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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Corinthians 8:1 Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_corinthians/8-1.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/19/46_1Co_08_01.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Corinthians 8:1 - Food Sacrificed to Idols" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. 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Yes, we know that “we all have knowledge” about this issue. But while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that strengthens the church. <a href="/esv/1_corinthians/8.htm">English Standard Version</a> Now concerning food offered to idols: we know that “all of us possess knowledge.” This “knowledge” puffs up, but love builds up. <a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/8.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. <a href="/blb/1_corinthians/8.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Now concerning the things sacrificed to idols, we know indeed we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. <a href="/kjv/1_corinthians/8.htm">King James Bible</a> Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. <a href="/nkjv/1_corinthians/8.htm">New King James Version</a> Now concerning things offered to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies. <a href="/nasb_/1_corinthians/8.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> Now concerning food sacrificed to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge makes one conceited, but love edifies people. <a href="/nasb/1_corinthians/8.htm">NASB 1995</a> Now concerning things sacrificed to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge makes arrogant, but love edifies. <a href="/nasb77/1_corinthians/8.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Now concerning things sacrificed to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge makes arrogant, but love edifies. <a href="/lsb/1_corinthians/8.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> Now concerning things sacrificed to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. <a href="/amp/1_corinthians/8.htm">Amplified Bible</a> Now about food sacrificed to idols, we know that we all have knowledge [concerning this]. Knowledge [alone] makes [people self-righteously] arrogant, but love [that unselfishly seeks the best for others] builds up and encourages others to grow [in wisdom]. <a href="/csb/1_corinthians/8.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “we all have knowledge.” Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. <a href="/hcsb/1_corinthians/8.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> About food offered to idols: We know that &#8220we all have knowledge.&#8221 Knowledge inflates with pride, but love builds up. <a href="/asv/1_corinthians/8.htm">American Standard Version</a> Now concerning things sacrificed to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but love edifieth. <a href="/cev/1_corinthians/8.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> In your letter you asked me about food offered to idols. All of us know something about this subject. But knowledge makes us proud of ourselves, while love makes us helpful to others. <a href="/erv/1_corinthians/8.htm">English Revised Version</a> Now concerning things sacrificed to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but love edifieth. <a href="/gwt/1_corinthians/8.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Now, concerning food offered to false gods: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge makes people arrogant, but love builds them up. <a href="/gnt/1_corinthians/8.htm">Good News Translation</a> Now, concerning what you wrote about food offered to idols. It is true, of course, that "all of us have knowledge," as they say. Such knowledge, however, puffs a person up with pride; but love builds up. <a href="/isv/1_corinthians/8.htm">International Standard Version</a> Now concerning food offered to idols: We know that we all possess knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. <a href="/net/1_corinthians/8.htm">NET Bible</a> With regard to food sacrificed to idols, we know that "we all have knowledge." Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. <a href="/nheb/1_corinthians/8.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Now concerning things sacrificed to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. <a href="/wbt/1_corinthians/8.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Now as concerning things offered to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. <a href="/wey/1_corinthians/8.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Now as to things which have been sacrificed to idols. This is a subject which we already understand--because we all have knowledge of it. Knowledge, however, tends to make people conceited; it is love that builds us up.<div class="vheading2">Majority Text Translations</div><a href="/msb/1_corinthians/8.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. <a href="/web/1_corinthians/8.htm">World English Bible</a> Now concerning things sacrificed to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_corinthians/8.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> And concerning the things sacrificed to idols, we have known that we all have knowledge: knowledge puffs up, but love builds up; <a href="/blb/1_corinthians/8.