Benevolence
TextsWhat is the meaning of Benevolence in the Bible?
The word 'benevolence' appears in the 1611 King James Version of 1 Corinthians 7:3 as a translation of the Greek word opheile, which means 'due' or 'obligation'. This rendering was later corrected to 'due' in the 1881 Revised Version.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing this archaic translation helps readers understand textual variations between early English Bibles and modern scholarly editions, clarifying the original context of marital obligations in the Pauline epistles.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how Benevolence functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Benevolence in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Benevolence clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
1 Corinthians 7:3
Related Topics
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Benevolence." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/benevolence/