1 Corinthians 14:7

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1 Corinthians 14:7 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Even in the case of lifeless instruments, such as the flute or harp, how will anyone recognize the tune they are playing unless the notes are distinct?

King James Version KJV

And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?

American Standard Version ASV

Even things without life, giving a voice, whether pipe or harp, if they give not a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?

Bible in Basic English BBE

Even things without life, having a voice, such as a music-pipe or other instrument, if they do not give out different sounds, who may be certain what is being played?

Free Bible Version FBV

Even when it comes to something non-living such as musical instruments like a flute or a harp—if they don't produce clear notes, how will you know what tune is being played?

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Moreouer things without life which giue a sounde, whether it be a pipe or an harpe, except they make a distinction in the soundes, how shall it be knowen what is piped or harped?

Young's Literal Translation YLT

yet the things without life giving sound — whether pipe or harp — if a difference in the sounds they may not give, how shall be known that which is piped or that which is harped?

World English Bible WEB

Even lifeless things that make a sound, whether pipe or harp, if they didn’t give a distinction in the sounds, how would it be known what is piped or harped?

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

Even things without life that give sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction of sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?

Translation for Translators T4T

It is like lifeless musical instruments, like flutes and harps for example. When they are played, if the notes are not played {if those playing those instruments do not play the notes} clearly, no one will know what tune is being played {what tune they are playing}. [RHQ]

Plain English Version PEV

Think about things that make sounds, like guitars. If we don’t play them the right way, nobody will think it is proper music.

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Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Corinthians 14:7

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

1 Corinthians 14:7 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

GRK ομως τα αψυχα φωνην διδοντα ειτε αυλος ειτε κιθαρα εαν διαστολην τοις φθογγοις μη διδω πως γνωσθησεται το αυλουμενον η το κιθαριζομενον

ομως homōs G3676 just as Conj

τα ho G3588 the/this/who Art-NPN

αψυχα apsuchos G895 lifeless Adj-NPN

φωνην phōnē G5456 voice/sound: noise Noun-ASF

διδοντα didōmi G1325 to give Verb-PAP-NPN

ειτε eite G1535 whether Conj

αυλος aulos G836 flute Noun-NSM

ειτε eite G1535 whether Conj

κιθαρα kithara G2788 harp Noun-NSF

εαν ean G1437 if COND

διαστολην diastolē G1293 distinction Noun-ASF

τοις ho G3588 the/this/who Art-DPM

φθογγοις phthongos G5353 sound Noun-DPM

μη mē G3361 not Particle-N

διδω didōmi G1325 to give Verb-PAS-3S

πως pōs G4459 how?! Adv-I

γνωσθησεται ginōskō G1097 to know Verb-FPI-3S

το ho G3588 the/this/who Art-NSN

αυλουμενον auleō G832 to play the flute Verb-PPP-NSN

η ē G2228 or Particle

το ho G3588 the/this/who Art-NSN

κιθαριζομενον kitharizō G2789 to play the harp Verb-PPP-NSN

Greek Word Study

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Greek Word Reference — 1 Corinthians 14:7

ομως homōs G3676 "just as" Conj

Just as means despite something or nevertheless, as seen in John 12:42 and 1 Corinthians 14:7. It is used to contrast ideas or show that something is true even if other factors are involved.

Definition: ὅμως adv. (ὁμίς), yet: ὅ. μέντοι, but yet, nevertheless, Jhn.12:42; by hyperbaton, out of its proper position, 1Co.14:7, Gal.3:15 (but see Bl., § 77, 14).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 3 NT verses. KJV: and even, nevertheless, though but See also: 1 Corinthians 14:7; Galatians 3:15; John 12:42.