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Now concerning the things sacrificed to idols, we know indeed we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. <a href="/ylt/1_corinthians/8.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> And concerning the things sacrificed to idols, we have known that we all have knowledge: knowledge puffeth up, but love buildeth up; <a href="/slt/1_corinthians/8.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And concerning sacrifice to idols, we know, (for we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, and love builds the house.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_corinthians/8.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> NOW concerning those things that are sacrificed to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up; but charity edifieth. <a href="/cpdv/1_corinthians/8.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Now concerning those things that are sacrificed to idols: we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but charity builds up. <a href="/nabre/1_corinthians/8.htm">New American Bible</a> Now in regard to meat sacrificed to idols: we realize that “all of us have knowledge”; knowledge inflates with pride, but love builds up. <a href="/nrsvce/1_corinthians/8.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Now concerning food sacrificed to idols: we know that “all of us possess knowledge.” Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_corinthians/8.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> NOW as concerning sacrifices offered to idols, we know well, that we all have knowledge; knowledge makes for pride, but love ennobles. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_corinthians/8.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> But concerning sacrifices, we know that knowledge is in all of us, and knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/1_corinthians/8.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Now, with respect to meats offered to idols, we know, (for we all have knowledge: knowledge puffs up with pride, but love edifies. <a href="/godbey/1_corinthians/8.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> But concerning things offered to idols: we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but divine love builds up. <a href="/haweis/1_corinthians/8.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> NOW concerning the things sacrificed to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but love edifieth. <a href="/mace/1_corinthians/8.htm">Mace New Testament</a> Now as to things offered to idols, 'tis certain that the knowledge you all pretend to have, swells you with pride, but 'tis charity that edifieth. <a href="/wey/1_corinthians/8.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Now as to things which have been sacrificed to idols. This is a subject which we already understand--because we all have knowledge of it. Knowledge, however, tends to make people conceited; it is love that builds us up. <a href="/worrell/1_corinthians/8.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> Now, concerning the things sacrificed to idols, we know because we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. <a href="/worsley/1_corinthians/8.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> Now as to things offered to idols, we know that we all have knowledge about them. Knowledge however puffeth up, but charity edifieth. <a href="/parallel/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g-wZWoK_LZU?start=1551" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/8.htm">Food Sacrificed to Idols</a> 1<a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">Now</a> <a href="/greek/4012.htm" title="4012: Peri (Prep) -- From the base of peran; properly, through, i.e. Around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time.">about</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tōn (Art-GNP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">food</a> <a href="/greek/1494.htm" title="1494: eidōlothytōn (Adj-GNP) -- Neuter of a compound of eidolon and a presumed derivative of thuo; an image-sacrifice, i.e. Part of an idolatrous offering.">sacrificed to idols:</a> <a href="/greek/1492.htm" title="1492: oidamen (V-RIA-1P) -- To know, remember, appreciate. ">We know</a> <a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.">that</a> <a href="/greek/3956.htm" title="3956: pantes (Adj-NMP) -- All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole."></a> <a href="/greek/2192.htm" title="2192: echomen (V-PIA-1P) -- To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.">we all have</a> <a href="/greek/1108.htm" title="1108: gnōsin (N-AFS) -- Knowledge, doctrine, wisdom. From ginosko; knowing, i.e. knowledge.">knowledge.</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hē (Art-NFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/1108.htm" title="1108: gnōsis (N-NFS) -- Knowledge, doctrine, wisdom. From ginosko; knowing, i.e. knowledge.">Knowledge</a> <a href="/greek/5448.htm" title="5448: physioi (V-PIA-3S) -- From phusis in the primary sense of blowing; to inflate, i.e. make proud.">puffs up,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">but</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hē (Art-NFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/26.htm" title="26: agapē (N-NFS) -- From agapao; love, i.e. Affection or benevolence; specially a love-feast.">love</a> <a href="/greek/3618.htm" title="3618: oikodomei (V-PIA-3S) -- From the same as oikodome; to be a house-builder, i.e. Construct or confirm.">builds up.