What does 1 Corinthians 11:8 mean?

For the man is not of the woman; but the woman of the man. 1 Corinthians 11:8

Explanation

1 Corinthians 11:8 states, “For the man is not of the woman; but the woman of the man.” At face value, this verse refers to the creation account in the book of Genesis, where Eve is formed from the rib of Adam (Genesis 2:21-22). Literally, it implies that man was not created from woman, but rather, woman was created from man. Deeper meanings have been extrapolated from this statement that relate to the perceived order of creation and, consequently, the roles and relationships between men and women in both religious and social contexts.

Historical Context

The passage is located in the First Epistle to the Corinthians, a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the Christian community in Corinth around A.D. 55. Corinth was a major Greek city that had a diverse population with a variety of religious and philosophical beliefs. The society was generally patriarchal, with men holding positions of authority both in the household and in public life. In this context, Paul is addressing issues regarding propriety in worship, including the covering of heads during prophesying and prayer, which was a common practice and a sign of honor and respect in that era.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints offer varied interpretations of this verse. Complementarians see this as confirmation that men and women have distinct roles that complement each other, with women being helpers who are under the headship of men. Egalitarians challenge this, often suggesting this verse must be read in the context of mutual interdependence as described in 1 Corinthians 11:11-12, where Paul states that in the Lord, woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman. Other scholars argue that Paul’s teachings here are tied to the cultural customs of his age and should not be rigidly applied to modern society.

Practical Applications

In daily life, this verse can be interpreted in varied ways depending on one’s worldview. Some may see it as a guide for traditional gender roles within the family and church. Others may choose to focus on the principle of respect and honor in relationships and apply this through mutual care and support, rather than a hierarchical structure. Some individuals use it as a foundation for discussions on gender identity and the nature of human relationships.

Cross-References

• Genesis 2:21-22: “And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib, which the Lord God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.”
• 1 Corinthians 11:11-12: “Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord. For as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the woman; but all things of God.”
• Ephesians 5:22-23: “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.”

Language Study

The key words in this verse hark back to their original Greek. The word translated as “of” comes from the Greek “ek,” which can mean “out of” or “from” and implies origin or source. “Woman” is translated from “gyne,” and “man” from “aner.” The choice of these words situates the woman as originating from the man, reflecting the Genesis creation narrative.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the context of other ancient myths and religions, the idea of woman being created from man is somewhat unique to the Judeo-Christian tradition. Many ancient cultures have various myths about the origins of humanity that do not necessarily imply a secondary creation of women. For example, in Greek mythology, both men and women are said to be created by the gods, without a hierarchy implied in their creation.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science has shaped a vastly different understanding of human origins compared to ancient narratives. Evolutionary biology teaches that men and women evolved together as a single species. Analysis of genetics and reproductive biology shows a fundamental interdependence between sexes. The account of woman being made from man is regarded as a religious or mythological story, rather than a scientific explanation of human origins.

commentaries

Biblical commentaries offer a wide spectrum of thought on this verse. Traditional commentators like Matthew Henry emphasize the order of creation as a divinely appointed hierarchy that should reflect into social structures. Contemporary feminist theologians often critique such interpretations, advocating for readings that view the text as conditioned by its culture and no longer normative. Scholars like Gordon D. Fee argue for understanding the passage in its immediate context of mutual interdependence and the greater unity all believers have in Christ. Meanwhile, John Calvin highlighted the importance of accepting one’s own position as assigned by God, whether as man or woman.