀκροβυστία οὐδέν ἐστιν 1 Was anyone called in uncircumcision? Here Paul says that both **Circumcision** and **uncircumcision** are **nothing**. He does not mean that **Circumcision** and **uncircumcision** do not exist. Rather, the Corinthians would have understand him to mean that **Circumcision** and **uncircumcision** do not have value or importance. If **nothing** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable figure of speech or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “Circumcision has no value, and uncircumcision has no value” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 7 19 focy figs-parallelism ἡ περιτομὴ οὐδέν ἐστιν, καὶ ἡ ἀκροβυστία οὐδέν ἐστιν 1 Was anyone called in uncircumcision? Here Paul repeats **is nothing** for rhetorical effect. The repetition makes his argument sound stronger. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine the two clauses and make the claim sound strong by using some other method. Alternate translation: “Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is anything”” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1CO 7 19 eku9 figs-abstractnouns ἡ περιτομὴ…ἡ ἀκροβυστία 1 Was anyone called in uncircumcision? If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **circumcision** and **uncircumcision**, you could express the ideas by using adjectives such as “circumcised” and “uncircumcised.” Alternate translation: “Being circumcised … being uncircumcised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 19 nc2u figs-ellipsis τήρησις ἐντολῶν Θεοῦ 1 Was anyone called in uncircumcision? Here Paul omits some words that may be necessary in your language to complete the thought. If your language does require more words, you could infer them from the first half of the verse. Alternate translation: “observance of the commandments of God is everything” or “observance of the commandments of God is important” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 7 19 vx9p figs-abstractnouns τήρησις ἐντολῶν 1 Was anyone called in uncircumcision? If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **observance**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “observe.” Alternate translation: “observing the commandments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 19 he16 figs-abstractnouns ἐντολῶν Θεοῦ 1 Was anyone called in uncircumcision? If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **commandments**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “command.” Alternate translation: “what God commands” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 20 khsd figs-infostructure ἕκαστος ἐν τῇ κλήσει ᾗ ἐκλήθη, ἐν ταύτῃ μενέτω 1 General Information: The order of elements in this sentence might be confusing in your language. If your language would structure this sentence in a different way, you could rearrange the elements so that they sound more natural. Paul has arranged the elements to emphasize **in the calling in which he was called**, so retain the emphasis on this element if possible. Alternate translation: “Let each one remain in the calling in which he was called” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 7 20 ssaq ἐν τῇ κλήσει ᾗ ἐκλήθη 1 General Information: Alternate translation: “in the calling which God gave to him” or “in his own calling from God”
1CO 7 20 yy8l figs-gendernotations ἐκλήθη…μενέτω 1 General Information: Here, the words translated **he** and **him** are written in masculine form, but they refer to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **he** and **him** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “he or she was called, let him or her remain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 7 20 hsz1 figs-activepassive ἐκλήθη 1 in the calling … he should remain If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God called him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 20 s3mh figs-imperative μενέτω 1 in the calling … he should remain Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “should” or “must.” Alternate translation: “he must remain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 7 20 hrqk figs-metaphor ἐν ταύτῃ μενέτω 1 in the calling … he should remain Here, **remain in** refers to faithfully serving God in a specific situation. In other words, Paul does not want them to try to change their social and economic situation. Instead, they should serve God in the situation in which God **called** them. If **remain in** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea non-figuratively or with a comparable metaphor. Alternate translation: “let him live his life in that” or “let him be content in that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 21 ag5a figs-yousingular ἐκλήθης…σοι…δύνασαι 1 Were you … called you? Do not be … you can become Here Paul addresses specific individuals within the Corinthian church. Because of this, **you** in this verse is always singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
1CO 7 21 nli9 figs-rquestion δοῦλος ἐκλήθης? μή σοι μελέτω 1 Were you a slave when God called you? Do not be concerned Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to identify people who fit into the situation he describes. If someone answered “yes” to this question, then the following command applies to them. If this question would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a different way to identify to whom the command applies. Alternate translation: “If you were called as a slave, let it not be a concern to you.” or “Some of you were called as slaves. If that is you, let it not be a concern to you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 7 21 emau figs-activepassive ἐκλήθης 1 Were you a slave when God called you? Do not be concerned If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “Did God call you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 21 l8qt figs-imperative μή σοι μελέτω 1 Were you a slave when God called you? Do not be concerned Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “should,” or you could rephrase the imperative. Alternate translation: “Do not be concerned about it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 7 21 y02l figs-hypo εἰ καὶ δύνασαι ἐλεύθερος γενέσθαι, μᾶλλον χρῆσαι 1 Were you a slave when God called you? Do not be concerned Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that a person might be **able to become free**, or that person might not. He then specifies the result for if someone is **able to become free**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “indeed whoever is able to become free should take advantage of it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 7 21 h7e1 χρῆσαι 1 Were you a slave when God called you? Do not be concerned Alternate translation: “use the opportunity that you have”
1CO 7 22 mgt6 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 the Lord’s freeman Here, **For** provides support for the claim that Paul made at the beginning of the previous verse that those who are slaves should not be concerned by that ([7:21](../07/21.md)). If this connection would be misunderstood in your language, you could make what **For** supports explicit. Alternate translation: “Do not be concerned about being a slave because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 7 22 l6vq figs-activepassive ὁ…ἐν Κυρίῳ κληθεὶς…ὁ…κληθεὶς 1 the Lord’s freeman If your language does not use the passive form in these ways, you could express the ideas in active form or in other ways that are natural in your language. If you must state who did the actions, Paul implies that “God” did them. Alternate translation: “the one whom God called in the Lord as … the one whom God called” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 22 gy9z figs-metaphor ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 the Lord’s freeman Here Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in the Lord** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in the Lord**, or united to the Lord, identifies the person **who was called** as someone who is united to the **Lord**. Alternate translation: “to be united to the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 22 ie5k figs-possession ἀπελεύθερος Κυρίου 1 the Lord’s freeman Here Paul uses the possessive form to describe someone who is a **freedman** in the perspective of **the Lord**. In other words, while the person may be a slave in terms of human thinking, that person is a **freedman** before **the Lord**. If your language you would not use the possessive form to express that idea, you could express the idea by speaking about the Lord’s “perspective” or “sight.” Alternate translation: “is a freedman in the Lord’s eyes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 7 22 npb1 figs-possession δοῦλός…Χριστοῦ 1 the Lord’s freeman Here Paul uses the possessive form to describe someone who is a **slave** who belongs to **Christ**. In other words, while the person may be free in terms of human thinking, that person is a **slave** in relationship to **Christ**. If your language you would not use the possessive form to express that idea, you could express the idea by using a phrase such as “belonging to.” Alternate translation: “a slave who belongs to Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 7 23 m53p figs-activepassive τιμῆς ἠγοράσθητε 1 You have been bought with a price If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God bought you with a price” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 23 sgft figs-metaphor τιμῆς ἠγοράσθητε 1 You have been bought with a price Here Paul speaks if the Corinthians were slaves whom God had **bought with a price** from someone else. Paul is speaking of what we often call “redemption.” The **price** is Christ’s death on the cross, which “redeems” believers from sin and evil powers. This is an important biblical metaphor, so if possible preserve the metaphor or express it as an analogy. Alternate translation: “you were bought with a price, which is the Messiah’s death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 23 pe5g figs-metaphor μὴ γίνεσθε δοῦλοι ἀνθρώπων 1 You have been bought with a price Here Paul uses **slaves** as a description of anyone who follows and obeys someone else. Paul wants the Corinthians, whether they are **slaves** or “freedmen” in social and economic terms, to only obey and serve God, not **men**. If **slaves** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that Paul has “serving” and “obeying” in mind. Alternate translation: “do not obey men” or “do not serve mere humans” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 23 pjgp figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπων 1 You have been bought with a price Although the word translated **men** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “of people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 7 24 jio8 0 General Information This verse is very similar to [7:20](../07/20.md).
1CO 7 24 s3ms figs-infostructure ἕκαστος ἐν ᾧ ἐκλήθη…ἐν τούτῳ μενέτω παρὰ Θεῷ. 1 Brothers The order of elements in this sentence might be confusing in your language. If your language would structure this sentence in a different way, you could rearrange the elements so that they sound more natural. Paul has arranged the elements to emphasize **each one in that which he was called**, so retain the emphasis on this element if possible. Alternate translation: “let each one remain with God in that which he was called” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 7 24 yrp9 ἐν ᾧ ἐκλήθη 1 Brothers Alternate translation: “in that which God gave to him” or “in what he received from God”
1CO 7 24 qu1l figs-gendernotations ἐκλήθη, ἀδελφοί…μενέτω 1 Brothers Although **brothers**, **he**, and **him** are masculine, Paul is using these words to refer to any believer, whether man or woman. If **brothers**, **he**, and **him** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use non-gendered words or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters … he or she was called, let him or her remain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 7 24 c83e figs-activepassive ἐκλήθη 1 was called If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God called him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 24 ghrk figs-imperative μενέτω 1 was called Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “should” or “must.” Alternate translation: “he must remain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 7 24 wix0 figs-metaphor ἐν τούτῳ μενέτω παρὰ Θεῷ 1 was called Here, **remain with God in that** refers to faithfully serving God in a specific situation. In other words, Paul does not want them to try to change their social and economic situation. Instead, they should serve God in the situation in which God called them. If **remain with God in that** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea non-figuratively or with a comparable metaphor. Alternate translation: “let him live his life with God in that” or “let him be content serving God in that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 25 ag3x grammar-connect-words-phrases περὶ δὲ 1 Now concerning those who never married, I have no commandment from the Lord Just as in [7:1](../07/01.md), **Now concerning** introduces a new topic that Paul wishes to address. Likely, the topics that he introduces in this way are what the Corinthians wrote to him about. Translate **Now concerning** here as you did in [7:1](../07/01.md). Alternate translation: “Next, about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 7 25 f71a translate-unknown ἐπιταγὴν Κυρίου οὐκ ἔχω 1 Now concerning those who never married, I have no commandment from the Lord Here Paul wishes to clarify that he is speaking out of the authority that he has as an apostle. He is not referring to anything that the Lord said while he was on earth, unlike what Paul did in [7:10](../07/10.md). If **I do not have a command of the Lord** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use the language of “authority” or “quotation.” Alternate translation: “I do not quote from the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 25 q3k1 figs-abstractnouns ἐπιταγὴν Κυρίου 1 Now concerning those who never married, I have no commandment from the Lord If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **command**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “command.” Alternate translation: “anything that the Lord commanded” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 25 vaa4 translate-unknown γνώμην…δίδωμι 1 I give my opinion Here **I give an opinion** identifies that Paul is speaking from his own knowledge and authority. He wants the Corinthians to take this as strong advice, not as a command from God. If **I give an opinion** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates that what Paul says is not as strong as a command. Alternate translation: “I give my own view” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 25 iuyv figs-abstractnouns γνώμην…δίδωμι 1 I give my opinion If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **opinion**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “think.” Alternate translation: “I say what I think” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 25 qqz7 figs-activepassive ἠλεημένος ὑπὸ Κυρίου 1 as one who, by the Lord’s mercy, is trustworthy If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must express who did the action, Paul states that “the Lord” did it. Alternate translation: “one to whom the Lord has given mercy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 25 lyqi figs-abstractnouns ἠλεημένος ὑπὸ Κυρίου 1 as one who, by the Lord’s mercy, is trustworthy If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **mercy**, you could express the idea by using a adverb such as “mercifully” or an adjective such as “merciful.” Alternate translation: “having received what the Lord has mercifully done to make me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 26 zf3o grammar-connect-words-phrases οὖν 1 as one who, by the Lord’s mercy, is trustworthy Here, **Therefore** does not refer back to how Paul has received mercy from God. Rather, **Therefore** introduces the “opinion” that Paul said he was going to “give” ([725](../07/25.md)). If **Therefore** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a statement that one has already spoken about. Alternate translation: “Here is my opinion:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 7 26 hq08 figs-doublet τοῦτο καλὸν ὑπάρχειν διὰ τὴν ἐνεστῶσαν ἀνάγκην, ὅτι καλὸν 1 as one who, by the Lord’s mercy, is trustworthy Here Paul repeats **good** because in his language it was a natural way to remind the reader that he had already said **this is good**. If your language would not use repetition in this way, you could use only one **good**. Alternate translation: “that, because of the coming distress, {it is} good” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1CO 7 26 kqxa figs-infostructure τοῦτο καλὸν ὑπάρχειν διὰ τὴν ἐνεστῶσαν ἀνάγκην, ὅτι καλὸν ἀνθρώπῳ τὸ οὕτως εἶναι 1 as one who, by the Lord’s mercy, is trustworthy Here Paul interrupts his sentence to include the reason why he thinks that this is **good** advice. He does this to emphasize **the coming distress**. If Paul’s structure would be misunderstood in your language, you could rearrange the sentence and represent the emphasis on **the coming crisis** in another way. Alternate translation: “that it is good for a man to remain as he is. This is because of the coming distress” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 7 26 lvoc translate-unknown τὴν ἐνεστῶσαν ἀνάγκην 1 as one who, by the Lord’s mercy, is trustworthy Here, **coming** could refer to (1) something that is about to happen. Alternate translation: “of the distress that will soon be here” (2) something that is already happening. Alternate translation: “of the present distress” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 26 a25d translate-unknown τὴν ἐνεστῶσαν ἀνάγκην 1 as one who, by the Lord’s mercy, is trustworthy Here, **distress** could refer to (1) general suffering and persecution of the church throughout the world. Alternate translation: “of the coming general distress” (2) suffering and difficulties that the Corinthian believers are experiencing. Alternate translation: “of the distress coming on your group” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 26 ikl6 figs-gendernotations ἀνθρώπῳ…τὸ οὕτως 1 as one who, by the Lord’s mercy, is trustworthy Here, the words translated **man** and **he** are written in masculine form, but they refer to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If the meaning of **man** and **he** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using words that do not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “for a person … as he or she is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 7 26 r3xs τὸ οὕτως εἶναι 1 as one who, by the Lord’s mercy, is trustworthy Alternate translation: “to stay in the position he is in”
1CO 7 27 a77x figs-yousingular δέδεσαι…λέλυσαι 1 General Information: Here Paul addresses specific individuals within the Corinthian church. Because of this, **you** in this verse is always singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
1CO 7 27 k9td figs-rquestion δέδεσαι γυναικί? μὴ ζήτει…λέλυσαι ἀπὸ γυναικός? μὴ ζήτει 1 Are you married to a wife? Do not Paul does not ask these questions because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks them to identify people who fit into the situations he describes. If someone answered “yes” to one of these questions, then the following command applies to that person. If these questions would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a different way to identify to whom the command applies. Alternate translation: “If you are bound to a woman, do not seek … If you are released from a woman, do not seek” or “Some of you are bound to a woman. If that is you, do not seek … Some of you are released from a woman. If that is you, do not seek” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 7 27 r4kt figs-idiom δέδεσαι γυναικί 1 Are you married to a wife? Do not Here, **bound to a woman** could refer to (1) a man being engaged to marry a woman. Alternate translation: “Are you engaged to a woman” (2) a man being married to a woman. Alternate translation: “Are you married” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 7 27 x2lk figs-idiom μὴ ζήτει λύσιν 1 Do not seek a divorce Here, **released** could refer to (1) breaking off an engagement or betrothal. Alternate translation: “Do not seek to break off the betrothal” (2) ending a marriage. Alternate translation: “DO not seek a divorce” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 7 27 ypa2 figs-idiom λέλυσαι ἀπὸ γυναικός 1 Do not seek a divorce Here, **released from a woman** could refer to (1) someone who has never been engaged or married. Alternate translation: “Are you single” (2) someone who has been engaged or married but broken the marriage or engagement. Alternate translation: “Have you broken up with your fiancee” or “Have you divorced your wife” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 7 27 cgc7 figs-activepassive μὴ ζήτει λύσιν. λέλυσαι ἀπὸ γυναικός 1 Do not seek a divorce If your language does not use the passive form in these ways, you could express the ideas in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the actions, Paul implies that either **you** or a “judge” did it. Alternate translation: “Do not seek to break up. Do you have no woman” or “Do not seek for a judge to release you. Has a judge released you from a woman” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 27 d79c figs-idiom μὴ ζήτει γυναῖκα 1 do not seek a wife Here, to **seek a woman** refers to searching for a **woman** to marry. If **seek a woman** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or expression. Alternate translation: “Do not look for a wife” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 7 28 sip2 grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 I want to spare you from this Here, **But** introduces an exception to Paul’s general advice in the previous verse ([7:27](../07/27.md)). If **But** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an exception. Alternate translation: “In fact, though,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 7 28 hi7o figs-yousingular γαμήσῃς, οὐχ ἥμαρτες 1 I want to spare you from this Here Paul addresses specific men within the Corinthian church. Because of this, **you** here is singular. The **you** at the end of the verse is plural because it has both the men and the women in mind. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
1CO 7 28 c66v figs-hypo ἐὰν…καὶ γαμήσῃς, οὐχ ἥμαρτες 1 I want to spare you from this Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that a man might **marry**, or a man might not. He then specifies the result for if the man does **marry**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “whichever man does indeed marry has not sinned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 7 28 ad8m figs-hypo ἐὰν γήμῃ ἡ παρθένος, οὐχ ἥμαρτεν 1 I want to spare you from this Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that a **virgin** might **marry**, or she might not. He then specifies the result for if the **virgin** does **marry**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “whichever virgin marries has not sinned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 7 28 cav7 writing-pronouns οἱ τοιοῦτοι 1 I want to spare you from this Here, **those of such a kind** refers back to the man and **the virgin** who **marry**. If **those of such a kind** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that it refers to married people. Alternate translation: “those who are married” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 7 28 r2qf translate-unknown θλῖψιν…τῇ σαρκὶ ἕξουσιν 1 I want to spare you from this Here, **distress in the flesh** refers to the same problems and troubles that Paul has already called “the coming distress” in [7:26](../07/26.md). The phrase does not refer to marital problems or fights with one’s spouse. Rather, it refers to extra **distress** that married people will experience while suffering under persecution and troubles. If **distress in the flesh** would be misunderstood in your language, refer to how you translated “the coming distress” in [7:26](../07/26.md) and make the connection to that phrase clear. Alternate translation: “will experience the distress in the flesh that I have already said is coming” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 28 m6ea figs-abstractnouns θλῖψιν…ἕξουσιν 1 I want to spare you from this If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **distress**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “suffer.” Alternate translation: “will suffer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 28 whf5 writing-pronouns ἐγὼ…ὑμῶν φείδομαι 1 I want to spare you from this The word **this** refers back to the **distress in the flesh**. If **this** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that it refers to the **distress**. Alternate translation: “I want to spare you from this distress” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 7 28 tcwd figs-idiom ὑμῶν φείδομαι 1 I want to spare you from this Here, **to spare you from this** refers to Paul’s desire to keep the Corinthians from experiencing the **distress** he has mentioned. If **to spare you from this** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or expression. Alternate translation: “want to help you avoid this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 7 29 oq9f writing-pronouns τοῦτο…φημι 1 The time is short Here, **this** refers forward to what Paul is about to say. Paul refers to what he will say before he says it in order to emphasize what he is about to say. If your language would not use **this** to refer to something that will soon be said, you could use a word or phrase that does introduces something about to be said and express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “listen to what I am about to say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 7 29 dv1e figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 The time is short Although **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to any believer, whether man or woman. If **brothers** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 7 29 r594 figs-metaphor ὁ καιρὸς συνεσταλμένος ἐστίν 1 The time is short When **time is shortened**, an event at the end of that **time** is about to happen. In other words, something is about to happen. If **The time is shortened** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea with a comparable metaphor or a descriptive phrase. Alternate translation: “There is not much time left” or “The time until the event occurs is short” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 29 j9ev figs-activepassive ὁ καιρὸς συνεσταλμένος ἐστίν 1 The time is short If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God has shortened the time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 29 dp57 figs-explicit ὁ καιρὸς 1 The time is short Here, **The time** could refer to the **time** until (1) the events of the end times begin. Alternate translation: “The time until the end” or “The time until Jesus comes back” (2) the “distress” he has mentioned in [7:26](../07/26.md), [28](../07/28.md) begins. Alternate translation: “The time until the distress” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 7 29 ufy2 grammar-connect-logic-result τὸ λοιπὸν, ἵνα 1 The time is short Here Paul introduces how the Corinthians should behave now that the **time** has been **shortened**. If **so that from now on** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that draws an inference or introduces a result. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add period before it. Alternate translation: “This means that, from the present on” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 7 29 dpii ὡς μὴ ἔχοντες ὦσιν 1 The time is short Alternate translation: “should behave like those who have none”
1CO 7 29 vcsw writing-pronouns μὴ ἔχοντες 1 The time is short Here, **none** refers back to **wives**. If **none** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that it refers to **wives**. Alternate translation: “those having no wives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 7 30 vm8k figs-ellipsis οἱ κλαίοντες, ὡς μὴ κλαίοντες; καὶ οἱ χαίροντες, ὡς μὴ χαίροντες; καὶ οἱ ἀγοράζοντες, ὡς μὴ κατέχοντες 1 those who weep Here Paul omits some words that may be needed in your language to complete the thought. Paul omits these words because he stated them in the last verse, and the Corinthians would have understood them from that verse. If your language does need these words, you could supply “should be as those” from [7:29](../07/29.md). Alternate translation: “those who weep should as those not weeping; and those who rejoice should be as those not rejoicing; and those who buy should be as those not possessing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 7 30 qziw figs-ellipsis οἱ ἀγοράζοντες, ὡς μὴ κατέχοντες 1 those who weep Here Paul omits what the people **buy** and are **possessing**. If your language would state what is bought and possessed, you could include a general or vague object. Alternate translation: “those who buy things, as not possessing those things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 7 30 no3s καὶ οἱ κλαίοντες, ὡς μὴ κλαίοντες; καὶ οἱ χαίροντες, ὡς μὴ χαίροντες; καὶ οἱ ἀγοράζοντες, ὡς μὴ κατέχοντες 1 those who weep Alternate translation: “and those who weep should behave like those who do not weep; and those who rejoice should behave like those who do not rejoice; and those who buy should behave like those who do not possess”
1CO 7 31 rhoz figs-ellipsis οἱ χρώμενοι τὸν κόσμον, ὡς μὴ καταχρώμενοι 1 those using the world Here Paul omits some words that may be needed in your language to complete the thought. Paul omits these words because he stated them in [7:29](../07/29.md), and the Corinthians would have understood them from that verse. If your language does need these words, you could supply “should be as those” from [7:29](../07/29.md). Alternate translation: “those using the world should be as not using it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 7 31 t41v translate-unknown οἱ χρώμενοι τὸν κόσμον, ὡς μὴ καταχρώμενοι 1 those using the world Here, **using** refers to taking something and doing work with it. Paul here refers to taking things that belong to the world and doing work with them. If **using** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to performing a task with something that one possesses. Alternate translation: “those doing things with the world, as not doing things with it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 31 u5qh figs-synecdoche τὸν κόσμον 1 those using the world Here, **the world** specifically focuses on people and things that belong to **the world**. If **the world** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that Paul is focusing on things that belong to **the world**. Alternate translation: “something worldly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 7 31 jl2r translate-unknown τὸ σχῆμα τοῦ κόσμου τούτου 1 as though they were not using it Here, **present form of this world** refers to how **this world** is currently structured and how things work in **this world**. If **present form** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to how the world is right now. Alternate translation: “the current setup of this world” or “the way the world presently works” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 31 yl3s παράγει 1 as though they were not using it Alternate translation: “will soon end”
1CO 7 32 t4ab translate-unknown ἀμερίμνους…μεριμνᾷ 1 free from worries Here, **free from concern** and **concerned** are opposites. They both refer to consistently thinking about and worrying about things. Paul wishes the Corinthians to think and worry about as few things as possible. In line with that, the only thing the **unmarried man** thinks and cares about is **the things of the Lord**. If **concern** and **concerned** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to thinking and worrying consistently about something. Alternate translation: “free from worry … is worried about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 32 f569 figs-genericnoun ὁ ἄγαμος 1 concerned about Here Paul refers to **The unmarried man** in the singular, but he is speaking generically about any **unmarried man**. If your language does not use the singular form to refer to people in general, you could use a form that does refer generically to people in your language. Alternate translation: “Each unmarried man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 7 32 d4zd figs-gendernotations ὁ ἄγαμος…ἀρέσῃ 1 concerned about Here, Paul is referring only to men. He will go on address unmarried women in [7:34](../07/34.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 7 32 fouj figs-activepassive μεριμνᾷ 1 concerned about If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that the **unmarried man** himself did it. Alternate translation: “concerns himself with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 32 zqfz figs-possession τὰ τοῦ Κυρίου 1 concerned about Here Paul uses the possessive form to describe **things** that are directly related to **the Lord**. This phrase identifies anything that one does that relates to **the Lord**. If **the things of the Lord** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to anything related to **the Lord**. Alternate translation: “everything that concerns the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 7 32 g3nk πῶς ἀρέσῃ τῷ Κυρίῳ 1 concerned about Here, **how he might please the Lord** further explains what being **concerned about the things of the Lord** means. If **how** would not introduce a further explanation in your language, you could use a word or phrase that does introduce such an explanation. Alternate translation: “that is, how he might please the Lord”
1CO 7 33 upzf figs-genericnoun ὁ…γαμήσας 1 concerned about Here Paul refers to **the married man** in the singular, but he is speaking generically about any married man. If your language does not use the singular form to refer to people in general, you could use a form that does refer generically to people in your language. Alternate translation: “each unmarried man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 7 33 hzcp figs-activepassive μεριμνᾷ 1 concerned about If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that **the married man** himself did it. Alternate translation: “concerns himself with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 33 gcvl figs-possession τὰ τοῦ κόσμου 1 concerned about Here Paul uses the possessive form to describe **things** that are directly related to the **world**. This phrase identifies anything that one does that relates to the **world**. If the **things of the world** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to anything related to the **world**. Alternate translation: “many things that relate to the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 7 33 sank figs-genericnoun τῇ γυναικί 1 concerned about Here Paul refers to **the wife**, but he specifically has in mind the wife of the **married man** already mentioned. If your language would not use this form to refer to the man’s wife, you could express the idea more clearly. Alternate translation: “his wife” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 7 33 s16y figs-metaphor μεμέρισται 1 concerned about Here Paul speaks as if the man **is divided** into two pieces. By speaking in this way, Paul means that the **married man** has conflicting interests or concerns. He is concerned about how to please the Lord and how to please his wife. If **is divided** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “he is pulled in two directions” or “he is of two minds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 33 llv3 figs-activepassive μεμέρισται 1 concerned about If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that the man’s “concerns” did it. Alternate translation: “concerns about the Lord and the world divide him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 33 z7rv figs-genericnoun ἡ γυνὴ ἡ ἄγαμος καὶ ἡ παρθένος 1 concerned about Here Paul refers to *the unmarried woman** and **the virgin** in the singular, but he is speaking generically about **unmarried woman** or **virgin**. If your language does not use the singular form to refer to people in general, you could use a form that does refer generically to people in your language. Alternate translation: “each unmarried woman or virgin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 7 33 hnoo translate-unknown ἡ γυνὴ ἡ ἄγαμος καὶ ἡ παρθένος 1 concerned about Here Paul could be distinguishing between: (1) older single women (**the unmarried woman**) and younger single women (**the virgin**). Alternate translation: “the older or younger single woman” (2) divorced women (**the unmarried woman**) and women who have never been married (**the virgin**). Alternate translation: “the divorced woman or the woman who has never married” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 34 ug6n figs-activepassive μεριμνᾷ 1 is concerned about If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “the unmarried woman or the virgin” ([7:33](../07/33.md)) did it. Alternate translation: “concerns himself with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 34 b884 figs-possession τὰ τοῦ Κυρίου 1 is concerned about Here Paul uses the possessive form to describe **things** that are directly related to **the Lord**. This phrase identifies anything that one does that relates to **the Lord**. If **the things of the Lord** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to anything related to **the Lord**. Alternate translation: “everything that concerns the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 7 34 el97 figs-merism καὶ τῷ σώματι καὶ τῷ πνεύματι 1 is concerned about Here Paul refers to **the body** and **the spirit** as a way to refer to everything that a person is. The **body** is the outward part of the person, while the **spirit** is in the inward part of the person. If **both in the body and in the spirit** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that emphasizes that the entire person is in view. Alternate translation: “in body and soul” or “in every part” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1CO 7 34 mfin figs-gendernotations ἡ…γαμήσασα 1 is concerned about Here, **the one who is married** is feminine. If this is not clear for your readers, you could clarify that this phrase speaks about women. Alternate translation: “the woman who is married” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 7 34 h91l figs-activepassive μεριμνᾷ 2 is concerned about If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that **the one who is married** did it. Alternate translation: “concerns herself with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 34 edvb figs-possession τὰ τοῦ κόσμου 1 is concerned about Here Paul uses the possessive form to describe **things** that are directly related to **the world**. This phrase identifies anything that one does that relates to **the world**. If **the things of the world** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to anything related to **the world**. Alternate translation: “many things that relate to the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 7 34 puzh figs-genericnoun τῷ ἀνδρί 1 is concerned about Here Paul refers to **the husband**, but he specifically has in mind the husband of the **the one who is married** already mentioned. If your language would not use this form to refer to the woman’s husband, you could express the idea more clearly. Alternate translation: “her husband” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 7 35 ah8e writing-pronouns τοῦτο 1 constraint Here, **this** refers back to what Paul has said about how unmarried people can serve the Lord better in [7:32–34](../07/32.md). If **this** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify what it refers back to. Alternate translation: “this about marriage and serving the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 7 35 x1kh figs-abstractnouns πρὸς τὸ ὑμῶν αὐτῶν σύμφορον 1 constraint If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **benefit**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “benefit” or “help.” Alternate translation: “to benefit you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 35 rp3w translate-unknown βρόχον 1 constraint Here, **constraint** refers to a noose or rope that that ties someone or something up and keeps them in one place. Paul uses this word to tell the Corinthians that he is not trying to “tie” them to either marriage or singleness. If **constraint** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that expresses the idea in another way. Alternate translation: “a noose” or “any hindrance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 35 op8w figs-metaphor βρόχον ὑμῖν ἐπιβάλω 1 constraint Here, Paul speaks as if he could tie the Corinthians up and control where they went as if they were farm animals. Paul speaks in this way to refer to commands that require certain behavior, just like a rope requires an animal to stay in a certain area. If **put any constraint on you** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea non-figuratively or with a comparable metaphor. Alternate translation: “tie you up” or “require one way of living” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 35 a5sg figs-idiom πρὸς τὸ 2 constraint Here, **toward** introduces the purpose of what Paul has said. If **toward what {is}** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces what follows as a purpose or goal. Alternate translation: “in order that you may act in ways that are” or “with the goal of doing what is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 7 35 ffx4 translate-unknown τὸ εὔσχημον καὶ εὐπάρεδρον 1 devoted Here, **appropriate** refers to behavior that fits a situation or relationship properly. The word **devoted** describes to someone that does a good job of helping someone else. If **appropriate and devoted** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use words or phrases that express the ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “what {is} proper and helpful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 35 ms4g translate-unknown ἀπερισπάστως 1 devoted Here, **without any distraction** means that nothing is hindering specific actions. If **without any distraction** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that describes a situation in which nothing is hindering an action. Alternate translation: “without hindrance” or “with full attention” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 35 ip8a figs-abstractnouns ἀπερισπάστως 1 devoted If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **distraction**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “distract.” Alternate translation: “without being distracted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 36 t87y 0 he is acting improperly toward This verse has two primary interpretations: (1) the fiancé interpretation, which suggests that the verse is about a man who is engaged to marry a woman. In this case, Paul is saying that the man should marry his fiancée if he thinks he is acting improperly and if she is of a certain age. (2) the father interpretation, which suggests that the verse is about a father who has a daughter. In this case, Paul is saying that the father should allow his daughter to get married if he thinks he is acting improperly and if the daughter is of a certain age. In the notes that follow, I will identify which choices match with which of these two major options.