τα ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-NPN

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Definition: ὁ, ἡ, τό, the prepositive article (ἄρθρον προτακτικόν), originally a demonstr. pron. (so usually in Hom.), in general corresponding to the Eng. definite article. __I. As demonstr. pron. __1. As frequently in Hom., absol., he (she, it), his (etc.): Act.17:28 (quoted from the poet Aratus). __2. Distributive, ὁ μὲν . . . ὁ δέ, the one . . . the other: 1Co.7:7, Gal.4:22; pl., Act.14:4, 17:32, Php.1:16, al.; οἱ μὲν . . . ἄλλοι δέ, Mat.16:14, Jhn.7:12; οἱ μεν̀ . . . ὁδέ, Heb.7:21, 23. __3. In narration (without ὁ μὲν preceding), ὁ δέ, but he: Mat.2:14, Mrk.1:45, Luk.8:21, Jhn.9:38, al. mult. __II. As prepositive article, the, prefixed, __1. to nouns unmodified: ὁ θεός, τὸ φῶς, etc.; to abstract nouns, ἡ σοφία, etc., to pl. nouns which indicate a class, οἱ ἀλώπεκες, foxes, Mat.8:20, al.; to an individual as representing a class, ὁ ἐργάτης, Luk.10:7; with nom. = voc. in addresses, Mat.11:26, Jhn.19:3, Jas.5:1, al.; to things which pertain to one, ἡ χεῖρ, his hand, Mrk.3:1; to names of persons well known or already mentioned; usually to names of countries (originally adjectives), ἡ Ἰουδαία, etc. __2. To modified nouns: with of person(s) pron. genitive, μοῦ, σοῦ, etc.; with poss. pron., ἐμός, σός, etc.; with adj. between the art. and the noun, ὁ ἀγαθὸς ἄνθρωπος, Mat.12:35; the noun foll, by adj., both with art., ὁ ποιμὴν ὁ καλός, Jhn.10:11 (on ὁ ὄχλος πολύς, Jhn.12:9, see M, Pr., 84); before adjectival phrases, ἡ κατ᾽ ἐκλογὴν πρόθεσις, Rom.9:11. __3. To Other parts of speech used as substantives; __(a) neuter adjectives: τ. ἀγαθόν, etc.; __(b) cardinal numerals: ὁ εἶς, οἷ δύο, etc.; __(with) participles: ὁ βαπτίζων (= ὁ Βαπτιστής, Mat.14:2), Mrk.6:14; πᾶς ὁ, with ptcp., every one who, etc.; __(d) adverbs: τὸ πέραν, τὰ νῦν, ὁ ἔσω ἄνθρωπος; __(e) infinitives: nom., τὸ θέλειν, Rom.7:18, al.; genitive, τοῦ, after adjectives, ἄξιον τοῦ πορεύεσθαι, 1Co.16:4; verbs, ἐλαχεν τοῦ θυμιᾶσαι, Luk.1:9; and frequently in a final sense, ἐξῆλθεν ὁ σπείρειν, Mat.13:3 (on the artic. inf., see Bl., §71). __4. In the neut. to sentences, phrases or single words treated as a quotation: τὸ Ἐι δύνῃ, Mrk.9:23; τὸ ἔτι ἅπαξ, Heb.12:27; τὸ ἀνέβη, Eph.4:9, al. __5. To prepositional phrases: οἱ ἀπὸ Ἰταλίας, Heb.13:24; οἱ ἐκ νόμου, Rom.4:14; neut. accusative absol., in adverbial phrases, τὸ καθ᾽ ἡμέραν, daily, Luk.11:3; τὸ κατὰ σάρκα, as regards the flesh, Rom.9:5. __6. To nouns in the genitive, denoting kinship, association, etc.: ὁ τοῦ, the son of (unless context indicates a different relationship), Mat.10:2, al.; τὰ τοῦ θεοῦ, the things that pertain to God, Mat.16:23; τὰ τῆς εἰρήνης, Rom.14:19 (cf. M, Pr., 81ff.; Bl, §§46, 47). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

αψυχα apsuchos G895 "lifeless" Adj-NPN

Lifeless refers to something inanimate or without life, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 14:7.

Definition: ἄψυχος, -ον (ψυχή), [in LXX: Wis.13:17 14:29 * ;] inanimate, lifeless: 1Co.14:7.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: without life See also: 1 Corinthians 14:7.

φωνην phōnē G5456 "voice/sound: noise" Noun-ASF

Voice or sound refers to any kind of noise, like a person speaking or an animal making a sound. In the Bible, it is used in Matthew 2:18 and Acts 2:14 to describe a voice or sound. It can also mean a language or saying.

Definition: φωνή, -ῆς, ἡ, [in LXX chiefly and very frequently for קוֹל ;] a voice; __(a) prop., of persons, Mat.2:18 (LXX), al.; φ. αἴρειν (ἐπαίρειν), Luk.17:13, Act.2:14, al.; φ. μεγάλῃ εἰπεῖν (λέγειν, φωνεῖν, etc.), Luk.8:28, Act.7:57, Rev.5:12, al.; γίνεται (ἔρχεται) φ. ἐκ τ. οὐρανῶν (ἐξ οὐρανοῦ), Mrk.1:11, Luk.3:22, Jhn.12:28, al. (cf. DCG, ii, 810a; Dalman, Words, 204f.); ἀκούειν φωνήν (-ῆς; see: ἀκούω), Act.9:4, 7 al.; φ. βοῶντος, Mat.3:3, Mrk.1:3, Luk.3:4, Jhn.1:23" (LXX) ; τ. θεοῦ, Jhn.5:37, Heb.3:7, al. By meton., __(α) of the speaker, βλέπειν τὴν φ., Rev.1:12; __(β) speech, language ( Gen.11:1, 4Ma.12:7, al.): 1Co.14:10; __(b) of inanimate things: Mat.24:31, Jhn.3:8, Act.2:6, Rev.1:15b 9:9 14:2, al. (cf. Tr., Syn., §lxxxix). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 128 NT verses. KJV: noise, sound, voice See also: 1 Corinthians 14:7; Luke 11:27; Hebrews 3:7.