</a> 2The one who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/romans/14-1.htm">Romans 14:1-3</a> Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on his opinions. / For one person has faith to eat all things, while another, who is weak, eats only vegetables. / The one who eats everything must not belittle the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted him. <a href="/1_corinthians/13-2.htm">1 Corinthians 13:2</a> If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have absolute faith so as to move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. <a href="/1_corinthians/10-23.htm">1 Corinthians 10:23</a> “Everything is permissible,” but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible,” but not everything is edifying. <a href="/romans/15-1.htm">Romans 15:1-2</a> We who are strong ought to bear with the shortcomings of the weak and not to please ourselves. / Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. <a href="/galatians/5-13.htm">Galatians 5:13</a> For you, brothers, were called to freedom; but do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh. Rather, serve one another in love. <a href="/colossians/2-8.htm">Colossians 2:8</a> See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, which are based on human tradition and the spiritual forces of the world rather than on Christ. <a href="/1_timothy/1-5.htm">1 Timothy 1:5</a> The goal of our instruction is the love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and a sincere faith. <a href="/ephesians/4-15.htm">Ephesians 4:15</a> Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ Himself, who is the head. <a href="/philippians/1-9.htm">Philippians 1:9</a> And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, <a href="/1_john/3-18.htm">1 John 3:18</a> Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth. <a href="/1_john/4-7.htm">1 John 4:7-8</a> Beloved, let us love one another, because love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. / Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. <a href="/1_john/4-18.htm">1 John 4:18</a> There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear, because fear involves punishment. The one who fears has not been perfected in love. <a href="/proverbs/8-10.htm">Proverbs 8:10-11</a> Receive my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than pure gold. / For wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire compares with her. <a href="/proverbs/16-18.htm">Proverbs 16:18</a> Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. <a href="/proverbs/19-2.htm">Proverbs 19:2</a> Even zeal is no good without knowledge, and he who hurries his footsteps misses the mark.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Now as touching things offered to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but charity edifies.touching.<a href="/1_corinthians/8-10.htm">1 Corinthians 8:10</a> For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols;<a href="/1_corinthians/10-19.htm">1 Corinthians 10:19-22,28</a> What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing? … <a href="/numbers/25-2.htm">Numbers 25:2</a> And they called the people unto the sacrifices of their gods: and the people did eat, and bowed down to their gods.we are.<a href="/1_corinthians/8-2.htm">1 Corinthians 8:2,4,7,11</a> And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know… <a href="/1_corinthians/1-5.htm">1 Corinthians 1:5</a> That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge;<a href="/1_corinthians/4-10.htm">1 Corinthians 4:10</a> We are fools for Christ's sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised.Knowledge.<a href="/1_corinthians/4-18.htm">1 Corinthians 4:18</a> Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you.<a href="/1_corinthians/5-2.htm">1 Corinthians 5:2,6</a> And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you… <a href="/1_corinthians/13-4.htm">1 Corinthians 13:4</a> Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,but.<a href="/1_corinthians/13-1.htm">1 Corinthians 13:1-13</a> Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal… <a href="/ephesians/4-16.htm">Ephesians 4:16</a> From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_corinthians/7-18.htm">Already</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/5-2.htm">Arrogant</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/3-12.htm">Builds</a> <a href="/acts/9-36.htm">Charity</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/4-19.htm">Conceited</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-4.htm">Edifies</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-4.htm">Edifieth</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-38.htm">Gives</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-28.htm">However</a> <a href="/romans/2-22.htm">Idols</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/6-9.htm">Images</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/4-21.htm">Love</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/6-10.htm">Makes</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/5-7.htm">Offered</a> <a href="/romans/15-1.