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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 13:12 Now we see but a dim reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_corinthians/13-12.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/5/46_1Co_13_12.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Corinthians 13:12 - Love" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Now we see but a dim reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_corinthians/13-12.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_corinthians/13-12.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_corinthians/">1 Corinthians</a> > <a href="/1_corinthians/13.htm">Chapter 13</a> > Verse 12</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad12.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_corinthians/13-11.htm" title="1 Corinthians 13:11">◄</a> 1 Corinthians 13:12 <a href="/1_corinthians/13-13.htm" title="1 Corinthians 13:13">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/13.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/1_corinthians/13.htm">New International Version</a> For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. <a href="/nlt/1_corinthians/13.htm">New Living Translation</a> Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely. <a href="/esv/1_corinthians/13.htm">English Standard Version</a> For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known. <a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/13.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Now we see but a dim reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. <a href="/blb/1_corinthians/13.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For presently we see through a glass in obscurity; but then, face to face. Presently, I know in part; but then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known. <a href="/kjv/1_corinthians/13.htm">King James Bible</a> For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. <a href="/nkjv/1_corinthians/13.htm">New King James Version</a> For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. <a href="/nasb_/1_corinthians/13.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully, just as I also have been fully known. <a href="/nasb/1_corinthians/13.htm">NASB 1995</a> For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. <a href="/nasb77/1_corinthians/13.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I shall know fully just as I also have been fully known. <a href="/lsb/1_corinthians/13.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. <a href="/amp/1_corinthians/13.htm">Amplified Bible</a> For now [in this time of imperfection] we see in a mirror dimly [a blurred reflection, a riddle, an enigma], but then [when the time of perfection comes we will see reality] face to face. Now I know in part [just in fragments], but then I will know fully, just as I have been fully known [by God]. <a href="/csb/1_corinthians/13.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I will know fully, as I am fully known. <a href="/hcsb/1_corinthians/13.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For now we see indistinctly, as in a mirror, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I will know fully, as I am fully known. <a href="/asv/1_corinthians/13.htm">American Standard Version</a> For now we see in a mirror, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know fully even as also I was fully known. <a href="/cev/1_corinthians/13.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Now all we can see of God is like a cloudy picture in a mirror. Later we will see him face to face. We don't know everything, but then we will, just as God completely understands us. <a href="/erv/1_corinthians/13.htm">English Revised Version</a> For now we see in a mirror, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I have been known. <a href="/gwt/1_corinthians/13.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Now we see a blurred image in a mirror. Then we will see very clearly. Now my knowledge is incomplete. Then I will have complete knowledge as God has complete knowledge of me. <a href="/gnt/1_corinthians/13.htm">Good News Translation</a> What we see now is like a dim image in a mirror; then we shall see face-to-face. What I know now is only partial; then it will be complete--as complete as God's knowledge of me. <a href="/isv/1_corinthians/13.htm">International Standard Version</a> Now we see only an indistinct image in a mirror, but then we will be face to face. Now what I know is incomplete, but then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known. <a href="/msb/1_corinthians/13.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Now we see but a dim reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. <a href="/net/1_corinthians/13.htm">NET Bible</a> For now we see in a mirror indirectly, but then we will see face to face. Now I know in part, but then I will know fully, just as I have been fully known. <a href="/nheb/1_corinthians/13.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I will know fully, even as I was also fully known. <a href="/wbt/1_corinthians/13.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> For now we see through a glass darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. <a href="/wey/1_corinthians/13.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For the present we see things as if in a mirror, and are puzzled; but then we shall see them face to face. For the present the knowledge I gain is imperfect; but then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. <a href="/web/1_corinthians/13.htm">World English Bible</a> For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I will know fully, even as I was also fully known. