1 Corinthians 13:4 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 13:4 mean?

1 Corinthians 13:4 describes the qualities of true love, saying that love is patient and kind, does not envy, does not boast, and is not proud. The verse uses the word "charity" to mean selfless, active love that puts others first.

Paul, writing to the church in Corinth, is explaining what real love looks like in everyday actions and attitudes. The verse is part of a larger section where Paul teaches that love is the most important quality for Christians, more important than any spiritual gift or achievement.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 13:4

• "Charity" (ἀγάπη, agapē): This Greek word means a self-giving, unconditional love, not just feelings but a choice to seek the good of others. Paul is describing this kind of love as the highest virtue.
• "Suffereth long" (μακροθυμέω, makrothymeō): This word is often understood as "is patient" or "shows long patience," especially with people rather than situations. It means enduring wrongs or difficulties without giving in to anger.
• "Is kind" (χρηστεύομαι, chrēsteuomai): The Greek here carries the sense of actively showing kindness, not just feeling it. It means doing good for others, even when it is not deserved.
• "Envieth not" (ζηλόω, zēloō): This word means not being jealous or resentful when others have something good. Love does not compare or begrudge others' blessings.
• "Vaunteth not itself" (περπερεύομαι, perpereuomai): This word means not bragging or showing off. Love does not draw attention to itself or its own achievements.
• "Is not puffed up" (φυσιόω, physioō): The Greek means not being arrogant or conceited. Love does not have an inflated view of itself.

Why 1 Corinthians 13:4 matters

• This verse clears up the idea that love is only a feeling; Paul describes love as a set of actions and attitudes that can be chosen and practiced.
• By listing what love is not (envious, boastful, proud), Paul helps the Corinthians—and readers today—see how real love is different from selfishness or rivalry.
• The verse sets the tone for the rest of 1 Corinthians 13, showing that love is the foundation for all Christian behavior and relationships, not just an optional extra.