1 Corinthians 7:13 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 7:13 mean?

1 Corinthians 7:13 says that if a woman is married to a man who does not share her faith, and he is willing to continue living with her, she should not leave him. The verse encourages the believing wife to remain in the marriage if her unbelieving husband wants to stay together.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Corinth, answering questions about marriage between believers and non-believers. In this verse, Paul addresses a situation where a Christian woman is married to a man who does not believe in Christ. The instruction is practical: as long as the unbelieving husband is content to stay, the wife should not seek separation just because of their difference in faith.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 7:13

• "ἀνὴρ" (anēr): This word means "husband" or "man." Paul is specifically talking about a marriage relationship, not just any man.
• "ἀπίστῳ" (apistō): This means "not believing" or "unbelieving." The verse is clear that the husband's lack of faith is the issue being addressed.
• "συνευδοκεῖ" (syneudokei): This word is often understood as "is pleased" or "consents." It shows that the husband is willing or agreeable to stay in the marriage, not being forced or reluctant.
• "χωριζέτω" (chōrizetō): This means "let her not leave" or "separate." The Greek here carries the sense of taking the initiative to leave or divorce, highlighting that the believing wife should not be the one to break up the marriage.

Why 1 Corinthians 7:13 matters

• This verse clarifies that a difference in religious belief alone is not a reason for a Christian wife to leave her husband if he is willing to remain married.
• Paul’s advice helps prevent unnecessary division in families where only one spouse has become a Christian, showing sensitivity to real-life situations in the early church.
• The verse fits into Paul’s broader teaching in this chapter about marriage, showing that faith in Christ does not automatically dissolve existing family commitments.