1CO 7 36 lx6q figs-hypo εἰ…τις ἀσχημονεῖν ἐπὶ τὴν παρθένον αὐτοῦ νομίζει, ἐὰν ᾖ ὑπέρακμος καὶ οὕτως ὀφείλει γίνεσθαι 1 he is acting improperly toward Here, Paul uses **if** to introduce two true possibilities. He means that a man might **be acting improperly**, or the man might not be. He also means that the woman might be **beyond the age of marriage**, or she might not be. He then specifies the result for if the man is **acting improperly** and the woman is **beyond the age of marriage**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by describing the specific situation. Alternate translation: “someone might think he is acting improperly toward his virgin, and she might be beyond the age of marriage. In this situation, it must be so” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 7 36 qw58 writing-pronouns τις 1 he is acting improperly toward Here, **anyone** could refer to: (1) a man who is engaged to the **virgin**. This fits with the fiancé interpretation. Alternate translation: “any fiancé” (2) a father has a daughter who is a **virgin**. This fits with the father interpretation. Alternate translation: “any father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 7 36 jn8j translate-unknown ἀσχημονεῖν ἐπὶ 1 he is acting improperly toward The phrase **acting improperly** is often used to refer to sexual impropriety, including shameful nakedness or improper sexual behavior. Therefore, **acting improperly** could refer to: (1) engaging in or wishing to engage in improper sexual behavior. This fits with the fiancé interpretation. Alternate translation: “he might have improper sex with” (2) wrongly prohibiting a daughter from marrying and thus shaming her. This fits with the father interpretation. Alternate translation: “he is wrongly shaming” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 36 dsma translate-unknown τὴν παρθένον αὐτοῦ 1 he is acting improperly toward Here, **his virgin** could refer to: (1) a woman who is engaged to a man. This fits with the fiancé interpretation. Alternate translation: “his fiancée” (2) a daughter who has never married. This fits with the father interpretation. Alternate translation: “his unmarried daughter”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 36 crb8 figs-gendernotations ᾖ 1 his virgin Here, the word translated **she** could refer to a man or to a woman. If it refers to: (1) a woman, it identifies something about the woman as the reason for the man and woman to get married. This fits with both the father and the fiancé interpretations. (2) a man, it identifies something about the man as the reason for the man and woman to get married. This fits best with the fiancé interpretation. Alternate translation: “he” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 7 36 whuj translate-unknown ὑπέρακμος 1 his virgin Here, the word translated **beyond the age of marriage** could describe: (1) a person who is older than the normal age at which a person gets married. This fits with both the father and the fiancé interpretations. Alternate translation: “is older than average to get married” (2) a person who has reached full sexual maturity. This fits with both the father and the fiancé interpretations. Alternate translation: “is fully matured” or “is ready to have sex” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 36 m0hq writing-pronouns ὑπέρακμος καὶ οὕτως ὀφείλει γίνεσθαι…ποιείτω 1 his virgin Here, **it** could refer to: (1) what Paul is about to say, which is **he should do what he wants**. Alternate translation: “is beyond the age of marriage—then this is how it must be: he should do” (2) the necessity of getting married. Alternate translation: “is beyond the age of marriage and it seems necessary to marry—he should do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 7 36 wfea writing-pronouns ὃ θέλει ποιείτω 1 his virgin Here, **he** refers to: (1) the fiancé, who wants to get married. Alternate translation: “the fiancé should do what he wants” (2) the father, who wants his daughter to get married. Alternate translation: “the father should do what he wants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 7 36 pyh7 figs-explicit ὃ θέλει ποιείτω 1 let them marry Here, **what he wants** could refer to: (1) how the fiancé wants to get married and have sex. Alternate translation: “he should get married as he wants to” (2) how the father wants his daughter to get married. Alternate translation: “he should give her in marriage as he wants to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 7 36 ugk2 figs-imperative ποιείτω 1 let them marry Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “must” or “let.” Alternate translation: “let him do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 7 36 j6lc figs-imperative γαμείτωσαν 1 let them marry Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you could express the idea using a word such as “should” or “can.” Alternate translation: “they can marry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1CO 7 36 wdj5 writing-pronouns γαμείτωσαν 1 let them marry Here, **them** identifies the man and the woman who are getting married. This fits with both the fiancé interpretation and the father interpretation. Alternate translation: “let the man and the woman marry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 7 37 ta66 0 But if he is standing firm in his heart Much like the previous verse ([7:36](../07/36.md)), this verse has two primary interpretations: (1) the fiancé interpretation, which suggests that the verse is about a man who is engaged to marry a woman. In this case, Paul is saying that the man who decides not to marry his fiancée does **well**. (2) the father interpretation, which suggests that the verse is about a father who has a daughter. In this case, Paul is saying that the father who decides to keep his daughter from marrying does **well**. In the notes that follow, I will identify which any choices that specifically match with these two major options. Follow the interpretation that you chose in the last verse.
1CO 7 37 nm99 figs-metaphor ἕστηκεν ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ αὐτοῦ ἑδραῖος 1 But if he is standing firm in his heart Here Paul speaks as if a person’s **heart** were a place in which he or she could “stand firm.” By speaking in this way, Paul means that the person will not change what they have decided in his or her **heart**. It is as if they are standing **firm** in a specific location. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea non-figuratively or with a comparable metaphor. Alternate translation: “who settles on a decision” or “firmly decides” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 37 uthl figs-metonymy ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ αὐτοῦ…ἐν τῇ ἰδίᾳ καρδίᾳ 1 In Paul’s culture, the **heart** is the place where humans think and plan. If that meaning of **heart** would be misunderstood in your language, you could refer to the place where humans think in your culture or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “in his mind … in his own mind” or “in what he has planned … in what he himself has planned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 7 37 v41a figs-abstractnouns ἔχων ἀνάγκην 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **compulsion**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “compel.” Alternate translation: “through someone compelling him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 37 o8o2 figs-abstractnouns ἐξουσίαν…ἔχει περὶ τοῦ ἰδίου θελήματος 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind **authority** and **will**, you could express the ideas by using verbs such as “control” and “want.” Alternate translation: “ruling over what he wants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 37 vjrv figs-infostructure τοῦτο κέκρικεν ἐν τῇ ἰδίᾳ καρδίᾳ, τηρεῖν τὴν ἑαυτοῦ παρθένον, καλῶς ποιήσει 1 The order of these three phrases might be unnatural in your language. If the order is unnatural, you could reorder the phrases so that they sound more natural. Alternate translation: “he has decided in his own heart to keep his own virgin, this man will do well” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 7 37 b7sk writing-pronouns τοῦτο…ἐν τῇ ἰδίᾳ καρδίᾳ, τηρεῖν 1 Here, **this** refers forward to what Paul is about to say: **to keep his own virgin**. If **this** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that Paul is talking about what he is about to say. Alternate translation: “in his own heart to do this—that is, to keep” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 7 37 fny7 figs-idiom τηρεῖν τὴν ἑαυτοῦ παρθένον 1 Here, **to keep his own virgin** means that: (1) the man does not marry his fiancée but leaves her as a **virgin**. This fits with the fiancé interpretation. Alternate translation: “to remain unmarried to his fiancée” (2) the father does not give his daughter in marriage but leaves her as a **virgin**. This fits with the father interpretation. Alternate translation: “not to give his daughter in marriage” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 7 37 k842 figs-ellipsis καλῶς ποιήσει 1 Here Paul omits what it is that is done **well**. The Corinthians would have inferred from the verse that Paul means that keeping **his own virgin** is what he does **well**. If this inference would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify what is done **well**. Alternate translation: “he is right to do this” or “this is a good choice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 7 37 mebk figs-pastforfuture ποιήσει 1 Here Paul uses the future tense to identify something that is true in general. If your language would not use the future tense for something that is generally true, you could use whatever tense is natural here. Alternate translation: “he does” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
1CO 7 38 c93x figs-genericnoun ὁ γαμίζων…ὁ μὴ γαμίζων 1 Paul uses the words **the one who marries** and **the one who does not marry** to speak of people in general, not one specific man. If the meaning of these words would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a form that indicates people in general. Alternate translation: “anyone who marries … anyone who does not marry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 7 38 px3z translate-unknown ὁ γαμίζων τὴν ἑαυτοῦ παρθένον 1 Here Paul could be referring to: (1) a man marrying his fiancée. This fits with the fiancé interpretation. Alternate translation: “the man who marries his fiancée” (2) a father giving his daughter in marriage. This fits with the father interpretation. Alternate translation: “a father who give his daughter in marriage” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 38 idyk translate-unknown ὁ μὴ γαμίζων 1 Here Paul could be referring to: (1) a man not marrying his fiancée. This fits with the fiancé interpretation. Alternate translation: “the man who does not marry his fiancée” (2) a father not giving his daughter in marriage. This fits with the father interpretation. Alternate translation: “a father who does not give his daughter in marriage” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 7 38 kdm6 figs-pastforfuture ποιήσει 1 Here Paul uses the future tense to identify something that is true in general. If your language would not use the future tense for something that is generally true, you could use whatever tense is natural here. Alternate translation: “does” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
1CO 7 39 d413 figs-metaphor δέδεται ἐφ’ 1 A wife is bound for as long as her husband lives Here, **bound** refers to the legal and moral obligation to remain married. This obligation is strong enough that Paul can speak about it as if it were a rope that **bound** the man and the woman together. If **bound** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea non-figuratively or with a comparable metaphor. Alternate translation: “is required to stay with her husband” or “is spoken for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 39 jhq4 figs-activepassive γυνὴ δέδεται 1 A wife is bound for as long as her husband lives If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that ethics or laws did it. Alternate translation: “A wife must remain married” or “God’s law binds a wife” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 7 39 ms7z figs-hypo ἐὰν…κοιμηθῇ ὁ ἀνήρ, ἐλευθέρα ἐστὶν 1 for as long as … lives Here Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that **the husband** might ide, or he might not. He then specifies the result for if **the husband dies**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause. Alternate translation: “any wife whose husband dies is free” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 7 39 f1dy grammar-connect-exceptions ἐλευθέρα ἐστὶν ᾧ θέλει γαμηθῆναι, μόνον ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 whomever she wishes If it would appear in your language that Paul was making a statement here and then contradicting it, you could reword this to avoid using an this form. Alternate translation: “she is free to marry whomever she wishes as long as they are in the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions]])
1CO 7 39 y6rz figs-metaphor ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 whomever she wishes Here, Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in the Lord** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in the Lord**, or united to the Lord, identifies the person as someone who believes in Jesus. Alternate translation: “if they believe in the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 7 40 hwz4 figs-abstractnouns κατὰ τὴν ἐμὴν γνώμην 1 my judgment If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **judgment**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “judge.” Alternate translation: “I judge that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 7 40 pse4 figs-explicit οὕτως μείνῃ 1 lives as she is Here Paul is referring back to wife whose husband had died from the previous verse ([7:39](../07/39.md)). By **remain as she is**, Paul means “remain unmarried after her husband died.” If **remain as she is** would be misunderstood in your language, you clarify that the wife from the previous verse is in view. Alternate translation: “she remains unmarried” or “she does not marry again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 7 40 hd7f figs-explicit κἀγὼ, Πνεῦμα Θεοῦ ἔχειν 1 happier This could mean that (1) Paul thinks his **judgment** is backed up by **the Spirit of God**. Alternate translation: “I have the Spirit of God supporting my judgment” (2) Paul wishes to say that he has the **Spirit of God** as much as the Corinthians do. Alternate translation: “I also, not just you, have the Spirit of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 intro c8l6 0 # 1 Corinthians 8 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>5. On food (8:1–11:1)<br> * The truth about food and idols (8:1–6)<br> * Respecting the “weak” (8:7–13)<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Things sacrificed to idols<br><br>In Paul’s culture, animals were often sacrificed to the gods. After the animal was slaughtered, the people who were participating in the worship would eat parts of the animal. In fact, for most people who were not wealthy, participating in worship with a sacrifice was one of the few situations in which they could eat meat. Throughout this chapter, Paul explains how the Corinthians should think about eating or not eating this meat. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])<br><br>### The “weak”<br><br>In [8:9](../08/09.md), [11](../08/11.md), Paul speaks about the “weak,” and in [8:7](../08/07.md), [10](../08/10.md), [12](../08/12.md), he mentions a “weak conscience,” which is the conscience of the “weak.” The “weak” person or conscience considers eating things sacrificed to idols to be sinful and participation in idolatry. Perhaps “weak” was a word that the Corinthians were using for fellow believers who were not comfortable eating food sacrificed idols. Paul urges the Corinthians to respect these “weak” people, even if it means never eating meat again. While Paul never uses the word “strong” in this section, the “strong would probably be those who are comfortable eating meat sacrificed to an idol. <br><br>### Knowledge<br><br>Paul refers to “knowledge” in [8:1](../08/01.md), [7](../08/7.md), [10–11](../08/10.md) and to “knowing” in [8:2–4](../08/02.md). Throughout the chapter, the one who has “knowledge” is contrasted with the one who is “weak.” In [8:4–6](../08/04.md), Paul explains what this “knowledge”is about: while other people may name many gods and many lords, believers know that there is only one God and one Lord. Because of this “knowledge,” eating food sacrificed to idols has no significance, since there is only one God and Lord. Paul, however, urges the Corinthians to respect those who do not fully comprehend this “knowledge.” (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/other/know]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Building up<br><br>In [8:1](../08/01.md), Paul contrasts what “knowledge” does (“puffs up”) with what love does (“builds up”). “Building up” in this verse refers to helping other Christians grow in their knowledge of God and care for each other. In [8:10](../08/10.md), however, “building up”has a negative connotation. In this verse, the conscience of the “weak”is “built up,”which means that the “weak”person eats food sacrificed to idols despite his or her conscience says. “Building up”in this verse refers to strengthening a conscience so that one is able to do what one is uncomfortable with. <br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Other “gods” and “lords”<br><br>In [8:4–5](../08/04.md), Paul states that an idol is “nothing.”However, he also acknowledges that there are many so-called “gods” and “lords.”In [10:20–21](../10/20.md), Paul will make his point more clearly: those who sacrifice to idols are actually sacrificing to demons. So, Paul denies the existence of other “gods,” but he thinks that the idols do represent something: demons. In this chapter, you could clarify that Paul is speaking about what other people call “gods” and “lords.” (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])<br>
1CO 8 1 cep1 grammar-connect-words-phrases περὶ δὲ 1 Now about Just as in 7:1, **Now about** introduces a new topic that Paul wishes to address. Likely, the topics that he introduces in this way are what the Corinthians wrote to him about. Translate **Now about** here as you translated “now concerning” in [7:1](../07/01.md), [7:25](../07/25.md). Alternate translation: “Next, about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 8 1 g5t3 translate-unknown τῶν εἰδωλοθύτων 1 food sacrificed to idols Here Paul speaks about animals that are slaughtered, offered to a god, and then eaten. For many people in Paul’s culture, this was the only meat that was available for them to eat. In many cases, people would eat this meat at a god’s temple or shrine. However, sometimes the meat could be sold to people, who would then eat it in their homes. In the next few chapters, Paul will speak about whether and how Christians should eat or not eat this meat. If your language has a specific word or phrase for meat from an animal that has been offered to a god, you could use it here. If your language does not have such a word, you could use a descriptive phrase. Alternate translation: “meat from animals sacrificed to idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 8 1 beh8 figs-activepassive τῶν εἰδωλοθύτων 1 food sacrificed to idols If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, you could use a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “the things that people have sacrificed to idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 8 1 vk06 figs-explicit οἴδαμεν ὅτι πάντες γνῶσιν ἔχομεν 1 food sacrificed to idols Here Paul could be (1) expressing his own view about **knowledge**. Alternate translation: “We know that we all indeed have knowledge” (2) quoting what the Corinthians said in their letter so that he can respond to it, much like he did in [6:12–13](../06/12.md); [7:1](../07/01.md). Alternate translation: “you wrote, ‘we know that we all have knowledge.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 1 a6hi figs-explicit πάντες γνῶσιν ἔχομεν 1 food sacrificed to idols Here Paul does not specify what the **knowledge** is about. It becomes clear in [8:4–6](../08/4.md) that Paul is speaking about **knowledge** about other gods, specifically knowing that there is only one God and that other gods do not really exist. If possible, do not give further explanation of **knowledge** here, since Paul explains himself later on in the chapter. If you must specify what the **knowledge** is about, you could clarify that it is about the **idols** or the topic of **things sacrificed to idols**. Alternate translation: “we all have knowledge about idols” or “we all have knowledge about this issue” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 1 ytrf figs-abstractnouns πάντες γνῶσιν ἔχομεν…ἡ γνῶσις 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **knowledge**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “know.” Alternate translation: “we all know things. Knowing things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 8 1 yw8s figs-abstractnouns ἡ δὲ ἀγάπη 1 but love builds up If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **love**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “love.” Alternate translation: “but loving other believers” or “but loving action” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 8 1 an8s figs-metaphor ἀγάπη οἰκοδομεῖ 1 love builds up Paul here speaks as if believers were a building that one **builds up**. With this metaphor, he emphasizes that **love** helps other believers become stronger and more mature, just like building a house makes it strong and complete. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea non-figuratively or with a comparable metaphor. Alternate translation: “love enables other believers to grow” or “love edifies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 8 2 egjr figs-hypo εἴ τις δοκεῖ ἐγνωκέναι τι, οὔπω ἔγνω 1 thinks he knows something Here Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that someone might think **he knows something**, or that person might not. He then specifies the result for if the person does think **he knows something**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause or by introducing the sentence with “whenever.” Alternate translation: “Anyone who thinks he knows something does not yet know” or “Whenever anyone thinks he knows something, he does not yet know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 8 2 qbh9 figs-gendernotations ἐγνωκέναι…οὔπω ἔγνω…δεῖ 1 thinks he knows something Although **he** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If **he** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “he or she knows … he or she does not yet know … he or she ought” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 8 3 qsa7 figs-hypo εἰ…τις ἀγαπᾷ τὸν Θεόν, οὗτος ἔγνωσται 1 that person is known by him Just as in the last verse, here Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that someone might love **God**, or that person might not. He then specifies the result for if the person does love **God**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by using a relative clause or by introducing the sentence with “whenever.” Alternate translation: “anyone who loves God is known” or “whenever anyone loves God, that one is known” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 8 3 etd6 figs-activepassive οὗτος ἔγνωσται ὑπ’ αὐτοῦ 1 that person is known by him If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “he knows that one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 8 3 lnwx writing-pronouns οὗτος…αὐτοῦ 1 that person is known by him Here, **that one** refers back to **anyone**, and **him** refers back to **God**. If these pronouns would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify what they refer to. Alternate translation: “that person … God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 8 4 v4gx grammar-connect-words-phrases περὶ 1 General Information: Here Paul repeats **about** from [8:1](../08/01.md) to let his readers know that he is going to speak directly about **things sacrificed to idols** again. If the repetition of the phrase from [8:1](../08/01.md) would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that Paul is returning to the topic he introduced there. Alternate translation: “returning to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 8 4 bgd2 figs-possession τῆς βρώσεως…τῶν εἰδωλοθύτων 1 General Information: Here Paul uses the possessive form to speak about **eating** meat **sacrificed to idols**. If your language does not use this form to express that meaning, you could express the idea by using a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “eating things sacrificed to idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 8 4 wkep translate-unknown τῶν εἰδωλοθύτων 1 General Information: Here, **the things sacrificed to idols** refers to meat that has been offered to an idol. Translate this phrase the same way you did in [8:1](../08/01.md). Alternate translation: “of meat from animals sacrificed to idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 8 4 mbqo figs-activepassive τῶν εἰδωλοθύτων 1 General Information: If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, you could use a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “of the things that people have sacrificed to idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 8 4 y3ee figs-explicit οἴδαμεν ὅτι οὐδὲν εἴδωλον ἐν κόσμῳ, καὶ ὅτι οὐδεὶς Θεὸς εἰ μὴ εἷς 1 We know that an idol in this world is nothing and that there is no God but one Here Paul could be (1) expressing his own view about **an idol** and **God**. Alternate translation: “We know that an idol in the world indeed {is} nothing that {there is} indeed no God except one” (2) quoting what the Corinthians said in their letter so that he can respond to it, much like he did in [6:12–13](../06/12.md); [7:1](../07/01.md). If you chose this option in [8:1](../08/01.md), you should also choose it here. Alternate translation: “you wrote, ‘we know that an idol in the world {is} nothing’ and, ‘{there is} no God except one’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 4 g67g figs-metaphor οὐδὲν εἴδωλον ἐν κόσμῳ 1 Here Paul says that **an idol** is **nothing** in order to emphasize that idols are not really gods. He is not saying that images or statues do not exist. If **nothing** would be misunderstood in your language, you could clarify that Paul is speaking about how **an idol** does not have the power or existence of the true God. Alternate translation: “an idol in the world {is} not really a god” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 8 4 w8ar grammar-connect-exceptions οὐδεὶς Θεὸς εἰ μὴ εἷς 1 If it would appear in your language that Paul was making a statement here and then contradicting it, you could reword this to avoid using an exception clause. Alternate translation: “{there is} only one God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-exceptions]])
1CO 8 4 tx5b figs-explicit εἰ μὴ εἷς 1 Here Paul does not directly quote from the Old Testament, but he uses words that would make any reader who is familiar with the Old Testament think about [Deuteronomy 6:4](deu/06/04.md), which says that “the Lord is one.” If your readers would not make this connection, you could include a footnote or a brief reference to Deuteronomy. Alternate translation: “except one, as the Scripture says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 5 s77m grammar-connect-condition-contrary καὶ…εἴπερ 1 so-called gods Here, **even if** introduces a possibility that Paul does not believe to be true. In other words, Paul does not think that there are **many gods** and **many lords**. He does think that people speak about **many gods** and **many lords**. Thus, his main point is that, no matter how many **gods** and **lord** other people talk about, believers only acknowledge one God and one Lord ([8:6](../08/206md)). If **even if** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “although it might be that” or “while some people claim that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]])
1CO 8 5 sl8j εἰσὶν λεγόμενοι θεοὶ 1 so-called gods Alternate translation: “people name many ‘gods’”
1CO 8 5 x4ob figs-merism θεοὶ, εἴτε ἐν οὐρανῷ εἴτε ἐπὶ γῆς 1 so-called gods Paul speaks figuratively, using **heaven** and **earth** in order to include them and everything in between. By speaking in this way, he includes every place that God created. If this figure of speech would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “gods in all parts of creation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1CO 8 5 l7ib figs-irony θεοὶ πολλοὶ καὶ κύριοι πολλοί 1 many “gods” and many “lords.” Here Paul acknowledges that there are **many “gods”** and **“lords”**. He implies that **so-called** from earlier in the verse also applies here, so the ULT has put quotation marks around **gods** and **lords** to indicate that these are the names people use. Paul himself does not believe that what people call **gods** and **lords** really are those things; rather, [10:20–21](../10/20.md) suggests that Paul thinks these **gods** and **lords** are actually demons. If what Paul means by **“gods”** and **“lords”** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a form that indicates that Paul is speaking from someone else’s perspective. Alternate translation: “many so-called gods and many so-called lords” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 8 6 y6hq figs-explicit ἡμῖν εἷς Θεὸς 1 Yet for us there is only one God In this verse, Paul does not directly quote from the Old Testament, but he uses words that would make any reader who is familiar with the Old Testament think about [Deuteronomy 6:4](deu/06/04.md), just like he did in [8:4](../08/04.md). The Old Testament passage says, “The Lord is our God, the Lord is one.” If your readers would not make this connection, you could include a footnote or a brief reference to Deuteronomy. Alternate translation: “we accept from the Scriptures that {there is} one God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 6 sv67 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples ὁ Πατὴρ 1 Yet for us there is only one God **Father** is an important title that describes one person in the Trinity. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add a comma before it. Alternate translation: “that is, the Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
1CO 8 6 x3d6 figs-explicit ἐξ οὗ τὰ πάντα 1 Yet for us there is only one God Here Paul emphasizes that **God the Father** created all things and is their ultimate source. If **from whom {are} all things** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a phrase that identifies **God the Father** as the creator of everything that exists. Alternate translation: “who is the creator of the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 6 vw06 figs-explicit ἡμεῖς εἰς αὐτόν 1 Yet for us there is only one God Here Paul emphasizes that the purpose for which **we** exist is to serve and honor God. If **for whom we {are}** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a phrase that identifies **God the Father** as the goal or purpose of Christian life. Alternate translation: “whom we are to serve” or “whom we worship” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 6 cokf figs-explicit δι’ οὗ τὰ πάντα 1 Yet for us there is only one God Here Paul emphasizes that the **Lord Jesus Christ** is the agent through whom **God the Father** created all things. If **through whom all things {are}** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a phrase that identifies the **Lord Jesus Christ** as the agent in the creation of everything that exists. Alternate translation: “through whom God the Father created all things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 6 jsqb figs-explicit ἡμεῖς δι’ αὐτοῦ 1 Yet for us there is only one God Here Paul could be expressing the idea (1) that **we** exist because of what Christ has done by creating and then saving us. Alternate translation: “through whom we live” (2) that **we** have been saved and given new life by Christ. Alternate translation: “through whom we have new life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 7 th5p figs-metaphor οὐκ ἐν πᾶσιν ἡ γνῶσις 1 General Information: Here Paul speaks as if **everyone** were a container in which **knowledge** could be stored, but some people do not have **knowledge** stored in them. He speaks in this way to show that not everyone understands what he has just said about how God the Father and Jesus are the only God and Lord. If your readers would misunderstand the idea that **knowledge** is **not in** someone, you could use a comparable phrase. Alternate translation: “not everyone knows this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 8 7 v7lt figs-idiom τῇ συνηθείᾳ…τοῦ εἰδώλου 1 everyone … some The Corinthians would have understood **the custom of the idols** to refer to regular practices associated with worshiping **idols**, including eating meat **sacrificed to idols**. If your readers would misunderstand **the custom of the idols**, you could refer to worshiping idols “regularly.” Alternate translation: “regularly involved in worshiping idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 8 7 heud figs-abstractnouns τῇ συνηθείᾳ…τοῦ εἰδώλου 1 everyone … some If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **custom**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “used to” or “accustomed.” Alternate translation: “accustomed to idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 8 7 e737 figs-explicit ἕως ἄρτι 1 everyone … some Here, **now** refers to the time since these people became believers. Paul means that these people worshiped idols until they became Christians, not until the time he writes this letter. If your readers would misunderstand **until now**, you could clarify that Paul is referring to when these people first believed in Jesus. Alternate translation: “until they believed in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 7 jdnr translate-unknown εἰδωλόθυτον 1 everyone … some Here, the **things sacrificed to idols** refers to meat that has been offered to an idol. Translate this phrase the same way you did in [8:1](../08/01.md). Alternate translation: “meat from animals sacrificed to idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 8 7 pdev figs-activepassive εἰδωλόθυτον 1 everyone … some If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, you could use a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “things that people have sacrificed to idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 8 7 o04n grammar-connect-time-simultaneous ὡς εἰδωλόθυτον ἐσθίουσιν 1 everyone … some This phrase could refer to: (1) whenever the people that Paul is talking about eat **things sacrificed to idols**. Alternate translation: “happen to eat things sacrificed to idols” (2) how the people that Paul is talking about think that the **things sacrificed to idols** actually belongs to another god. Alternate translation: “eat meat as if it really were sacrificed to idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 8 7 xl4f grammar-collectivenouns ἡ συνείδησις αὐτῶν 1 everyone … some The word **conscience** is a singular noun that refers to all **their** consciences. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “each of their consciences” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
