Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.

1 CORINTHIANS 14:13KJV
Know the Bible

1 Corinthians 14:13 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 14:13 mean?

1 Corinthians 14:13 says that anyone who speaks in an unknown language during worship should also pray for the ability to interpret what they are saying. This means that speaking in a language others do not understand is not enough; understanding and sharing the meaning is important for the benefit of everyone present.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Corinth, addressing their church gatherings where some people would speak in languages unknown to the group. He encourages those who have this gift to also seek the ability to interpret, so that the whole church can be built up and not left confused or excluded.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 14:13

  • "speaketh" (λαλέω, laleō): This Greek word means "to speak" or "to talk," and in this context, it refers specifically to speaking in a language not understood by others in the room.
  • "tongue" (γλῶσσα, glōssa): This word means "language" or "tongue." Here, it points to a language that is unknown to the listeners, not just any speech.
  • "interpret" (διερμηνεύω, diermēneuō): This means "to interpret" or "to explain the meaning." Paul is urging that the message be made clear, not just spoken.

Why 1 Corinthians 14:13 matters

  • This verse clarifies that spiritual gifts in worship are meant to help the whole community, not just the individual using them.
  • Paul’s instruction shows that understanding is as important as spiritual experience, emphasizing clarity and shared benefit in church gatherings.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage, where Paul is guiding the Corinthians toward order and mutual encouragement, rather than confusion or division.

Where else these words appear

“Wherefore” Greek G1355 · used in 3 verses

  • 1 Corinthians 8:13 Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.
  • 1 Corinthians 10:14 Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.

“interpret” Greek G1329 · used in 6 verses

  • Luke 24:27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.
  • Acts 9:36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.
  • 1 Corinthians 14:5 I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.

“tongue” Greek G1100 · used in 47 verses

  • Mark 7:33 And he took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue;
  • 1 Corinthians 12:30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
  • 1 Corinthians 14:39 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.

“pray” Greek G4336 · used in 82 verses

  • Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
  • Luke 5:16 And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.
  • Acts 16:25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.