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-30.htm">Possess</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/5-6.htm">Pride</a> <a href="/psalms/12-5.htm">Puffeth</a> <a href="/psalms/10-5.htm">Puffs</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/5-7.htm">Sacrificed</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/2-14.htm">Seem</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/2-3.htm">Strength</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/2-15.htm">Subject</a> <a href="/romans/14-21.htm">Tends</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-37.htm">Touching</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/5-8.htm">True.</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/2-14.htm">Understand</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_corinthians/8-2.htm">Already</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-4.htm">Arrogant</a> <a href="/joshua/6-26.htm">Builds</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-1.htm">Charity</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-4.htm">Conceited</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-4.htm">Edifies</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-4.htm">Edifieth</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-16.htm">Gives</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/8-7.htm">However</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/8-4.htm">Idols</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/8-4.htm">Images</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-2.htm">Love</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-27.htm">Makes</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/8-4.htm">Offered</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-12.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/8-7.htm">Possess</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-16.htm">Pride</a> <a href="/psalms/10-5.htm">Puffeth</a> <a href="/colossians/2-18.htm">Puffs</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/8-4.htm">Sacrificed</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-13.htm">Seem</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-13.htm">Strength</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-21.htm">Subject</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-7.htm">Tends</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/16-12.htm">Touching</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/8-2.htm">True.</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-3.htm">Understand</a><div class="vheading2">1 Corinthians 8</div>1. <a href="/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">To abstain from food offered to idols.</a> 8. <a href="/1_corinthians/8-8.htm">We must not abuse our Christian liberty, to the offense of our brothers;</a> 11. <a href="/1_corinthians/8-11.htm">but must bridle our knowledge with charity.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_corinthians/8.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_corinthians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_corinthians/8.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Now about food sacrificed to idols: In the Greco-Roman world, idol worship was prevalent, and food sacrificed to idols was a common practice. This issue was significant for early Christians, especially in Corinth, a city known for its many temples and diverse religious practices. The question of whether Christians could eat such food was contentious, as it touched on the purity of worship and the influence of pagan practices. The Jerusalem Council in <a href="/acts/15-29.htm">Acts 15:29</a> had addressed this issue, advising Gentile believers to abstain from food sacrificed to idols. This reflects the tension between maintaining Christian distinctiveness and engaging with the surrounding culture.We know that we all have knowledge. Paul acknowledges the Corinthian believers' understanding of their freedom in Christ and their knowledge that idols are nothing (<a href="/1_corinthians/8-4.htm">1 Corinthians 8:4</a>). This knowledge is rooted in the monotheistic belief that there is only one true God. However, Paul warns that possessing knowledge alone is not sufficient for guiding behavior. The emphasis here is on the communal aspect of knowledge, suggesting that while all believers may have knowledge, its application must be tempered with consideration for others.Knowledge puffs up, The phrase "knowledge puffs up" highlights the danger of pride and arrogance that can accompany intellectual understanding. In the context of Corinth, where philosophical knowledge was highly valued, Paul warns against the self-centered use of knowledge that leads to spiritual pride. This echoes the biblical theme that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (<a href="/james/4-6.htm">James 4:6</a>). The warning is that knowledge, when not coupled with love, can lead to division and a lack of concern for the spiritual well-being of others.but love builds up. Contrasting with the negative effects of knowledge alone, love is portrayed as constructive and edifying. Love, in the biblical sense, is selfless and seeks the good of others, aligning with the greatest commandments to love God and neighbor (<a href="/matthew/22-37.htm">Matthew 22:37-39</a>). This principle is foundational to Christian ethics and community life. Paul emphasizes that love should guide the exercise of Christian freedom, ensuring that actions build up the body of Christ rather than causing others to stumble (<a href="/1_corinthians/8-9.htm">1 Corinthians 8:9-13</a>). This reflects the sacrificial love of Christ, who laid down His life for others (<a href="/john/15-13.htm">John 15:13</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a> The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth regarding issues of Christian liberty and love. 2. <a href="/topical/c/corinth.htm">Corinth</a> A major city in ancient Greece, known for its diverse population and cultural influences, including idol worship. 