διδοντα didōmi G1325 "to give" Verb-PAP-NPN

To give, as seen in Matthew 4:9 and John 1:12, means to bestow or grant something to someone, often with a sense of generosity or sacrifice, like God giving his only son in John 3:16

Definition: δίδωμι, [in LXX chiefly for נָתַן (53 words in all) ;] to give—in various senses, accusative to context—bestow, grant, supply, deliver, commit, yield: absol., Act.20:35; with accusative of thing(s) and dative of person(s), Mat.4:9 5:31, Jhn.1:12, al. mult.; with dative of person(s), before ἐκ, Mat.25:8; id. with genitive part.. Rev.2:17; with accusative of person(s), Jhn.3:16, Rev.20:13, al.; δεξιάς, Gal.2:9; φίλημα, Luk.7:45; γνῶσιν, Luk.1:77; κρίσιν, Jhn.5:22; of seed yielding fruit, Mrk.4:7, 8; ἐργασίαν (Deiss., LAE, 117f.), Luk.12:58; with inf. fin., Mat.27:34, Mrk.5:43, Luk.8:55, Jhn.6:52, al.; with dative of person(s) and inf., Luk.1:74, al.; with accusative and inf., Act.2:27, Rev.3:9; with dupl. accusative, Mat.20:28, Mrk.10:45, Eph.1:22 4:11, 2Th.3:9, 1Ti.2:6, al.; ἑαυτὸν δ. εἰς (Polyb., al.), Act.19:31; with dative of person(s), before κατά (MM, Exp., xi), Rev.2:28 (LXX); δ. ἵνα, Rev.3:9; δέδωκα ἐνώπιόν σου θύραν ἀνεῳγμένην, Rev.3:8. SYN.: δωρέομαι. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 380 NT verses. KJV: adventure, bestow, bring forth, commit, deliver (up), give, grant, hinder, make, minister, number, offer, have power, put, receive, set, shew, smite (+ with the hand), strike (+ with the palm of the hand), suffer, take, utter, yield See also: 1 Corinthians 1:4; Galatians 1:4; 1 Peter 1:21.

ειτε eite G1535 "whether" Conj

This word means 'whether' or 'if', used in conditions and questions, like in Matthew 11:14 and Romans 8:25. It helps us understand choices and possibilities in the Bible.

Definition: εἴτε, see: εἰ. εἰ, conjunctive particle, used in conditions and in indirect questions. __I. Conditional, if; __1. with indic, expressing a general assumption; __(a) pres.: before indic, pres., Mat.11:14, Rom.8:25, al.; before imperat., Mrk.4:23 9:22, Jhn.15:18, 1Co.7:9, al.; before fut. indic., Luk.16:31, Rom.8:11, al.; before pf. or aor., with negation in apodosis, Mat.12:26, Rom.4:14, al.; similarly, before impf., Luk.17:6, Jhn.8:39; before quæst., Mat.6:23, Jhn.5:47 7:23 8:46, 1Pe.2:20; __(b) fut.: Mat.26:33, 1Pe.2:20; __(with) pf.: Jhn.11:12, Rom.6:5, al.; __(d) aor.: Luk.16:11 19:8, Jhn.13:32, 18:23, Rev.20:15, al. __2. Where the assumption is certain = ἐπεί: Mat.12:28, Jhn.7:4, Rom.5:17, al. __3. Of an unfulfilled condition, with indic, impf., aor. or plpf., before ἄν, with imp. or aor. (see: ἄν, I, i). __4. C. indic., after verbs denoting wonder, etc., sometimes, but not always, coupled with an element of doubt: Mrk.15:44, 1Jn.3:13, al. __5. C. indic., as in LXX (Num.14:3o, 1Ki.14:45, al. = Heb. אִם), in oaths, with the formula of imprecation understood in a suppressed apodosis (WM, 627; Burton, §272): Mrk.8:12, Heb.3:11" (LXX) 4:3 (LXX). __6. Rarely (cl.) with optative, to express a merely possible condition: Act.24:19 27:39, 1Co.14:10 15:37, I Pe3:14, 17. __II. Interrogative, if, whether. __1. As in cl., in indir. questions after verbs of seeing, asking, knowing, saying, etc.: with indic. pres., Mat.26:63, Mrk.15:36, Act.19:2, 2Co.13:5, al.; fut., Mrk.3:2, Act.8:22, al.; aor., Mrk.15:44, 1Co.1:16, al.; with subjc. aor. (M, Pr., 194), Php.3:12. __2. As in LXX (= Heb. אִם and interrog. הֲ, Gen.17:17, al.; see WM, 639f.; Viteau, i, 22), in direct questions: Mrk.8:23 (Tr., WH, txt.), Luk.13:23, 22:49, Act.19:2, al. __III. With other particles. __1. εἰ ἄρα, εἴγε, εἰ δὲ μήγε, see: ἄρα, γε. __2. εἰ δὲ καί, but if also: Luk.11:18; but even if, 1Co.4:7, 2Co.4:3 11:16. __3. εἰ δὲ μή, but if not, but if otherwise: Mrk.2:21, 22 Jhn.14:2, Rev.2:5, al. __4. εἰ καί, if even, if also, although: Mrk.14:29, Luk.11:8, 1Co.7:21, 2Co.4:16, Php.2:17, al. __5. καὶ εἰ, even if, see: καί __6. εἰ μή, if not, unless, except, but only: Mat.24:22, Mrk.2:26 6:5, Jhn.9:33, 1Co.7:17 (only), Gal.1:19 (cf. ἐὰν μή, 2:16; see Hort., Ja., xvi); ἐκτὸς εἰ μή, pleonastic (Bl., §65, 6), 1Co.14:5 15:2, 1Ti.5:19. __7. εἰ μήν = cl. ἦ μήν (M, Pr., 46), in oaths, surely (Eze.33:27, al.): Heb.6:14. __8. εἴ πως, if haply: Act.27:12, Rom.1:10. __9. εἴτε . . . εἴτε, whether . . . or; Rom.12:6-8, 1Co.3:22 13:8, al. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 29 NT verses. KJV: if, or, whether See also: 1 Corinthians 3:22; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 Peter 2:13.

