1 Corinthians 11:7

Authorized King James Version

For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἀνδρός

G435

a man

a man (properly as an individual male)

μὲν

G3303

indeed

properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

οὐκ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ὀφείλει

G3784

ought

to owe (pecuniarily); figuratively, to be under obligation (ought, must, should); morally, to fail in duty

κατακαλύπτεσθαι

G2619

to cover

to cover wholly, i.e., veil

τὴν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κεφαλήν

G2776

his head

the head (as the part most readily taken hold of), literally or figuratively

εἰκὼν

G1504

the image

a likeness, i.e., (literally) statue, profile, or (figuratively) representation, resemblance

#10

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#11

δόξα

G1391

glory

glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)

#12

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

#13

ὑπάρχων·

G5225

forasmuch as he is

to begin under (quietly), i.e., come into existence (be present or at hand); expletively, to exist (as copula or subordinate to an adjective, particip

#14

γυνὴ

G1135

the woman

a woman; specially, a wife

#15

δὲ

G1161

but

but, and, etc

#16

δόξα

G1391

glory

glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)

#17

ἀνδρός

G435

a man

a man (properly as an individual male)

#18

ἐστιν

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of glory reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood glory. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 11 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

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