36 If anyone thinks that he is not behaving properly toward his betrothed,[a] if his[b] passions are strong, and it has to be, let him do as he wishes: let them marry—it is no sin. 37 But whoever is firmly established in his heart, being under no necessity but having his desire under control, and has determined this in his heart, to keep her as his betrothed, he will do well. 38 So then he who marries his betrothed (A)does well, and he who refrains from marriage will do even better.

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Corinthians 7:36 Greek virgin; also verses 37, 38
  2. 1 Corinthians 7:36 Or her

36 But if anyone thinks he is behaving dishonorably concerning his virgin, if she is past her prime[a] and it ought to be thus, let him do what he wishes. He does not sin. Let them marry. 37 But he who stands firm in his heart, not having necessity, but has authority concerning his own will, and has decided this in his own heart, to keep his own virgin, he will do well. 38 So then, the one who marries[b] his own virgin does well, and the one who does not marry her will do better.

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Corinthians 7:36 Or “if his passions are strong” (it is not clear in context whether this term refers to the man or to the woman)
  2. 1 Corinthians 7:38 Or perhaps “the one who gives in marriage”