Devine Scripture

1 Corinthians 11:8

What does 1 Corinthians 11:8 mean?

A plain-English look at 1 Corinthians 11:8 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 1 Corinthians 11:8 means

Paul reminds them of creation’s order: the woman came from the man. Eve was formed from Adam’s side. This origin does not imply inferiority but indicates sequence and relation within God’s design. In worship, visible symbols should echo that design, not deny it. By recalling the creation narrative, Paul shows that his instructions are not arbitrary or merely Corinthian. They align with the way God made humanity. The church’s practices, especially in the gathered assembly, ought to teach the truth about creation and redemption through fitting, honorable signs that correspond to that original order.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

For the man is not of the woman; but the woman of the man:

KJV

King James Version · 1611

For the man is not of the woman; but the woman of the man.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

For the man is not of the woman; but the woman of the man:

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

For the man did not come from the woman, but the woman from the man.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

for a man is not of a woman, but a woman <FI>is<Fi> of a man,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

For the man is not of the woman: but the woman of the man.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

For man is not of woman, but woman of man.

Context

This verse continues Paul’s theological reasoning begun in verse 7. Paul draws from Genesis to explain why the sexes are to appear differently in worship. The emphasis is on origin and purpose, which he will state in the next verse (9) as well. These creation references strengthen the case that Paul’s concern is more than social convention—he is teaching symbolism that reflects God’s intent. After grounding in creation, he will introduce the note about angels (verse 10) and then temper potential misuse by highlighting mutual dependence in the Lord (verses 11–12).

v.7For a man indeed ought not to have his head veiled, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man.

v.8This passage

v.9for neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man:

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • 1 Timothy 2:13

    For Adam was first formed, then Eve;

  • Genesis 2:21

    And Jehovah God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and he slept; and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof:

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