αυλος aulos G836 "flute" Noun-NSM

A flute is a musical instrument that you blow into, mentioned in 1 Corinthians 14:7.

Definition: αὐλός, -οῦ, ὁ (ἄω, to blow), [in LXX chiefly for חָלִיל ;] a pipe: 1Co.14:7.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: pipe See also: 1 Corinthians 14:7.

ειτε eite G1535 "whether" Conj

This word means 'whether' or 'if', used in conditions and questions, like in Matthew 11:14 and Romans 8:25. It helps us understand choices and possibilities in the Bible.

Usage: Occurs in 29 NT verses. KJV: if, or, whether See also: 1 Corinthians 3:22; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 Peter 2:13.

κιθαρα kithara G2788 "harp" Noun-NSF

This word refers to a musical instrument, a lyre or harp. In the Bible, it is mentioned in 1 Corinthians and Revelation, often in the context of worship and praise. The harp is a symbol of joy and celebration.

Definition: κιθάρα, -ας, ἡ [in LXX chiefly for כִּנּוֹר, frequently in Psa.33:2, al.); and in (Dan.3:5, al.) for קִיתָרֹס, itself a transliteration of κίθαρις, the Homeric form of κ. (cf. CB, Dn., lviii) ;] a lyre, harp: 1Co.14:7, Rev.5:8 14:2 15:2.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 4 NT verses. KJV: harp See also: 1 Corinthians 14:7; Revelation 14:2; Revelation 5:8.

εαν ean G1437 "if" COND

This word means 'if' and is used to show uncertainty or possibility, as in Matthew 6:22 and Romans 2:25, to express conditions or circumstances.

Definition: ἐάν, contr. fr. εἰ ἄν, conditional particle, representing something as "under certain circumstances actual or liable to happen," but not so definitely expected as in the case of εἰ with ind. (Bl., §65, 4; cf. Jhn.13:17, 1Co.7:36), if haply, if; __1. with subjc. (cl.); __(a) pres.: Mat.6:22, Luk.10:6, Jhn.7:17, Rom.2:25, 26 al.; { __(b) aor. (= Lat. fut. pf.): Mat.4:9 16:26 (cf. ptcp. in Luk.9:25; M, Pr., 230), Mrk.3:24, Luk.14:34, Jhn.5:43, Rom.7:2, al.; = cl. εἰ, with opt., Jhn.9:22 11:57, Act.9:2; as Heb. אִם = ὅταν, Jhn.12:32 14:3, I Jhn.2:28 3:2, Heb.3:7" (LXX) . __2. C. indic, (as in late writers, fr. Arist. on; see WH, App., 171; VD, MGr. 2, App., §77; Deiss., BS, 201f., LAE, 155, 254; M, Pr., 168, 187; Bl., §65, 4); __(a) fut.: Mat.18:19 T, Luk.19:40, Act.7:7; __(b) pres.: 1Th.3:8 (see Milligan, in l.). __3. With other particles: ἐ. καί (Bl., §65, 6), Gal.6:1; ἐ. μή (M, Pr., 185, 187; Bl., l.with), with subjc. pres., Mat.10:13, 1Co.8:8, Jas.2:17, 1Jn.3:21; aor., Mat.6:15, Mrk.3:27, Jhn.3:3, Rom.10:15, Gal.1:8 2:16 (see Lft., Ellic., in ll.); ἐ. τε . . . ἐ. τε, [in LXX for אִם . . . אִם, Est.19:13, al.,] Rom.14:8. __4. = cl. ἄν (which see) after relat. pronouns and adverbs (Tdf., Pr., 96; WH, App., 173; M, Pr., 42f.; Bl., §26, 4; Mayser, 152f.; Deiss., BS, 202ff.): ὃς ἐ., Mat.5:19, Mrk.6:22, 23 Luk.17:32, 1Co.6:18, al.; ὅπου ἐ., Mat.8:19; ὁσάκις ἐ., Rev.11:6; οὗ ἐ., 1Co.16:6; καθὸ ἐ., 2Co.8:12; ὅστις ἐ., Gal.5:10. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 317 NT verses. KJV: before, but, except, (and) if, (if) so, (what-, whither-)soever, though, when (-soever), whether (or), to whom, (who-)so(-ever) See also: 1 Corinthians 4:15; Hebrews 13:23; 1 Peter 3:13.

διαστολην diastolē G1293 "distinction" Noun-ASF

This word means a distinction or difference, like the variation between people in Romans 3:22. It can also refer to a separation or division, like the difference between Jews and Gentiles.

