1 Corinthians 15:41
There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory.
Original Language Analysis
δόξῃ
glory
G1391
δόξῃ
glory
Strong's:
G1391
Word #:
2 of 17
glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
4 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
δόξῃ
glory
G1391
δόξῃ
glory
Strong's:
G1391
Word #:
6 of 17
glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
δόξῃ
glory
G1391
δόξῃ
glory
Strong's:
G1391
Word #:
10 of 17
glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)
ἀστέρος
another star
G792
ἀστέρος
another star
Strong's:
G792
Word #:
11 of 17
a star (as strown over the sky), literally or figuratively
ἀστέρος
another star
G792
ἀστέρος
another star
Strong's:
G792
Word #:
12 of 17
a star (as strown over the sky), literally or figuratively
γὰρ
for
G1063
γὰρ
for
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
13 of 17
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ἀστέρος
another star
G792
ἀστέρος
another star
Strong's:
G792
Word #:
14 of 17
a star (as strown over the sky), literally or figuratively
Historical Context
Ancient astronomy observed varying star magnitudes without understanding stellar physics. Paul uses observable difference to make theological point: resurrection doesn't erase individuality or reward but perfects and glorifies each according to God's wise purpose. This verse influenced later theological reflection on degrees of heavenly reward.
Questions for Reflection
- How does variation in celestial glory help us understand diversity within resurrection perfection?
- What might account for different degrees of glory in resurrection—does this threaten salvation by grace?
- How does this verse balance equality (all are glorified) with difference (varying glory)?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars (ἄλλη δόξα ἡλίου, καὶ ἄλλη δόξα σελήνης, καὶ ἄλλη δόξα ἀστέρων)—Paul distinguishes even within celestial bodies. Sun, moon, stars all have doxa (δόξα, "glory"), but different doxa. The sun's brilliance exceeds the moon's reflected light; stars' twinkling differs from both.
For one star differeth from another star in glory (ἀστὴρ γὰρ ἀστέρος διαφέρει ἐν δόξῃ)—Even among stars, brightness varies—first magnitude vs. faint stars barely visible. Paul's point: unity doesn't require uniformity. All heavenly bodies shine, but with different splendor. Similarly, all resurrection bodies will be glorified, yet may differ in glory (Daniel 12:3: 'those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky'). This hints at rewards/degrees of glory, though all inherit eternal life.