1 Corinthians 7:9

But if they cannot conteine, let them marry: for it is better to marrie then to burne.
- King James Version (1611) - View 1611 Bible Scan

But if they do not have self-control, let them marry; for it is better to marry than to burn {with passion.}
- New American Standard Version (1995)

But if they have not continency, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.
- American Standard Version (1901)

But if they have not self-control let them get married; for married life is better than the burning of desire.
- Basic English Bible

But if they have not control over themselves, let them marry; for it is better to marry than to burn.
- Darby Bible

But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.
- Webster's Bible

If, however, they cannot maintain self-control, by all means let them marry; for marriage is better than the fever of passion.
- Weymouth Bible

But if they don't have self-control, let them marry. For it's better to marry than to burn.
- World English Bible

That if thei conteynen not hem silf, be thei weddid; for it is betere to be weddid, than to be brent.
- Wycliffe Bible

and if they have not continence -- let them marry, for it is better to marry than to burn;
- Youngs Literal Bible

Wesley's Notes for 1 Corinthians 7:9

7:7 For I would that all men were herein even as I - I would that all believers who are now unmarried would remain eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake St. Paul, having tasted the sweetness of this liberty, wished others to enjoy it, as well as himself. But every one hath his proper gift from God - According to our Lord's declaration, All men cannot receive this saying, save they, the happy few, to whom it is given, #Matt 19:11|.

7:8 It is good for them if they remain even as I - That St. Paul was then single is certain and from #Acts 7:58|, compared with the following parts of the history, it seems probable that he always was so. It does not appear that this declaration, any more than #1Co 7:1|, hath any reference at all to a state of persecution.

7:10 Not I - Only. But the Lord - Christ; by his express command, #Matt 5:32|.

7:11 But if she depart - Contrary to this express prohibition. And let not the husband put away his wife - Except for the cause of adultery.