Definition: δια-στολή, -ῆς, ἡ (διαστέλλω), [in LXX for פְּדוּת: Exo.8:23, etc. ;] __1. a separation. __2. a distinction, difference: Rom.3:22 10:12, 1Co.14:7.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 3 NT verses. KJV: difference, distinction See also: 1 Corinthians 14:7; Romans 3:22; Romans 10:12.

τοις ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-DPM

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

φθογγοις phthongos G5353 "sound" Noun-DPM

A sound or musical note, either vocal or instrumental, as referred to in Romans 10:18 and 1 Corinthians 14:7.

Definition: φθόγγος, -ου, ὁ (φθέγγομαι), [in LXX: Psa.19:4 (קַו), Wis.19:18 * ;] a sound: Rom.10:18 (LXX) 1Co.14:7.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2 NT verses. KJV: sound See also: 1 Corinthians 14:7; Romans 10:18.

μη mē G3361 "not" Particle-N

Not is a word used to show that something is not true or is not happening, like in phrases that say 'lest' or 'God forbid', as seen in various parts of the New Testament.

Definition: μή, subjective negative particle, used where the negation depends on a condition or hypothesis, expressed or understood, as distinct from οὐ, which denies absolutely. μή is used where one thinks a thing is not, as distinct from an absolute negation. As a general rule, οὐ negatives the indic, μή the other moods, incl, ptcp. [In LXX for אֵין ,אַיִן ,אַל ] __I. As a neg. adv., not; __1. with ref. to thought or opinion: Jhn.3:18, Tit.1:11, 2Pe.1:9. __2. In delib. questions, with subjc. (M, Pr., 185): Mrk.12:14, Rom.3:8. __3. In conditional and final sentences, after εἰ, ἐάν, ἄν, ἵνα, ὅπως: Mat.10:14, Mrk.6:11 12:19, Luk.9:5, Jhn.6:50, Rom.11:25, al. __4. C. inf. (see M, Pr., 234f., 239, 255), __(a) after verbs of saying, etc.: Mat.2:12 5:34, Mrk.12:18, Act.15:38, Rom.2:21, al.; __(b) with artic. inf.: after a prep., Mat.13:5, Mrk.4:5, Act.7:19, 1Co.10:6, al.; without a prep., Rom.14:13, 2Co.2:1, 13 1Th 4:6; __(with) in sentences expressing consequence, after ὥστε: Mat.8:28, Mrk.3:20, 1Co.1:7, 2Co.3:7, al. __5. C. ptcp. (see M, Pr., 231f., 239), in hypothetical references to persons of a certain character or description: Mat.10:28 12:30, Luk.6:49, Jhn.3:18, Rom.4:5, 1Co.7:38, 1Jn.3:10, al.; where the person or thing being definite, the denial is a matter of opinion: Jhn.6:64, 1Co.1:28 4:7, 18, 2Co.5:21, al.; where the ptcp. has a concessive, causal or conditional force, if, though, because not: Mat.18:25, Luk.2:45, Jhn.7:49, Act.9:26, Rom.2:14 5:13, 2Co.3:14, Gal.6:9, Ju 5; where the ptcp. has a descriptive force (being such as), not: Act.9:9, Rom.1:28, 1Co.10:33, Gal.4:8, Heb.12:27, al. __6. μή prohibitive, in indep. sentences, __(a) with subjc. praes., 1 of person(s) pl.: Gal.5:26 6:9, 1Th.5:6, 1Jn.3:18; __(b) with imperat. praes., usually where one is bidden to desist from what has already begun (cf. M, Pr., 122ff.): Mat.7:1, Mrk.5:36, Luk.6:30, Jhn.2:16 5:45, Act.10:15, Rom.11:18, Jas.2:1, Rev.5:5, al.; __(with) forbidding that which is still future: with imperat. aor., 3 of person(s), Mat.24:18, Mrk.13:15, Luk.17:31, al.; with subjc. aor., 2 of person(s), Mat.3:9 10:26, Mrk.5:7, Luk.6:29, Jhn.3:7, Rom.10:6, al.; __(d) with optative, in wishes: 2Ti.4:16 (LXX); μὴ γένοιτο (see M, Pr., 194; Bl., §66, 1), Luk.20:16, Rom.3:3, al.; μή τις, Mrk.13:5, al. __II. As a conj., __1. after verbs of fearing, caution, etc., that, lest, perhaps (M, Pr., 192f.): with subjc. praes., Heb.12:15; with subjc. aor., Mat.24:4, Mrk.13:5, Luk.21:8, Act.13:40, Gal.5:15, al.; ὅρα μή (see M, Pr., 124, 178), elliptically, Rev.19:10 22:9; with indic, fut. (M, Pr., l.with), Col.2:8. __2. in order that not: with subjc. aor., Mrk.13:36, 2Co.8:20 12:6. __III. Interrogative, in hesitant questions (M, Pr., 170), or where a negative answer is expected: Mat.7:9, 10, Mrk.2:19, Jhn.3:4, Rom.3:3 10:18, 19, 1Co.1:13, al.; μή τις, Luk.22:35, al.; before οὐ (Rom.10:17, al. in Pl.), expecting an affirm, ans.; οὐ μή, Luk.18:7, Jhn.18:11. __IV. οὐ μή as emphatic negation (cf. M, Pr., 188, 190ff.; Bl. §64, 5), not at all, by no means: with indic, fut., Mat.16:22, Jhn.6:35, Heb.10:17, al.; with subjc. aor., Mat.24:2, Mrk.13:2, Luk.6:37, Jhn.13:8, 1Co.8:13, al. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 910 NT verses. KJV: any but (that), X forbear, + God forbid, + lack, lest, neither, never, no (X wise in), none, nor, (can-)not, nothing, that not, un(-taken), without See also: 1 Corinthians 1:7; 1 Peter 2:16; 1 Peter 1:8.

