1 Corinthians 6:8
Nay, ye do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren.
Original Language Analysis
ἀλλὰ
Nay
G235
ἀλλὰ
Nay
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
1 of 8
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
ἀδικεῖτε
do wrong
G91
ἀδικεῖτε
do wrong
Strong's:
G91
Word #:
3 of 8
to be unjust, i.e., (actively) do wrong (morally, socially or physically)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
4 of 8
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
Historical Context
Ancient lawsuits often involved property, debt, or inheritance—common among the rising merchant class in Corinth. But using Roman courts to seize assets from fellow Christians violated Torah justice (Exodus 22, Deuteronomy 15) and Christ's ethic. Paul sees litigation as pleonexia (πλεονεξία, 'greed, covetousness')—the desire to have more, even at brothers' expense. This vice reappears in verse 10's catalog of those who won't inherit God's kingdom.
Questions for Reflection
- In what ways might you be 'defrauding' fellow Christians—taking advantage financially, relationally, or through manipulation?
- How does Paul's accusation challenge the assumption that legal victory equals moral righteousness?
- What restitution or reconciliation do you need to pursue with a brother or sister you've wronged?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Nay, ye do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren. The accusation intensifies: alla (ἀλλά, 'but/rather') signals reversal. Instead of suffering wrong, they inflict it. Adikeite (ἀδικεῖτε, 'you wrong') and apostereite (ἀποστερεῖτε, 'you defraud')—the same verbs from verse 7, now active. The irony is brutal: lawsuit plaintiffs claim to seek justice, but Paul sees their litigation as injustice itself.
And that your brethren (kai tauta adelphous, καὶ ταῦτα ἀδελφούς) adds a tragic coda. Tauta ('these things') refers to wrongs committed; adelphous ('brothers') reminds of kinship. Defrauding family members betrays both covenant (Leviticus 19:13) and Christ's command (John 13:34-35: 'love one another'). Their lawsuits aren't righteousness but fratricide—Cain-like violence in a courtroom.