1 Corinthians 14:28
But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.
Original Language Analysis
ἐὰν
G1437
ἐὰν
Strong's:
G1437
Word #:
1 of 14
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
μὴ
G3361
μὴ
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
3 of 14
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
ᾖ
there be
G5600
ᾖ
there be
Strong's:
G5600
Word #:
4 of 14
(may, might, can, could, would, should, must, etc.; also with g1487 and its comparative, as well as with other particles) be
σιγάτω
let him keep silence
G4601
σιγάτω
let him keep silence
Strong's:
G4601
Word #:
6 of 14
to keep silent (transitively or intransitively)
ἐκκλησίᾳ
the church
G1577
ἐκκλησίᾳ
the church
Strong's:
G1577
Word #:
8 of 14
a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth
ἑαυτῷ
to himself
G1438
ἑαυτῷ
to himself
Strong's:
G1438
Word #:
9 of 14
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
12 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Historical Context
Some Corinthians apparently felt compelled to speak in tongues publicly regardless of interpretation. Paul insists: no interpreter, no public tongues. Keep it between you and God.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does Paul command silence rather than simply encouraging interpretation?
- What's the difference between 'speaking to himself and to God' versus public speech?
- How does this verse honor both spiritual expression and corporate edification?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church—Paul's stark command: ean de mē ē diermēneutēs, sigatō en ekklēsia (ἐὰν δὲ μὴ ᾖ διερμηνευτής, σιγάτω ἐν ἐκκλησίᾳ, "but if there is no interpreter, let him be silent in church"). The imperative sigatō (σιγάτω, "let him be silent") is unequivocal. And let him speak to himself, and to God—private tongues-prayer remains legitimate: eatō de heautō lalein kai tō theō (ἑατῷ δὲ ἑαυτῷ λαλεῖν καὶ τῷ θεῷ, "let him speak to himself and to God").
Paul distinguishes public and private speech: without interpretation, tongues belong in private devotion, not corporate worship. This isn't suppressing the Spirit; it's channeling spiritual expression toward edification. The allowance for private prayer shows Paul values tongues—in their proper context.