1Cor 7:9 | RWP | e4.org | But if they have not continency ( ε δε ουκ εγκρατευοντα ). Condition of the first class, assumed as true. Direct middle voice εγκρατευοντα , hold themselves in, control themselves. Let them marry ( γαμησατωσαν ). First aorist (ingressive) active imperative. Usual Koine form in -τωσαν for third plural. Better ( κρειττον ). Marriage is better than continued sexual passion. Paul has not said that celibacy is better than marriage though he has justified it and expressed his own personal preference for it. The metaphorical use of πυρουσθα (present middle infinitive) for sexual passion is common enough as also for grief ( ).

‏ 1 Corinthians 7:9

But if they have not continency ( ε δε ουκ εγκρατευοντα ). Condition of the first class, assumed as true. Direct middle voice εγκρατευοντα, hold themselves in, control themselves.

Let them marry ( γαμησατωσαν ). First aorist (ingressive) active imperative. Usual Koine form in -τωσαν for third plural.

Better ( κρειττον ). Marriage is better than continued sexual passion. Paul has not said that celibacy is

better than marriage though he has justified it and expressed his own personal preference for it. The metaphorical use of πυρουσθα (present middle infinitive) for sexual passion is common enough as also for grief (2Co 11:29).