What is Paul talking about in 1 Corinthians 7:26 and 7:36-38?

The Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 7 does not endorse incest, for the Bible strictly condemns any incestuous relations. A proper understanding of the historical context and biblical language demonstrates that the passage refers either to a betrothed couple or to a father deciding the fate of his virgin daughter regarding marriage to another man. The question of a father marrying his daughter arises solely from a misunderstanding of translations of the later verses in this chapter, specifically 36–38, whereas verse 26 addresses the general life hardships faced by Christians of that time.

The Context of 1 Corinthians 7:26 and the Present Distress

In verse 26 of chapter seven, Paul addresses people living during a period of particular trials. He writes about maintaining one's current status not for the sake of asceticism as a higher form of holiness, but in view of the external pressure and persecution faced by the early church.

“I think therefore that this is good by reason of the present distress, namely, that it is good for a man to be as he is.” 1 Cor 7:26

The apostle shares practical wisdom: during crises, persecutions, and dangers, changing one's marital status brings additional cares. If a person is already married, they should preserve the marriage; if unmarried, it is better not to rush into binding oneself with new responsibilities, so as to focus fully on serving the Lord.

Where the Misunderstanding Arises: Verses 36–38

The true source of confusion lies not in verse 26, but in verses 36–38, where the Greek text speaks of a man and his “virgin” (parthenos). In many older translations, the phrasing sounded ambiguous, giving rise to strange assumptions.

“But if any man thinketh that he behaveth himself unseemly toward his virgin, if she be past the flower of her age, and if need so requireth, let him do what he will; he sinneth not; let them marry.” 1 Cor 7:36

In Christian theology, there are two main views on this passage, and neither implies incest:
1. Fiancé and Fiancée. The text depicts a young man in love who is hesitating whether to marry during a time of crisis for the church. Paul advises: if his feelings are genuine and it is difficult to exercise self-control, let them enter into blessed marriage; it is not a sin.
2. Father (or Guardian) and Daughter. In the ancient world, it was the father who determined the future of an unmarried daughter, giving her in marriage to another man. The Greek verb “gamizo” in verse 38 literally means “to give in marriage.”

“So then both he that giveth his own virgin in marriage doeth well; and he that giveth her not in marriage shall do better.” 1 Cor 7:38

The father faced a choice: to give his daughter in marriage to her suitor or to spare her the cares of family life during times of persecution. There is no suggestion whatsoever of the father marrying his own daughter.

The Biblical Stance on Incest

Holy Scripture categorically and consistently condemns any sexual relations between close relatives. God's Law in the book of Leviticus leaves no room for ambiguity, safeguarding the purity of the family.

“None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to uncover their nakedness: I am Jehovah.” Lev 18:6

In the very same Epistle to the Corinthians, just two chapters earlier, Paul sharply condemned even a relationship between a stepson and his stepmother, noting that such immorality was not found even among the Gentiles (1 Cor 5:1). It would be a complete contradiction to assume that two chapters later, the same apostle would endorse a father marrying his own daughter.

The Lord's Messenger on the Purity of Relationships

Ellen White repeatedly emphasized that marriage is a sacred institution established by God Himself in Eden. She stressed that any distortion of God's design for purity and order within the family destroys the moral fabric of society. Christians are always called to uphold the high biblical standards of morality, never allowing erroneous interpretations to obscure the clarity of God's commandments.

Practical Conclusion for the Modern Believer

When reading difficult passages of Scripture, it is essential to examine the overall context of the book and the original biblical meanings of the words. Paul's counsel remains relevant for us today: in times of instability and in anticipation of Christ's Second Coming, every Christian should examine their motives, maintain moral integrity, and make life decisions prayerfully, putting the Kingdom of God first.