1CO 8 7 pbyx figs-metaphor ἀσθενὴς οὖσα 1 everyone … some Here, **weak** identifies a **conscience** easily leads a person to feel guilty. A **weak** conscience condemns some things that are probably acceptable before God. If your readers would misunderstand **weak**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “being sensitive” or “which often condemns them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 8 7 ba7e figs-activepassive ἡ συνείδησις αὐτῶν ἀσθενὴς οὖσα μολύνεται 1 is defiled If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Luke implies that “they” did it. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add a comma before it. Alternate translation: “their conscience being weak, they defile it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 8 8 ii4m figs-personification βρῶμα…ἡμᾶς οὐ παραστήσει τῷ Θεῷ 1 food will not present us to God Here Paul speaks as if **food** were a person who could **bring us near to God**. By speaking in this way, Paul discusses whether food can make our relationship with God stronger or not. Just like a person who cannot **bring us near** to someone so that we can know that person better, so food cannot make our relationship with God any stronger. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “food will not make our relationship with God any stronger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 8 8 yzt9 grammar-connect-logic-contrast οὔτε ἐὰν μὴ φάγωμεν, ὑστερούμεθα; οὔτε ἐὰν φάγωμεν, περισσεύομεν 1 food will not present us to God Here, Paul contrasts “eating” and “not eating” while negating both sides of the contrast. If your language does not use this form, you could express the idea with two negative clauses. Alternate translation: “we are not made to lack if we do not eat, and we do not abound if we eat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 8 8 wp5k grammar-connect-logic-contrast οὔτε ἐὰν μὴ φάγωμεν, ὑστερούμεθα; οὔτε ἐὰν φάγωμεν, περισσεύομεν 1 food will not present us to God Here Paul uses **if** twice to introduce true possibilities. He means that a person might **not eat**, or that person might **eat**. He specifies the result for each option. If your readers would misunderstand this form, you could express the **if** statements by introducing them with a word such as “whenever” or by using relative clauses. Alternate translation: “neither are we made to lack whenever we do not eat, nor do we abound whenever we eat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 8 8 x91v figs-explicit ὑστερούμεθα…περισσεύομεν 1 We are not worse if we do not eat, nor better if we do eat it Here Paul does not specify what **we** might **lack** or **abound** in. If possible, do not specify this is in your translation. If you must clarify what we might **lack** or **abound**, Paul implies that it is God’s “favor” or “grace.”Alternate translation: “are we made to lack God’s grace … we abound in God’s grace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 8 ciez figs-explicit μὴ φάγωμεν…φάγωμεν 1 We are not worse if we do not eat, nor better if we do eat it Here Paul states a general principle, and he does not clarify what kinds of **food** he has in mind. If possible, do not specify what **we eat** in your translation. If you must clarify what **we eat**, you could include a vague or generic reference to “certain kinds of food.” Alternate translation: “we do not eat specific kinds of food … we eat specific kinds of food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 9 ns0y figs-explicit ἡ ἐξουσία ὑμῶν αὕτη 1 those who are weak Here Paul implies that their **authority** is over “food” as mentioned in the last verse ([8:8](../08/08.md)). The point is that food has no **authority** over believers, whether to make them more or less “near to God.” Instead, believers have **authority** over food and can thus eat whatever they want. If your readers would misunderstand what **authority** refers to here, you could clarify that it refers to **authority** over “food.”Alternate translation: “this authority of yours over food” or “this authority of yours concerning eating” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 9 vu0y figs-abstractnouns ἡ ἐξουσία ὑμῶν αὕτη 1 those who are weak If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **authority**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “rule” or “manage” and include “food” or “eating” as the object. Alternate translation: “how you rule over food” or “how you manage your eating (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 8 9 loo1 ἡ ἐξουσία ὑμῶν αὕτη 1 those who are weak Alternate translation: “this authority that you have”
1CO 8 9 f3ds figs-metaphor τοῖς ἀσθενέσιν 1 those who are weak Much like in [8:7](../08/07.md), **weak** identifies a person who easily feels guilty. A **weak** person thinks some things are wrong that are probably acceptable before God. If your readers would misunderstand **weak**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “for the sensitive” or “for those who often condemn themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 8 9 deu5 figs-nominaladj τοῖς ἀσθενέσιν 1 those who are weak Paul is using the adjective **weak** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “people who are weak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 8 10 usg7 grammar-connect-condition-fact ἐὰν…τις ἴδῃ 1 sees the one who has Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it will happen at some point. If your language does not state something as a condition if it will happen, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying might not happen, then you could introduce the clause by using a word such as “when” or “after”. Alternate translation: “whenever someone might see” or “after someone sees” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
1CO 8 10 a7qn figs-explicit γνῶσιν 1 sees the one who has Here Paul does not specify what the **knowledge** is about. However, it is clear from [8:4–6](../08/04.md) that Paul is speaking about **knowledge** about other gods, specifically knowing that there is only one God and that other gods do not really exist. If you must specify what the knowledge is about, you could clarify that it is about the idols or the topic of things sacrificed to idols. Alternate translation: “knowledge about idols” or “knowledge about this issue” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 10 v611 figs-abstractnouns τὸν ἔχοντα γνῶσιν 1 sees the one who has If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **knowledge**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “know.” Alternate translation: “the person who knows” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 8 10 xhn9 translate-unknown κατακείμενον 1 sees the one who has In Paul’s culture, people ate lying down on their side (**reclining**). If your readers would misunderstand **reclining to eat**, you could use a word or phrase that describes the normal position for eating in your culture or indicate that the person is about to eat. Alternate translation: “about to eat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 8 10 ph53 figs-rquestion οὐχὶ ἡ συνείδησις αὐτοῦ ἀσθενοῦς ὄντος οἰκοδομηθήσεται, εἰς τὸ τὰ εἰδωλόθυτα ἐσθίειν 1 sees the one who has Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes, it will be built up.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong affirmation. Alternate translation: “his conscience, being weak, will surely be built up so as to eat the things sacrificed to idols.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 8 10 i6ej figs-gendernotations αὐτοῦ 1 his … conscience Here, **his** is written in masculine form, but it refers to anyone, no matter what their gender might be. If your readers would misunderstand **his**, you could express the idea by using a word that does not have gender or you could use both genders. Alternate translation: “his or her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 8 10 x5pa figs-metaphor οἰκοδομηθήσεται 1 built up so as to eat Here, Paul speaks as if **his conscience** were a structure that could be **built up**. By speaking in this way, he means that the **conscience** becomes more confident or stronger, just a like a structure is stronger after it is **built up**. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “will … become stronger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 8 10 t5ae figs-activepassive οὐχὶ ἡ συνείδησις αὐτοῦ ἀσθενοῦς ὄντος οἰκοδομηθήσεται 1 built up so as to eat If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that seeing the person with knowledge eating in an idol’s temple did it. Alternate translation: “will this not build up his conscience, which is weak,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 8 10 ohzy figs-metaphor ἀσθενοῦς ὄντος 1 built up so as to eat Here, **weak** identifies a **conscience** that easily leads a person to feel guilty. A **weak** conscience condemns some things that are probably acceptable before God. If your readers would misunderstand **weak**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “being sensitive” or “which often condemns him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 8 10 mdqc translate-unknown τὰ εἰδωλόθυτα 1 built up so as to eat Here, **the things sacrificed to idols** refers to meat that has been offered to an idol. Translate this phrase the same way you did in [8:1](../08/01.md). Alternate translation: “meat from animals sacrificed to idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 8 10 a7s8 figs-activepassive τὰ εἰδωλόθυτα 1 built up so as to eat If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, you could use a vague or indefinite subject. Alternate translation: “the things that people have sacrificed to idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 8 11 g5tn figs-activepassive ἀπόλλυται…ὁ ἀσθενῶν ἐν τῇ σῇ γνώσει, ὁ ἀδελφὸς, δι’ ὃν Χριστὸς ἀπέθανεν 1 the one who is weak … is destroyed If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “you” or “your knowledge” did it. Alternate translation: “you, through your knowledge, destroy the one who is weak, the brother for whom Christ died,” or “your knowledge destroys the one who is weak, the brother for whom Christ died (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 8 11 x6jd figs-genericnoun ὁ ἀσθενῶν…ὁ ἀδελφὸς 1 the one who is weak … is destroyed Jesus is speaking of those who are weak and brothers in general, not of one particular person **who is weak** who is one particular **brother**. If your language does not use the singular form to refer to people in general, you could express the idea in a form that is more natural in your language. Alternate translation: “each one who is weak, who is a brother” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 8 11 zy3t figs-activepassive ὁ ἀσθενῶν 1 the one who is weak … is destroyed Much like in [8:9](../08/09.md), **one who is weak** identifies a person who easily feels guilty. A **weak** person thinks some things are wrong that are probably acceptable before God. If your readers would misunderstand **weak**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “the one who is sensitive” or “the one who often condemns himself or herself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 8 11 xs2l figs-gendernotations ὁ ἀδελφὸς 1 the one who is weak … is destroyed Although the word translated **brother** is masculine, Paul is using this word to refer to any believer, whether man or woman. If **brother** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “the brother or sister” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 8 11 ez6t figs-yousingular σῇ 1 your knowledge Here Paul addresses specific individuals within the Corinthian church. Because of this, **your** in this verse is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
1CO 8 11 gwc9 figs-explicit γνώσει 1 your knowledge Here Paul does not specify what the **knowledge** is about. However, just as in [8:10](../08/10.md) it is clear that Paul is speaking about knowledge about other gods, specifically knowing that there is only one God and that other gods do not really exist. If you must specify what the **knowledge** is about, you could clarify that it is about the idols or the topic of things sacrificed to idols. Alternate translation: “knowledge about idols” or “knowledge about this issue” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 8 11 f6bg figs-abstractnouns ἐν τῇ σῇ γνώσει 1 your knowledge If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **knowledge**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “know.” Alternate translation: “through what you know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 8 12 azal writing-pronouns οὕτως 1 your knowledge Here, **thus** refers back to the series of actions and results in [8:10–11](../08/10.md). If your readers would misunderstand what **thus** refers to, you could clarify that it refers to the previous two verses. Alternate translation: “through your knowledge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 8 12 d8ni grammar-connect-time-simultaneous οὕτως…ἁμαρτάνοντες εἰς τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς, καὶ τύπτοντες αὐτῶν τὴν συνείδησιν ἀσθενοῦσαν, εἰς Χριστὸν ἁμαρτάνετε 1 your knowledge Here Paul means that whenever the Corinthians “sin against” and “wound” their **brothers**, they at the same time **sin against Christ**. If your readers would misunderstand the relationship between **sinning against your brothers and wounding their weak consciences** and **sin against Christ**, you could clarify that they happen at the same time. Alternate translation: “any time you thus sin against your brothers and wound their weak consciences, you at the same time sin against Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 8 12 i5f6 καὶ τύπτοντες 1 your knowledge Alternate translation: “by wounding” or “because you wound”
1CO 8 12 o0w5 figs-gendernotations τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς 1 your knowledge Although the word translated **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If your readers would misunderstand **brothers**, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “your brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 8 12 ti84 figs-metaphor τύπτοντες αὐτῶν τὴν συνείδησιν ἀσθενοῦσαν 1 your knowledge Here Paul speaks as if **consciences** were a body part that could be “wounded.” By speaking in this way, he emphasizes that the Corinthians who have knowledge are hurting the **weak consciences** of other believers as surely as if they had “wounded” their arms or bodies. If your readers would misunderstand **wounding their weak consciences**, you could clarify that Paul means that the Corinthians who have knowledge are “hurting” **weak consciences** or making the **weak consciences** “feel guilty.” Alternate translation: “hurting their weak consciences” or “making their weak consciences feel guilty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 8 12 x857 figs-metaphor τὴν συνείδησιν ἀσθενοῦσαν 1 your knowledge Here, **weak** identifies **consciences** that easily lead people to feel guilty. **Weak consciences** condemn some things that are probably acceptable before God. If your readers would misunderstand **weak**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “sensitive consciences” or “consciences, which often condemn them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 8 13 i8tb figs-personification βρῶμα σκανδαλίζει τὸν ἀδελφόν μου 1 Therefore Here, **food** is spoken of figuratively as though it were a person who could cause someone **to stumble**. Paul speaks in this way to emphasize that the **food** is the key issue that leads to “stumbling.” If this might be confusing for your readers, you could clarify that the person that eats the food causes someone **to stumble**. Alternate translation: “how I eat causes my brother to stumble” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 8 13 seua figs-123person εἰ βρῶμα σκανδαλίζει τὸν ἀδελφόν μου, οὐ μὴ φάγω κρέα εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα 1 Therefore Here Paul uses the first person in order to use himself as an example for the Corinthians to follow. If your readers would misunderstand that this is why Paul uses the first person, you could clarify that Paul is offering himself as an example. Alternate translation: “if food causes my brother to stumble, I for one will certainly not ever eat meat” or “take me as an example: if food causes my brother to stumble, I will certainly not ever eat meat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1CO 8 13 vf92 grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ βρῶμα σκανδαλίζει τὸν ἀδελφόν μου 1 if food causes to stumble Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it will happen at some point. If your language does not state something as a condition if it will happen, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying might not happen, then you could introduce the clause by using a word such as “in cases where” or “since.” Alternate translation: “because food causes my brother to stumble” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
1CO 8 13 eyrr figs-gendernotations τὸν ἀδελφόν -1 Therefore Although the word translated **brother** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to anyone, whether man or woman. If your readers would misunderstand **brother**, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brother or sister … brother or sister” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 8 13 ucfd figs-genericnoun τὸν ἀδελφόν μου -1 Therefore Paul is speaking of “brothers” in general, not of one particular **brother**. If your readers would misunderstand **my brother**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to “brothers” in general. Alternate translation: “any brother of mine … any brother of mine” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 8 13 ra1m figs-doublenegatives οὐ μὴ 1 Therefore The words translated **certainly not** are two negative words. In Paul’s culture, two negative words made the statement even more negative. English speakers would misunderstand two negatives, so the ULT expresses the idea with one strong negative. If your language can use two negatives as Paul’s culture did, you could use a double negative here. If your language does not use two negatives in this way, you could translate with one strong negative, as the ULT does. Alternate translation: “by no means” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 8 13 k5oj figs-explicit κρέα 1 Therefore Throughout this section, the “things sacrificed to idols” refers primarily to **meat**, and eating this kind of **meat** was one of the only ways for most people to eat **meat** at all. Paul here is stating that he will give up **meat** in general, whether it is sacrificed to idols or not. He implies that he does this so that fellow believers, who do not know whether the **meat** has been sacrificed to idols or not, will not stumble. If your readers would misunderstand the implications here, you can make them explicit. Alternate translation: “meat, even if it has not been sacrificed to idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 9 intro z8d4 0 # 1 Corinthians 9 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>5. On food (8:1–11:1)<br> * Paul claims being an apostle (9:1–2)<br> * Paul defends supporting himself (9:3–15)<br> * Paul explains why he supports himself (9:16–23)<br> * Paul the athlete (9:24–27)<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Receiving support from the church<br><br>Throughout the chapter, and especially in [9:1–18](../09/01.md), Paul defends why he does not ask for or receive financial support from the Corinthians. From what he says in [9:3](../09/03.md), it seems that some people were “examining” Paul, and they thought that how Paul supported himself was not appropriate behavior for an apostle. These people thought that if Paul were really an apostle, he would require support from the churches to whom he preached. The fact that Paul did not require this support suggested to these people that Paul did not really have authority. Paul in response argues that he could require support if he wanted to, but he thinks that working to support himself helps him proclaim the gospel better. Throughout the chapter, you can use words that refer to how churches support their leaders financially. <br><br>### The “right”<br><br>In [9:4–6](../09/04.md), [12](../09/12.md), and [18](../09/18.md), Paul speaks about a “right” that he and others have. This “right” can be to travel with a wife, to eat and to drink, and most importantly, to receive support from the Corinthians. Paul uses the word “right” to indicate that he is able to require financial support and other help from the Corinthians. However, he also states that he does use this “right” because he thinks that he is serving God better without making use of it. In your translation, use a word or phrase that indicates that Paul and the others have the authority and the ability to do and require certain things. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/authority]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>In [9:1](../09/01.md), [4–13](../09/04.md), [18](../09/18.md), [24](../09/24.md), Paul uses rhetorical questions. He is not asking these questions because he wants the Corinthians to provide him with information. Rather, he is asking these questions because he wants the Corinthians to think about how they are acting and what they are thinking. The questions encourage them to think along with Paul. For ways to translate these questions, look for the notes on each verse that includes these kinds of questions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>### Farming metaphor<br><br>In [9:9–11](../09/09.md), Paul applies an Old Testament law about farming to himself and others who proclaim the gospel. In [9:11](../09/11.md), he speaks about “sowing spiritual things,” by which he means proclaiming the gospel. When he and others “sow spiritual things,”they should be able to “reap material things,” by which he means financial support. If possible, preserve the farming metaphor here since it is related to the Old Testament law. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>### Athletic metaphors<br><br>In [9:24–27](../09/24.md), Paul uses several metaphors that are based on athletes and athletic competitions. Paul speaks about “running a race” and how the winner receives a “wreath,” which was a crown made out of leaves.He also speaks about “boxing” and how a good boxer does not “box the air.” Finally, he refers to how athletes in general must exercise “self-control”as they train. Paul uses these athletic metaphors to indicate how he and all believers need to focus on the goal, which is the reward that God has promised. To reach this goal, believers must exercise “self-control,” just as athletes do. The point is for believers to live their lives so that they receive the reward from God, just like athletes focus completely on trying to win the prize, the “wreath.” Paul uses these metaphors across se
1CO 9 1 mdm4 figs-rquestion οὐκ εἰμὶ ἐλεύθερος? οὐκ εἰμὶ ἀπόστολος? οὐχὶ Ἰησοῦν τὸν Κύριον ἡμῶν ἑόρακα? οὐ τὸ ἔργον μου ὑμεῖς ἐστε ἐν Κυρίῳ? 1 Am I not free? Paul does not ask these questions because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks them to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The questions assume that the answer to all of them is “yes.” If your readers would misunderstand these questions, you could express the ideas with strong affirmations. Alternate translation: “I certainly am free. I certainly am an apostle. I have certainly seen Jesus our Lord. You are certainly my work in the Lord.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 1 ctp3 figs-explicit ἐλεύθερος 1 Am I not free? Here, **free** could mean that Paul is **free** to: (1) eat whatever he wants. This connects this question with chapter 8. Alternate translation: “free to eat whatever I wish” (2) receive financial support from the believers he serves. This connects this question with the first half of this chapter. Alternate translation: “free to receive support from you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 9 1 dbp9 figs-abstractnouns τὸ ἔργον μου 1 Am I not an apostle? If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **work**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “labor.” Alternate translation: “whom I labor for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 1 l6sq figs-abstractnouns τὸ ἔργον μου 1 Am I not an apostle? Here, **work** refers to the result of the **work**. If your readers would misunderstand **work**, you could clarify that what the **work** produced is the focus here. Alternate translation: “the result of my work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 9 1 re1t figs-metaphor ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Here Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in the Lord** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in the Lord**, or united to the Lord, describes the **work** as what Paul does because of his union with the Lord. Alternate translation: “in union with the Lord” or “that I perform because I am united to the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 2 j6qz figs-hypo εἰ ἄλλοις οὐκ εἰμὶ ἀπόστολος, ἀλλά γε 1 you are the proof of my apostleship in the Lord Here Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that **others** might think he is **not an apostle**, or those people might think he is an apostle. He then specifies the result for if the **others** think that he is **not an apostle**. If this form would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the **if** statement by introducing the statement with “perhaps.” Alternate translation: “Perhaps I am not an apostle to others, but at least” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 9 2 j4k8 figs-abstractnouns ἡ…σφραγίς μου τῆς ἀποστολῆς, ὑμεῖς ἐστε 1 you are the proof of my apostleship in the Lord If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **proof**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “prove” or “show.” Alternate translation: “you prove my apostleship” or “you show that I am an apostle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 2 y2nh figs-possession ἡ…σφραγίς μου τῆς ἀποστολῆς 1 you are the proof of my apostleship in the Lord Here Paul uses the possessive form to speak about a **proof** that shows his **apostleship**. If your language does not use this form to express that meaning, you could express the idea by using a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “what proves my apostleship” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 9 2 gxhr figs-abstractnouns μου τῆς ἀποστολῆς 1 you are the proof of my apostleship in the Lord If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **apostleship**, you could express the idea by using a verbal phrase such as “I am an apostle.” Alternate translation: “that I am an apostle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 2 z5sb figs-metaphor ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 you are the proof of my apostleship in the Lord Here Paul uses the spatial metaphor **in the Lord** to describe the union of believers with Christ. In this case, being **in the Lord**, or united to the Lord, describes the **proof** that the Corinthians provide as something that happens in union with the Lord. Alternate translation: “in union with the Lord” or “as you are united to the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 3 yb0x figs-metaphor ἡ ἐμὴ ἀπολογία τοῖς ἐμὲ ἀνακρίνουσίν 1 This is my defense … me: Here Paul uses language that would normally be used in the legal courts. The **defense** is what the person accused would say to prove their innocence. Those **who examine** are the ones who are in charge of the court and make the decisions about who is guilty and who is innocent. Paul uses this metaphor to explain that he is defending himself against people who have accused him of acting wrongly. If your readers would misunderstand the legal metaphor, you could express the idea non-figuratively or with a comparable metaphor. Alternate translation: “My answer to those who accuse me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 3 ktze figs-abstractnouns ἡ ἐμὴ ἀπολογία τοῖς 1 This is my defense … me: If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **defense**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “defend.” Alternate translation: “What I say to defend myself against those” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 3 l2n5 figs-explicit τοῖς ἐμὲ ἀνακρίνουσίν 1 This is my defense … me: Here Paul does not state how **those who examine** him think he has acted wrongly. The previous verse suggests that it relates to his “apostleship” ([6:21](../06/21.md)). Paul intentionally does not state the “charge” against him, so leave it unstated if possible. If you must state what the “charge” against Paul is, you could clarify that it relates to whether he is truly an apostle or not. Alternate translation: “to those who examine me about my apostleship” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 9 3 b17x writing-pronouns αὕτη 1 This is my defense … me: Here, **this** refers to what Paul is about to say, most likely including everything in the rest of this chapter. If your readers would misunderstand **this**, you could use a normal form in your language to speak about what you are about to say. Alternate translation: “what I am about to say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 9 4 mr4g figs-rquestion μὴ οὐκ ἔχομεν ἐξουσίαν φαγεῖν καὶ πεῖν? 1 Do we not have the right to eat and drink? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes, you do.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong affirmation. Alternate translation: “We most definitely have the right to eat and to drink.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 4 ninf figs-doublenegatives μὴ οὐκ 1 Do we not have the right to eat and drink? The words translated **certainly not** are two negative words. In Paul’s culture, two negative words made the statement even more negative. English speakers would misunderstand two negatives, so the ULT expresses the idea with one strong negative. If your language can use two negatives as Paul’s culture did, you could use a double negative here. If your language does not use two negatives in this way, you could translate with one strong negative, as the ULT does. Alternate translation: “by no means” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 9 4 p4vq figs-exclusive ἔχομεν 1 we … have Here, **we** refers to Paul and Barnabas (see [9:6](../09/06.md)). It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 9 4 h0c3 figs-abstractnouns ἔχομεν ἐξουσίαν 1 we … have If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **right**, you could express the idea by using a verbal phrase such as “are able to” or “can require.” Alternate translation: “Are we … able to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 4 i6tk figs-metonymy φαγεῖν καὶ πεῖν 1 we … have Here, **to eat and to drink** refers not primarily to the physical process of “eating” and “drinking.” Rather, the phrase refers primarily to what is needed **to eat and to drink**, that is, food and drink. Paul is saying that he and Barnabas have **the right** to receive food and drink so that they can **eat** and **drink**. If your readers would misunderstand **to eat and to drink**, you could clarify that Paul refers to “food” and “drink.” Alternate translation: “to food to eat and beverages to drink” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 9 4 e45j figs-explicit φαγεῖν καὶ πεῖν 1 we … have Although Paul does not explicitly say this, he implies that **we** have the **right** to receive the food and drink from the Corinthians. If your readers would misunderstand what Paul is saying, you could clarify that the food **to eat** and the beverages **to drink** would have come from the Corinthians in support of Paul’s work. Alternate translation: “to be supported by you so that we can eat and drink” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 9 5 s9k8 figs-rquestion μὴ οὐκ ἔχομεν ἐξουσίαν ἀδελφὴν, γυναῖκα περιάγειν, ὡς καὶ οἱ λοιποὶ ἀπόστολοι, καὶ οἱ ἀδελφοὶ τοῦ Κυρίου, καὶ Κηφᾶς? 1 Do we not have the right to take along with us a wife who is a believer, as do the rest of the apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes, you do.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong affirmation. Alternate translation: “We certainly do have the right to take along a believing wife, even as the rest of the apostles and the brothers of the Lord and Cephas.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 5 x2jm figs-exclusive ἔχομεν 1 Do we not have the right to take along with us a wife who is a believer, as do the rest of the apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas? Here, **we** refers to Paul and Barnabas (see [9:6](../09/06.md)). It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 9 5 zmsx figs-doublenegatives μὴ οὐκ 1 Do we not have the right to take along with us a wife who is a believer, as do the rest of the apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas? The words translated **certainly not** are two negative words. In Paul’s culture, two negative words made the statement even more negative. English speakers would misunderstand two negatives, so the ULT expresses the idea with one strong negative. If your language can use two negatives as Paul’s culture did, you could use a double negative here. If your language does not use two negatives in this way, you could translate with one strong negative, as the ULT does. Alternate translation: “by no means” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 9 5 s7gs figs-abstractnouns ἔχομεν ἐξουσίαν 1 Do we not have the right to take along with us a wife who is a believer, as do the rest of the apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas? If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **right**, you could express the idea by using a verbal phrase such as “are able to” or “can require.” Alternate translation: “Are we … able to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 5 hw7f translate-unknown περιάγειν 1 Do we not have the right to take along with us a wife who is a believer, as do the rest of the apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas? Here, **to take along** refers to journeying with someone as a companion. If your readers would misunderstand **to take along**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to traveling with someone else. Alternate translation: “to travel with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 5 bpbf οἱ λοιποὶ ἀπόστολοι, καὶ οἱ ἀδελφοὶ τοῦ Κυρίου, καὶ Κηφᾶς 1 Do we not have the right to take along with us a wife who is a believer, as do the rest of the apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas? Here, **apostles** could include: (1) Paul and Barnabas, the **brothers of the Lord**, **Cephas**, and many others who proclaimed the good news. Alternate translation: “the rest of the apostles, including the brothers of the Lord and Cephas” (2) just the “Twelve” primary **apostles**, which would include **Cephas** but not the **brothers of the Lord**. Alternate translation: “the rest of the twelve apostles and the brothers of the Lord—even Cephas”