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_corinthians/13.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> for we now see obscurely through a mirror, and then face to face; now I know in part, and then I will fully know, as I was also known; <a href="/blb/1_corinthians/13.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For presently we see through a glass in obscurity; but then, face to face. Presently, I know in part; but then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known. <a href="/ylt/1_corinthians/13.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> for we see now through a mirror obscurely, and then face to face; now I know in part, and then I shall fully know, as also I was known; <a href="/slt/1_corinthians/13.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For now we see by a mirror in an enigma; then face to face: now I know by parts; and then shall I know as I was known.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_corinthians/13.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> We see now through a glass in a dark manner; but then face to face. Now I know I part; but then I shall know even as I am known. <a href="/cpdv/1_corinthians/13.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Now we see through a glass darkly. But then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know, even as I am known. <a href="/nabre/1_corinthians/13.htm">New American Bible</a> At present we see indistinctly, as in a mirror, but then face to face. At present I know partially; then I shall know fully, as I am fully known. <a href="/nrsvce/1_corinthians/13.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then we will see face to face. Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_corinthians/13.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_corinthians/13.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Now we see as in a mirror, in an allegory, but then face-to-face. Now I know partially, but then I shall know as I am known.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/1_corinthians/13.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Now we see through a mirror, obscurely; but then, face to face; now I know in part, but then shall I know, even as I am known. <a href="/godbey/1_corinthians/13.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> For we now see through a mirror in an enigma; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know perfectly even as I am perfectly known. <a href="/haweis/1_corinthians/13.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> For now we see by reflected light, indistinctly; but then face to face: now I know partially; but then shall I know even as I am known. <a href="/mace/1_corinthians/13.htm">Mace New Testament</a> now we do but indirectly see the faint images of things; but then the objects themselves will be before our eyes; now I have a partial knowledge, but then shall I know, even as I myself am known. <a href="/wey/1_corinthians/13.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For the present we see things as if in a mirror, and are puzzled; but then we shall see them face to face. For the present the knowledge I gain is imperfect; but then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. <a href="/worrell/1_corinthians/13.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> for now we see through a mirror, obscurely; but then, face to face; now I know in part, but then I shall fully know, even as I also was fully known. <a href="/worsley/1_corinthians/13.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> For we see now as through a mirror obscurely: but then we shall see face to face. Now I know but in part, but then I shall know even as I am known. <a href="/parallel/1_corinthians/13-12.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=2846" 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/13.htm">Love</a> …11When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I set aside childish ways. 12<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason."></a> <a href="/greek/737.htm" title="737: arti (Adv) -- Now, just now, at this moment. Adverb from a derivative of airo through the idea of suspension; just now.">Now</a> <a href="/greek/991.htm" title="991: blepomen (V-PIA-1P) -- (primarily physical), I look, see, perceive, discern. A primary verb; to look at.">we see</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/135.htm" title="135: ainigmati (N-DNS) -- A riddle, an enigma. From a derivative of ainos; an obscure saying, i.e. obscureness.">but a dim reflection</a> <a href="/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: di’ (Prep) -- A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.">as in</a> <a href="/greek/2072.htm" title="2072: esoptrou (N-GNS) -- A mirror, looking-glass (made of highly polished metal). From eis and a presumed derivative of optanomai; a mirror.">a mirror;</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/5119.htm" title="5119: tote (Adv) -- Then, at that time. From ho and hote; the when, i.e. At the time that.">then we shall see</a> <a href="/greek/4383.htm" title="4383: prosōpon (N-ANS) -- From pros and ops; the front, i.e. The countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person.">face</a> <a href="/greek/4314.htm" title="4314: pros (Prep) -- To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward.">to</a> <a href="/greek/4383.htm" title="4383: prosōpon (N-ANS) -- From pros and ops; the front, i.e. The countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person.">face.