1 Corinthians 7:25

Authorized King James Version

Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Περὶ

G4012

concerning

properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas

δὲ

G1161

Now

but, and, etc

τῶν

G3588

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

παρθένων

G3933

virgins

a maiden; by implication, an unmarried daughter

ἐπιταγὴν

G2003

commandment

an injunction or decree; by implication, authoritativeness

κυρίου

G2962

of the Lord

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

οὐκ

G3756

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

ἔχω

G2192

I have

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

γνώμην

G1106

my judgment

cognition, i.e., (subjectively) opinion, or (objectively) resolve (counsel, consent, etc.)

#10

δὲ

G1161

Now

but, and, etc

#11

δίδωμι

G1325

I give

to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)

#12

ὡς

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

#13

ἠλεημένος

G1653

one that hath obtained mercy

to compassionate (by word or deed, specially, by divine grace)

#14

ὑπὸ

G5259

under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (

#15

κυρίου

G2962

of the Lord

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

#16

πιστὸς

G4103

faithful

objectively, trustworthy; subjectively, trustful

#17

εἶναι

G1511

to be

to exist

Analysis

This verse develops the covenant theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of faith reflects the development of covenant 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 the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, 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 covenant 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 faith in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 7 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How might the original audience's understanding of faith differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on faith address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?

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