Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
1 CORINTHIANS 13:5KJVWhat does 1 Corinthians 13:5 mean?
1 Corinthians 13:5 describes how love acts: it does not behave in a rude or inappropriate way, does not insist on getting its own way, is not easily angered, and does not keep a mental record of wrongs or evil done. This verse gives specific examples of what love does not do, showing love’s self-control and unselfishness.
Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing their struggles with pride, selfishness, and conflict. In this part of his letter, Paul is explaining what real love looks like in everyday actions, especially among people who disagree or irritate each other. The verse uses clear, practical negatives to show that love is not about demanding, reacting quickly in anger, or holding grudges.
The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 13:5
- ἀσχημονεῖ (aschēmonei, “behave unseemly”): This word means acting in a way that is improper or disgraceful. Paul uses it to say that love never acts in ways that embarrass or shame others.
- ζητεῖ (zētei, “seeketh”): This verb means to look for or pursue something. Here, it shows that love does not chase after its own interests or put itself first.
- παροξύνεται (paroxynetai, “is…provoked”): This word means to be easily irritated or stirred up to anger. Paul is saying that love is not touchy or quick-tempered.
- λογίζεται κακόν (logizetai kakon, “thinketh no evil”): The phrase means to keep a mental account or tally of wrongs. Paul is saying that love does not keep score or dwell on how it has been hurt.
Why 1 Corinthians 13:5 matters
- This verse corrects the idea that love is only a feeling; Paul describes love by what it does and does not do, making it practical and observable.
- The verse challenges common human reactions—like holding grudges or demanding our own way—by showing that true love acts differently, even when it is hard.
- In the context of the whole chapter, this verse is part of Paul’s larger point that love is the most important quality in the Christian community, more important than impressive gifts or achievements.