3. <a href="/topical/c/corinthian_church.htm">Corinthian Church</a> The recipients of Paul's letter, struggling with issues of division, immorality, and questions about Christian conduct. 4. <a href="/topical/i/idol_sacrifices.htm">Idol Sacrifices</a> The practice of offering food to idols, which was common in Corinth and posed a dilemma for Christians regarding participation. 5. <a href="/topical/c/christian_liberty.htm">Christian Liberty</a> The concept of freedom in Christ, which Paul addresses in relation to knowledge and love.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_limitation_of_knowledge.htm">The Limitation of Knowledge</a> Knowledge alone can lead to pride and division. It is essential to balance knowledge with love to edify the church community. <a href="/topical/t/the_supremacy_of_love.htm">The Supremacy of Love</a> Love is the foundation of Christian conduct. It builds up and strengthens relationships, promoting unity and peace within the body of Christ. <a href="/topical/c/christian_liberty_and_responsibility.htm">Christian Liberty and Responsibility</a> While Christians have freedom in Christ, this liberty should be exercised with consideration for others, prioritizing their spiritual well-being. <a href="/topical/b/building_up_the_community.htm">Building Up the Community</a> Our actions should aim to edify and encourage others, reflecting Christ's love and fostering a supportive church environment. <a href="/topical/h/humility_in_knowledge.htm">Humility in Knowledge</a> Recognize that true wisdom comes from God and should be accompanied by humility and a heart to serve others.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_corinthians_8.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Corinthians 8</a> <a href="/q/does_knowledge_inflate,_love_strengthen.htm">Does knowledge inflate while love strengthens?</a> <a href="/q/why_does_paul_contrast_knowledge_and_wisdom.htm">In 1 Corinthians 8:1, Paul stresses that “knowledge puffs up”—why does this contrast with other biblical texts that encourage believers to seek wisdom or understanding? </a> <a href="/q/who_is_the_author_of_leviticus.htm">Does knowledge inflate while love strengthens?</a> <a href="/q/are_atheists_smarter_than_believers.htm">Are atheists more intelligent than religious believers?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_corinthians/8.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>VIII.(1) Now as touching things offered unto idols.--A new subject is here introduced, and occupies the whole of this chapter. In Corinth and other cities meat was offered for sale which had been used for sacrificial purposes in the heathen temples, having been sold to the dealers by the priests, who received a large share of the sacrifices for themselves, or by the individuals who offered them, and had more remaining of their own share than they could use themselves. Thus, a Christian might unconsciously eat of meat, either at the house of a friend (see <a href="/1_corinthians/10-27.htm" title="If any of them that believe not bid you to a feast, and you be disposed to go; whatever is set before you, eat, asking no question for conscience sake.">1Corinthians 10:27</a>) or by purchasing it himself in the public shambles, which had been previously brought in contact by sacrificial usage with an idol. There were some in Corinth who felt no scruple on the subject. An idol was nothing in their opinion. It could neither consecrate nor pollute that which was offered in its temple. Such Christians would, to show how completely and effectively their Christianity had dispelled all their previous heathen superstition, buy meat without caring whence it came, partake of a heathen friend's hospitality, regardless of what use the meat had been put to, and even join in a repast held in the outer court of a heathen temple (<a href="/1_corinthians/8-10.htm" title="For if any man see you which have knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols;">1Corinthians 8:10</a>), where the meat would almost certainly be what had been saved after the sacrifice. That St. Paul would have done so himself, so far as his own personal feelings alone were concerned, we can scarcely doubt. To him, therefore, those who acted upon his authority appealed upon this subject.There were others at Corinth, however, who felt some scruples upon the subject. There were heathen converts who had not completely got rid of every vestige of the old superstition, or whose conscience would accuse them of not having wholly given up idolatry if they took any part even in its social aspect: for many social acts, as well as purely religious ceremonies, were in the heathen mind included in acts of worship. And there were Jews, the intensity of whose traditional hatred of idolatry could not allow them to regard as "nothing" that against which Jehovah had uttered His most terrible denunciations, and against which He had preserved their race as a living witness.To both these sections of the Church the conduct of the more liberal party would prove a serious stumbling-block. The argument used by those who asked St. Paul's advice was evidently that the Christians have knowledge enough to feel that an idol is nothing, and