1 Corinthians 7:38
So then he that giveth her in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth her not in marriage doeth better.
Original Language Analysis
ὥστε
So
G5620
ὥστε
So
Strong's:
G5620
Word #:
1 of 12
so too, i.e., thus therefore (in various relations of consecution, as follow)
καὶ
then
G2532
καὶ
then
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
2 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ποιεῖ·
doeth
G4160
ποιεῖ·
doeth
Strong's:
G4160
Word #:
6 of 12
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
μὴ
not
G3361
μὴ
not
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
9 of 12
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
Cross References
Hebrews 13:4Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.1 Corinthians 7:37Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power over his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well.1 Corinthians 7:8I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.
Historical Context
Paul's comparative language ("better") was sometimes misinterpreted by later ascetic movements as establishing hierarchy between celibacy and marriage. However, Paul's context (urgent times, ministry focus) shows he means practical advantage, not moral superiority. Both callings glorify God when lived according to gifting.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Paul's language of "well" versus "better" prevent hierarchy while acknowledging practical differences?
- In what circumstances today might singleness be "better" for focused ministry?
- How can the church honor both callings without elevating one as morally superior?
Analysis & Commentary
So then he that giveth her in marriage doeth well—the verb gamizōn (γαμίζων, "giving in marriage") confirms Paul is addressing fathers arranging daughters' marriages. Kalōs poiei (καλῶς ποιεῖ, "does well") affirms marriage as good. Paul has consistently maintained marriage's legitimacy (vv. 2, 28, 36); his preference for singleness does not diminish marriage's honor.
However, but he that giveth her not in marriage doeth better (ho mē gamizōn kreisson poiei, ὁ μὴ γαμίζων κρεῖσσον ποιεῖ). The comparative kreisson ("better") indicates relative advantage, not moral superiority. Given the "present distress" (v. 26) and advantages of undivided devotion (vv. 32-35), singleness is "better" in a practical sense.
Paul's careful language protects both callings: marriage is "well" (kalōs), singleness is "better" (kreisson). This reflects the chapter's consistent message: both are good, both are gifts (v. 7), but singleness offers practical advantages for ministry. The choice depends on gifting, circumstances, and calling—not moral ranking.