1CO 9 5 snio οἱ λοιποὶ ἀπόστολοι, καὶ οἱ ἀδελφοὶ τοῦ Κυρίου, καὶ Κηφᾶς 1 Do we not have the right to take along with us a wife who is a believer, as do the rest of the apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas? Even though **Cephas** was one of the **apostles**, Paul mentions him separately to emphasize him as an example. He has already used Cephas as an example earlier in the letter (see [1:12](../01/12.md); [3:22](../03/22.md)). Perhaps the Corinthians were comparing **Cephas** and Paul. Be sure that the wording of your translation does not suggest that **Cephas** was not an apostle. Alternate translation: “the rest of the apostles and the brothers of the Lord—even Cephas”
1CO 9 5 hnbw translate-kinship οἱ ἀδελφοὶ τοῦ Κυρίου 1 Do we not have the right to take along with us a wife who is a believer, as do the rest of the apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas? These were Jesus’ younger brothers. They were sons of Mary and Joseph. Since the Father of Jesus was God, and their father was Joseph, they were actually his half-brothers. That detail is not normally translated, but if your language has a specific word for “younger brother,” you can use it here. Alternate translation: “the younger brothers of the Lord” or “the half-brothers of the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]])
1CO 9 5 y3g0 translate-names Κηφᾶς 1 Do we not have the right to take along with us a wife who is a believer, as do the rest of the apostles, and the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas? **Cephas** is the name of a man. It is another name for “Peter,” the apostle. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 9 6 za87 grammar-connect-words-phrases ἢ μόνος ἐγὼ καὶ Βαρναβᾶς, οὐκ ἔχομεν 1 Or is it only Barnabas and I who do not have the right not to work? The word **Or** introduces an alternate to what Paul asked in [9:4–5](../09/04.md). Paul already spoke about what he thinks is true: he and Barnabas do “have the right” to receive food and drink, and they “have the right” to travel with a wife. Here Paul gives the incorrect alternative: they alone do not **have the right not to work**. He introduces this incorrect alternate to show that his earlier statements must be true. If your readers would misunderstood **Or**, you could use a word that signifies a contrast or gives an alternative. Alternate translation: “Otherwise, would it not be true that only Barnabas and I do not have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 9 6 wx1p figs-rquestion ἢ μόνος ἐγὼ καὶ Βαρναβᾶς, οὐκ ἔχομεν ἐξουσίαν μὴ ἐργάζεσθαι? 1 Or is it only Barnabas and I who do not have the right not to work? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “no, you do have the right.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong statement. Alternate translation: “Barnabas and I too certainly have the right not to work.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 6 j84g figs-doublenegatives οὐκ ἔχομεν ἐξουσίαν μὴ ἐργάζεσθαι 1 Or is it only Barnabas and I who do not have the right not to work? Paul here includes **not** twice. In his culture, two negative words made the statement even more negative. English speakers can understand two negatives here, so the ULT expresses the idea with both. If your language can use two negatives as Paul’s culture did, you could use a double negative here. If your language does not use two negatives in this way, you could translate with one negative and express the other negative by stating the opposite. Alternate translation: “do … lack the right not to work” or “do … not have the right to refrain from working” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 9 6 o8ok figs-abstractnouns ἔχομεν ἐξουσίαν 1 Or is it only Barnabas and I who do not have the right not to work? If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind right, you could express the idea by using a verbal phrase such as “are able to” or “can require.” Alternate translation: “are … able” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 6 ngpd figs-explicit μὴ ἐργάζεσθαι 1 Or is it only Barnabas and I who do not have the right not to work? Here Paul refers to the privilege of receiving financial support from churches so that the person serving Christ does not have **to work**. If your readers would misunderstand what Paul is speaking about, you could clarify that receiving aid from others is in view here. Alternate translation: “to receive financial support” or “not to work because believers support us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 9 7 f3qf figs-rquestion τίς στρατεύεται ἰδίοις ὀψωνίοις ποτέ? τίς φυτεύει ἀμπελῶνα, καὶ τὸν καρπὸν αὐτοῦ οὐκ ἐσθίει? ἢ τίς ποιμαίνει ποίμνην, καὶ ἐκ τοῦ γάλακτος τῆς ποίμνης, οὐκ ἐσθίει? 1 Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? Paul does not ask these questions because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks them to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The questions assume that the answer to all of them is “no one.” If your readers would misunderstand these questions, you could express the ideas with strong negations. Alternate translation: “No one serves as a soldier at any time at his own expense. No one plants a vineyard and does not eat its fruit. No one shepherds a flock and does not drink from the milk of the flock.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 7 zh5m figs-gendernotations ἰδίοις 1 Who plants a vineyard and does not eat its fruit? Here, **his** is masculine because most soldiers in Paul’s culture were male. However, Paul is not emphasizing the gender of soldiers here. If your readers would misunderstand **his**, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “his or her own” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 9 7 r1ih translate-unknown ἰδίοις ὀψωνίοις 1 Or who tends a flock and does not drink milk from it? Here, **expense** refers to the cost of food, weapons, and lodging for a solider to “serve.” Paul’s point is that soldiers do not pay these costs. Rather, the one who controls the army pays these costs. If your readers would misunderstand **expense**, you could clarify that it refers to the costs of maintaining an army. Alternate translation: “by paying for his own cost of living” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 8 jld4 figs-rquestion μὴ κατὰ ἄνθρωπον, ταῦτα λαλῶ 1 Am I not saying these things according to human authority? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “no, you are not.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong negation. If you do so, you will need to separate the first half of the verse from the second half. Alternate translation: “I am not saying these things according to men.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 8 igpe figs-gendernotations ἄνθρωπον 1 Am I not saying these things according to human authority? Although the word translated **men** is masculine, Paul is using it to refer to any humans, whether men or women. If your readers would misunderstand **men**, you could use a non-gendered word or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “men and women” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 9 8 drqe figs-gendernotations κατὰ ἄνθρωπον 1 Am I not saying these things according to human authority? Here, Paul speaks **saying** things **according to men**. By using this phrase, he wishes to identify arguments that people who think and act in only human ways make. If the phrase **according to men** would be misunderstood in your language, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that refers to what people who do not believe say and argue. Alternate translation: “according to what mere humans argue” or “according to this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 9 8 tdze writing-pronouns ταῦτα -1 Am I not saying these things according to human authority? In both places it appears, **these things** refers back to what Paul has said in [9:3–7](../09/03.md) about his “right” to receive financial support from the Corinthians. If your readers would misunderstand **these things**, you could use a word or phrase that clearly refers back to what has already been said. Alternate translation: “those things … those things” or “what I have said … what I have said” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 9 8 ou7a grammar-connect-words-phrases ἢ 1 Or does not the law also say this? The word **or** introduces an alternate to what Paul says in the first half of the verse. Paul could be **saying these things according to men**. However, with **or** he introduces what he thinks is actually true: **the law also** says **these things**. If your readers would misunderstood **or**, you could use a word that signifies a contrast or gives an alternative. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to end the first half of the sentence with its own question mark. Alternate translation: “Instead,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 9 8 vy1n figs-rquestion ἢ καὶ ὁ νόμος ταῦτα οὐ λέγει? 1 Or does not the law also say this? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes, the law says these things.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong statement. If you do so, you will need to separate the second half of the verse from the first half. Alternate translation: “No, the law also says these things.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 8 spqj translate-unknown ὁ νόμος 1 Or does not the law also say this? Here, **the law** refers specifically to the first five books of the Old Testament, often called the Pentateuch. Often, these books are called “the law of Moses.”Make sure your readers can tell that Paul is referring to this specific **law** here. Alternate translation: “the Pentateuch” or “Moses’ law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 9 lf1q writing-quotations ἐν γὰρ τῷ Μωϋσέως νόμῳ, γέγραπται 1 Do not put a muzzle on In Paul’s culture, **For it is written** is a normal way to introduce a quotation from an important text. In this case, Paul clarifies that the quote comes from **the law of Moses**. It is specifically from [Deuteronomy 25:4](deu/25/04.md). If your readers would misunderstand how Paul introduces the quotation, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “For it can be read in the law of Moses” or “For the book of Deuteronomy in the law of Moses says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 9 9 fks6 figs-quotations Μωϋσέως…οὐ φιμώσεις βοῦν ἀλοῶντα 1 Do not put a muzzle on If your language does not use this form, you could translate the command as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. Alternate translation: “of Moses that you should not muzzle an ox treading out grain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 9 9 h2d3 figs-yousingular οὐ φιμώσεις 1 Do not put a muzzle on The command from **the law of Moses** is addressed to specific individuals. Because of this, the command is addressed to “you” in the singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
1CO 9 9 kvxh translate-unknown οὐ φιμώσεις βοῦν ἀλοῶντα 1 Do not put a muzzle on In Paul’s culture, farmers often would make **oxen** walk or “tread” on harvested wheat to separate the kernels of grain from the wheat stalks. Some people would **muzzle an ox** while it is **treading out grain** in order to keep the **ox** from eating the **grain**. The point of the command is that the **ox** should be allowed to eat what it is working to produce: the **grain**. If your readers would not understand what this command is about, you could include a footnote explaining the context or add a short clarifying phrase. Alternate translation: “Do not muzzle an ox to keep it from eating the grain it is treading out” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 9 sxk2 figs-rquestion μὴ τῶν βοῶν μέλει τῷ Θεῷ? 1 Is it really the oxen that God cares about? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “no, he does not.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong negation. Alternate translation: “God does not care about the oxen.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 9 pdqe figs-hyperbole μὴ τῶν βοῶν μέλει τῷ Θεῷ? 1 Is it really the oxen that God cares about? Here Paul speaks as if God has no concern or interest in **oxen**. The Corinthians would have understood him to mean that the primary intent of the command he quotes is not about caring for oxen but rather caring for something or someone else. He specifies what the primary intent of the command is in the next verse: it is **for our sake** ([9:9](../09/09.md)). If your readers would misunderstand what Paul is arguing here, you could soften Paul’s question so that it argues that the command is not “primarily” or “mostly” about **oxen**. If possible, however, maintain the strength of Paul’s statement, since he offers an explanation in the next verse. Alternate translation: “God does not mostly care about the oxen, does he” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 9 10 frkk grammar-connect-words-phrases ἢ 1 Or is he speaking entirely for our sake? The word **Or** introduces an alternate to what Paul says at the end of the previous verse ([9:9](../09/09.md)). In that verse, he has argued that “God does not care about the oxen.” Since that is not true, the **or** introduces what Paul thinks is actually true: the law is **entirely for our sake**. If your readers would misunderstood **Or**, you could use a word that signifies a contrast or gives an alternative. Alternate translation: “On the other hand,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 9 10 x84t figs-rquestion ἢ δι’ ἡμᾶς πάντως λέγει? 1 Or is he speaking entirely for our sake? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes, he is.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong statement. Alternate translation: “Actually, he is speaking entirely for our sake.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 10 b1tg writing-pronouns λέγει 1 Or is he speaking entirely for our sake? Here, **he** refers back to “God” in [9:9](../09/09.md). Paul assumes that God is the one who is **speaking** in the passage he quoted in the last verse. If your readers would misunderstand **he**, you could clarify that it refers to God speaking the “law of Moses.” Alternate translation: “is God speaking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 9 10 f8f4 figs-exclusive δι’ ἡμᾶς -1 for our sake Here, **our** could refer to (1) everyone who believes, including the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “for the sake of us who believe … for the sake of us who believe” (2) Paul, Barnabas, and others who proclaim the good news. Alternate translation: “for the sake of us who proclaim the gospel … for the sake of us who proclaim the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 9 10 evv4 figs-activepassive ἐγράφη 1 for our sake If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “Moses” did it. Alternate translation: “Moses wrote it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 9 10 d1cn grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 for our sake Here, **that** could introduce (1) the reason why **it was written**. Alternate translation: “because” (2) a summary of the content of what **was written**. If you use the following alternate translation, you may need to add a comma before it. Alternate translation: “and it means that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 9 10 c42y figs-genericnoun ὁ ἀροτριῶν…ὁ ἀλοῶν 1 for our sake Paul is speaking of these people in general, not of one particular person who **plows** or **threshes**. If your readers would misunderstand this form, you could use a form that refers to people in general. Alternate translation: “anyone who plows … anyone who threshes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1CO 9 10 bdlk figs-abstractnouns ἐπ’ ἐλπίδι…ἐπ’ ἐλπίδι τοῦ μετέχειν 1 for our sake If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **hope**, you could express the idea by using an adverb such as “hopefully” or a verb such as “expect.” Alternate translation: “hopefully … hopefully expecting to share the harvest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 10 pas5 figs-ellipsis ἐπ’ ἐλπίδι 1 for our sake Here Paul does not mention what the **hope** expects because he states it at the end of the verse: **sharing the harvest**. If your readers would misunderstand that **sharing the harvest** is what the **hope** expects here, you could state it explicitly. Alternate translation: “in hope of sharing the harvest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 9 10 q1q2 figs-ellipsis ὁ ἀλοῶν ἐπ’ ἐλπίδι 1 for our sake Here Paul omits some words that your language may require to make a complete thought. Paul omits these words because he stated them explicitly in the previous clause (**ought to plow**). If your language does need these words, you can supply them from that clause. Alternate translation: “the one who threshes ought to thresh in hope” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 9 11 zn5m figs-metaphor εἰ ἡμεῖς ὑμῖν τὰ πνευματικὰ ἐσπείραμεν, μέγα εἰ ἡμεῖς ὑμῶν τὰ σαρκικὰ θερίσομεν? 1 is it too much for us to reap material things from you? In this verse, Paul applies the farming language he used in [9:9–10](../09/09.md). When he and Barnabas “sow,” they should also “reap” the harvest. Paul clarifies that what they **sowed** was **spiritual things**, which means the good news. The **material things** that they can **reap** are money and support from the Corinthians. If your reader would misunderstand this application of the farming language, you could use analogies to clarify what Paul is referring to or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “Similarly, if we told you about the good news, {is it} too much if we receive material support from you?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 11 b5g9 figs-exclusive ἡμεῖς -1 is it too much for us to reap material things from you? Here, **we** refers particularly to Paul and Barnabas. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 9 11 jpjj grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ 1 is it too much for us to reap material things from you? Paul is speaking as if **we** “sowing spiritual things” were a possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “Since” or “Given that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
1CO 9 11 g1wh figs-rquestion μέγα εἰ ἡμεῖς ὑμῶν τὰ σαρκικὰ θερίσομεν? 1 is it too much for us to reap material things from you? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “no, it is not.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong negation. Alternate translation: “it is certainly not too much if we will reap material things from you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 11 czcs figs-hypo εἰ 2 is it too much for us to reap material things from you? Here Paul uses **if** to introduce a true possibility. He means that **we will reap material things from you** or **we** might not. He specifies the result for if **we** do **reap material things**. If your readers would misunderstand this form, you could express the **if** statement by introducing it with a word such as “whenever” or “that.” Alternate translation: “that” or “whenever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 9 12 v333 grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ 1 If others exercised this right Paul is speaking as if **others** “sharing” **the right over you** were a possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “Since” or “Given that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
1CO 9 12 z3mr figs-explicit τῆς ὑμῶν ἐξουσίας μετέχουσιν 1 If others exercised this right While Paul does not directly state this, the Corinthians would have understood **right** to refer to the **right** to receive financial support. If your readers would not understand **right** in this way, you could express the idea more clearly. Alternate translation: “shared the right to financial support from you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 9 12 cr62 figs-abstractnouns τῆς ὑμῶν ἐξουσίας μετέχουσιν…ἡμεῖς…τῇ ἐξουσίᾳ ταύτῃ 1 If others exercised this right If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **right**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “able to.” If you do so, you may need to express an object, which here is receiving financial support. Alternate translation: “were able to require financial support from you, {are} we … being able to require financial support from you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 12 lld4 figs-rquestion οὐ μᾶλλον ἡμεῖς? 1 If others exercised this right over you, should we not even more? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes, you do.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong affirmation. Alternate translation: “we certainly do even more.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 12 po30 figs-ellipsis οὐ μᾶλλον ἡμεῖς 1 If others exercised this right over you, should we not even more? Here Paul omits some words that may be required in your language to make a complete thought. If your language needs theses words, you could supply them from the first half of the sentence. Alternate translation: “{do} we not share the right even more” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 9 12 ybwy figs-exclusive ἡμεῖς…ἐχρησάμεθα…στέγομεν…δῶμεν 1 Here, **we** refers to Paul and Barnabas. It does not include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 9 12 nr6u figs-explicit πάντα στέγομεν 1 others Here Paul refers to what he and Barnabas had to “endure” because they did not **take advantage** of receiving financial aid from the Corinthians. They had to work to support themselves, and they probably had to go without as much food and supplies as they would have liked. Some of the hardships that Paul and Barnabas endured appear in [4:10–13](../04/10.md). If your readers would misunderstand **endured everything**, you could make what **everything** refers to more explicit. Alternate translation: “we endured serving without financial support” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 9 12 q7vj figs-idiom μή τινα ἐνκοπὴν δῶμεν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ 1 this right In Paul’s culture, to **give** a **hindrance** means to “hinder” or to “block” something. Paul means that he would rather “endure everything” than hinder **the gospel**. If your readers would misunderstand **give any hindrance**, you could express the idea in a form that is more natural in your language. Alternate translation: “we might not hinder the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 9 12 prci figs-abstractnouns μή τινα ἐνκοπὴν δῶμεν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ 1 this right If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **hindrance**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “hinder.” Alternate translation: “we might not hinder the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 13 slf9 figs-rquestion οὐκ οἴδατε ὅτι οἱ τὰ ἱερὰ ἐργαζόμενοι, τὰ ἐκ τοῦ ἱεροῦ ἐσθίουσιν; οἱ τῷ θυσιαστηρίῳ παρεδρεύοντες, τῷ θυσιαστηρίῳ συνμερίζονται? 1 Do you not know that those who serve in the temple eat from the things of the temple Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes, we know.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong affirmation. Alternate translation: “You know that those working in the temple eat from the things of the temple; those serving at the altar partake from the altar.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 13 pq05 figs-explicit οἱ τὰ ἱερὰ ἐργαζόμενοι 1 Do you not know that those who serve in the temple eat from the things of the temple Here, **those working in the temple** refers to any person whose job takes place in or around the temple. Paul may specifically have the “Levites” or other “temple servants”in mind. If your readers would misunderstand **those working in the temple**, you could use a word or phrase in your language that refers generally to anyone whose job is **in the temple**. Alternate translation: “the temple servants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 9 13 ergc translate-unknown τὰ ἐκ τοῦ ἱεροῦ 1 Do you not know that those who serve in the temple eat from the things of the temple Here, to eat **from the things of the temple** means that these people eat some of the food that people donate to the **temple** or offer to God in **the temple**. If **the things of the temple** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to what people have offered or given to **the temple**. Alternate translation: “from what people give to the temple” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 13 omzu οἱ τῷ θυσιαστηρίῳ παρεδρεύοντες 1 Do you not know that those who serve in the temple eat from the things of the temple Here, **those serving at the altar** could be: (1) a specific group within **those working in the temple**, specifically the priests who work at the altar. Alternate translation: “particularly, those serving at the altar” (2) another way to speak about **those working in the temple**. Paul repeats himself to clarify exactly what eating ** from the things of the temple** means. Alternate translation: “that is, those serving at the altar”
1CO 9 13 fxxi figs-explicit οἱ τῷ θυσιαστηρίῳ παρεδρεύοντες 1 Do you not know that those who serve in the temple eat from the things of the temple Here, **those serving at the altar** refers to the specific people who offered sacrifices on **the altar**. Paul may specifically have in mind the “priests.”If your readers would misunderstand **those serving at the altar**, you could use a word or phrase for the people who have the closest contact with the deity and offer any sacrifices to that deity. Alternate translation: “the priests” or “those who serve the most sacred things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 9 13 lqar translate-unknown τῷ θυσιαστηρίῳ συνμερίζονται 1 Do you not know that those who serve in the temple eat from the things of the temple Here, to **partake from the altar** means that these people offer part of a sacrifice on the altar, but they also eat part of that sacrifice. If to **partake from the altar** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a word or phrase that refers to eating part of what people offer to their god. Alternate translation: “eat part of what is sacrificed on the altar” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 14 g5i8 figs-explicit ὁ Κύριος διέταξεν 1 get their living from the gospel Here Paul refers to how Jesus said that a “worker deserves wages” when he sent people to proclaim the good news. See the saying in [Matthew 10:10](mat/10/10.md) and [Luke 10:7](luk/10/7.md). If your readers would misunderstand what Paul is saying here, you could include a footnote to explain the reference to what Jesus said. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 9 14 tuiy figs-idiom ἐκ…ζῆν 1 get their living from the gospel Here, **to live from** identifies how a person supported themselves and acquired food and other necessities. For example, **to live from** carpentry would mean that the person makes money to pay for food and housing by doing carpentry. If your readers would misunderstand **to live from**, you could use a word or phrase in your language that refers to how a person makes a living or supports themselves. Alternate translation: “to support themselves on” or “to receive their income from” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 9 14 rj38 figs-metonymy τοῦ εὐαγγελίου 1 get their living from the gospel Here, **the gospel** refers to: (1) the job or occupation of proclaiming **the gospel**. Alternate translation: “preaching the gospel” (2) the people who hear and believe in **the gospel**. Alternate translation: “those who believe the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 9 15 fs7a translate-unknown οὐ κέχρημαι 1 these rights Here, **taken advantage of** refers to “making use of” a resource or “requiring” a specific behavior. If your readers would misunderstand **taken advantage of**, you could use a comparable phrase. Alternate translation: “have not made use of” or “have not required you to provide” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 15 j8zn figs-doublenegatives οὐ κέχρημαι οὐδενὶ 1 these rights Here Paul uses two negative words: “have not taken advantage of none.” In Paul’s culture, two negative words made the statement even more negative. English speakers would misunderstand these two negatives, so the ULT expresses the idea with one strong negative. If your language can use two negatives as Paul’s culture did, you could use a double negative here. If your language does not use two negatives in this way, you could translate with one strong negative, as the ULT does. Alternate translation: “have by no means taken advantage of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 9 15 wese writing-pronouns τούτων 1 these rights Here, **these things** could refer to: (1) the “right” or “rights” that Paul has to financial support from the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “of these rights” (2) all the reasons he has given in [9:6–14](../09/06.md) for why those who proclaim the gospel can receive financial support. Alternate translation: “of these reasons” or “of these arguments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 9 15 u9my figs-pastforfuture οὐκ ἔγραψα 1 these rights Here Paul refers to 1 Corinthians itself, the letter he is currently writing. Use whatever tense in your language would be appropriate to refer to the letter itself. Alternate translation: “I have not written” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
1CO 9 15 ygaz writing-pronouns ταῦτα 1 these rights Here Paul refers to what he has already written, especially to [9:6–14](../09/06.md). Use a form in your language that refers back to things that have just been said. Alternate translation: “those things” or “what I have just written” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 9 15 vf7d writing-pronouns οὕτως γένηται 1 these rights Here, **thus** refers to receiving financial support from the Corinthians. If your readers would misunderstand **thus**, you could use a word or phrase that more clearly refers to receiving financial support. Alternate translation: “these things might be done” or “support might be given” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 9 15 sy42 figs-activepassive γένηται ἐν ἐμοί 1 so that this might be done for me If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who does the action, Paul implies that “you,” the Corinthians, would do it. Alternate translation: “you might do for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 9 15 fd69 figs-metaphor τὸ καύχημά μου…κενώσει 1 deprive me of my boasting Here Paul speaks as if a **boast** was a container that someone could make **empty**. By speaking in this way, Paul means that someone could take away what he boasts about. If your readers would misunderstand **make my boast empty**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “will remove my reason for boasting” or “will deflate my boast” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 15 rl1y figs-abstractnouns τὸ καύχημά μου 1 deprive me of my boasting If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **boast**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “boast.” Alternate translation: “what I boast about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 16 lq4l figs-infostructure ἐὰν…εὐαγγελίζωμαι, οὐκ ἔστιν μοι καύχημα, ἀνάγκη γάρ μοι ἐπίκειται 1 this necessity was placed upon me If your language would normally put the reason before the result, you could rearrange the order of these clauses. Alternate translation: “because compulsion is placed on me, there is nothing for me to boast about if I proclaim the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 9 16 xpve grammar-connect-condition-fact ἐὰν 1 this necessity was placed upon me Paul is speaking as if “proclaiming” **the gospel** were a possibility, but he means that he actually does. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “when” or “whenever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
