Bible Strands
1 Corinthians 12:22
On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable,
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Corinthian church to correct divisions over spiritual gifts by using the human body as a structural metaphor. He speaks at a moment when the community is elevating certain members while devaluing others.
The words — δοκοῦντα (dokounta) translates as "seeming" and μέλη (melē) means "members" or "parts." Paul notes that the body's parts which appear weak are actually the most necessary.
The thread — The principle of mutual dependence runs through 1 Corinthians 12:21 and 12:23, while Proverbs 14:28 and Ecclesiastes 4:9 connect strength to collective presence rather than isolated power.
Why it lands — The text states that perceived weakness carries essential function, requiring readers to abandon hierarchical valuation of people or roles. It demands practical recognition that interdependence, not superiority, sustains the community.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
Cross-references
- Proverbs 14:28 A large population is a king’s splendor, but a lack of subjects is a prince’s ruin.
- Ecclesiastes 9:14 There was a small city with few men. A mighty king came against it, surrounded it, and built large siege ramps against it.
- Ecclesiastes 4:9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.
- Ecclesiastes 5:9 The produce of the earth is taken by all; the king himself profits from the fields.
- 2 Corinthians 1:11 as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the favor shown us in answer to their prayers.
- Titus 2:9 Slaves are to submit to their own masters in everything, to be well-pleasing, not argumentative,