διδω didōmi G1325 "to give" Verb-PAS-3S

To give, as seen in Matthew 4:9 and John 1:12, means to bestow or grant something to someone, often with a sense of generosity or sacrifice, like God giving his only son in John 3:16

πως pōs G4459 "how?!" Adv-I

How is a question about the way something is done, as in Matthew 12:29, or an exclamation of surprise, like how much something is.

Definition: πῶς, interrog. adv., correl. of ὅπως, __1. prop., in direct questions, how?: with indic., Mat.12:29, Mrk.3:23, Luk.11:18, Jhn.3:4, al.; καὶ π., Mrk.4:13, Luk.20:44; π. οὖν, Mat.12:26; π. οὐ, Mat.16:11, Luk.12:56; in deliberative questions (cf. Bl., §64, 6), with subjc., Mat.23:33 26:54; π. οὖν, Rom.10:14; π. δέ, Rom.10:14, 15; before ἄν, with optative, Act.8:31. __2. As sometimes in cl. but more frequently and increasingly so in late writers (see WM, §57, 2; Bl., §70, 2; Thumb, MGr., 192; Jannaris, Gr., App., vi, 13f.), = ὅπως, ὥς; __(a) in indirect discourse: with indic., Mat.6:28, Mrk.12:41, Luk.8:36, Jhn.9:15, Act.9:27, al.; with subjc., Mrk.11:18, Luk.12:11; __(b) in exclamations: Mat.21:20, Mrk.10:23, 24 Luk.12:50 18:24, Jhn.11:36. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 104 NT verses. KJV: how, after (by) what manner (means), that See also: 1 Corinthians 3:10; Luke 8:18; Hebrews 2:3.

γνωσθησεται ginōskō G1097 "to know" Verb-FPI-3S

To know or understand something, as in Matthew 22:18 and Mark 5:43, where it means to recognize or perceive.

Definition: γινώσκω (= γιγν-: see previous word. So also vulgar Attic, in Inscr., see Thumb, MGV, 207), [in LXX chiefly for ידע ;] to be taking in knowledge, come to know, recognize, perceive, understand; in past tenses to know, realize; pass., to become known: with accusative, Mat.22:18, Mrk.5:43, Col.4:8, 1Th.3:5, al. Pass., Mat.10:26, Php.4:5, al.; before ὅτι, Mat.21:45, Jhn.4:1, al.; τί, Mat.6:3; ἀπό, Mrk.15:45; ὅ, Rom.7:15; τ. λεγόμενα, Luk.18:34; τ. θέλημα, Luk.12:47; τ. καρδίας, Luk.16:15; with accusative of person(s), of recognition by God, 1Co.8:3, Gal.4:9; by Christ, neg., Mat.7:23; frequently of the knowledge of divine things, of God and Christ; τ. θεόν, Rom.1:21 Gal.4:9; τ. πατέρα, Jhn.8:55; τ. κύριον, Heb.8:1 (LXX); νοῦν κυρίου, Rom.11:34; Χριστόν, Jhn.17:3, 1Jn.3:6; τὰ τοῦ πνεύματος, 1Co.2:14; τ. πνεύμα, 1Jn.4:6; τ. ἀλήθειαν, Jhn.8:32; of Christ's knowledge of the Father (ἐπιγ.), Mat.11:27 (Dalman, Words, 282ff.). In Hellenistic writers [LXX for Heb. ידע, Gal.4:1, al.], of sexual intercourse, to know carnally: Mat.1:25, Luk.1:34 (Cremer, 153). SYN.: γ., to know by observation and experience is thus prop. disting. from οἶδα, to know by reflection (a mental process, based on intuition or information); cf. also ἐφίστημι, συνίημι. (Cf. ἀνα-, δια-, ἐπι-, κατα-, προ-γινώσκω.) (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 207 NT verses. KJV: allow, be aware (of), feel, (have) know(-ledge), perceived, be resolved, can speak, be sure, understand See also: 1 Corinthians 1:21; John 8:55; Hebrews 3:10.

το ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-NSN

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

αυλουμενον auleō G832 "to play the flute" Verb-PPP-NSN

This word means to play the flute, and it's used in Matthew 11:17 and Luke 7:32 to describe the sound of piping or flute playing. It's also mentioned in 1 Corinthians 14:7.

Definition: αὐλέω, -ῶ (αὐλός), [in Al.: 3Ki.1:40 * ;] to play on a flute, to pipe: mid., Mat.11:17, Luk.7:32, 1Co.14:7.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 3 NT verses. KJV: pipe See also: 1 Corinthians 14:7; Luke 7:32; Matthew 11:17.

