For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth,(as there be gods many, and lords many,)

1 CORINTHIANS 8:5KJV
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1 Corinthians 8:5 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 8:5 mean?

1 Corinthians 8:5 explains that there are many beings or things that people call “gods” or “lords,” whether in heaven or on earth, but these are not truly divine in the way the one true God is. Paul is pointing out that, in the world around the Corinthians, it is common for people to use the word “god” for many different spiritual beings or idols.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Corinth, a city where people worshipped many gods and idols. He is addressing questions about eating food offered to idols, and here he acknowledges that many so-called gods and lords exist in people’s minds and cultures. This sets up his next point: for Christians, there is only one true God, regardless of what others may claim.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 8:5

  • θεοί (theoi): This word means “gods” and is used here to refer to the many spiritual beings or idols that people in Corinth and elsewhere called gods. Paul uses the plural to show the common belief in many gods in the ancient world.
  • κύριοι (kurioi): This word means “lords” and often referred to powerful spiritual beings or even rulers. Paul’s mention of “lords many” highlights that people also gave this title to various figures, not just to God.
  • καλοῦνται (kalountai): This word means “are called” or “are named.” Paul is careful to say these beings are called gods or lords, not that they actually are; he is making a distinction between what people say and what is real.

Why 1 Corinthians 8:5 matters

  • This verse helps clarify that Paul is not denying the existence of spiritual beings or idols, but he is denying their true divinity or authority compared to the one true God.
  • It shows Paul’s awareness of the religious diversity in Corinth and his sensitivity to the fact that Christians lived among people who believed in many gods.
  • The verse sets up the contrast that Paul will make in the next verse, emphasizing the uniqueness of God for Christians and preparing the reader for his teaching about how to live in a world full of different beliefs.