</a> <a href="/greek/737.htm" title="737: arti (Adv) -- Now, just now, at this moment. Adverb from a derivative of airo through the idea of suspension; just now.">Now</a> <a href="/greek/1097.htm" title="1097: ginōskō (V-PIA-1S) -- A prolonged form of a primary verb; to know in a great variety of applications and with many implications.">I know</a> <a href="/greek/1537.htm" title="1537: ek (Prep) -- From out, out from among, from, suggesting from the interior outwards. A primary preposition denoting origin, from, out.">in</a> <a href="/greek/3313.htm" title="3313: merous (N-GNS) -- A part, portion, share. From an obsolete but more primary form of meiromai; a division or share.">part;</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/5119.htm" title="5119: tote (Adv) -- Then, at that time. From ho and hote; the when, i.e. At the time that.">then</a> <a href="/greek/1921.htm" title="1921: epignōsomai (V-FIM-1S) -- From epi and ginosko; to know upon some mark, i.e. Recognize; by implication, to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge.">I shall know fully,</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">even</a> <a href="/greek/2531.htm" title="2531: kathōs (Adv) -- According to the manner in which, in the degree that, just as, as. From kata and hos; just as, that.">as</a> <a href="/greek/1921.htm" title="1921: epegnōsthēn (V-AIP-1S) -- From epi and ginosko; to know upon some mark, i.e. Recognize; by implication, to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge.">I am fully known.</a> 13And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love; but the greatest of these is love.…<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="/1_john/3-2.htm">1 John 3:2</a> Beloved, we are now children of God, and what we will be has not yet been revealed. We know that when Christ appears, we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He is. <a href="/2_corinthians/3-18.htm">2 Corinthians 3:18</a> And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into His image with intensifying glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. <a href="/2_corinthians/5-7.htm">2 Corinthians 5:7</a> For we walk by faith, not by sight. <a href="/james/1-23.htm">James 1:23-24</a> For anyone who hears the word but does not carry it out is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror, / and after observing himself goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. <a href="/romans/8-24.htm">Romans 8:24-25</a> For in this hope we were saved; but hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he can already see? / But if we hope for what we do not yet see, we wait for it patiently. <a href="/philippians/3-12.htm">Philippians 3:12</a> Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. <a href="/john/16-12.htm">John 16:12-13</a> I still have much to tell you, but you cannot yet bear to hear it. / However, when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. For He will not speak on His own, but He will speak what He hears, and He will declare to you what is to come. <a href="/matthew/5-8.htm">Matthew 5:8</a> Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. <a href="/hebrews/11-1.htm">Hebrews 11:1</a> Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see. <a href="/john/14-9.htm">John 14:9</a> Jesus replied, “Philip, I have been with you all this time, and still you do not know Me? Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? <a href="/1_peter/1-8.htm">1 Peter 1:8</a> Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and rejoice with an inexpressible and glorious joy, <a href="/job/19-26.htm">Job 19:26-27</a> Even after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God. / I will see Him for myself; my eyes will behold Him, and not as a stranger. How my heart yearns within me! <a href="/numbers/12-6.htm">Numbers 12:6-8</a> He said, “Hear now My words: If there is a prophet among you, I, the LORD, will reveal Myself to him in a vision; I will speak to him in a dream. / But this is not so with My servant Moses; he is faithful in all My house. / I speak with him face to face, clearly and not in riddles; he sees the form of the LORD. Why then were you unafraid to speak against My servant Moses?” <a href="/exodus/33-11.htm">Exodus 33:11</a> Thus the LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young assistant Joshua son of Nun would not leave the tent. <a href="/genesis/32-30.htm">Genesis 32:30</a> So Jacob named the place Peniel, saying, “Indeed, I have seen God face to face, and yet my life was spared.”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.we see.<a href="/2_corinthians/3-18.htm">2 Corinthians 3:18</a> But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.<a href="/2_corinthians/5-7.htm">2 Corinthians 5:7</a> (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)<a href="/philippians/3-12.htm">Philippians 3:12</a> Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.darkly.<a href="/judges/14-12.htm">Judges 14:12-19</a> And Samson said unto them, I will now put forth a riddle unto you: if ye can certainly declare it me within the seven days of the feast, and find it out, then I will give you thirty sheets and thirty change of garments: … <a href="/ezekiel/17-2.htm">Ezekiel 17:2</a> Son of man, put forth a riddle, and speak a parable unto the house of Israel;face.<a href="/exodus/33-11.htm">Exodus 33:11</a> And the LORD spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. And he turned again into the camp: but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the tabernacle.