What does 1 Corinthians 14:35 mean?

And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. 1 Corinthians 14:35

Explanation

1 Corinthians 14:35 is a verse from the apostle Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians. It states that if women have any questions during gatherings, they should ask their husbands at home because it is considered disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church. The verse suggests that women should maintain a silent role within the church community, which has been interpreted in various ways and has caused significant debate among scholars and churchgoers. Some see this as a universal principle, while others interpret it in light of the cultural context of the time.

Historical Context

The Corinthian church to which Paul was writing was situated in a highly cosmopolitan setting in ancient Greece, and it was notorious for its moral laxity and disorderly conduct. The church itself struggled with divisions, immorality, and issues surrounding worship and doctrine. Paul wrote 1 Corinthians to address these problems and to offer guidance for orderly worship. Paul’s directive in this verse may have been an attempt to maintain order during worship, given the cultural norms of his time, where women were typically not given public roles of speaking or authority in mixed gatherings.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, interpretations of this verse vary. Complementarians argue that the verse supports the idea that men and women have different roles in the church and home, with leadership roles being reserved for men. Egalitarians, on the other hand, argue that this instruction was culturally specific and not intended for all times and places. They may also point out that in 1 Corinthians 11, Paul acknowledges women prophesying and praying publicly. Some scholars suggest that this verse could be addressing a specific problem in the Corinthian church, such as disruptive questioning, rather than making a universal statement about women’s roles.

Practical Applications

The practical application of this verse today is challenging due to different cultural and ecclesial contexts. Some religious communities apply this verse by limiting the roles women play in church settings, while others promote gender equality and encourage women’s full participation. The way in which this verse is applied can depend heavily on the broader interpretations of scripture and the theological convictions of a particular community. It raises the importance of context and intentionality in understanding and applying scriptural teachings.

Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 11:5 – “But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven.”
• 1 Timothy 2:11-12 – “Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.”
• Titus 2:3-5 – “The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word for “speak” is “lalein,” which can mean speaking in general, talking, or making a sound. The phrase “it is a shame” comes from “aischros,” which implies something that is disgraceful or improper. Understanding these words is crucial, as they may define the scope of what is being prohibited and the strength of the condemnation.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader context of ancient religions and societies, women’s roles were often restricted in public and religious life. For instance, in ancient Greek and Roman societies, women’s public speech was generally limited. However, there were exceptions, as in some mystery cults where women played prominent roles. Comparing Paul’s instructions to other religious prescriptions from the surrounding cultures can provide insight into whether Paul’s words were reflective of broader social norms or a distinctive Christian ethic.

Scientific Perspectives

The intersection of scientific perspectives with this verse may relate primarily to the understanding of gender differences and sociology. Modern science suggests that there are no inherent intellectual differences between men and women that would justify a blanket prohibition on women speaking. One could also explore the psychological and social effects of restricting or allowing women’s voices in community settings.

Commentaries

Commentaries on this verse offer a range of insights. Some traditional commentaries might support the view that Paul was establishing a church order that is to be followed universally. Others might suggest that Paul was addressing a specific issue within the Corinthian church, such as disorder during worship services, and that this verse should not be taken as a universal command. Contemporary feminist and egalitarian commentaries often challenge traditional interpretations and seek to reconcile this passage with those that affirm women’s roles in the early church. By examining both historical and modern commentaries, one can see how interpretations of this verse have evolved and diverged over time.