η ē G2228 "or" Particle

Or is a word used to show a choice between two things, like in Matthew 5:17 where it's either obey God's law or not. It's also used to compare things, like in Romans 1:21 where it's one thing or another.

Definition: ἤ, disjunctive and comparative particle (Bl., §36, 12; 77, 11); __1. disjunctive, or; __(a) between single words: Mat.5:17 Mrk.6:56, Luk.2:24, Jhn.6:19, Rom.1:21, al.; __(b) before a sentence expressing a variation, denial or refutation of a previous statement, frequently in interrog. form: Mat.7:4, 9 Mrk.12:14, Luk.13:4, Rom.3:29 6:3 9:21, 1Co.6:9, 16 9:6, 2Co.11:7; ἤ . . . ἤ, either . . . or, Mat.6:24, Luk.16:13, 1Co.14:6; __(with) in a disjunctive question (as Lat. an after utrum): Mat.9:5, Mrk.2:9, Luk.7:19, al.; after πότερον, Jhn.7:17; μή, 1Co.9:8; μήτι, 2Co.1:17; ἤ . . . ἤ . . . ἤ, Mrk.13:35. __2. Comparative, than: after comparatives, Mat.10:15, Luk.9:13, Jhn.3:19, Rom.13:11, al.; after ἕτερον, Act.17:21; θέλω (Khüner 3, iv, 303), 1Co.14:19; πρὶν ἤ, before, before accusative and inf., Mat.1:18 Mrk.14:30; after a positive adj. (Gen.49:12; cf. Robertson, Gr., 661), Mat.18:8, 9 Mrk.9:43, 45 47. __3. with other particles: ἀλλ᾽ ἤ, see: ἀλλά; ἤ γάρ, see: γάρ; ἢ καί, or even, or also, Mat.7:10, Luk.11:11, 12 Rom.2:15 4:9, al; ἤτοι . . . ἤ, Rom.6:16 (cf. Wis.11:19). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 281 NT verses. KJV: and, but (either), (n-)either, except it be, (n-)or (else), rather, save, than, that, what, yea See also: 1 Corinthians 1:13; Colossians 3:17; 1 Peter 1:11.

το ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-NSN

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

κιθαριζομενον kitharizō G2789 "to play the harp" Verb-PPP-NSN

To play the harp is the meaning of this verb, which appears in 1 Corinthians and Revelation. It describes the act of making music on a lyre or harp, often in a worship setting. The word emphasizes the importance of music in prayer and praise.

Definition: κιθαρίζω [in LXX: Isa.23:16 (נָגַן pi.)* ;] to play upon the lyre or harp: 1Co.14:7, Rev.14:2.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2 NT verses. KJV: harp See also: 1 Corinthians 14:7; Revelation 14:2.

Study Notes — 1 Corinthians 14:7

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
1 Corinthians 14:7 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 1 Corinthians 14:7
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Corinthians 14:7
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:7
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:7
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:7
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:7
Cambridge Bible on 1 Corinthians 14:7
Barnes' Notes on 1 Corinthians 14:7
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:7
Sermons on 1 Corinthians 14:7

Context — Prophecy and Tongues

5I wish that all of you could speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets so that the church may be edified. 6Now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching?

7Even in the case of lifeless instruments, such as the flute or harp, how will anyone recognize the tune they are playing unless the notes are distinct?

8Again, if the trumpet sounds a muffled call, who will prepare for battle? 9So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	1 Corinthians 14:8	Again, if the trumpet sounds a muffled call, who will prepare for battle?
2	Luke 7:32	They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling out to one another: ‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not weep.’
3	1 Corinthians 13:1	If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a ringing gong or a clanging cymbal.
4	Matthew 11:17	‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not mourn.’
5	Numbers 10:2–10	“Make two trumpets of hammered silver to be used for calling the congregation and for having the camps set out. When both are sounded, the whole congregation is to assemble before you at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. But if only one is sounded, then the leaders, the heads of the clans of Israel, are to gather before you. When you sound short blasts, the camps that lie on the east side are to set out. When you sound the short blasts a second time, the camps that lie on the south side are to set out. The blasts are to signal them to set out. To convene the assembly, you are to sound long blasts, not short ones. The sons of Aaron, the priests, are to sound the trumpets. This shall be a permanent statute for you and the generations to come. When you enter into battle in your land against an adversary who attacks you, sound short blasts on the trumpets, and you will be remembered before the LORD your God and saved from your enemies. And on your joyous occasions, your appointed feasts, and the beginning of each month, you are to blow the trumpets over your burnt offerings and fellowship offerings to serve as a reminder for you before your God. I am the LORD your God.”

1 Corinthians 14:7 Summary

This verse means that just like a flute or harp needs to play distinct notes for us to recognize the tune, when we speak in church, we need to communicate clearly so that everyone can understand and benefit from the message. If we don't communicate clearly, it's like speaking into the air, as said in 1 Corinthians 14:9. The Apostle Paul is emphasizing the importance of clarity in our communication, so we can edify and build each other up, as seen in Ephesians 4:29. By speaking clearly and understandably, we can show love and consideration for others, as taught in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main point of 1 Corinthians 14:7?