that, therefore. there can be no harm in partaking of what has been offered to "nothing." "We know," says St. Paul, in reply, taking up the words of their own letter, "we know that we all have knowledge: we know that an idol is nothing." The last clause of <a href="/1_corinthians/8-1.htm" title="Now as touching things offered to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but charity edifies.">1Corinthians 8:1</a> and <a href="/context/1_corinthians/8-2.htm" title="And if any man think that he knows any thing, he knows nothing yet as he ought to know.">1Corinthians 8:2-3</a> form a parenthesis; and in <a href="/1_corinthians/8-4.htm" title="As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice to idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one.">1Corinthians 8:4</a> the opening words of <a href="/1_corinthians/8-1.htm" title="Now as touching things offered to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but charity edifies.">1Corinthians 8:1</a> are repeated, and the line of thought which this parenthesis interrupted is again resumed. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_corinthians/8.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verses 1-13. - The relation of lore to knowledge with respect to the question of eating idol offerings. Verse 1. - As touching things offered unto idols. This was doubtless one of the questions on which the Corinthians had asked for advice. We judge from the tone of the questions to which St. Paul here replies that the majority of the Corinthians, being liberal in their views, held that it was a matter of perfect indifference to eat idol offerings; and that, in acting upon this conviction, they contemptuously overrode the convictions of those who could not help thinking that when they did so they committed a sin. The practical decision of the question was one of immense importance. If it were unlawful under any circumstances to eat idol offerings, then the Gentile convert was condemned to a life of Levitism almost as rigorous as that of the Jew. The distinction between clean and unclean meats formed an insuperable barrier between Jews and Gentiles. Wherever they lived, Jews required a butcher of their own, who had been trained in the rules and ceremonies which enabled him to decide and to ensure that all the meat which they ate should be clean (tahor), not unclean (tame). They could touch no meat which was not certified as free from legal blemish or ceremonial pollution by the affixed leaden seal on which was engraved the word "lawful" (kashar). But Gentiles had always been accustomed to buy meat in the markets. Now, much of this meat consisted of remnants of animals slain as sacrifices, after the priests had had their share. So completely was this case, that the word "to sacrifice" had come to mean "to kill" in Hellenistic Greek. Theophrastus, in his 'Moral Sketches,' defines the close-handed man as one who, at his daughter's wedding feast, sells all the victims offered except the sacred parts; and the shameless person as one who, after offering a sacrifice, salts the victim for future use, and goes out to dine with someone else. The market was therefore stocked with meat which had been connected with idol sacrifices. The Christian could never be sure about any meat which he bought if he held it wrong to partake of these offerings. Further than this, he would - especially if he were poor - feel it a great privation to be entirely cut off from the public feasts (sussitia), which perhaps were often his only chance of eating meat at all; and also to be forbidden to take a social meal with any of his Gentile neighbours or relatives. The question was therefore a "burning" one. It involved much of the comfort and brightness of ancient social life (Thucydides, 2:38; Aristotle, 'Eth.,' 7:9, § 5; Cicero, 'Off.,' 2:16; Livy, 8:32, etc.). It will be seen that St. Paul treats it with consummate wisdom and tenderness. His liberality of thought shows itself in this - that he sides with those who took the strong, the broad, the common sense view, that sin is not a mechanical matter, and that sin is not committed where no sin is intended. He neither adopts the ascetic view nor does he taunt the inquirers with the fact that the whole weight of their personal desires and interests would lead them to decide the question in their own favour. On the other hand, he has too deep a sympathy with the weak to permit their scruples to be overruled with a violence which would wound their consciences. While he accepts the right principle of Christian freedom, he carefully guards against its abuse. It might have been supposed that, as a Jew, and one who had been trained as a "Pharisee of Pharisees," St. Paul would have sided with those who forbade any participation in idol offerings. Jewish rabbis referred to passages like <a href="/exodus/34-15.htm">Exodus 34:15</a>; <a href="/numbers/25-2.htm">Numbers 25:2</a>; <a href="/psalms/106-28.htm">Psalm 106:28</a>; <a href="/daniel/1-8.htm">Daniel 1:8</a>; Tobit 1:10, 11. Rabbi Ishmael, in 'Avoda Zara,' said that a Jew might not even go to a Gentile funeral, even if he took with him his own meat and his own servants. The law of the drink offering forbids a Jew to drink of a cask if anyone has even touched a goblet drawn from it with the presumed intention of offering little to the gods. Besides this, the Synod of Jerusalem had mentioned the eating of idol offerings as one of the four things which they forbade to Gentile converts, who were only