1 Corinthians 14:7

Authorized King James Version

And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὅμως
And even
at the same time, i.e., (conjunctionally) notwithstanding, yet still
#2
τὰ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
ἄψυχα
things without life
lifeless, i.e., inanimate (mechanical)
#4
φωνὴν
sound
a tone (articulate, bestial or artificial); by implication, an address (for any purpose), saying or language
#5
δῷ
giving
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
#6
εἴτε
or
if too
#7
αὐλὸς
pipe
a flute (as blown)
#8
εἴτε
or
if too
#9
κιθάρα
harp
a lyre
#10
ἐὰν
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
#11
διαστολὴν
a distinction
a variation
#12
τοῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
φθόγγοις
in the sounds
utterance, i.e., a musical note (vocal or instrumental)
#14
μὴ
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#15
δῷ
giving
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
#16
πῶς
how
an interrogative particle of manner; in what way? (sometimes the question is indirect, how?); also as exclamation, how much!
#17
γνωσθήσεται
shall it be known
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
#18
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#19
αὐλούμενον
what is piped
to play the flute
#20
or
disjunctive, or; comparative, than
#21
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#22
κιθαριζόμενον
harped
to play on a lyre

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of life reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues, advancing the author's theological argument. 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 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 life in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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