What does 1 Corinthians 7:36 mean?

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. 1 Corinthians 7:36

Explanation

This verse from 1 Corinthians 7:36 addresses a situation in which a man is engaged to a woman who has reached maturity and is “past the flower of her age” — a phrase implying that she is beyond the bloom of youth and, culturally speaking at the time, likely at an age where she would normally be married. The “virgin” here refers to the man’s fiancée. The passage addresses concerns about propriety and sexual restraint for unmarried couples.

The Apostle Paul seems to be giving permission that if a man and his betrothed feel they are struggling with sexual desires or they believe it is the proper course of action, they should marry. The phrase “he sinneth not” suggests that marriage is a correct and honorable way to address these desires. The verse acknowledges the human condition and provides a solution within the moral and ethical standards of the Christian faith.

Historical Context

1 Corinthians was written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth around AD 55. The Corinthian society was known for its moral laxity and sexual promiscuity. The early Christians in Corinth were surrounded by pagan temples and practices, which often involved temple prostitution and ritual sex. In this context, Paul’s letter provided guidance on how Christians were to live distinctively in a society with very different moral values, especially concerning sexuality and marriage.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives may interpret this verse in various ways. Some understand it as Paul’s practical advice for dealing with natural human desires. Others see it as a theological point about the goodness of marriage as an institution ordained by God for the purposes of companionship, procreation, and sexual intimacy.

From a Protestant standpoint, this verse may reinforce the idea of marriage as an appropriate context for sexual relations, rather than advocating celibacy for all, which some might have believed given Paul’s other statements in 1 Corinthians 7.

The Roman Catholic tradition might emphasize this verse when discussing the sacramental nature of marriage and the importance of the marital bond as a means of expressing love and faithfulness beyond merely addressing sexual desires.

Practical Applications

In daily life, this verse could be applied by believers who are considering marriage. It suggests that feelings of passion and the desire for sexual intimacy are not in themselves sinful and that marriage is an honorable way to express these feelings. It also might encourage couples to consider the seriousness of their commitment and to marry rather than engage in premarital sexual activity.

Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 7:9 – “But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.”
• Hebrews 13:4 – “Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.”
• 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 – “For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;”

Language Study

The key Greek terms in this verse include:

• “ἀσχημονεῖν” (aschemonein): to behave improperly
• “ὑπέρακμος” (hyperakmos): past the peak period of life, which was associated with being beyond the age of marriageability

Understanding the nuances of these words can provide a clearer picture of Paul’s message. He is addressing concerns about proper behavior and indicating that marrying to address those concerns is within moral and honorable bounds.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The situation discussed in 1 Corinthians 7:36 can be compared with other ancient practices and religious views. For instance, in Greco-Roman culture, marriage and sexuality were often viewed in terms of social and familial duty rather than individual moral decision-making, contrasting with the personal ethical approach of Paul’s advice.

Furthermore, various religious traditions outside of Christianity have their views on marriage and sexual morality. For instance, in Judaism, marriage is also highly valued and considered a mitzvah, or commandment, and celibacy is generally not promoted as an ideal as it sometimes is in Christian history.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science might consider the biological and psychological aspects of human development and sexual maturity when looking at this verse. From a psychological standpoint, the recognition of the natural development of sexual desires is consistent with the understanding that human sexuality is a normal aspect of adult life.

Biologically, the reference to “the flower of her age” may imply awareness of the reproductive prime and the social implications it had for women at the time, who often married soon after reaching puberty.

commentaries

Various experts and biblical commentators have differing views on this verse.

• Gordon Fee, in his commentary on 1 Corinthians, suggests that the passage is largely addressing the situation of betrothed couples and their fathers in Corinth and offering guidance on marriage decisions.
• John Calvin’s interpretation posits that Paul is giving counsel with respect for the situation’s circumstance and that the advice is intended to prevent fornication.
• The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges views this verse as an indication that there is no religious asceticism required by Christianity, but rather an encouragement of responsible relationships.

In summary, commentary on 1 Corinthians 7:36 generally centers on the understanding of marriage as a commendable institution for managing sexual desires that aligns with Christian ethics, in contrast to the potentially permissive culture of Corinth where the letter was addressed.