bound by the Noachian precepts (<a href="/acts/15-29.htm">Acts 15:29</a>). But St. Paul judged the matter independently by his own apostolic authority. The decision of the synod had only had a local validity trod was inapplicable to such a community as that of Corinth. St. Paul had to suffer cruel misrepresentation and bitter persecution as the consequence of this breadth of view (<a href="/acts/21-21.htm">Acts 21:21-24</a>); but that would not be likely to make him shrink from saying the truth. This treatment of the subject closely resembles that which he subsequently adopted in <a href="/romans/14.htm">Romans 14</a>. We know that we all have knowledge. It is very probable that this is a semi-ironical quotation of the somewhat conceited remark which had occurred in the letter from Corinth. No doubt there was a sense in which it might (theoretically) be regarded as true; but it was St. Paul's duty both to disparage this kind of knowledge and to show that, after all, there were some among them who did not possess it (ver. 7). Knowledge puffeth up. The brief energetic clause, "Knowledge puffeth up; love buildeth up," shows the strong feeling with which the apostle enters on the discussion. There is a wide distance between theoretic knowledge and heavenly wisdom (<a href="/james/3-13.htm">James 3:13-18</a>). "He who is full is rich; he who is puffed up is empty" (Stanley). "The first person puffed up was the devil" (Beza). Charity edifieth. There is no reason whatever for the rendering of ἀγαπὴ sometimes by "love," sometimes by "charity." The fondness for variation which led King James's translators to do so only obscures the identity of thought which prevails among all the apostles respecting the absolute primacy of love as the chief sphere and test of the Christian life. Edifieth. Helps to build us up as stones in the spiritual temple (ch. 3:9; <a href="/romans/14-19.htm">Romans 14:19</a>; <a href="/ephesians/4-12.htm">Ephesians 4:12</a>). "If because of meat thy brother is grieved, thou walkest no longer in love" (<a href="/romans/14-15.htm">Romans 14:15</a>). <a href="/commentaries/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Now δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. about Περὶ (Peri) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_4012.htm">Strong's 4012: </a> From the base of peran; properly, through, i.e. Around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time. [food] τῶν (tōn) Article - Genitive Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. sacrificed to idols: εἰδωλοθύτων (eidōlothytōn) Adjective - Genitive Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1494.htm">Strong's 1494: </a> Neuter of a compound of eidolon and a presumed derivative of thuo; an image-sacrifice, i.e. Part of an idolatrous offering. We know οἴδαμεν (oidamen) Verb - Perfect Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1492.htm">Strong's 1492: </a> To know, remember, appreciate. that ὅτι (hoti) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because. we all have ἔχομεν (echomen) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2192.htm">Strong's 2192: </a> To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold. knowledge. γνῶσιν (gnōsin) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1108.htm">Strong's 1108: </a> Knowledge, doctrine, wisdom. From ginosko; knowing, i.e. knowledge. Knowledge γνῶσις (gnōsis) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1108.htm">Strong's 1108: </a> Knowledge, doctrine, wisdom. From ginosko; knowing, i.e. knowledge. puffs up, φυσιοῖ (physioi) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5448.htm">Strong's 5448: </a> From phusis in the primary sense of blowing; to inflate, i.e. make proud. but δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. love ἀγάπη (agapē) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_26.htm">Strong's 26: </a> From agapao; love, i.e. Affection or benevolence; specially a love-feast. builds up. οἰκοδομεῖ (oikodomei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3618.htm">Strong's 3618: </a> From the same as oikodome; to be a house-builder, i.e. Construct or confirm. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">1 Corinthians 8:1 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">1 Corinthians 8:1 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">1 Corinthians 8:1 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">1 Corinthians 8:1 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">1 Corinthians 8:1 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">1 Corinthians 8:1 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">1 Corinthians 8:1 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">1 Corinthians 8:1 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">1 Corinthians 8:1 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">1 Corinthians 8:1 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/8-1.htm">NT Letters: 1 Corinthians 8:1 Now concerning things sacrificed to idols: We (1 Cor. 1C iC 1Cor i cor icor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_corinthians/7-40.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Corinthians 7:40"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Corinthians 7:40" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_corinthians/8-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Corinthians 8:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Corinthians 8:2" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>