1CO 9 16 ecw2 figs-activepassive ἀνάγκη…ἐπίκειται 1 this necessity was placed upon me If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God placed compulsion” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 9 16 qyp0 figs-abstractnouns ἀνάγκη…μοι ἐπίκειται 1 this necessity was placed upon me If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **compulsion**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “compel” and rephrase the clause. Alternate translation: “I am compelled to do so” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])<br>
1CO 9 16 eimr figs-metaphor ἀνάγκη…μοι ἐπίκειται 1 this necessity was placed upon me Here Paul speaks as if **compulsion** were a physical object that someone had **placed upon** him. By speaking in this way, he means that he is required to do something. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “I am commanded to do so” or “I have an obligation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 16 l7as figs-idiom οὐαὶ…μοί ἐστιν 1 woe be to me if Here, **woe be to me** expresses what Paul thinks would happen to him if he ever were to stop preaching the gospel. He would experience **woe**, with the implication that this **woe** will come from God. If your readers would misunderstand **woe be to me**, you could use a word or phrase that expresses the expectation of bad things to come. Alternate translation: “bad things will happen to me” or “God will punish me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 9 16 p1sa grammar-connect-condition-contrary ἐὰν μὴ εὐαγγελίζωμαι 1 woe be to me if Paul is making a conditional statement that sounds hypothetical, but he is already convinced that the condition is not true. He knows that he does indeed **preach the gospel**. Use a natural form in your language for introducing a condition that the speaker believes is not true. Alternate translation: “whenever I stop preaching the gospel, which I will never do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]])
1CO 9 17 d7l9 figs-hypo εἰ…ἑκὼν τοῦτο πράσσω…εἰ…ἄκων 1 if I do this willingly Here Paul uses **if** to introduce two possibilities. He means that he might **do this willingly**, or he might do it **unwillingly**. He specifies a result for each option, but he implies that he does it **unwillingly** (see the “compulsion” in [9:16](../09/16.md)). If your readers would misunderstand this form, you could express the **if** statements in a natural way in your language, such as by introducing them with “whenever.” Alternate translation: “were I to do this willingly … were it unwillingly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 9 17 jtwy writing-pronouns τοῦτο πράσσω 1 if I do this willingly Here, **this** refers back to “preaching the gospel” in [9:16](../09/16.md). If your readers would misunderstand **this**, you could clarify what it refers to. Alternate translation: “I preach the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 9 17 x6s9 translate-unknown ἑκὼν…ἄκων 1 if I do this willingly Here, **willingly** means that someone does something because they choose to, while **unwillingly** means that someone has to do something whether they choose to or not. If your readers would misunderstand **willingly** and **unwillingly**, you could express the idea by using two contrasting words that refer to whether someone chooses to do something or not. Alternate translation: “because I choose to … I do not choose to do it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 17 gkxi figs-abstractnouns μισθὸν ἔχω 1 if I do this willingly If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **reward**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “reward” or “compensate.” Alternate translation: “I am compensated for it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 17 gteh figs-infostructure εἰ δὲ ἄκων, οἰκονομίαν πεπίστευμαι. 1 But if not willingly This sentence could: (1) include both the “if” and the “then” statements and explain how Paul preaching the gospel is “unwilling.” He did not choose this **stewardship**, and so he does it **unwillingly**. However, the reason he does preach the gospel is because he has **been entrusted with** that **stewardship**. Alternate translation: “But if unwillingly, I do this because I have been entrusted with a stewardship” (2) express the “if” statement for the question (the “then” statement) at the beginning of the next verse ([9:18](../09/18.md)). The word **unwillingly** would modify **entrusted**, and you would need to connect the end of this verse and the beginning of the next verse with a comma, dropping the capitalization on “What.” Alternate translation: “But I have been unwillingly entrusted with a stewardship,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 9 17 t8pm figs-ellipsis εἰ δὲ ἄκων 1 But if not willingly Here Paul omits some words that your language may require to make a complete thought. Paul omits these words because he stated them explicitly in the previous clause (**I do this**). If your language does need these words, you can supply them from that clause. Alternate translation: “But if I do this unwillingly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 9 17 xa5p figs-activepassive πεπίστευμαι 1 I have been entrusted with a stewardship If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God has entrusted me with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 9 17 kjgf figs-abstractnouns οἰκονομίαν 1 I have been entrusted with a stewardship If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **stewardship**, you could express the idea by using a phrase with a verb such as “oversee” or “do.” Alternate translation: “something to do” or “a task to oversee” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 18 lg51 figs-rquestion τίς οὖν μού ἐστιν ὁ μισθός? 1 What then is my reward? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the following words are the answer. If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea by using a construction that introduces what follows as the **reward**. Alternate translation: “This, then, is my reward:” or “Here, then, is my reward:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 18 pfw2 figs-abstractnouns μού…ὁ μισθός 1 What then is my reward? If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **reward**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “reward” or “compensate.” Alternate translation: “how God rewards me” or “how God compensates me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 18 ia5x grammar-connect-time-simultaneous εὐαγγελιζόμενος ἀδάπανον, θήσω 1 That when I preach, I may offer the gospel without charge Here, **proclaiming the gospel without charge** describes how Paul wishes to **offer** the gospel. The phrase **proclaiming the gospel without charge** could: (1) provide the means by which Paul **might offer**. Alternate translation: “by proclaiming the gospel without charge, I might offer” (2) give the situations in which Paul “offers” the gospel without taking **advantage of** his **right**. Alternate translation: “whenever I proclaim the gospel without charge, I offer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1CO 9 18 o3ju translate-unknown ἀδάπανον 1 That when I preach, I may offer the gospel without charge Here, **without charge** means that something is free to the person who receives it. Paul is stating that the **gospel** is “free” or “at no cost” for those whom he preaches to. If your readers would misunderstand **without cost**, you could use a word or phrase that indicates that something is “free” or “without cost.”Alternate translation: “freely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 18 dln7 figs-idiom θήσω τὸ εὐαγγέλιον 1 offer the gospel Here, to **offer the gospel** means to tell people about the gospel so that they have the chance to believe in it. If your readers would misunderstand **offer the gospel**, you could use a comparable phrase. Alternate translation: “I might present the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 9 18 ft7p translate-unknown καταχρήσασθαι τῇ ἐξουσίᾳ μου 1 offer the gospel Here, **to take advantage** of something means to use that thing for one’s own benefit. Here Paul could use the word: (1) negatively, which would mean that Paul does not want to abuse his **right**. Alternate translation: “to abuse my right” or “to exploit my right” (2) positively, which would mean that Paul does not want to make use of the **right**, even though it would be fine to do so. Alternate translation: “”to make use of my right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 18 fn7i figs-abstractnouns τῇ ἐξουσίᾳ μου 1 so not take full use of my right in the gospel If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **right**, you could express the idea by using a verbal phrase such as “are able to” or “can require.” Alternate translation: “of what I can require” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 9 18 ziyb figs-metaphor ἐν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ 1 so not take full use of my right in the gospel Here Paul speaks as if his **right** were inside **the gospel**. He speaks in this way in order to show that he only has the **right** because of his work for **the gospel**. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “by the gospel” or “that comes from the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 19 of7z grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 I am free from all Here, **For** introduces verses [19–23](../09/19.md). Paul is drawing an inference from what he said in [9:18](../09/18.md) about offering the gospel “without charge.” Since he offers the gospel without charge, he is **free from all**. In this and the following verses, Paul will explain what he does as someone who is **free from all** and how this is beneficial or a “reward.” If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an explanation or further development. Alternate translation: “” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 9 19 b83w grammar-connect-logic-contrast ὢν 1 I am free from all Here, **being** introduces a phrase that: (1) contrasts with **I enslaved myself**. Alternate translation: “although I am” (2) gives the reason why Paul can “enslave himself.” Alternate translation: “because I am”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 9 19 s48l figs-metaphor ἐλεύθερος…ὢν ἐκ πάντων, πᾶσιν ἐμαυτὸν ἐδούλωσα 1 I am free from all Here Paul uses the language of slavery and freedom to describe how he proclaims the gospel. Since he does not charge money when he proclaims the gospel, he is **free**. No person employs him or tells him what to do. However, Paul decides to serve others, to “enslave himself,” by doing what others think is right. In this way, he acts like a slave, who has to do what his master requires. If your readers would misunderstand the slavery and freedom metaphor, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “not having to obey all, I choose to obey all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 19 gv2u figs-explicit πάντων, πᾶσιν 1 I am free from all Here, the Corinthians would have understood **all** to refer specifically to people. If your readers would misunderstand **all**, you could include a word or phrase that clarifies that Paul is speaking about “people.” Alternate translation: “all people … to all people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 9 19 xlhn translate-unknown κερδήσω 1 I am free from all Here, to **gain** someone means to help them to believe in the Messiah. Once people believe, they belong to Christ and his church, and so the person who preached the gospel to them “gained” them as a new part of the church. If your readers would misunderstand **gain**, you could express the idea non-figuratively or with a comparable phrase. Alternate translation: “I might convert” or “I might gain for Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 19 mms9 figs-explicit τοὺς πλείονας 1 I might gain even more Here Paul is speaking about how “enslaving himself” **to all** gains **more** than if he did not “enslave himself” in this way. He refers specifically to people here, just like **all** refers to people. If your readers would misunderstand **even more things**, you could clarify that Paul is referring to gaining **more** people than if he did not “enslave himself.” Alternate translation: “even more people” or “more people in this way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 9 20 g1ig translate-unknown κερδήσω -1 I became like a Jew Just as in [9:19](../09/19.md), to **gain** someone means to help them to believe in the Messiah. Translate this word the same way you did in [9:19](../09/19.md). Alternate translation: “to convert” or “to gain for Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 20 s9tu figs-metaphor ὑπὸ νόμον -1 I became like one under the law Here Paul speaks about those who think that they need to obey the law as if they were physically **under the law**. By speaking as if **the law** were on top of these people, Paul emphasizes how **the law** controls their lives. If your readers would misunderstand **under the law**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to the obligation to obey **the law**. Alternate translation: “who keep the law … one who keeps the law … one who keeps the law … who keep the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 20 buuw figs-ellipsis ὑπὸ νόμον, ὡς ὑπὸ νόμον 1 I became like one under the law Here Paul omits some words that your language may require to make a complete thought. Paul omits these words because he stated them explicitly in the previous clause (**I became**). If your language does need these words, you can supply them from that clause. Alternate translation: “under the law, I became as one under the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 9 20 fhhp grammar-connect-logic-contrast μὴ ὢν 1 I became like one under the law Here, **not being** introduces a phrase that contrasts with *as under the law**. If your readers would misunderstand **not being**, you could add words that introduce a contrast. Alternate translation: “although I am not” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1CO 9 20 d330 figs-infostructure νόμον, μὴ ὢν αὐτὸς ὑπὸ νόμον, ἵνα τοὺς ὑπὸ νόμον κερδήσω 1 I became like one under the law Here, **in order to win those under the law** is the purpose for which Paul acts like a person **under the law**. The phrase **not being under the law myself** indicates that Paul realizes that he is not actually **under the law**. If your language would put the purpose immediate after what leads to that purpose, you could rearrange these two clauses. Alternate translation: “the law in order to win those under the law, not being under the law myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 9 21 vjuq translate-unknown τοῖς ἀνόμοις…ἄνομος…τοὺς ἀνόμους 1 outside the law Here, **without the law** refers to people who do not have **the law** that Moses wrote down. These people are not Jews, but Paul is not saying that they are disobedient. Rather, Paul is emphasizing **the law** that Moses wrote down here, which is why he uses this language rather than referring to “Gentiles” or “non-Jews.” If your readers would misunderstand **without the law**, you could express the idea by clarifying that Paul is referring to people who do not have the law of Moses. Alternate translation: “To those without Moses’ law … without Moses’ law … those without Moses’ law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 21 htnr figs-ellipsis ὡς ἄνομος 1 outside the law Here Paul omits some words that your language may require to make a complete thought. Paul omits these words because he stated them explicitly in the previous verses (**I became** in [9:20](../09/20.md)). If your language does need these words, you can supply them from that clause. Since English needs these words, the ULT has supplied them in brackets. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 9 21 d1ol figs-infostructure μὴ ὢν ἄνομος Θεοῦ, ἀλλ’ ἔννομος Χριστοῦ, ἵνα κερδάνω τοὺς ἀνόμους 1 outside the law Much like in [9:20](../09/20.md), Paul includes some statements between being **without the law** and the purpose of being **without the law**. If your readers would find this structure confusing, you can rearrange the clauses so that the purpose comes immediately after **without the law**, or you can mark the statements in the middle as parenthetical, like the ULT does. Alternate translation: “so that I might win those without the law. Now I am not without the law of God, but under the law of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 9 21 hzib figs-possession ἄνομος Θεοῦ 1 outside the law Here Paul uses the possessive form to state that: (1) he is **not without the law** that **God** has given. Paul distinguishes between the **law** that Moses wrote down and God’s **law** in general. Alternate translation: “without any law from God” (2) he is **not** someone who is disobedient (**without the law**) towards **God**. Paul is distinguishing between people who do not have the **law** that Moses wrote down and people who disobey God. Alternate translation: “disobedient towards God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 9 21 qtu7 figs-metaphor ἔννομος Χριστοῦ 1 outside the law Much like in [9:20](../09/20.md), Paul speaks about those who think that they need to obey **the law** as if they were physically **under the law**. By speaking as if **the law** were on top of these people, Paul emphasizes how **the law** controls their lives. If your readers would misunderstand **under the law**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to the obligation to obey **the law of Christ**. Alternate translation: “keeping the law of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 21 p13t figs-possession ἔννομος Χριστοῦ 1 outside the law Here Paul uses the possessive form to describe **the law** that **Christ** commanded. If your readers would misunderstand this form, you could express the idea with a word or phrase that clearly states that **Christ** commanded this **law**. Alternate translation: “under Christ’s law” or “under the law that comes from Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1CO 9 21 pksy translate-unknown κερδάνω 1 outside the law Just as in [9:19](../09/19.md), to **gain** someone means to help them to believe in the Messiah. Translate this word the same way you did in [9:19](../09/19.md). Alternate translation: “I might convert” or “I might gain for Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 22 zimr figs-metaphor τοῖς ἀσθενέσιν, ἀσθενής…τοὺς ἀσθενεῖς 1 outside the law Much like in [8:7–12](../08/07.md), **weak** identifies a person who easily feels guilty. A **weak** person thinks some things are wrong that are probably acceptable before God. If your readers would misunderstand **weak**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “To the sensitive … sensitive … the sensitive” or “To those who often condemn themselves … one who condemns himself … those who often condemn themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 22 dd4r figs-nominaladj τοῖς ἀσθενέσιν…τοὺς ἀσθενεῖς 1 outside the law Paul is using the adjective **weak** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “To people who are weak … the people who are weak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1CO 9 22 zbip translate-unknown κερδήσω 1 outside the law Just as in [9:19](../09/19.md), to **gain** someone means to help that person believe in the Messiah. Translate this word the same way you did in [9:19](../09/19.md). Alternate translation: “I might convert” or “I might gain for Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 22 wgy4 figs-idiom τοῖς πᾶσιν γέγονα πάντα 1 outside the law Here, to **become all things** means that Paul has lived in many different ways. If your readers would misunderstand **I have become all things**, you could express the idea more naturally in your language. Alternate translation: “I have lived in all ways with everyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 9 22 pkkx figs-hyperbole τοῖς πᾶσιν γέγονα πάντα 1 outside the law Here, **all things** and **everyone** are exaggerations that the Corinthians would have understood to mean that Paul has become many things to many people. Paul speaks in this way to emphasize that he is willing to **become** anything to anyone as long it leads to saving people. If your readers would misunderstood this exaggeration, you could qualify Paul’s claim and expression the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “I have become many things to many people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 9 22 q4ai ἵνα πάντως…σώσω 1 outside the law Alternate translation: “so that, by using every means I have, I might save”
1CO 9 22 ezm2 figs-metonymy πάντως…σώσω 1 outside the law Here Paul speaks of how he leads others to faith in Jesus as “saving” them. By this, he means that he himself is the means by which God will save **some**. If your readers would misunderstand how Paul says that can **save some**, you could use a word or phrase that refers to leading someone towards “salvation,” that is, helping them to believe in Jesus. Alternate translation: “God might by all means use me to save” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 9 23 tald grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 outside the law Here, **But** introduces a summary of what Paul has said in [9:19–22](../09/19.md). If your readers would misunderstand **But**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces a summary or concluding statement. Alternate translation: “In the end,” or “So,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1CO 9 23 ewxy πάντα…ποιῶ 1 outside the law Alternate translation: “everything I do is”
1CO 9 23 vklq translate-unknown συνκοινωνὸς αὐτοῦ 1 outside the law Here, **a partaker** is someone who participates in or shares in something with others. What Paul means is that he acts in the ways that he does with the purpose of participating in or sharing in the **gospel** and receiving what the **gospel** promises. If your readers would misunderstand **partaker**, you could use a comparable word or phrase that indicates that Paul is a “participator” or “sharer” in the **gospel**. Alternate translation: “a sharer in it” or “a participator in it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 23 f6es figs-abstractnouns συνκοινωνὸς αὐτοῦ γένωμαι 1 outside the law If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **partaker**, you could express the idea by using a verb such as “partake” or “share.” Alternate translation: “I might partake in it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])<br>
1CO 9 23 bruk figs-metonymy αὐτοῦ 1 outside the law Here, **it** refers back to **the gospel**, but Paul particularly has in mind the benefits or blessings that come from **the gospel**. If your readers would misunderstand **it**, you could clarify that Paul is referring to the blessings of **the gospel**. Alternate translation: “of its blessings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 9 24 urh5 figs-rquestion οὐκ οἴδατε, ὅτι οἱ ἐν σταδίῳ τρέχοντες, πάντες μὲν τρέχουσιν, εἷς δὲ λαμβάνει τὸ βραβεῖον? 1 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run the race, but that only one receives the prize? Paul does not ask this question because he is looking for information. Rather, he asks it to involve the Corinthians in what he is arguing. The question assumes that the answer is “yes, we know.” If your readers would misunderstand this question, you could express the idea with a strong statement. Alternate translation: “You certainly know that in a race all those who are running run, but only one receives the prize.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 9 24 mq1d figs-exmetaphor οἱ ἐν σταδίῳ τρέχοντες, πάντες μὲν τρέχουσιν, εἷς δὲ λαμβάνει τὸ βραβεῖον? οὕτως τρέχετε, ἵνα καταλάβητε 1 run Here Paul begins using athletic metaphors, metaphors he will use throughout [9:24–27](../09/24.md). In this verse, he focuses on footraces. In his culture, only the runner who finished first would receive **the prize**. The **prize** might be many things, but often it was a “wreath” of leaves (see [9:25](../09/25.md)). Paul’s point is that the runner who wished to win had to work and train hard to be the best. Paul wants the Corinthians to approach their Christian lives with this mindset, the mindset of a successful athlete. Translate this verse in a way that clearly connects the Christian life to a footrace. Alternate translation: “only one runner receives the prize after a race? You should live your lives like a runner who focuses on receiving the prize” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 9 24 mh8z translate-unknown βραβεῖον 1 So run in such a way that you might obtain it Here, **prize** refers to what a runner would receive after winning the race. In Paul’s culture, this would often be a “wreath” of leaves ([9:25](../09/25.md)) and sometimes money. Use a word in your culture that refers generally to what an athlete receives after winning a contest. Alternate translation: “trophy” or “reward” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 25 l334 translate-unknown πᾶς…ὁ ἀγωνιζόμενος 1 a wreath that is perishable … one that is imperishable Here, **everyone competing in the games** refers generally to any athlete who participates in a competition, not just runners as in the last verse. Use a word or phrase in your language that refers to athletes who compete in any sport or competition. Alternate translation: “every competitor in athletic competitions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translatve/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 25 mypo translate-unknown ἐγκρατεύεται 1 a wreath that is perishable … one that is imperishable Here Paul specifically has in mind the way an athlete only eats certain foods, trains their body in difficult ways, and behaves differently than most other people. All of this requires **self-control**. He implies at the end of the verse that **we** too must exercise **self-control**. If possible, use a word or phrase that refers to athletic training but that can be applied to the Christian life as well. Alternate translation: “disciplines themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 9 25 rqey figs-ellipsis ἐκεῖνοι μὲν οὖν ἵνα 1 a wreath that is perishable … one that is imperishable Here Paul omits some words that may be required in your language to make a full sentence. If your language needs these words, you could supply them from the first sentence in the verse. Since English needs these words, the ULT has supplied them in brackets. Alternate translation: “They therefore {exercise self-control} in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 9 25 s0n2 figs-explicit φθαρτὸν στέφανον 1 a wreath that is perishable … one that is imperishable Here, the **wreath** refers to a crown made out of leaves gathered from a plant or a tree. This **wreath** was given to an athlete who won a contest as a symbol of their victory. Since the **wreath** was made out of leaves, it was **perishable**. If your readers would misunderstand **perishable wreath**, you could express the idea by using a word or phrase that refers to what a winning athlete receives while still emphasizing that this prize is **perishable**. Alternate translation: “a breakable medal” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 9 25 w421 figs-ellipsis ἡμεῖς…ἄφθαρτον 1 a wreath that is perishable … one that is imperishable Here Paul omits some words that may be required in your language to make a full sentence. If your language needs these words, you could supply them from earlier in the verse. Alternate translation: “we {do it in order that we might receive} an imperishable one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 9 25 bfe4 figs-metaphor ἄφθαρτον 1 a wreath that is perishable … one that is imperishable Here Paul speaks of a **wreath** that is **imperishable** that believers will **receive**. He speaks of what God will give to believers as a **wreath** in order to emphasize that Christians will receive something like the honor and glory that a successful athlete receives, but that it will be better because it will be **imperishable**. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could express the idea non-figuratively or with an analogy. Alternate translation: “an imperishable reward that is like a wreath” or “an imperishable prize” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 26 k64n figs-exmetaphor ἐγὼ…οὕτως τρέχω, ὡς οὐκ ἀδήλως; οὕτως πυκτεύω, ὡς οὐκ ἀέρα δέρων 1 I do not run without purpose or box by beating the air Here, Paul uses two different athletic metaphors, the first from footraces and the second from boxing. Both metaphors emphasize how Paul remains focused on his goal. As a runner, he has a **purpose**, which is reaching the finish line as fast as possible. As a boxer, he does not box **the air** but rather focuses on striking his opponent. If your readers would misunderstand these figures of speech, you could express the ideas non-figuratively or by using analogies. Alternate translation: “I focus on the goal, much like a runner focuses on the finish line and a boxer focuses on striking the opponent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1CO 9 26 m7gf figs-infostructure οὕτως…ὡς οὐκ ἀδήλως; οὕτως…ὡς οὐκ ἀέρα δέρων 1 In both halves of this verse, Paul introduces how he “runs” or “fights” with the word **thus**, and then he explains more clearly how he “runs” or “fights.” If your readers would find this confusing, you could introduce how Paul “runs” or “fights”more naturally. Alternate translation: “not as without purpose … not as boxing the air” or “as one who is not without purpose … as one who is not boxing the air” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1CO 9 26 muuc figs-litotes ὡς οὐκ ἀδήλως 1 Here Paul uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “as with purpose” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1CO 9 26 k69i figs-idiom ὡς οὐκ ἀέρα δέρων 1 Here Paul refers to a boxer who hits **the air** instead of the opponent. This kind of boxer does not succeed. If your readers would misunderstand **boxing the air**, you could use a phrase that refers to a boxer who often misses his punches. Alternate translation: “not as missing my punches” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 9 27 pma2 figs-metaphor ὑπωπιάζω μου τὸ σῶμα 1 Here, Paul uses words that continue the boxing metaphor from [9:26](../09/26.md). He says, “I give my body a black eye.” Paul’s point is that he controls or rules over his **body**, just like boxers control or rule over any opponents that they have punched in the face. He does not mean that he physically hurts his body. Since this language would be misunderstood in English, the ULT has expressed the idea non-figuratively. You could also express the idea non-figuratively, or you could use a comparable metaphor. Alternate translation: “I rule my body” or “I take control of my body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 27 whfp figs-synecdoche μου τὸ σῶμα, καὶ δουλαγωγῶ 1 Here Paul uses **my body** to refer to himself as a whole. He does not mean that his non-physical part “subdues” and “enslaves” his physical part. Rather, he means that he “subdues” and “enslaves” himself. If your readers would misunderstand **my body**, you could express the idea by using a natural way in your language to refer to oneself. Alternate translation: “myself and enslave myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 9 27 n001 figs-metaphor δουλαγωγῶ 1 Here, Paul speaks as if he were “enslaving”his **body**. He speaks in this way to again emphasize that he controls and rules over himself. If your readers would misunderstand **enslave**, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “control it” or “govern it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 27 tyca grammar-connect-time-sequential μή πως ἄλλοις κηρύξας 1 Here, **having preached to others** could identify: (1) what Paul has done before he **might be disqualified**. Alternate translation: “lest, after having preached to others” (2) a contrast a with how he **might be disqualified**. Alternate translation: “lest, although I have preached to others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])
