1 Corinthians 11:14

Authorized King James Version

Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Doth
disjunctive, or; comparative, than
#2
οὐδὲ
not even
not however, i.e., neither, nor, not even
#3
αὐτῷ
itself
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#4
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
φύσις
nature
growth (by germination or expansion), i.e., (by implication) natural production (lineal descent); by extension, a genus or sort; figuratively, native
#6
διδάσκει
teach
to teach (in the same broad application)
#7
ὑμᾶς
you
you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)
#8
ὅτι
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#9
ἀνὴρ
a man
a man (properly as an individual male)
#10
μὲν
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
#11
ἐὰν
if
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
#12
κομᾷ
have long hair
to wear tresses of hair
#13
ἀτιμία
a shame
infamy, i.e., (subjectively) comparative indignity, (objectively) disgrace
#14
αὐτῷ
itself
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#15
ἐστιν
it is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Corinthians.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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