1 Corinthians 13:1

Authorized King James Version

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Ἐὰν

G1437

Though

a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty

ταῖς

G3588

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

γλώσσαις

G1100

with the tongues

the tongue; by implication, a language (specially, one naturally unacquired)

τῶν

G3588

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

ἀνθρώπων

G444

of men

man-faced, i.e., a human being

λαλῶ

G2980

I speak

to talk, i.e., utter words

καὶ

G2532

and

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

τῶν

G3588

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

ἀγγέλων

G32

of angels

compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor

#10

ἀγάπην

G26

charity

love, i.e., affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast

#11

δὲ

G1161

and

but, and, etc

#12

μὴ

G3361

not

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

#13

ἔχω

G2192

have

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

#14

γέγονα

G1096

I am become

to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)

#15

χαλκὸς

G5475

brass

copper (the substance, or some implement or coin made of it)

#16

ἠχῶν

G2278

as sounding

to make a loud noise, i.e., reverberate

#17

ἢ

G2228

disjunctive, or; comparative, than

#18

κύμβαλον

G2950

cymbal

a "cymbal" (as hollow)

#19

ἀλαλάζον

G214

a tinkling

to vociferate, i.e., (by implication) to wail; figuratively, to clang

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
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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