1CO 9 27 blb7 figs-metaphor αὐτὸς ἀδόκιμος γένωμαι 1 I myself may not be disqualified Here, **disqualified** continues the athletic imagery. An athlete who is **disqualified** is unable to win the competition and receive the prize. Paul speaks in this way to emphasize that he wants to be able to receive a reward from God. If your readers would misunderstand this figure of speech, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “I myself might not reach the goal” or “I myself might fail to please God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 9 27 s3sd figs-activepassive αὐτὸς ἀδόκιμος γένωμαι 1 If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God might disqualify even me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 10 intro abcd 0 # 1 Corinthians 10 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Chapters 8-10 together answer the question: “Is it acceptable to eat meat that has been sacrificed to an idol?”<br><br>In this chapter, Paul uses the exodus to warn people not to sin. Then, he returns to discussing meat offered to idols. He uses the Lord’s Supper as an example. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Exodus<br><br>Paul uses the experiences of Israel leaving Egypt and roaming the desert as a warning to the believers. Although the Israelites all followed Moses, they all died on the way. None of them reached the Promised Land. Some worshiped an idol, some tested God, and some grumbled. Paul warns Christians not to sin. We can resist temptation because God provides a way of escape. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/promisedland]])<br><br>### Eating meat sacrificed to idol<br><br>Paul discusses meat offered to idols. Christians are allowed to eat, but it may hurt others. So when buying meat or eating with a friend, do not ask if it has been offered to idols. But if someone tells you it has been offered to idols, don’t eat it for the sake of that person. Do not offend anyone. Seek to save them instead. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>Paul uses many rhetorical questions in this chapter. He uses them to emphasize important points as he teaches the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 1 gce5 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 passed through the sea Here, **For** introduces what Paul says about the Israelites in [10:1–5](../10/01.md). What Paul says in these verses explains what he said the previous verse about how he and other believers should work hard not to be “disqualified” ([9:27](../09/27.md)). The Israelites whom God took out of Egypt were “disqualified,” and believers should work not to be like them. If your readers would misunderstand **For**, you could use a word or phrase that introduces an example or support. Alternate translation: “Here is an example:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1CO 10 1 navn figs-litotes οὐ θέλω…ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν 1 our fathers Here Paul uses a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “I want you to know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1CO 10 1 hhts figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί…οἱ πατέρες 1 our fathers Although the words **brothers** and **fathers** are masculine, Paul is using them to refer to both men and women. If your readers would misunderstand **brothers** and **fathers**, you could use non-gendered words or refer to both genders. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters … fathers and mothers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1CO 10 1 mnri translate-kinship οἱ πατέρες ἡμῶν 1 our fathers Here, **our fathers** refers to the Israelites who were slaves in Egypt and whom God rescued. Not all the Corinthians were descended from these Israelites. However, Paul can still refer to the Israelites as their **fathers** because he thinks that all Christians have been included in the family of Abraham, the ancestor of the Israelites. Preserve the family language in your translation. Alternate translation: “our forefathers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-kinship]])
1CO 10 1 v4c6 figs-explicit πάντες ὑπὸ τὴν νεφέλην ἦσαν, καὶ πάντες διὰ τῆς θαλάσσης διῆλθον 1 passed through the sea In this verse, Paul refers to the story of when God brought the Israelites out of Egypt. For this story, see especially [Exodus 13:17–14:31](exo/13/17.md). God appeared to the Israelites as a pillar of cloud and fire, and he led them and protected them with this pillar of cloud and fire. To get out of Egypt, God led them to a sea called the “Red Sea” or the “Sea of Reeds.” When the king of Egypt came to take the Israelites back to Egypt, God worked through Moses to separate the water of the sea and make a path for the Israelites to travel through. When the king of Egypt tried to follow them, God sent the water back, and the Egyptian army drowned. Paul draws special attention to the **cloud** and the **sea** because of what he will say in the next verse. If your readers are not familiar with this story, you could add a footnote that refers to or summarizes the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 10 2 q15x figs-activepassive πάντες εἰς τὸν Μωϋσῆν ἐβαπτίσαντο 1 All were baptized into Moses If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” or an unknown person did it. Alternate translation: “they all experienced baptism into Moses” or “God baptized them all into Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 10 2 f7cq figs-idiom πάντες εἰς τὸν Μωϋσῆν ἐβαπτίσαντο 1 All were baptized into Moses Here, **baptized into** identifies the person with whom one is united in baptism. If your readers would misunderstand **baptized into**, you could clarify the idea by using language of union or relationship. Alternate translation: “they all were baptized so that they followed Moses” or “they all were baptized into relationship with Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 10 2 d4ho figs-metaphor πάντες εἰς τὸν Μωϋσῆν ἐβαπτίσαντο 1 All were baptized into Moses Here Paul speaks as if the Israelites had been **baptized**, just like believers in Jesus are **baptized**. By this, he does not mean that the Israelites had a different savior, Moses. Rather, he wants to connect the Israelites and the Corinthians, and one way to do that is to connect their leaders (**Moses** and Jesus). If your readers would misunderstand **baptized into Moses**, you could express the idea by using an analogy or indicating that Paul is speaking figuratively. Since Paul’s point is to connect the ideas in this verse to “baptism into Jesus,” preserve the metaphor here. Alternate translation: “they all were baptized, so to speak, into Moses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 10 2 isfd translate-names τὸν Μωϋσῆν 1 All were baptized into Moses **Moses** is the name of a man. He is the one whom God used to take the Israelites out of Egypt. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 10 2 y72i figs-explicit ἐν τῇ νεφέλῃ, καὶ ἐν τῇ θαλάσσῃ 1 in the cloud For the significance of the **cloud** and the **sea**, see the notes on the previous verse. God led the Israelites with the cloud, and he led them through the sea. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 10 3 la48 figs-explicit πάντες τὸ αὐτὸ πνευματικὸν βρῶμα ἔφαγον 1 in the cloud In this verse, Paul refers to how God provided the Israelites with “bread from heaven” while they were traveling through the desert. This bread is called “Manna.” For the story, see [Exodus 16](exo/16/01.md). While Paul does not explicitly state this, it is clear that he is comparing the “Manna” to the bread in the Lord’s Supper, just as he compared passing through the Red Sea with baptism in the last two verses. If your readers are not familiar with this story, you could add a footnote that refers to or summarizes the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 10 3 d4zh translate-unknown πνευματικὸν 1 in the cloud Here, **spiritual** could indicate: (1) that the **food** came from God in a supernatural way. Alternate translation: “supernatural” (2) that Paul is indicating that the **food** should be compared with the bread in the Lord’s Supper, which is also “spiritual.” Alternate translation: “divine” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 10 4 xut2 figs-explicit πάντες τὸ αὐτὸ πνευματικὸν ἔπιον πόμα; ἔπινον γὰρ ἐκ πνευματικῆς ἀκολουθούσης πέτρας 1 drank the same spiritual drink … spiritual rock Here Paul refers to two stories that tell how the Israelites drank water that came out of a rock. For these stories, see [Exodus 17:1–7](exo/17/01.md) and [Numbers 20:2–13](num/20/02.md). In both of these stories, the Israelites are thirsty in the desert, and God commands Moses to act (either by speaking or by hitting the rock with a staff) so that water comes out of the rock for the Israelites to drink. If your readers are not familiar with these stories, you could add a footnote that refers to or summarizes the stories. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 10 4 wina translate-unknown πνευματικὸν 1 drank the same spiritual drink … spiritual rock Here, **spiritual** could indicate: (1) that the **drink** came from God in a supernatural way. Alternate translation: “supernatural” (2) that Paul is indicating that the **drink** should be compared with the wine in the Lord’s Supper, which is also “spiritual.” Alternate translation: “divine” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 10 4 op27 translate-unknown πνευματικῆς 1 drank the same spiritual drink … spiritual rock Here, **spiritual** could indicate: (1) that God used the **rock** in a supernatural way. Alternate translation: “a supernatural” (2) that Paul is already hinting that the **rock** should be interpreted as more than a rock but as **Christ** (as he does at the end of the verse). Alternate translation: “a divine” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 10 4 hcae figs-explicit ἀκολουθούσης πέτρας 1 drank the same spiritual drink … spiritual rock Some early Jewish scholars used the two stories about the water coming from the rock to argue that it was the same rock in both stories. This means that the rock was **following** the Israelites as they journeyed through the desert. Paul seems to refer to this interpretation here. If your readers would misunderstanding **following them**, you could include a footnote explaining why Paul speaks in this way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 10 4 whj4 figs-metaphor ἡ…πέτρα ἦν ὁ Χριστός 1 that rock was Christ Here Paul identifies the **rock** as **Christ**. By speaking in this way, he means that the rock was the source of water and life for the Israelites, just as **Christ** is the source of life for all those who believe in him. Paul also probably means that **Christ** was the one who made the water come from the **rock**. If possible, preserve Paul’s metaphor here. If you must express the idea in another, you could state a comparison between how the **rock** provided for the Israelites and how **Christ** provides for all his people. Alternate translation: “they received water from that rock like we receive life from Christ” or “Christ provided for them through the rock, and he provides for us now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 10 5 tnu4 figs-activepassive οὐκ ἐν τοῖς πλείοσιν αὐτῶν ηὐδόκησεν ὁ Θεός 1 most of them If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “they” caused it. Alternate translation: “most of them were not pleasing to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 10 5 w673 figs-activepassive κατεστρώθησαν 1 their corpses were scattered about If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, Paul implies that “God” did it. Alternate translation: “God scattered them about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 10 5 jxua figs-euphemism κατεστρώθησαν…ἐν 1 their corpses were scattered about Paul is referring to the deaths of many Israelites as “scattering about.” This is a polite way of referring to something unpleasant while still expressing the idea that they died in many different places. If **they were scattered about** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a different polite way of referring to deaths or you could state it plainly. Alternate translation: “they passed away throughout” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 10 5 b96g figs-explicit κατεστρώθησαν…ἐν τῇ ἐρήμῳ 1 in the wilderness Here, Paul speaks in general of how the Israelites left Egypt to go to the land that God had promised to give them. To get to that land, they traveled through **the wilderness**. However, the Israelites often disobeyed or grumbled against God, and so he **was not well pleased with most of them**. He punished them by letting most of them die **in the wilderness** and only allowing their children to enter the land that he had promised. See [Numbers 14:20–35](num/14/20.md) for God’s announcement of judgment. If your readers are not familiar with this story, you could add a footnote that refers to or summarizes the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 10 6 dzkm writing-pronouns ταῦτα 1 in the wilderness Here, **these things** refers to what he has said about the Israelites in [10:1–5](../10/01.md). If your readers would misunderstand **these things**, you could more clearly express what it refers to. Alternate translation: “what happened to them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1CO 10 6 nr6j figs-idiom ἐγενήθησαν 1 in the wilderness Here Paul states that what happened to the Israelites **became examples**. This means that what happened can be interpreted as **examples** or occurred as **examples**. If your readers would misunderstand **became**, you could more clearly state that **these things** should be understood as **examples**. Alternate translation: “can be understood as” or “happened as” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 10 6 eisd figs-ellipsis ἐπεθύμησαν 1 to play Here Paul omits some words that may be required in your language to make a full sentence. If your language needs these words, you could supply them from earlier in the verse. Alternate translation: “desired evil things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 10 7 lven writing-quotations ὥσπερ γέγραπται 1 to play In Paul’s culture, **even as it is written** was a normal way to introduce a quotation from an important text. In this case, the quotation comes from [Exodus 32:6](exo/32/06.md). If your readers would misunderstand how Paul introduces the quotation, you could use a comparable phrase that indicates that Paul is quoting from an important text. Alternate translation: “for it can be read in Exodus” or “For the book of Exodus says” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-quotations]])
1CO 10 7 ej16 figs-quotations γέγραπται, ἐκάθισεν ὁ λαὸς φαγεῖν καὶ πεῖν, καὶ ἀνέστησαν παίζειν 1 to play If your language does not use this form, you could translate the command as an indirect quote instead of as a direct quote. Alternate translation: “it is written that the people sat down to eat and to drink and rose up to play” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1CO 10 7 awhu figs-explicit ἐκάθισεν ὁ λαὸς φαγεῖν καὶ πεῖν, καὶ ἀνέστησαν παίζειν 1 to play This quotation comes from a story in which Moses has gone up on a mountain to meet with God. While he is gone, the Israelites make an idol and worship it. This quotation is how their worship is described. Paul chooses this verse because it refers specifically to food sacrificed to idols and to sexual immorality (**play**, see the next note), which are the topics he has and will discuss. If your readers are not familiar with this story, you could add a footnote that refers to or summarizes the story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 10 7 ukp4 figs-euphemism παίζειν 1 to play Here, **play** is a polite way to refer to sexual behavior. If your readers would misunderstand **play**, you could use a comparable polite term. Alternate translation: “to have sex” or “to make love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 10 9 l5h4 figs-activepassive ὑπὸ τῶν ὄφεων ἀπώλλυντο 1 were destroyed by snakes You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “as a result, snakes destroyed them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 10 10 i3q3 figs-activepassive ἀπώλοντο ὑπὸ τοῦ ὀλοθρευτοῦ 1 were destroyed by the destroyer You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “as a result, an angel of death destroyed them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 10 13 a8vj figs-doublenegatives πειρασμὸς ὑμᾶς οὐκ εἴληφεν, εἰ μὴ ἀνθρώπινος 1 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to all humanity You can state this as a positive. Alternate translation: “The temptations that affect you are temptations that all people experience” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 10 13 hc7q ὃς οὐκ ἐάσει ὑμᾶς πειρασθῆναι ὑπὲρ ὃ δύνασθε 1 He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability This can be stated as a positive. Alternate translation: “who will only allow you to be tempted in ways that you are strong enough to resist”
1CO 10 13 a72t figs-activepassive οὐκ ἐάσει ὑμᾶς πειρασθῆναι 1 will not let you be tempted You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “will not allow anyone to tempt you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 10 14 dab4 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues to remind them to be pure and to stay away from idolatry and immorality as he talks about communion, which represents the blood and body of Christ.
1CO 10 14 n5tb figs-metaphor φεύγετε ἀπὸ τῆς εἰδωλολατρίας 1 flee away from idolatry Paul is speaking of the practice of worshiping idols as if it were a physical thing like a dangerous animal. Alternate translation: “do all you can to get away from worshiping idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 10 16 gi4s τὸ ποτήριον τῆς εὐλογίας…τὸν ἄρτον 1 The cup of blessing Paul is speaking of the cup of wine and the bread that were used in the ritual of the Lord’s Supper.
1CO 10 16 y5uv figs-rquestion τὸ ποτήριον τῆς εὐλογίας, ὃ εὐλογοῦμεν, οὐχὶ κοινωνία ἐστὶν τοῦ αἵματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ? 1 is it not a sharing in the blood of Christ? Paul is reminding the Corinthians of what they already know, that the cup of wine that we share represents us sharing in the blood of Christ. Alternate translation: “When we bless the cup in the Lord’s Supper, we share in the blood of Christ.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 16 ngf6 figs-rquestion τὸν ἄρτον ὃν κλῶμεν, οὐχὶ κοινωνία τοῦ σώματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ ἐστιν? 1 The bread that we break, is it not a sharing in the body of Christ? Paul is reminding the Corinthians of what they already know. Alternate translation: “When we break the bread of the Lord’s Supper, we share in the body of Christ.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 18 q9ng figs-rquestion οὐχὶ οἱ ἐσθίοντες τὰς θυσίας, κοινωνοὶ τοῦ θυσιαστηρίου εἰσίν? 1 Are not those who eat the sacrifices participants in the altar? Paul is reminding the Corinthians of what they already know so that he can give them new information. Alternate translation: “those who eat the sacrifices share in the activities and the blessings of the altar.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 19 ix5q figs-rquestion τί οὖν φημι? 1 What am I saying then? Paul is reminding the Corinthians of what they already know so that he can give them new information. Alternate translation: “Let me review what I am saying.” or “This is what I mean.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 19 j8dj figs-ellipsis ὅτι εἰδωλόθυτόν τὶ ἐστιν, ἢ ὅτι εἴδωλόν τὶ ἐστιν? 1 Or that food sacrificed to an idol is anything? The words “I am saying” are understood from the previous sentence. Alternate translation: “Am I saying that food sacrificed to idols or idols themselves are important?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 10 19 l9t4 figs-rquestion ὅτι εἰδωλόθυτόν τὶ ἐστιν, ἢ ὅτι εἴδωλόν τὶ ἐστιν? 1 Paul wants the Corinthians to answer the question in their minds so he does not have to tell them. Alternate translation: “You know that I am not saying that an idol is something real or that food sacrificed to idols is important.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 21 dy2g figs-metonymy οὐ δύνασθε ποτήριον Κυρίου πίνειν, καὶ ποτήριον δαιμονίων 1 You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons Paul speaks of a person drinking from the same cup as the demon as evidence that that person is a friend of the demon. Alternate translation: “It is impossible for you to be true friends with both the Lord and demons” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 10 21 qwk7 οὐ δύνασθε τραπέζης Κυρίου μετέχειν, καὶ τραπέζης δαιμονίων 1 You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons “It is impossible for you to be truly one with the Lord’s people and also with demons”
1CO 10 22 l8ik figs-rquestion ἢ παραζηλοῦμεν τὸν Κύριον? 1 Or do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? Paul wants the Corinthians to answer this question in their minds. Alternate translation: “You should know without me telling you that it is not right to make the Lord jealous.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 22 h9fh παραζηλοῦμεν τὸν Κύριον 1 provoke to anger or irritate the Lord
1CO 10 22 zv17 figs-rquestion μὴ ἰσχυρότεροι αὐτοῦ ἐσμεν? 1 We are not stronger than him, are we? Paul wants the Corinthians to answer this question in their minds. Alternate translation: “You should know without me telling you that we are not stronger than God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 23 tu2m πάντα ἔξεστιν 1 Everything is lawful This could mean: (1) Paul is answering what some Corinthians might be thinking, “Some say, ‘I can do anything’.” (2) Paul is actually saying what he thinks is true, “God allows me to do anything.” This should be translated as in [1 Corinthians 6:12](../06/12.md).
1CO 10 23 ex6z figs-metaphor οὐ πάντα οἰκοδομεῖ 1 not everything builds people up To **build up** people represents helping them become mature and strong in their faith. See how you translated “builds up” in [1 Corinthians 8:1](../08/01.md). Alternate translation: “not everything strengthens people” or “some things do not strengthen people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 10 27 g31y ὑμῖν…μηδὲν ἀνακρίνοντες διὰ τὴν συνείδησιν 1 you without asking questions of conscience “you. God wants you to eat the food with a clear conscience”
1CO 10 28 q3zt figs-you ἐὰν δέ τις ὑμῖν εἴπῃ…μὴ ἐσθίετε…τὸν μηνύσαντα 1 But if someone says to you … do not eat … who informed you Some translations put this verse, continuing to “and not yours” in the next verse, in parentheses because: (1) The forms of **you** and **eat** here are singular, but Paul uses the plural form immediately before and after this sentence. (2) The words “For why is my freedom judged by another’s conscience?” in the next verse seem to build on “eat everything that is set before you without asking questions for the sake of your conscience” ([1 Corinthians 10:27](../10/27.md)) rather than “the conscience of the other man.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 10 28 qi77 figs-you ὑμῖν εἴπῃ…μὴ ἐσθίετε…τὸν μηνύσαντα 1 says to you … do not eat … informed you Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if they were one person, so both instances of the word **you** and the command **do not eat it** here are singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 10 29 v1d9 figs-you συνείδησιν δὲ λέγω, οὐχὶ τὴν ἑαυτοῦ 1 the conscience of the other man, I mean, and not yours Some translations put these words, along with the words in the verse before this one, in parentheses because (1) The forms of **you** and **eat** here are singular, but Paul uses the plural form immediately before and after this sentence. (2) The words “For why is my freedom judged by another’s conscience?” in the next verse seem to build on “eat everything that is set before you without asking questions for the sake of your conscience” ([1 Corinthians 10:27](../10/27.md)) rather than “the conscience of the other man.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 10 29 s1wk figs-you οὐχὶ τὴν ἑαυτοῦ 1 and not yours Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if they were one person, so the word **your** here is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 10 29 k8xr ἵνα τί γὰρ ἡ ἐλευθερία μου κρίνεται ὑπὸ ἄλλης συνειδήσεως? 1 For why … conscience? Possible meanings for this question, along with the question in the next verse, are (1) The word **For** refers back to [1 Corinthians 10:27](../10/27.md). Alternate translation: “I am not to ask questions of conscience, so why … conscience?” (2) Paul is quoting what some Corinthians were thinking. Alternate translation: “As some of you might be thinking, ‘For why is my freedom judged by another’s conscience?’”
1CO 10 29 d4q1 figs-rquestion ἵνα τί γὰρ ἡ ἐλευθερία μου κρίνεται ὑπὸ ἄλλης συνειδήσεως? 1 why should my freedom be judged by another’s conscience? The speaker wants the hearer to answer the question in his mind. Alternate translation: “For you should know without me telling you that no one should be able to say I am doing wrong just because that person has ideas about right and wrong that are different from mine.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 30 dv5f figs-rquestion εἰ ἐγὼ χάριτι μετέχω, τί βλασφημοῦμαι ὑπὲρ οὗ ἐγὼ εὐχαριστῶ? 1 If I partake of the meal with gratitude, why am I being insulted for that for which I gave thanks? The speaker wants the hearer to answer the question in his mind. Alternate translation: “I partake of the meal with gratitude, so no one should insult me for that for which I gave thanks.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 10 30 x2v5 εἰ ἐγὼ…μετέχω 1 If I partake If Paul is not quoting what some Corinthians might be thinking, the **I** represents those who eat meat with thankfulness. “If a person partakes” or “When a person eats”
1CO 10 30 n89t χάριτι 1 with gratitude “and thank God for it” or “and thank the person who gave it to me for it”
1CO 10 32 ag47 ἀπρόσκοποι καὶ Ἰουδαίοις γίνεσθε, καὶ Ἕλλησιν 1 Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks “Do not displease Jews or Greeks” or “Do not make Jews or Greeks angry”
1CO 11 intro abce 0 # 1 Corinthians 11 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>This is the beginning of a new section of the letter (Chapters 11-14). Paul now talks about proper church services. In this chapter, he deals with two different problems: women in the church services (verses 1-16) and the Lord’s Supper (verses 17-34).<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Proper conduct in a church service<br><br>### Disorderly women<br><br>Paul’s instructions here are debated among scholars. There may have been women who were abusing their Christian freedom and causing disorder in the church by going against established cultural customs. The disorder that their actions created would have caused him to be concerned.<br><br>### The Lord’s Supper<br><br>There were problems in how the Corinthians were handling the Lord’s Supper. They did not act in a unified manner. During the feast celebrated along with the Lord’s Supper, some of them ate their own food without sharing. Some of them got drunk while the poor people remained hungry. Paul taught that the believers dishonored Christ’s death if they participated in the Lord’s Supper while they were sinning or while they were in broken relationships with each other. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reconcile]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Rhetorical questions<br><br>Paul uses rhetorical questions to scold the people for their unwillingness to follow the rules for worship he has suggested. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>### The head<br><br>Paul uses “head” as a metonym for authority in verse 3 and also to refer to a person’s actual head in verse 4 and following. Since they are so close together, it is likely that Paul intentionally used “head” in this way. This would show that the ideas in these verses were connected. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 11 1 h5fg 0 Connecting Statement: After reminding them to follow him the way he follows Christ, Paul gives some specific instructs in how women and men are to live as believers.
1CO 11 2 qsk9 πάντα μου μέμνησθε 1 you remember me in everything “you think of me at all times” or “you always try act as I would want you to act” The Corinthians had not forgotten who Paul was or what he had taught them.
1CO 11 3 en95 κεφαλὴ…γυναικὸς ὁ ἀνήρ 2 a man is the head of a woman This could mean: (1) men are to have authority over women. (2) the husband is to have authority over the wife.
1CO 11 4 uuv2 προφητεύων κατὰ κεφαλῆς ἔχων 1 having something on his head “prophesying after placing a cloth or veil over his head”
1CO 11 4 lit3 καταισχύνει τὴν κεφαλὴν αὐτοῦ 1 dishonors his head This could mean: (1) this brings disgrace on the man. (2) this brings disgrace on Christ, who is the head of the man.
1CO 11 5 b7ku γυνὴ προσευχομένη ἢ προφητεύουσα ἀκατακαλύπτῳ τῇ κεφαλῇ, καταισχύνει τὴν κεφαλὴν αὐτῆς 1 woman who prays … dishonors her head This could mean: (1) a woman who prays with her head uncovered brings disgrace on herself. (2) a woman who prays with her head uncovered brings disgrace on her husband.
1CO 11 5 k5yl ἀκατακαλύπτῳ τῇ κεφαλῇ 1 with her head uncovered That is, without the cloth that was worn on the top of the **head** and that covered the hair.
1CO 11 6 s4r5 εἰ…αἰσχρὸν γυναικὶ 2 If it is disgraceful for a woman It was a mark of disgrace or humiliation for a woman to have her hair shaved off or cut short.
1CO 11 7 aa4r figs-activepassive οὐκ ὀφείλει κατακαλύπτεσθαι τὴν κεφαλήν 1 should not have his head covered You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: This could mean: (1) a man must not cover his head. (2) a man does not need to cover his head. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 11 8 s5ns figs-activepassive οὐ γάρ ἐστιν ἀνὴρ ἐκ γυναικός, ἀλλὰ γυνὴ ἐξ ἀνδρός. 1 For man was not made from woman. Instead, woman was made from man God made the **woman** by taking a bone from the **man** and making the woman from that bone. You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God did not make the man from the woman. Instead, he made the woman from the man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 11 8 w8jm οὐ γάρ ἐστιν ἀνὴρ ἐκ γυναικός, ἀλλὰ γυνὴ ἐξ ἀνδρός. 1 For neither … for man All of [1 Corinthians 11:8-9](../11/08.md) could be put in parentheses so that the reader can see that “This is why” in [1 Corinthians 11:10](../11/10.md) refers back to the words “the woman is the glory of the man” in [1 Corinthians 11:7](../11/07.md).
1CO 11 10 wh4c ἐξουσίαν ἔχειν ἐπὶ τῆς κεφαλῆς 1 have a symbol of authority on her head This could symbolize that: (1) she has man as her head.” (2) she has the authority to pray or prophesy.
1CO 11 11 hqy4 figs-doublenegatives οὔτε γυνὴ χωρὶς ἀνδρὸς, οὔτε ἀνὴρ χωρὶς γυναικὸς ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 the woman is not independent from the man, nor is the man independent from the woman You can state this positively. Alternate translation: “the woman depends on the man, and the man depends on the woman” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 11 13 hp13 figs-rquestion πρέπον ἐστὶν γυναῖκα ἀκατακάλυπτον, τῷ Θεῷ προσεύχεσθαι? 1 Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? Paul expects the Corinthians to agree with him. You can state this in active form. “To honor God, a woman should pray to God with a covering on her head.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 11 14 v5b5 figs-rquestion οὐδὲ ἡ φύσις αὐτὴ διδάσκει ὑμᾶς, ὅτι ἀνὴρ μὲν ἐὰν κομᾷ, ἀτιμία αὐτῷ ἐστιν; 1 Does not even nature itself teach you … for him? This is the first part of a rhetorical question that continues into the next verse. Paul expects the Corinthians to agree with him. Alternate translation: “Even nature teaches you that if a man might have long hair, it is a disgrace for him;” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 11 14 gyw9 figs-personification οὐδὲ ἡ φύσις αὐτὴ διδάσκει ὑμᾶς, ὅτι ἀνὴρ μὲν ἐὰν κομᾷ, ἀτιμία αὐτῷ ἐστιν 1 Does not even nature itself teach you … for him? He is speaking of nature as if it were a person who teaches. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 11 15 s7ys figs-activepassive ὅτι ἡ κόμη…δέδοται αὐτῇ 1 For her hair has been given to her You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “For God created woman with long hair” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 11 17 id4f 0 Connecting Statement: As Paul talks about communion, the Lord’s supper, he reminds them to have right attitudes as well as unity. He reminds them that if they fail in those things when taking communion, they will become sick and die, as has already happened to some of them.
1CO 11 17 du1a οὐκ εἰς τὸ κρεῖσσον, ἀλλὰ εἰς τὸ ἧσσον 1 it is not for the better but for the worse “you do not help each other; instead, you harm each other”
1CO 11 18 iu3q ἐν ἐκκλησίᾳ 1 in the church “as believers.” Paul is not talking about being inside a building.
1CO 11 18 l9vx σχίσματα ἐν ὑμῖν ὑπάρχειν 1 there are divisions among you “you divide yourselves into opposing groups”
1CO 11 19 s9sy figs-irony δεῖ γὰρ καὶ αἱρέσεις ἐν ὑμῖν εἶναι, ἵνα καὶ οἱ δόκιμοι φανεροὶ γένωνται ἐν ὑμῖν 1 For there must also be factions among you This could mean: (1) the phrase **it is necessary** indicates that this situation is likely to happen. Alternate translation: “For there will probably be factions among you” (2) Paul was using irony to shame them for having factions. Alternate translation: “For you seem to think that there must be factions among you” or “For you seem to think that you must divide yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1CO 11 20 dse7 οὐκ ἔστιν Κυριακὸν δεῖπνον φαγεῖν 1 it is not the Lord’s Supper that you eat “you may believe you are eating the Lord’s Supper, but you do not treat it with respect”
1CO 11 22 f8ht figs-rquestion μὴ γὰρ οἰκίας οὐκ ἔχετε εἰς τὸ ἐσθίειν καὶ πίνειν? 1 Paul is rebuking the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “For if you just want to eat and to drink, you certainly have houses where you can do that!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 11 22 zl1h εἰς τὸ ἐσθίειν καὶ πίνειν 1 to eat and to drink in “in which to gather for a meal”
1CO 11 22 am33 figs-rquestion ἢ τῆς ἐκκλησίας τοῦ Θεοῦ καταφρονεῖτε, καὶ καταισχύνετε τοὺς μὴ ἔχοντας? 1 Paul is rebuking the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “You are acting in such a way that despises the church of God and humiliates those who have nothing!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 11 22 nz88 figs-rquestion τί εἴπω ὑμῖν? ἐπαινέσω ὑμᾶς ἐν τούτῳ? 1 What should I say to you? Should I praise you? Paul is rebuking the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “I can say nothing good about this. I cannot praise you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 11 23 av31 ἐγὼ γὰρ παρέλαβον ἀπὸ τοῦ Κυρίου, ὃ καὶ παρέδωκα ὑμῖν, ὅτι ὁ Κύριος 1 For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you, that the Lord “For it was from the Lord that I heard what I told you, and it was this: the Lord”
1CO 11 23 c197 figs-activepassive ἐν τῇ νυκτὶ ᾗ παρεδίδετο 1 on the night when he was betrayed You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “on the night that Judas Iscariot betrayed him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 11 25 gr2k τὸ ποτήριον 1 the cup It is best to translate this literally. The Corinthians knew which cup he took, so it is not simply “a cup” or “some cup” or “any cup.” This could refer to: (1) the cup of wine that one would expect him to use. (2) the third or fourth of the four cups of wine that the Jews drank at the Passover meal.