The main point of 1 Corinthians 14:7 is that just like musical instruments need to play distinct notes for their tune to be recognized, believers need to communicate clearly and understandably when speaking in church, as seen in 1 Corinthians 14:9, so that everyone can benefit from the message.

Is the use of lifeless instruments in 1 Corinthians 14:7 a random example?

No, the use of lifeless instruments in 1 Corinthians 14:7 is a purposeful illustration by the Apostle Paul to emphasize the importance of clarity in communication, similar to how Jesus taught using parables in the Gospel of Matthew 13:10-17 to convey spiritual truths.

How does this verse relate to the rest of 1 Corinthians 14?

1 Corinthians 14:7 is part of a larger discussion on the use of spiritual gifts in the church, particularly speaking in tongues, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 14:5-6, and the need for these gifts to be used in an orderly and understandable manner, as commanded in 1 Corinthians 14:40.

What is the role of the Holy Spirit in helping believers communicate effectively?

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in helping believers communicate effectively, as seen in 1 Corinthians 2:13, where it is written that the Spirit helps us understand spiritual truths, and in 1 Corinthians 14:13, where the Apostle Paul encourages believers to pray for the ability to interpret spiritual gifts like speaking in tongues.

Reflection Questions

In what ways can I ensure that my communication, both in and out of church, is clear and understandable to those around me?
How can I balance the desire to use my spiritual gifts with the need to communicate effectively and be understood by others, as taught in 1 Corinthians 14:12?
In what situations have I struggled to communicate effectively, and how can I apply the principles of 1 Corinthians 14:7 to those situations?
What role does love and consideration for others play in my communication, as emphasized in 1 Corinthians 13:1-3?
How can I use the example of lifeless instruments in 1 Corinthians 14:7 to teach others about the importance of clear communication?

Gill's Exposition on 1 Corinthians 14:7

And even things without life giving sound,.... He instances in things inanimate, that have neither reason, sense, nor life, in musical instruments, and these of various sorts: whether pipe or harp;

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Corinthians 14:7

And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:7

In the sounds which are artificially made by the use of wind music, or other music, nothing could be understood, if art had not also devised a distinction in the sounds; that one sound should signify one thing, another sound should signify another thing: so unless the voice of the teacher be significant to, and understood by, the person instructed or taught, the sound is of no use at all.

Trapp's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:7

7 And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? Ver. 7. Except they give a distinction] Unisono nihil auribus molestius. Discords in music make the best harmony. Through all Turkey there runs one tune, nor can every man play that; yet scarcely any but hath a fiddle with two strings.

Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:7

(7) And even things without life.—The pipe and harp were the best-known instruments, and the principle just laid down of the inutility of sounds unless they be distinctive is illustrated by reference to them. Whether it was a harp or a pipe which was being played you could not know unless each gives a distinct sound of its own. The point here is not, as the English seems to suggest, that there must be a difference in tune, so as know what is being piped or harped—that illustration comes in in the next verse—but that each instrument has its own peculiar sound.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:7

Verse 7. And even things without life] I may, as if he had said, illustrate this farther by referring to a pipe or harp; if these were to utter mere sounds without order, harmony, or melody, though every tone of music might be in the sounds, surely no person could discern a tune in such sounds, nor receive pleasure from such discords: even so is the person who speaks in an unknown tongue, but does not interpret. His speech tends no more to edification than those discordant and unmeaning sounds do to pleasure and delight.

Cambridge Bible on 1 Corinthians 14:7

7. except they give a distinction in the sounds] The effect of a melody depends entirely upon the distinction of its musical intervals. The effect of speech in like manner is dependent upon its being the communication of definite ideas.

Barnes' Notes on 1 Corinthians 14:7

Things without life - Instruments of music. Whether pipe - This instrument (αὐλὸς aulos) was usually made of reeds, and probably had a resemblance to a flageolet.

Whedon's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:7

7. Distinction—Into high or low, sharp or obtuse, etc.

Sermons on 1 Corinthians 14:7

	Sermon	Description
	The Moral Decline of Society by Keith Daniel	This sermon emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the truth of God's Word, even in the face of persecution and societal opposition. It warns against being deceived by false
	Gods Love by Corrie Ten Boom	In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of being introduced in Alaska and compares it to the power of the Holy Spirit. He emphasizes the importance of not standing in the
	Cranbrook 1993 10-4-93 Am by George Warnock	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of following the direction and orders of the captain of the hosts of the Lord. He uses the example of Joshua receiving the blu
	If the Trumpet Shall Sound by Rolfe Barnard	In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the challenges faced in the past and the present regarding the preaching of the word of God. He emphasizes the importance of being God's wi
	The Holy Spirit and Prophecy by Stewart Ruch	In this sermon, the speaker shares two personal experiences related to the prophetic ministry. The first experience involves a woman named Joanna who unexpectedly starts speaking i
	Sonidos Extranos Del Campamento Pretribulacional by Eli Brayley	Eli Brayley preaches about the discrepancies and errors of the pretribulational doctrine, highlighting the misinterpretations of key biblical passages and the inconsistency with th
	(1 Corinthians) ch.12:22-13:13 by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of love in the exercise of spiritual gifts. He describes a hypothetical man who possesses impressive gifts such as speaking in