<a href="/numbers/12-8.htm">Numbers 12:8</a> With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the LORD shall he behold: wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?<a href="/matthew/5-8.htm">Matthew 5:8</a> Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.now.<a href="/1_corinthians/13-9.htm">1 Corinthians 13:9,10</a> For we know in part, and we prophesy in part… <a href="/john/10-15.htm">John 10:15</a> As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_corinthians/13-10.htm">Complete</a> <a href="/lamentations/5-17.htm">Dim</a> <a href="/isaiah/42-3.htm">Dimly</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-28.htm">Face</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/8-4.htm">Fully</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-3.htm">Gain</a> <a href="/job/37-18.htm">Glass</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-10.htm">Imperfect</a> <a href="/job/37-18.htm">Mirror</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-10.htm">Part</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-14.htm">Partially</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-3.htm">Poor</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-18.htm">Present</a> <a href="/acts/5-24.htm">Puzzled</a> <a href="/proverbs/8-12.htm">Reflection</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-2.htm">Understand</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-11.htm">Understood</a> <a href="/acts/20-9.htm">Window</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_corinthians/16-17.htm">Complete</a> <a href="/genesis/27-1.htm">Dim</a> <a href="/isaiah/42-3.htm">Dimly</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-25.htm">Face</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-13.htm">Fully</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-32.htm">Gain</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-18.htm">Glass</a> <a href="/1_john/4-18.htm">Imperfect</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-18.htm">Mirror</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-6.htm">Part</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-14.htm">Partially</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-1.htm">Poor</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-6.htm">Present</a> <a href="/mark/6-20.htm">Puzzled</a> <a href="/proverbs/5-2.htm">Reflection</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-9.htm">Understand</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-9.htm">Understood</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-33.htm">Window</a><div class="vheading2">1 Corinthians 13</div>1. <a href="/1_corinthians/13-1.htm">All gifts,</a> 3. <a href="/1_corinthians/13-3.htm">however excellent, are of no worth without love.</a> 4. <a href="/1_corinthians/13-4.htm">The praises thereof,</a> 13. <a href="/1_corinthians/13-13.htm">as love is greatest before hope and faith.</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/13.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/13.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Now we see but a dim reflection as in a mirror; In the ancient world, mirrors were typically made of polished metal, such as bronze, and provided a less clear reflection than modern glass mirrors. This imagery suggests that our current understanding of spiritual truths is incomplete and imperfect. The Apostle Paul uses this metaphor to illustrate the limitations of human knowledge and perception in this life. The concept of seeing "dimly" aligns with the broader biblical theme of partial revelation, as seen in other scriptures like <a href="/2_corinthians/5-7.htm">2 Corinthians 5:7</a>, which speaks of walking by faith, not by sight. This phrase emphasizes the contrast between our present limited understanding and the complete clarity we will experience in the future.then we shall see face to face. This phrase points to a future time of perfect understanding and direct communion with God. The expression "face to face" is reminiscent of Moses' unique relationship with God, as described in <a href="/exodus/33-11.htm">Exodus 33:11</a>, where the Lord spoke to Moses as one speaks to a friend. It signifies a time when believers will have an unmediated and intimate relationship with God, free from the limitations of earthly existence. This future hope is often associated with the eschatological fulfillment of God's promises, as seen in <a href="/revelation/22-4.htm">Revelation 22:4</a>, where believers will see God's face in the new creation.Now I know in part; Paul acknowledges the current state of partial knowledge, reflecting the limitations of human understanding in the present age. This partial knowledge is a result of living in a fallen world, where sin and human frailty obscure the full comprehension of divine truths. The acknowledgment of knowing "in part" is consistent with the humility that characterizes Paul's teachings, as he often emphasizes the need for reliance on God's wisdom rather than human understanding, as seen in <a href="/1_corinthians/2-9.htm">1 Corinthians 2:9-10</a>.then I shall know fully, The promise of full knowledge in the future is a source of hope for believers. This complete understanding will be granted in the eschatological fulfillment of God's plan, when believers are glorified and fully conformed to the image of Christ. The idea of knowing fully is connected to the transformative power of the resurrection, as described in <a href="/philippians/3-21.htm">Philippians 3:21</a>, where our lowly bodies will be transformed to be like Christ's glorious body. This future state of full knowledge is also linked to the perfect love and unity that will characterize the eternal kingdom of God.even as I am fully known. This phrase highlights the intimate and complete knowledge that God has of each individual. God's omniscience means that He knows us fully, as seen in passages like <a href="/psalms/139.htm">Psalm 139:1-4</a>, where the psalmist marvels at God's thorough understanding of his thoughts and actions. The assurance that we will one day know God as fully as He knows us underscores the depth of the relationship that believers will enjoy with their Creator. This future state of mutual knowledge reflects the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, where the barriers of sin and misunderstanding are removed, and believers experience the fullness of God's presence and love.