1 Corinthians 3:19

Authorized King James Version

For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἡ

G3588

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

γάρ

G1063

For

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

σοφία

G4678

the wisdom

wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual)

τοῦ

G3588

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

κόσμου

G2889

world

orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))

τούτου

G5127

of this

of (from or concerning) this (person or thing)

μωρία

G3472

foolishness

silliness, i.e., absurdity

παρὰ

G3844

with

properly, near; i.e., (with genitive case) from beside (literally or figuratively), (with dative case) at (or in) the vicinity of (objectively or subj

τῷ

G3588

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

#10

θεῷ

G2316

God

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

#11

ἐστιν

G2076

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

#12

γέγραπται

G1125

it is written

to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe

#13

γάρ

G1063

For

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

#14

Ὁ

G3588

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

#15

δρασσόμενος

G1405

He taketh

to grasp, i.e., (figuratively) entrap

#16

τοὺς

G3588

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

#17

σοφοὺς

G4680

the wise

wise (in a most general application)

#18

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#19

τῇ

G3588

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

#20

πανουργίᾳ

G3834

craftiness

adroitness, i.e., (in a bad sense) trickery or sophistry

#21

αὐτῶν·

G846

their own

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of wisdom connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about wisdom, 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 wisdom in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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?
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 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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