King James Version

What Does 1 Corinthians 7:38 Mean?

1 Corinthians 7:38 in the King James Version says “So then he that giveth her in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth her not in marriage doeth better.” — study this verse from 1 Corinthians chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“So then he that giveth her in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth her not in marriage doeth better.”

1 Corinthians 7:38 · KJV

Context

36

But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age , and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry.

37

Nevertheless 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.

38

So then he that giveth her in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth her not in marriage doeth better.

39

The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord.

40

But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God.

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Commentary

KJV Study 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.

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Historical & Cultural 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.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Paul's language of "well" versus "better" prevent hierarchy while acknowledging practical differences?
  2. In what circumstances today might singleness be "better" for focused ministry?
  3. How can the church honor both callings without elevating one as morally superior?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
ὥστε1 of 12

“So”

G5620

so too, i.e., thus therefore (in various relations of consecution, as follow)

καὶ2 of 12

“then”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ὁ3 of 12
G3588

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

ἑκγαμίζων4 of 12

“he that giveth her”

G1547

to marry off a daughter

καλῶς5 of 12

“well”

G2573

well (usually morally)

ποιεῖ·6 of 12

“doeth”

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

ὁ7 of 12
G3588

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

δὲ8 of 12

“but”

G1161

but, and, etc

μὴ9 of 12

“not”

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

ἑκγαμίζων10 of 12

“he that giveth her”

G1547

to marry off a daughter

κρεῖσσον11 of 12

“better”

G2908

(as noun) better, i.e., greater advantage

ποιεῖ·12 of 12

“doeth”

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Corinthians 7:38 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Corinthians 7:38 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Hebrews 13:41 Corinthians 7:1-21 Corinthians 7:81 Corinthians 7:371 Corinthians 7:32-341 Corinthians 7:26

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