<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, providing guidance on spiritual gifts and love. 2. <a href="/topical/c/corinth.htm">Corinth</a> A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and diversity, but also for moral and spiritual challenges within the church. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_corinthian_church.htm">The Corinthian Church</a> The recipients of Paul's letter, struggling with issues of division, immorality, and misunderstanding of spiritual gifts.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/u/understanding_our_current_limitations.htm">Understanding Our Current Limitations</a> Recognize that our current understanding of God and spiritual truths is limited, like seeing a dim reflection. <a href="/topical/h/hope_for_future_clarity.htm">Hope for Future Clarity</a> Embrace the promise that one day we will see God face to face and understand fully, which should inspire hope and perseverance. <a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_love.htm">The Importance of Love</a> In the context of <a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/13.htm">1 Corinthians 13</a>, love is the greatest gift and should be our focus, even as we await full understanding. <a href="/topical/p/pursuing_spiritual_growth.htm">Pursuing Spiritual Growth</a> Strive to grow in knowledge and love, knowing that our understanding will be made complete in the future. <a href="/topical/l/living_with_humility.htm">Living with Humility</a> Acknowledge our partial knowledge and remain humble, relying on God's wisdom and revelation.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_corinthians_13.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Corinthians 13</a> <a href="/q/what_is_the_mandela_effect.htm">What is the Mandela Effect?</a> <a href="/q/what's_'seeing_through_a_glass_darkly'.htm">What does "seeing through a glass darkly" mean?</a> <a href="/q/who_moved_us_to_his_son's_kingdom.htm">What does 'seeing through a glass darkly' mean?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'face_to_face_with_god'_mean.htm">What does "Face to Face with God" mean?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_corinthians/13.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(12) For now--i.e., in this earthly life, the "for" connecting the previous statement with that which it illustrates.Through a glass, darkly.--Better, through a mirror in a dark saying. The illustration here is from a mirror when the image appears far behind the mirror itself. If we remember the imperfect metal surfaces which formed the mirrors of those days, we can imagine how imperfect and enigmatical (the Greek word is "in an enigma") would the image appear; so that the Apostle says, "Like that image which you see when you look at an object in a mirror far off, with blurred and undefined outline, such is our knowledge here and now; but then (i.e., when this dispensation is at an end) we shall see as you see a man when you stand before him face to face. (See <a href="/context/numbers/12-7.htm" title="My servant Moses is not so, who is faithful in all my house.">Numbers 12:7-8</a> for a similar thought, but a different illustration of it--"mouth to mouth.") The word for "glass" here is the same as in <a href="/james/1-23.htm" title="For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like to a man beholding his natural face in a glass:">James 1:23</a>, and must mean a mirror, and not, as some commentators suggest, a pane of transparent stone or horn, such as was then used, for which a quite different word would have been employed.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_corinthians/13.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 12. - Through a glass; rather, through (or, by means of) a mirror. Our "glasses" were unknown in that age. The mirrors were of silver or some polished metal, giving, of course, a far dimmer image than "glasses" do. The rabbis said that "all the prophets saw through a dark mirror, but Moses through a bright one." St. Paul says that no human eye can see God at all except as an image seen as it were behind the mirror. Darkly; rather, in a riddle. God is said to have spoken to Moses "by means of riddles" (<a href="/numbers/12-8.htm">Numbers 12:8</a>; Authorized Version, "in dark speeches"), Human language, dealing with Divine facts, can only represent them indirectly, metaphorically, enigmatically, under human images, and as illustrated by visible phenomena. God can only be represented under the phrases of anthropomorphism and anthropopathy; and such phrases can only have a relative, not an absolute, truth. Then; i.e. "when the perfect is come." Face to face. Like the "mouth to mouth" of the Hebrew and the LXX. in <a href="/numbers/12-8.htm">Numbers 12:8</a>. This is the beatific vision. "We know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is" (<a href="/1_john/3-2.htm">1 John 3:2</a>). "Now we walk by faith, not by sight" (<a href="/2_corinthians/5-7.htm">2 Corinthians 5:7</a>). Then shall I know even as also I am known; rather, then shall I fully know even as also I was fully known, viz. when Christ took knowledge of me at my conversion. Now, we do not so much "know" God, but "rather are known of God" (comp. <a href="/1_corinthians/8-3.htm">1 Corinthians 8:3</a>). <a href="/commentaries/1_corinthians/13-12.