1CO 11 25 z54e τοῦτο ποιεῖτε, ὁσάκις ἐὰν πίνητε 1 Do this as often as you drink it “Drink from this cup, and as often as you drink from it”
1CO 11 26 m89f figs-explicit ἄχρι οὗ ἔλθῃ 1 until he comes Where Jesus comes to can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “until Jesus comes back to the earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 11 27 as6y ἐσθίῃ τὸν ἄρτον ἢ πίνῃ τὸ ποτήριον τοῦ Κυρίου 1 eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord “the bread of the Lord or drinks the cup of the Lord”
1CO 11 28 nhx7 figs-metaphor δοκιμαζέτω…ἄνθρωπος 1 examine Paul speaks of a person looking at his relationship to God and how he has been living his life as if that person is looking over something he wants to buy. See how “test the quality” is translated in [1 Corinthians 3:13](../03/13.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 11 29 gqd2 μὴ διακρίνων τὸ σῶμα 1 without discerning the body This could mean: (1) that person does not recognize that the church is the body of the Lord. (2) that person does not consider that he is handling the Lord’s body.
1CO 11 30 vx5t figs-euphemism κοιμῶνται ἱκανοί 1 and many of you have fallen asleep Here, **fallen asleep** is a euphemism for death. Alternate translation: “and some of you have died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]]).
1CO 11 30 bh6j figs-explicit ἱκανοί 1 many of you If this would sound like Paul is talking to those who have died, you may need to make explicit that he is not. Alternate translation: “many of the members of your group” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 11 31 j6ml figs-metaphor διεκρίνομεν 1 examine Paul speaks of a person looking at his relationship to God and how he has been living his life as if that person is looking over something he wants to buy. See how this is translated in [1 Corinthians 11:28](../11/28.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 11 31 egl8 figs-activepassive οὐκ ἂν ἐκρινόμεθα 1 we will not be judged You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God would not judge us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 11 32 ruq5 figs-activepassive κρινόμενοι…ὑπὸ Κυρίου, παιδευόμεθα, ἵνα μὴ…κατακριθῶμεν 1 we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined, so that we may not be condemned You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “when the Lord judges us, he disciplines us, so that he will not condemn us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 11 34 x1l8 figs-metonymy μὴ εἰς κρίμα συνέρχησθε 1 not be for judgment “it will not be an occasion for God to discipline you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 12 intro abcf 0 # 1 Corinthians 12 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>### Gifts of the Holy Spirit<br><br>This chapter begins a new section. Chapters 12-14 discuss spiritual gifts within the church.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The Church, the body of Christ<br><br>This is an important metaphor in Scripture. The Church has many different parts. Each part has different functions. They combine to make one church. All of the different parts are necessary. Each part is to be concerned for all the other parts, even those that seem less important. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “No one can say, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ except by the Holy Spirit.”<br><br>In reading the Old Testament, the Jews would have substituted the word “Lord” for the word “Yahweh.” This sentence probably means that no one can say that Jesus is Yahweh, God in the flesh, without the Holy Spirit’s influence drawing them to accept this truth. If this statement is translated poorly, it can have unintended theological consequences.
1CO 12 1 da2e 0 Connecting Statement: Paul lets them know that God has given special gifts to believers. These gifts are to help the body of believers.
1CO 12 1 i3k7 figs-doublenegatives οὐ θέλω ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν 1 I do not want you to be uninformed You can state this as a positive. Alternate translation: “I want you to know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 12 2 hbt8 figs-metaphor ἔθνη ἦτε, πρὸς τὰ εἴδωλα τὰ ἄφωνα ὡς ἂν ἤγεσθε, ἀπαγόμενοι 1 you were led astray to idols who could not speak, in whatever ways you were led by them Here, **led astray** is a metaphor for being persuaded to do something wrong. Being led astray to idols represents being wrongly persuaded to worship idols. Alternate translation: “you were persuaded in some way to worship idols who cannot speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 12 2 xnw1 figs-activepassive ἔθνη ἦτε, πρὸς τὰ εἴδωλα τὰ ἄφωνα ὡς ἂν ἤγεσθε, ἀπαγόμενοι 1 You can state the phrases “were led astray” and “you were led by them” in active form. Alternate translation: “you believed lies somehow and so you worshiped idols who cannot speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 12 3 zg4j οὐδεὶς ἐν Πνεύματι Θεοῦ λαλῶν, λέγει 1 no one who speaks by the Spirit of God can say This could mean: (1) “no Christian who has the Spirit of God in him can say.” (2) “no one who is prophesying by the power of the Spirit of God can say.”
1CO 12 7 x7mv figs-activepassive ἑκάστῳ…δίδοται 1 to each one is given You can state this in active form. God is the one who does the giving ([1 Corinthians 12:6](../12/06.md)). Alternate translation: “God gives to each one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 12 8 c9ak figs-activepassive ᾧ μὲν…διὰ τοῦ Πνεύματος δίδοται λόγος 1 to one is given by the Spirit a word You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “by means of the Spirit God gives to one person a word” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 12 8 pe8s figs-activepassive δίδοται 1 is given You can state this in active form. See how this is translated in [1 Corinthians 12:8](../12/08.md). Alternate translation: “God gives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 12 9 d7qg figs-ellipsis ἄλλῳ…χαρίσματα ἰαμάτων ἐν τῷ ἑνὶ Πνεύματι 1 to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit The words **are given** are understood from the previous phrase. Alternate translation: “to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit are given” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 12 10 x572 figs-ellipsis ἄλλῳ προφητεία 1 to another prophecy The phrase “is given by the same Spirit” is understood from the previous phrases. Alternate translation: “to another prophecy is given by the same Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 12 10 v7xy figs-ellipsis ἑτέρῳ γένη γλωσσῶν 1 to another various kinds of tongues The phrase “are given by the same Spirit” is understood from the previous phrases. Alternate translation: “to another various kinds of tongues are given by the same Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 12 10 j8qk figs-ellipsis ἄλλῳ…ἑρμηνία γλωσσῶν 4 to another the interpretation of tongues The phrase “is given by the same Spirit” is understood from the previous phrases. Alternate translation: “to another the interpretation of tongues is given by the same Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 12 10 c14y ἑρμηνία γλωσσῶν 1 the interpretation of tongues This refers to the ability to listen to what someone says in one language and use another language to tell people what that person is saying. Alternate translation: “the ability to interpret what is said in other languages”
1CO 12 11 z383 τὸ ἓν καὶ τὸ αὐτὸ Πνεῦμα 1 one and the same Spirit God gives the gifts through the work of the one and only Holy **Spirit**. See how this is translated in [1 Corinthians 12:8](../12/08.md).
1CO 12 12 j3xl 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues to talk of the variety of gifts God gives believers, God gives different gifts to different believers, but Paul wants them to know that all believers are made into one body, which is called the body of Christ. For this reason believers should have unity.
1CO 12 13 g8uk figs-activepassive ἐν ἑνὶ Πνεύματι ἡμεῖς πάντες…ἐβαπτίσθημεν 1 For by one Spirit we were all baptized This could mean: (1) the Holy Spirit is the one who baptizes us. Alternate translation: “one Spirit baptized us” (2) the Spirit, like the water of baptism, is the medium through which we are baptized into the body. Alternate translation: “God baptized is all with the Holy Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 12 13 r9hm figs-metonymy εἴτε…δοῦλοι, εἴτε ἐλεύθεροι 3 whether bound or free Here, **bound** is a metonym for “enslaved.” Alternate translation: “whether slave-people or free-people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 12 13 r5kw figs-metaphor πάντες ἓν Πνεῦμα ἐποτίσθημεν 1 all were made to drink of one Spirit Here the **Spirit** is spoken of as something that a person can drink. Alternate translation: “we were made to drink the Spirit as people might share a drink” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 12 13 ju15 figs-activepassive πάντες ἓν Πνεῦμα ἐποτίσθημεν 1 You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God gave all of us the same Spirit to drink” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 12 17 rsl6 figs-rquestion εἰ ὅλον τὸ σῶμα ὀφθαλμός, ποῦ ἡ ἀκοή? εἰ ὅλον ἀκοή, ποῦ ἡ ὄσφρησις? 1 where would the sense of hearing be? … where would the sense of smell be? Paul asks these two questions to help the Corinthians to realize the importance of each part of the body. You can translate these as statements. Alternate translation: “If your whole body were an eye, you would not be able to hear anything! If your whole were an ear, you would not be able to smell anything!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 12 19 y4vg figs-rquestion εἰ δὲ ἦν τὰ πάντα ἓν μέλος, ποῦ τὸ σῶμα? 1 where would the body be? Paul asks this question to help the Corinthians to understand that the body must have many different kinds of members. You can translate this as a statement. Alternate translation: “But if all the parts of the body were the same, there would be no body!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 12 19 zw6k τὰ…ἓν μέλος 1 the same member The word **member** is a general word for the parts of the body, like the head, arm, or knee. Alternate translation: “the same part of the body”
1CO 12 23 id5z figs-euphemism τὰ ἀσχήμονα ἡμῶν 1 our unpresentable members Here, **unpresentable members** probably refers to the private parts of the body, which people keep covered. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 12 26 da97 figs-activepassive δοξάζεται μέλος 1 one member is honored You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “someone gives honor to one member” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 12 28 ll3s πρῶτον ἀποστόλους 1 first apostles This could mean: (1) the first gift Paul will mention is apostles. (2) the most important gift Paul will mention is apostles.
1CO 12 28 w726 γένη γλωσσῶν 1 those who have various kinds of tongues people who can speak in one or more foreign languages without having studied that language
1CO 12 29 aq64 figs-rquestion μὴ πάντες ἀπόστολοι? μὴ πάντες προφῆται? μὴ πάντες διδάσκαλοι? μὴ πάντες δυνάμεις? 1 Are all of them apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all do powerful deeds? Paul uses these questions to remind his readers of what they already know. Alternate translation: “Only some of them are apostles. Only some of them are prophets. Only some of them are teachers. Only some of them do powerful deeds.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 12 30 p919 figs-rquestion μὴ πάντες χαρίσματα ἔχουσιν ἰαμάτων? μὴ πάντες γλώσσαις λαλοῦσιν? μὴ πάντες διερμηνεύουσιν? 1 Do all of them have gifts of healing? Paul continues to use questions to remind his readers of what they already know. Alternate translation: “Only some have gifts of healing. Only some speak with tongues. Only some interpret tongues.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 12 30 ab9e διερμηνεύουσιν 1 interpret To **interpret** means to tell what someone has said in a language to others who do not understand that language. See how this is translated in [1 Corinthians 2:13](../02/13.md).
1CO 12 31 vb1m ζηλοῦτε…τὰ χαρίσματα τὰ μείζονα 1 earnestly desire the greater gifts. This could mean: (1) they must eagerly seek from God the gifts that best help the church. (2) they are eagerly looking for gifts that they think are greater because they think those are more exciting to have.
1CO 13 intro abcg 0 # 1 Corinthians 13 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul seems to interrupt his teaching about spiritual gifts. However, this chapter probably serves a larger function in his teaching.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Love<br><br>Love is the most important characteristic of the believer. This chapter fully describes love. Paul tells why love is more important than the gifts of the Spirit. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/love]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Metaphor<br><br>Paul uses many different metaphors in this chapter. He uses these metaphors to instruct the Corinthians, especially on difficult topics. Readers often need spiritual discernment to understand these teachings. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 13 1 cm2n figs-hyperbole ταῖς γλώσσαις…τῶν ἀγγέλων 1 the tongues of … angels This could mean: (1) Paul is exaggerating for the sake of effect and does not believe that people speak the language that angels use. (2) Paul thinks that some who speak in tongues actually speak the language that angels use. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 13 1 k2gk figs-metaphor γέγονα χαλκὸς ἠχῶν ἢ κύμβαλον ἀλαλάζον 1 I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal A person speaking without love is compared to musical instruments that make loud, annoying sounds. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 13 1 krt1 translate-unknown χαλκὸς 1 gong A **gong** is a large, thin, round metal plate that is hit with a padded stick to make a loud sound. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 13 1 qbx6 translate-unknown κύμβαλον ἀλαλάζον 1 a clanging cymbal A **cymbal** is a thin, round metal plate that is hit with something—or two cymbals are struck together—to make a loud sound. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
1CO 13 3 ar2q figs-explicit παραδῶ τὸ σῶμά μου 1 I give my body The phrase **had over my body** refers to giving up one’s own body to be abused or killed. Alternate translation: “I allow people to persecute or kill me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 13 4 m671 figs-personification ἡ ἀγάπη μακροθυμεῖ, χρηστεύεται; ἡ ἀγάπη οὐ ζηλοῖ; ἡ ἀγάπη οὐ περπερεύεται, οὐ φυσιοῦται 1 Love is patient and kind … It is not arrogant Here Paul speaks about **Love** as if it were a person who could do these actions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 13 5 cp6x figs-personification 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues speaking about love as if it were a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 13 5 xt3v figs-activepassive οὐ παροξύνεται 1 It is not easily angered You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “no one will be able to make it angry quickly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 13 6 wl5y figs-personification 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues speaking about love as if it were a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 13 6 tpz6 figs-doublenegatives οὐ χαίρει ἐπὶ τῇ ἀδικίᾳ, συνχαίρει δὲ τῇ ἀληθείᾳ 1 It does not rejoice in unrighteousness. Instead, it rejoices in the truth You can state this in positive form. Alternate translation: “It rejoices only in righteousness and truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 13 7 vf6x figs-personification 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues speaking about love as if it were a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 13 12 bn3h βλέπομεν γὰρ ἄρτι δι’ ἐσόπτρου ἐν αἰνίγματι 1 For now we see indirectly in a mirror In Paul’s day, a **mirror** was made of polished metal rather than glass and provided a dim, vague reflection.
1CO 13 12 xx1g figs-ellipsis τότε δὲ πρόσωπον πρὸς πρόσωπον 1 but then face to face The words “we will see” are implied here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 13 12 tjq9 figs-synecdoche τότε δὲ πρόσωπον πρὸς πρόσωπον 1 Here, **face to face** means that we will be physically present with Christ. Alternate translation: “but then we will see Christ face to face” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 13 12 qp7g figs-ellipsis ἐπιγνώσομαι 1 I will know fully The word “Christ” is understood. Alternate translation: “I will know Christ fully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1CO 13 12 i28w figs-activepassive καθὼς καὶ ἐπεγνώσθην 1 just as I have also been fully known You can state this as active. Alternate translation: “just as Christ has known me fully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 13 13 nt1y figs-abstractnouns πίστις, ἐλπίς, ἀγάπη 1 faith, hope, and love The abstract nouns **faith**, **hope**, and **love** can be expressed in phrases with verbs. Alternate translation: “we must trust the Lord, be confident that he will do what he has promised, and love him and others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 14 intro abch 0 # 1 Corinthians 14 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>In this chapter, Paul returns to discussing spiritual gifts.<br><br>Some translations set what is quoted from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the words of verse 21.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Tongues<br><br>Scholars disagree on the exact meaning of the gift of tongues. Paul describes the gift of tongues as a sign for unbelievers. It does not serve the whole church, unless someone interprets what is spoken. It is very important that the church uses this gift properly.<br><br>### Prophecy<br><br>Scholars disagree on the exact meaning of prophecy as a spiritual gift. Paul says prophets can build up the entire church. He describes prophecy as a gift for believers. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet]])
1CO 14 1 vl57 0 Connecting Statement: Paul wants them to know that though teaching is more important because it instructs people, it must be done with love.
1CO 14 1 x938 figs-personification διώκετε τὴν ἀγάπην 1 Pursue love Paul speaks of **love** as if it were a person. Alternate translation: “Follow after love” or “Work hard to love people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 14 1 ki3l μᾶλλον…ἵνα προφητεύητε 1 especially that you may prophesy “work especially hard to be able to prophesy”
1CO 14 3 r1nx figs-metaphor οἰκοδομὴν 1 to build them up Here, **building up** represents helping people become mature and strong in their faith. See how you translated “builds up” in [1 Corinthians 8:1](../08/01.md). Alternate translation: “for strengthening” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 14 4 b2mg figs-metaphor ἑαυτὸν οἰκοδομεῖ 1 builds up Here, **builds up** represents helping himself become mature and strong in their faith. See how you translated “builds up” in [1 Corinthians 8:1](../08/01.md). Alternate translation: “strengthens himself in the faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 14 5 z5my figs-synecdoche μείζων δὲ ὁ προφητεύων 1 Now the one who prophesies is greater Paul is emphasizing that the gift of prophecy is greater than the gift of speaking in tongues. Alternate translation: “The one who prophesies has a greater gift” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1CO 14 5 g9k1 διερμηνεύῃ 1 he would interpret This means to tell what someone has said in a language to others who do not understand that language. See how this is translated in [1 Corinthians 2:13](../02/13.md).
1CO 14 6 l71k figs-rquestion ἐὰν ἔλθω πρὸς ὑμᾶς γλώσσαις λαλῶν, τί ὑμᾶς ὠφελήσω, ἐὰν μὴ ὑμῖν λαλήσω, ἢ ἐν ἀποκαλύψει, ἢ ἐν γνώσει, ἢ ἐν προφητείᾳ, ἢ διδαχῇ? 1 how will I benefit you? This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “if I come to you speaking in tongues, I will not benefit you, unless I speak to you either in revelation or in knowledge or in prophecy or teaching.” or “if I come to you speaking in tongues, I will not have done anything that helps you, unless I speak to you either in revelation or in knowledge or in prophecy or teaching.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 7 t3rb διαστολὴν τοῖς φθόγγοις μὴ δῷ 1 they do not make different sounds Here, **sounds** refers to different pitches that make up the melody, not to the difference between a flute sound and a harp sound.
1CO 14 7 hq2u figs-rquestion ἐὰν διαστολὴν τοῖς φθόγγοις μὴ δῷ, πῶς γνωσθήσεται τὸ αὐλούμενον ἢ τὸ κιθαριζόμενον? 1 how will it be known what is being played on the flute Paul wants the Corinthians to answer this themselves. Alternate translation: “if they would not give different sounds, no one will know what tune the flute or harp is playing.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 8 z6jg figs-rquestion ἐὰν ἄδηλον σάλπιγξ φωνὴν δῷ, τίς παρασκευάσεται εἰς πόλεμον? 1 who will prepare for battle? Paul wants the Corinthians to answer this themselves. Alternate translation: “if a trumpet gives an uncertain sound, no one would know when it is time to prepare for battle.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 10 im7a figs-doublenegatives οὐδὲν ἄφωνον 1 none is without meaning You can state this as a positive. Alternate translation: “they all have meaning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 14 12 j1h7 figs-metaphor πρὸς τὴν οἰκοδομὴν τῆς ἐκκλησίας, ζητεῖτε ἵνα περισσεύητε 1 try to excel in the gifts that build up the church Paul speaks of the **church** as if it were a house that one could build and of the work of building the church as if it were something one could harvest. Alternate translation: “to succeed greatly in making God’s people more able to serve God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 14 13 j87g διερμηνεύῃ 1 interpret To **interpret** means to tell what someone has said in a language to others who do not understand that language. See how this is translated in [1 Corinthians 2:13](../02/13.md).
1CO 14 14 kjh6 figs-metaphor ὁ…νοῦς μου ἄκαρπός ἐστιν 1 my mind is unfruitful The mind not understanding what is being prayed and, therefore, receiving no benefit from the prayer is spoken of as if the **mind is unfruitful**. Alternate translation: “I do not understand it in my mind” or “my mind does not benefit from the prayer, because I do not understand the words I am saying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 14 15 vm6p figs-rquestion τί οὖν ἐστιν? 1 What should I do? Paul is introducing his conclusion. Alternate translation: “This is what I will do.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 15 r11f προσεύξομαι τῷ Πνεύματι, προσεύξομαι δὲ καὶ τῷ νοΐ. ψαλῶ τῷ Πνεύματι, ψαλῶ δὲ καὶ τῷ νοΐ 1 pray with my spirit … pray with my mind … sing with my spirit … sing with my mind Prayers and songs must be in a language that the people present can understand.
1CO 14 16 niu5 figs-you εὐλογῇς…τῇ σῇ εὐχαριστίᾳ…λέγεις 1 you praise God … you are giving thanks … you are saying Though **you** and **your** are singular here, Paul is addressing everyone who prays only in the spirit, but not with the mind. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 14 16 r4w5 figs-rquestion ἐὰν εὐλογῇς πνεύματι, ὁ ἀναπληρῶν τὸν τόπον τοῦ ἰδιώτου, πῶς ἐρεῖ, τὸ ἀμήν, ἐπὶ τῇ σῇ εὐχαριστίᾳ, ἐπειδὴ τί λέγεις, οὐκ οἶδεν? 1 how will the outsider say “Amen” … saying? This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “if you bless with the spirit, the outsider will never be able to say ‘Amen’ at your thanksgiving, since he does not know what you are saying.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 17 a7wr figs-you σὺ μὲν…εὐχαριστεῖς 1 you certainly give Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if they were one person, so the word **you** here is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 14 17 w25k figs-metaphor ὁ ἕτερος οὐκ οἰκοδομεῖται 1 the other person is not built up Building people up represents helping them become mature and strong in their faith. See how you translated “builds up” in [1 Corinthians 8:1](../08/01.md). Alternate translation: “the other person is not strengthened” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 14 17 m7cj figs-activepassive ἀλλ’ ὁ ἕτερος οὐκ οἰκοδομεῖται 1 You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “what you say does not strengthen any outsider who might hear you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 14 19 cbw8 figs-hyperbole ἢ μυρίους λόγους 1 than ten thousand words in a tongue Paul was not counting **words**, but used exaggeration to emphasize that a few understandable words are far more valuable than even a great number of words in a language that people cannot understand. Alternate translation: “10,000 words” or “a great many words” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 14 20 luu4 0 General Information: Paul tells them that speaking in different languages was told ahead of time by the prophet Isaiah many years before this speaking in other languages happened at the start of Christ’s church.
1CO 14 20 mh5t figs-metaphor μὴ παιδία γίνεσθε ταῖς φρεσίν 1 do not be children in your thinking Here, **children** is a metaphor for being spiritually immature. Alternate translation: “do not think like children” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 14 21 jx6l figs-activepassive ἐν τῷ νόμῳ γέγραπται 1 In the law it is written, You can state this in active form: Alternate translation: “The prophet wrote these words in the law:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 14 21 l9xz figs-parallelism ἐν ἑτερογλώσσοις καὶ ἐν χείλεσιν ἑτέρων 1 By men of strange tongues and by the lips of strangers These two phrases mean basically the same thing and are used together for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1CO 14 22 qj5f figs-doublenegatives οὐ τοῖς πιστεύουσιν, ἀλλὰ τοῖς ἀπίστοις 1 not for unbelievers, but for believers This can be expressed positively and combined with the other positive statement. Alternate translation: “only for believers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1CO 14 23 hj3d figs-rquestion οὐκ ἐροῦσιν ὅτι μαίνεσθε? 1 would they not say that you are insane? This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “they would say that you are insane.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 24 xxy5 figs-parallelism ἐλέγχεται ὑπὸ πάντων, ἀνακρίνεται ὑπὸ πάντων 1 he would be convicted by all and examined by all Paul says basically the same thing twice for emphasis. Alternate translation: “he would realize that he is guilty of sin because he hears what you are saying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1CO 14 25 ma47 figs-metonymy τὰ κρυπτὰ τῆς καρδίας αὐτοῦ φανερὰ γίνεται 1 The secrets of his heart would be revealed Here, **heart** is a metonym for a person’s thoughts. Alternate translation: “his own private inner thoughts will be revealed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 14 25 l62f figs-activepassive τὰ κρυπτὰ τῆς καρδίας αὐτοῦ φανερὰ γίνεται 1 You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God would reveal to him the secrets of his heart” or “He would recognize his own private inner thoughts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 14 25 w31w figs-idiom πεσὼν ἐπὶ πρόσωπον, προσκυνήσει τῷ Θεῷ 1 he would fall on his face and worship God Here, **having fallen on his face** is an idiom, meaning he has bowed down. Alternate translation: “he would bow down and worship God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 14 26 bv9k figs-rquestion τί οὖν ἐστιν, ἀδελφοί? 1 What is tp be then, brothers? Paul uses a question to introduce the next part of his message. Alternate translation: “Because everything I have just told you is true, this is what you need to do, my fellow believers.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 26 xzz2 ἑρμηνίαν 1 interpretation Here, an **interpretation** means a telling of what someone has said in a language to others who do not understand that language. See how “interpret” is translated in [1 Corinthians 2:13](../02/13.md).
1CO 14 27 ari2 διερμηνευέτω 1 must interpret To **interpret** means to tell what someone has said in a language to others who do not understand that language. See how “interpret” is translated in [1 Corinthians 2:13](../02/13.md).
1CO 14 29 a9iz προφῆται…δύο ἢ τρεῖς λαλείτωσαν 1 Let two or three prophets speak This could mean: (1) only two or three prophets should speak at any one meeting. (2) only two or three prophets should take turns speaking at any one time.
1CO 14 30 sl1q figs-activepassive ἐὰν…ἄλλῳ ἀποκαλυφθῇ 1 if a revelation is given to another You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “if God gives insight to another person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 14 31 nrq1 figs-activepassive πάντες…παρακαλῶνται 3 all may be encouraged You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “you may encourage all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 14 33 my65 οὐ…ἐστιν ἀκαταστασίας ὁ Θεὸς 1 God is not a God of confusion God does not create confusing situations by making people all speak at the same time.
1CO 14 34 gjv2 αἱ γυναῖκες…σιγάτωσαν 1 let be silent This could mean: (1) they should stop speaking. (2) they should stop speaking when someone is prophesying. (3) they should be absolutely silent during the church service.
1CO 14 36 h8lp figs-rquestion ἢ ἀφ’ ὑμῶν ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐξῆλθεν, ἢ εἰς ὑμᾶς μόνους κατήντησεν? 1 Did the word of God come from you? Are you the only ones it has reached? Paul uses these questions to emphasize that the Corinthians are not the only ones who understand what God wants Christians to do. Alternate translation: “The word of God did not come from you in Corinth; you are not the only people who understand God’s will.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 14 36 mj6b figs-metonymy ὁ λόγος τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the word of God Here, the **word of God** is a metonym for the message from God. Alternate translation: “God’s message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1CO 14 39 jvr7 τὸ λαλεῖν μὴ κωλύετε γλώσσαις 1 do not forbid anyone from speaking in tongues Paul makes it clear that speaking in tongues at a church gathering is permissible and acceptable.
1CO 14 40 d7ia figs-activepassive πάντα δὲ εὐσχημόνως καὶ κατὰ τάξιν γινέσθω 1 But let all things be done properly and in order Paul is stressing that church gatherings should be held in an orderly manner. You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “But do all things properly and in order” or “But do everything in an orderly, appropriate way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 intro abci 0 # 1 Corinthians 15 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>### Resurrection<br><br>This chapter includes a very important teaching about the resurrection of Jesus. The Greek people did not believe that a person could live after they died. Paul defends the resurrection of Jesus. He teaches why it is important to all believers. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/resurrection]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Resurrection<br><br>Paul presents the resurrection as the ultimate proof that Jesus is God. Christ is the first of many who God will raise to life. The resurrection is central to the gospel. Few doctrines are as important as this one. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/goodnews]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/raise]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>Paul uses many different figures of speech in this chapter. He uses them to express difficult theological teachings in a way that people can understand.
1CO 15 1 gc6n 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds them that it is the gospel that saves them and he tells them again what the gospel is. Then he gives them a short history lesson, which ends with what will yet happen.