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Now ἄρτι (arti) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_737.htm">Strong's 737: </a> Now, just now, at this moment. Adverb from a derivative of airo through the idea of suspension; just now. we see βλέπομεν (blepomen) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_991.htm">Strong's 991: </a> (primarily physical), I look, see, perceive, discern. A primary verb; to look at. but a dim reflection αἰνίγματι (ainigmati) Noun - Dative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_135.htm">Strong's 135: </a> A riddle, an enigma. From a derivative of ainos; an obscure saying, i.e. obscureness. as in δι’ (di’) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1223.htm">Strong's 1223: </a> A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through. a mirror; ἐσόπτρου (esoptrou) Noun - Genitive Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2072.htm">Strong's 2072: </a> A mirror, looking-glass (made of highly polished metal). From eis and a presumed derivative of optanomai; a mirror. then [we shall see] τότε (tote) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_5119.htm">Strong's 5119: </a> Then, at that time. From ho and hote; the when, i.e. At the time that. face πρόσωπον (prosōpon) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4383.htm">Strong's 4383: </a> From pros and ops; the front, i.e. The countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person. to πρὸς (pros) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_4314.htm">Strong's 4314: </a> To, towards, with. A strengthened form of pro; a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e. Toward. face. πρόσωπον (prosōpon) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4383.htm">Strong's 4383: </a> From pros and ops; the front, i.e. The countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person. Now ἄρτι (arti) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_737.htm">Strong's 737: </a> Now, just now, at this moment. Adverb from a derivative of airo through the idea of suspension; just now. I know γινώσκω (ginōskō) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1097.htm">Strong's 1097: </a> A prolonged form of a primary verb; to 'know' in a great variety of applications and with many implications. in ἐκ (ek) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1537.htm">Strong's 1537: </a> From out, out from among, from, suggesting from the interior outwards. A primary preposition denoting origin, from, out. part; μέρους (merous) Noun - Genitive Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3313.htm">Strong's 3313: </a> A part, portion, share. From an obsolete but more primary form of meiromai; a division or share. then τότε (tote) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_5119.htm">Strong's 5119: </a> Then, at that time. From ho and hote; the when, i.e. At the time that. I shall know fully, ἐπιγνώσομαι (epignōsomai) Verb - Future Indicative Middle - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1921.htm">Strong's 1921: </a> From epi and ginosko; to know upon some mark, i.e. Recognize; by implication, to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge. even καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. as καθὼς (kathōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_2531.htm">Strong's 2531: </a> According to the manner in which, in the degree that, just as, as. From kata and hos; just as, that. I am fully known. ἐπεγνώσθην (epegnōsthēn) Verb - Aorist Indicative Passive - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1921.htm">Strong's 1921: </a> From epi and ginosko; to know upon some mark, i.e. Recognize; by implication, to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_corinthians/13-12.htm">1 Corinthians 13:12 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_corinthians/13-12.htm">1 Corinthians 13:12 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_corinthians/13-12.htm">1 Corinthians 13:12 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_corinthians/13-12.htm">1 Corinthians 13:12 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_corinthians/13-12.htm">1 Corinthians 13:12 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_corinthians/13-12.htm">1 Corinthians 13:12 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_corinthians/13-12.htm">1 Corinthians 13:12 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_corinthians/13-12.htm">1 Corinthians 13:12 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_corinthians/13-12.htm">1 Corinthians 13:12 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_corinthians/13-12.htm">1 Corinthians 13:12 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-12.htm">NT Letters: 1 Corinthians 13:12 For now we see in a mirror (1 Cor. 1C iC 1Cor i cor icor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_corinthians/13-11.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Corinthians 13:11"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Corinthians 13:11" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_corinthians/13-13.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Corinthians 13:13"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Corinthians 13:13" /></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>