1CO 15 1 la9v γνωρίζω…ὑμῖν 1 make known to you “I am helping you remember”
1CO 15 1 xv53 figs-metaphor ἐν ᾧ καὶ ἑστήκατε 1 on which you stand Paul is speaking of the Corinthians as if they were a house and the gospel as if it were the foundation on which the house was standing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 2 xh29 figs-activepassive σῴζεσθε 1 you are being saved You can state this in active form. “God is saving you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 2 le2k τίνι λόγῳ εὐηγγελισάμην ὑμῖν 1 the word I preached to you “to the message I preached to you”
1CO 15 3 sp4p ἐν πρώτοις 1 as of first importance This could mean: (1) this is the most important of many things. (2) this is the first in time (3) this was done previously.
1CO 15 4 wa7m figs-activepassive ἐτάφη 1 he was buried You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “they buried him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 4 n7c7 figs-activepassive ἐγήγερται 1 he was raised You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God raised him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 5 rhd3 0 Connecting Statement: If you need for verse 5 to be a complete sentence, end [1 Corinthians 15:4](../15/04.md) with a comma so that verse 5 completes the sentence begun in [1 Corinthians 15:3](../15/03.md).
1CO 15 5 q3nb ὤφθη Κηφᾷ 1 he appeared “showed himself to Cephas”
1CO 15 6 q8bl figs-euphemism τινὲς…ἐκοιμήθησαν 1 some have fallen asleep Here, **have fallen asleep** is a euphemism for death. Alternate translation: “some have died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1CO 15 8 n9c6 ἔσχατον…πάντων 1 Last of all “finally, after he had appeared to the others”
1CO 15 8 vg7t figs-idiom τῷ ἐκτρώματι 1 a child born at the wrong time This is an idiom by which Paul may mean that he became a Christian much later than the other apostles. Or perhaps he means that, unlike the other apostles, he did not witness Jesus’ three-year-long ministry. Alternate translation: “someone who missed the experiences of the others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 15 10 n45h figs-litotes ἡ χάρις αὐτοῦ ἡ εἰς ἐμὲ, οὐ κενὴ ἐγενήθη 1 his grace in me was not in vain Paul is emphasizing through litotes that God worked through Paul. Alternate translation: “because he was kind to me, I was able to do much good work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1CO 15 10 xh95 figs-metaphor ἡ χάρις τοῦ Θεοῦ σὺν ἐμοί 1 the grace of God that is with me Paul speaks of the work he was able to do because **God** was kind to him as if that **grace** were actually doing the work. Alternate translation: This could mean: (1) this is literally true, and God actually did the work and kindly used Paul as a tool. (2) Paul is using a metaphor and saying that God was kind to let Paul do the work and to make Paul’s work have good results. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 12 ub2p figs-rquestion πῶς λέγουσιν ἐν ὑμῖν τινες, ὅτι ἀνάστασις νεκρῶν οὐκ ἔστιν? 1 how can some of you say there is no resurrection of the dead? Paul is using this question to begin a new topic. Alternate translation: “you should not be saying that there is no resurrection of the dead!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 15 12 jbi8 ἐγήγερται 1 raised he was made alive again
1CO 15 13 cn2m figs-hypo εἰ…ἀνάστασις νεκρῶν οὐκ ἔστιν, οὐδὲ Χριστὸς ἐγήγερται 1 if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised Paul is using a hypothetical case to argue that there is a **resurrection of the dead**. He knows that **Christ has been raised** and so infers that there is a resurrection. To say that there is no resurrection is to say that Christ has not been raised, but this is false because Paul has seen the resurrected Christ ([1 Corinthians 15:8](../15/08.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 15 13 mi12 figs-activepassive οὐδὲ Χριστὸς ἐγήγερται 1 not even Christ has been raised You can translate this in active form. Alternate translation: “God has not even raised Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 15 ctn5 εὑρισκόμεθα…ψευδομάρτυρες τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 we are found to be false witnesses about God Paul is arguing that if Christ did not rise from the dead, then they are bearing false witness or lying about Christ’s coming alive again.
1CO 15 15 aq5s figs-activepassive εὑρισκόμεθα 1 we are found to be You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “everyone will realize that we are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 17 v6vz ματαία ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν, ἔτι ἐστὲ ἐν ταῖς ἁμαρτίαις ὑμῶν 1 your faith is in vain and you are still in your sins Their faith is based on Christ having risen from the dead, so if that did not happen, their faith will do them no good.
1CO 15 19 d9nq πάντων ἀνθρώπων 1 of all people “of everyone, including believers and non-believers”
1CO 15 19 ts7u ἐλεεινότεροι πάντων ἀνθρώπων ἐσμέν 1 of all people we are most to be pitied “people should feel sorry for us more than they do for anyone else”
1CO 15 20 zw31 figs-metaphor ἀπαρχὴ 1 the firstfruits Here, **firstfruit** is a metaphor, comparing Christ to the first of the harvest, which would be followed by the rest of the harvest. Christ was the first to be raised from the dead. Alternate translation: “who is like the first part of the harvest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 20 n6cl figs-idiom Χριστὸς ἐγήγερται ἐκ νεκρῶν 1 Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruit of those who have fallen asleep Here, **has been raised** is an idiom for “caused to live again.” Alternate translation: “Christ has been caused to live again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 15 20 a385 figs-activepassive Χριστὸς ἐγήγερται ἐκ νεκρῶν 1 You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God has raised Christ from the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 21 uca8 figs-abstractnouns δι’ ἀνθρώπου θάνατος 1 death came by a man The abstract noun **death** can be expressed with the verb “die.” Alternate translation. “people die because of what one man did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 15 21 gf8p figs-abstractnouns καὶ δι’ ἀνθρώπου ἀνάστασις νεκρῶν 1 by a man also came the resurrection of the dead The abstract noun **resurrection** can be expressed with the verb “raise.” Alternate translation: “people are raised from the dead because of another man” or “people will become alive again because of what one man did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1CO 15 23 p4g9 figs-metaphor ἀπαρχὴ 1 the firstfruits Here, **firstfruit** is a metaphor, comparing Christ to the first of the harvest, which would be followed by the rest of the harvest. Christ was the first to be raised from the dead. Alternate translation: “who is like the first part of the harvest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 24 uwh3 καταργήσῃ πᾶσαν ἀρχὴν, καὶ πᾶσαν ἐξουσίαν, καὶ δύναμιν 1 he will abolish all rule and all authority and power “he will stop those people who rule, who have authority, and who have power from doing what they are doing”
1CO 15 25 t8mk figs-idiom ἄχρι οὗ θῇ πάντας τοὺς ἐχθροὺς ὑπὸ τοὺς πόδας αὐτοῦ 1 until he has put all his enemies under his feet Kings who won wars would put their **feet** on the necks of those whom they had defeated. Alternate translation: “until God has completely destroyed all of Christ’s enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 15 26 x49h figs-personification ἔσχατος ἐχθρὸς καταργεῖται ὁ θάνατος 1 The last enemy to be destroyed is death Paul speaks of **death** here as if it were a person whom God will kill. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 15 26 n32f figs-activepassive ἔσχατος ἐχθρὸς καταργεῖται ὁ θάνατος 1 You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “The final enemy that God will destroy is death itself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 27 df59 figs-idiom πάντα…ὑπέταξεν ὑπὸ τοὺς πόδας αὐτοῦ 1 he has put everything under his feet Kings who won wars would put their **feet** on the necks of those whom they had defeated. See how “put … under his feet” is translated in [1 Corinthians 15:25](../15/25.md). Alternate translation: “God has completely destroyed all of Christ’s enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1CO 15 28 xm8u figs-activepassive ὑποταγῇ αὐτῷ τὰ πάντα 1 all things are subjected to him This can stated as active. Alternate translation: “God has made all things subject to Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 28 a1cd figs-activepassive αὐτὸς ὁ Υἱὸς, ὑποταγήσεται 1 the Son himself will be subjected This can stated as active. Alternate translation: “the Son himself will become subject” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 28 ksj4 αὐτὸς ὁ Υἱὸς 1 the Son himself In the previous verses he was referred to as “Christ.” Alternate translation: “Christ, that is, the Son himself”
1CO 15 28 im2j guidelines-sonofgodprinciples ὁ Υἱὸς 1 the Son This is an important title that describes the relationship between Jesus and God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
1CO 15 29 a4d4 figs-rquestion ἐπεὶ τί ποιήσουσιν, οἱ βαπτιζόμενοι ὑπὲρ τῶν νεκρῶν? 1 Or else what will those do who are baptized for the dead? Paul uses this question to teach the Corinthians. You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “Otherwise it would be useless for Christians to receive baptism for the dead.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 15 29 lw86 figs-hypo εἰ ὅλως νεκροὶ οὐκ ἐγείρονται, τί καὶ βαπτίζονται ὑπὲρ αὐτῶν? 1 If the dead are not raised at all, why are they baptized for them? Paul uses a hypothetical situation to argue that the dead are raised. To say that **the dead are not raised** is to say that people should not be baptized for the dead. But some people, probably some members of the church in Corinth, are baptized for the dead, so he infers those people are baptized for the dead because they believe that the dead are raised. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1CO 15 29 jdc9 figs-activepassive νεκροὶ οὐκ ἐγείρονται 1 the dead are not raised You can translate this in active form. Alternate translation: “God does not raise the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 29 s7kx figs-rquestion τί καὶ βαπτίζονται ὑπὲρ αὐτῶν 1 why then are they baptized for them? Paul uses this question to teach the Corinthians. You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “there would be no reason for them to have people baptize them on behalf of dead people.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 15 30 h4ra figs-rquestion τί καὶ ἡμεῖς κινδυνεύομεν πᾶσαν ὥραν? 1 Why then, are we in danger every hour? Paul uses this question to teach the Corinthians. Alternate translation: “We gain nothing by being in danger every hour.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 15 30 t593 figs-explicit τί καὶ ἡμεῖς κινδυνεύομεν πᾶσαν ὥραν? 1 The reason he and others were in danger is that some people were angry that they taught that Jesus will raise people from death. Alternate translation: “If people will not rise from the dead, we gain nothing by being in danger every hour for teaching that people will rise.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 15 31 i7d7 figs-hyperbole καθ’ ἡμέραν ἀποθνῄσκω 1 I die every day! This exaggeration means he was in danger of dying. He knew that some people wanted to kill him because they did not like what he was teaching. Alternate translation: “Every day I am in danger of dying” or “Every day I risk my life!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1CO 15 31 d51t καθ’ ἡμέραν ἀποθνῄσκω, νὴ τὴν ὑμετέραν καύχησιν 1 I swear by my boasting in you Paul uses this statement as evidence that he faces death every day. Alternate translation: “You can know I die every day, because you know about my boasting in you”
1CO 15 31 znl3 figs-explicit τὴν ὑμετέραν καύχησιν, ἀδελφοί, ἣν ἔχω ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ, τῷ Κυρίῳ ἡμῶν 1 my boasting in you, brothers, which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord Paul boasted in them because of what Christ Jesus had done for him. Alternate translation: “my boasting in you, which I do because of my relationship with Christ Jesus our Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 15 31 p3ym τὴν ὑμετέραν καύχησιν 1 my boasting in you “telling other people how good you are”
1CO 15 32 q6mb figs-rquestion εἰ κατὰ ἄνθρωπον, ἐθηριομάχησα ἐν Ἐφέσῳ, τί μοι τὸ ὄφελος? 1 What do I gain … if I fought with beasts at Ephesus … not raised Paul wants the Corinthians to understand without him having to tell them. This can be a statement. Alternate translation: “If Christ was not raised, I gained nothing, according to the opinion of most people, by fighting with beasts at Ephesus.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 15 32 lm3v figs-metaphor ἐθηριομάχησα ἐν Ἐφέσῳ 1 I fought with beasts at Ephesus This could mean: (1) Paul was speaking figuratively about his arguments with learned pagans or other conflicts with people who wanted to kill him. (2) Paul was actually put into the arena to fight against dangerous animals. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 32 c36a φάγωμεν καὶ πίωμεν, αὔριον γὰρ ἀποθνῄσκομεν 1 Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die Paul concludes that if there is no further life after death, it is better for us to enjoy this life as we can, for tomorrow our life will end without any further hope.
1CO 15 33 q7uc φθείρουσιν ἤθη χρηστὰ ὁμιλίαι κακαί 1 Bad company corrupts good morals If you live with bad people, you will act like them. Paul is quoting a common saying.
1CO 15 34 gr3v ἐκνήψατε 1 Sober up “You must think seriously about this”
1CO 15 35 w4hk 0 Connecting Statement: Paul gives some specifics about how the resurrection of the believers’ bodies will take place. He gives a picture of natural and spiritual bodies and compares the first man Adam with the last Adam, Christ.
1CO 15 35 hw4a figs-rquestion ἀλλ’ ἐρεῖ τις, πῶς ἐγείρονται οἱ νεκροί? ποίῳ δὲ σώματι ἔρχονται? 1 But someone will say, “How are the dead raised, and with what kind of body will they come?” This could mean: (1) the person is asking sincerely. (2) the person is using the question to mock the idea of a resurrection. Alternate translation: “But some will say that they cannot imagine how God will raise the dead, and what kind of body God would give them in the resurrection.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 15 35 e5lv ποίῳ…σώματι ἔρχονται 1 with what kind of body will they come That is, will it be a physical body or a spiritual body? What shape will the body have? What will the body be made of? Translate using the most general question that someone who wants to know the answers to these questions would ask.
1CO 15 36 ha84 figs-you ἄφρων! σὺ ὃ σπείρεις 1 You are so foolish! What you sow Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if they were one person, so both instances of **you** here are singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 15 36 q2zd figs-metaphor ὃ σπείρεις, οὐ ζῳοποιεῖται, ἐὰν μὴ ἀποθάνῃ 1 What you sow will not start to grow unless it dies A seed will not grow unless it is first buried underground. In the same way, a person has to die before God can resurrect him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 37 pw6v figs-metaphor ὃ σπείρεις, οὐ τὸ σῶμα τὸ γενησόμενον 1 What you sow is not the body that will be Paul uses the metaphor of the seed again to say that God will resurrect the dead body of the believer, but that body will not appear as it was. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 37 h6zi figs-you ὃ σπείρεις 1 What you sow Paul is speaking to the Corinthians as if they were one person, so the word **you** here is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1CO 15 40 d9k2 σώματα ἐπουράνια 1 heavenly bodies This could refer to: (1) the sun, moon, stars, and other visible lights in the sky. (2) heavenly beings, such as angels and other supernatural beings.
1CO 15 40 qg3p ἑτέρα μὲν ἡ τῶν ἐπουρανίων δόξα, ἑτέρα δὲ ἡ τῶν ἐπιγείων 1 the glory of the heavenly body is one kind and the glory of the earthly is another “the glory that heavenly bodies have is different from the glory of human bodies”
1CO 15 42 s12t figs-metaphor σπείρεται…ἐγείρεται 1 What is sown … what is raised The writer speaks of a person’s body being buried as if it were a seed that is scattered on the ground. And he speaks of a person’s body being raised from the dead as if it were a plant growing from the seed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 42 b6ob figs-activepassive σπείρεται…ἐγείρεται 1 You can state the passive verbs in active form. Alternate translation: “What goes into the ground … what comes out of the ground” or “What people bury … what God raises” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 42 rw3k ἐν φθορᾷ, ἐγείρεται ἐν ἀφθαρσίᾳ 1 in decay … in immortality “that can rot, cannot rot when it is raised”
1CO 15 43 h4u5 figs-metaphor σπείρεται…ἐγείρεται 1 It is sown … it is raised The writer speaks of a person’s body being buried as if it were a seed that is scattered on the ground. And he speaks of a person’s body being raised from the dead as if it were a plant growing from the seed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 43 zo03 figs-activepassive σπείρεται…ἐγείρεται 1 You can state the passive verbs in active form. Alternate translation: “It goes into the ground … it comes out of the ground” or “People bury it … God raises it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 44 u856 figs-metaphor σπείρεται…ἐγείρεται 1 It is sown … it is raised The writer speaks of a person’s body being buried as if it were a seed that is planted in the ground. And he speaks of a person’s body being raised from the dead as if it were a plant growing from the seed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 44 b4dm figs-activepassive σπείρεται…ἐγείρεται 1 You can state the passive verbs in active form. Alternate translation: “It goes into the ground … it comes out of the ground” or “People bury it … God raises it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 46 fc51 ἀλλ’ οὐ πρῶτον τὸ πνευματικὸν, ἀλλὰ τὸ ψυχικόν, ἔπειτα τὸ πνευματικόν 1 But the spiritual did not come first but the natural, and then the spiritual “The natural being came first. The spiritual being is from God and came later.”
1CO 15 47 m2pj figs-explicit ὁ πρῶτος ἄνθρωπος ἐκ γῆς, χοϊκός 1 The first man is of the earth, made of dust God made the **first man**, Adam, from the **dust** of the **earth**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 15 48 r9be figs-explicit ὁ ἐπουράνιος 1 ὁ ἐπουράνιος This refers to Jesus Christ, who is from heaven. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1CO 15 48 s9pn οἱ ἐπουράνιοι 1 those who are of heaven “those who belong to God”
1CO 15 49 mq8z εἰκόνα τοῦ χοϊκοῦ, φορέσωμεν καὶ τὴν εἰκόνα τοῦ ἐπουρανίου 1 have borne the image … will also bear the image “have been just like Adam, we will also be just like Jesus”
1CO 15 50 jub2 0 Connecting Statement: Paul wants them to realize that some believers will not die physically but will still get a resurrected body through Christ’s victory.
1CO 15 50 mwy3 figs-parallelism σὰρξ καὶ αἷμα Βασιλείαν Θεοῦ κληρονομῆσαι οὐ δύναται, οὐδὲ ἡ φθορὰ, τὴν ἀφθαρσίαν κληρονομεῖ 1 flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God. Neither does what is perishable inherit what is imperishable This could mean: (1) the two sentences mean the same thing. Alternate translation: “human beings who will surely die cannot inherit the permanent kingdom of God” (2) the second sentence finishes the thought begun by the first. Alternate translation: “weak human beings cannot inherit the kingdom of God. Neither do those who will certainly die inherit a kingdom that will last forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1CO 15 50 e4gd figs-metaphor κληρονομῆσαι 1 inherit Receiving what God has promised believers is spoken of as if it were inheriting property and wealth from a family member. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 50 b9hc ἡ φθορὰ, τὴν ἀφθαρσίαν 1 the perishable … the imperishable “what can rot … what cannot rot.” See how these words are translated in [1 Corinthians 15:42](../15/42.md).
1CO 15 51 k5dw figs-activepassive πάντες…ἀλλαγησόμεθα 2 we will all be changed You can state this as active. Alternate translation: “God will change us all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 52 p8f8 figs-activepassive ἀλλαγησόμεθα 1 We will be changed You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God will change us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 52 h668 figs-metaphor ἐν τῇ ἐσχάτῃ σάλπιγγι 1 at the last trumpet Here, the **last trumpet** refers to the sounding of trumpets before the return of Christ and the final judgment of those who have not believed in Jesus. Alternate translation: “when the last trumpet sounds” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 52 l66q figs-activepassive οἱ νεκροὶ ἐγερθήσονται 1 the dead will be raised You can translate this in active form. Alternate translation: “God will raise the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1CO 15 53 nua2 τὸ φθαρτὸν τοῦτο…ἀφθαρσίαν 1 this perishable body … is imperishable “this body that can rot … the inability to rot.” See how similar phrases are translated in [1 Corinthians 15:42](../15/42.md).
1CO 15 53 iyd2 figs-metaphor ἐνδύσασθαι ἀφθαρσίαν 1 must put on Paul is speaking of God making our bodies so they will never die again as if God were putting new clothes on us. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 54 qq5m figs-personification τὸ φθαρτὸν τοῦτο ἐνδύσηται ἀφθαρσίαν, καὶ τὸ θνητὸν τοῦτο ἐνδύσηται ἀθανασίαν 1 when this perishable body has put on what is imperishable Here the body is spoken of as if it were a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1CO 15 54 od10 figs-metaphor τὸ φθαρτὸν τοῦτο ἐνδύσηται ἀφθαρσίαν 1 Here becoming **imperishable** is spoken of as if being imperishable was clothing that a body would wear. Alternate translation: “when this perishable body has become imperishable” or “when this body that can rot can no longer rot” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 54 j9zs figs-metaphor τὸ θνητὸν τοῦτο ἐνδύσηται ἀθανασίαν 1 this mortal body has put on immortality Here becoming immortal is spoken of as if being immortal was clothing that a body would wear. Alternate translation: “when this mortal body has become immortal” or “when this body that can die can no longer die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 55 c9zw figs-apostrophe θάνατε 1 Death, where is your victory? Death, where is your sting? Paul speaks as if death were a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
1CO 15 55 pdxo figs-rquestion ποῦ σου, θάνατε, τὸ νῖκος? ποῦ σου, θάνατε, τὸ κέντρον? 1 Paul uses this question to mock the power of death, which Christ has defeated. Alternate translation: “Death has no victory. Death has no sting.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1CO 15 56 iyd3 τὸ…κέντρον τοῦ θανάτου ἡ ἁμαρτία 1 the sting of death is sin It is through **sin** that we are destined to face **death**, that is, to die.
1CO 15 56 pf4e ἡ…δύναμις τῆς ἁμαρτίας ὁ νόμος 2 the power of sin is the law God’s law that was passed down by Moses defines sin and shows us how we sin before God.
1CO 15 57 ztj6 τῷ διδόντι ἡμῖν τὸ νῖκος 1 gives us the victory “who has defeated death for us”
1CO 15 58 k4c4 0 Connecting Statement: Paul wants believers, while they work for the Lord, to remember the changed, resurrected bodies that God is going to give them.
1CO 15 58 j1pl figs-metaphor ἑδραῖοι γίνεσθε, ἀμετακίνητοι 1 be steadfast and immovable Paul speaks of someone who lets nothing stop him from carrying out his decisions as if he could not be physically moved. Alternate translation: “be determined” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 15 58 zn8f figs-metaphor περισσεύοντες ἐν τῷ ἔργῳ τοῦ Κυρίου πάντοτε 1 Always abound in the work of the Lord Paul speaks of efforts made in working for the Lord as if they were objects that a person could acquire more of. Alternate translation: “Always work for the Lord faithfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 16 intro abcj 0 # 1 Corinthians 16 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul briefly covers many topics in this chapter. It was common in the ancient Near East for the last part of letters to have personal greetings.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Preparation for his coming<br><br>Paul gave practical instructions to help prepare the Corinthian church for his visit. He told them to start collecting money every Sunday for the believers in Jerusalem. He hoped to come and spend the winter with them. He told them to help Timothy when he came. He had hoped Apollos would go to them, but Apollos did not think it was the right time. Paul also told them to obey Stephanus. Finally, he sent his greetings to everyone.
1CO 16 1 zh6u 0 Connecting Statement: In his closing notes, Paul reminds the Corinthian believers to collect money for the needy believers in Jerusalem. He reminds them that Timothy will come to them before he goes to Paul.
1CO 16 2 wc3w ἵνα μὴ ὅταν ἔλθω, τότε λογεῖαι γίνωνται 1 so that there will be no collections when I come “so that you will not have to collect more money while I am with you”
1CO 16 3 yj6c οὓς ἐὰν δοκιμάσητε 1 whomever you approve Paul is telling the church to choose some of their own people to take their offering to Jerusalem. “whomever you choose” or “the people you appoint”
1CO 16 3 j612 δι’ ἐπιστολῶν…πέμψω 1 I will send with letters This could mean: (1) Paul will send with letters that he will write. (2) Paul will send with letters that they will write.
1CO 16 6 w94k ὑμεῖς με προπέμψητε, οὗ ἐὰν πορεύωμαι 1 you may help me on my way, wherever I go This means the Corinthians might give Paul money or other things he needs so that he and his ministry team could continue to travel.
1CO 16 7 xr88 figs-litotes οὐ θέλω…ὑμᾶς ἄρτι ἐν παρόδῳ ἰδεῖν 1 I do not wish to see you now Paul is stating that he wants to visit for a long time later, not just for a short time soon. You can state this as a positive. Alternate translation: “I want to spend a longer time with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1CO 16 8 qkw9 τῆς Πεντηκοστῆς 1 Pentecost Paul would stay in Ephesus until the festival of **Pentecost**, which came in May or June, 50 days after Passover. He would then travel through Macedonia, and later try to arrive in Corinth before winter started in November.
1CO 16 9 fyj3 figs-metaphor θύρα…ἀνέῳγεν μεγάλη καὶ ἐνεργής 1 a wide door has opened Paul speaks of the opportunity God has given him to win people to the gospel as if it were a **door** that God had opened so he could walk through it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 16 11 f4mw μή τις…αὐτὸν ἐξουθενήσῃ 1 Let no one despise him Because Timothy was much younger than Paul, sometimes he was not shown the respect he deserved as a minister of the gospel.
1CO 16 12 is6j figs-exclusive Ἀπολλῶ τοῦ ἀδελφοῦ 1 our brother Apollos Some languages such as English require the word **our** for clarity. If added, **you** would refer to Paul and his readers, so it is inclusive. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1CO 16 13 p2la figs-parallelism γρηγορεῖτε, στήκετε ἐν τῇ πίστει, ἀνδρίζεσθε, κραταιοῦσθε 1 Stay alert; stand firm in the faith; act like men; be strong Paul is describing what he wants the Corinthians to do as if he was giving four commands to soldiers in war. These four commands mean almost the same thing and are used for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1CO 16 13 ng8n figs-metaphor γρηγορεῖτε 1 Stay alert Paul speaks of people being aware of what is happening as if they were guards keeping watch over a city or vineyard. You can state this more clearly. Alternate translation: “Be careful whom you trust” or “Watch out for danger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 16 13 uys8 figs-metaphor στήκετε ἐν τῇ πίστει 1 stand firm in the faith Paul speaks of people continuing to believe in Christ according to his teaching as if they were soldiers refusing to retreat when the enemy attacks. This could mean: (1) they should keep strongly believing what Paul and his companions have taught them. (2) they should keep strongly trusting in Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 16 13 a3fs figs-metaphor ἀνδρίζεσθε 1 act like men In the society in which Paul and his audience lived, men usually provided for families by doing the heavy work and fighting against invaders. You can state this more clearly. Alternate translation: “be responsible” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1CO 16 14 rij5 πάντα ὑμῶν ἐν ἀγάπῃ γινέσθω 1 Let all that you do be done in love “Everything you do, you should do because you love people” or “Everything you do, you should do because you love God”
1CO 16 15 fy4e 0 Connecting Statement: Paul begins to close his letter and sends greetings from other churches, as well as from Prisca, Aquila, and Paul himself.
1CO 16 15 asp2 translate-names τὴν οἰκίαν Στεφανᾶ 1 the household of Stephanas **Stephanas** was one of the first believers in the church at Corinth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 16 15 na2p translate-names Ἀχαΐας 1 Achaia **Achaia** is the name of a province in Greece. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 16 17 iju8 Στεφανᾶ, καὶ Φορτουνάτου, καὶ Ἀχαϊκοῦ 1 Stephanas, and Fortunatus, and Achaicus **Stephanas and Fortunatus** were either some of the first Corinthian believers or church elders who were co-workers with Paul.
1CO 16 17 e79z translate-names Στεφανᾶ, καὶ Φορτουνάτου, καὶ Ἀχαϊκοῦ 1 Stephanas, and Fortunatus, and Achaicus **Stephanas and Fortunatus** are men’s names. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1CO 16 17 an3e τὸ ὑμῶν ὑστέρημα οὗτοι ἀνεπλήρωσαν 1 They have made up for your absence “they made up for the fact that you were not here”
1CO 16 21 izu6 ὁ ἀσπασμὸς τῇ ἐμῇ χειρὶ, Παύλου 1 I, Paul, write this with my own hand Paul was making it clear that the instructions in this letter are from him, even though one of his co-laborers wrote what Paul was saying in the rest of the letter. Paul wrote this last part with his **own hand**.
1CO 16 22 c1kx ἤτω ἀνάθεμα 1 may he be accursed “may God curse him.” See how **accursed** was translated in [1 Corinthians 12:3](../12/03.md).
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