Fornication in the King James Bible: key verses and how they are read
In short
In the King James Version of 1611, long the standard Bible in Britain, 'fornication' appears in passages such as 1 Corinthians 6:18 ('Flee fornication'), Galatians 5:19, which lists it among the works of the flesh, and Matthew 5:32 on divorce. The underlying Greek word, porneia, is broader, and churches read these verses differently.
What the full article will cover
- Where does 'fornication' appear in the King James Bible?
- What does 1 Corinthians 6:18 say?
- Why do Galatians 5:19 and Matthew 5:32 matter?
- What does the Greek word porneia mean?
- How do different Christian traditions read these verses?
- Why do modern translations use other words?
Frequently asked questions
- Does the word 'fornication' appear in the Old Testament?
- What is the 'exception clause' in Matthew 5:32?
- Does the Bible define fornication?
- Which Bible translation do British churches use?
Sources
- kingjamesbibleonline.org — https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/1-Corinthians-6-18/
- kingjamesbibleonline.org — https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/Galatians-5-19/
- kingjamesbibleonline.org — https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/Matthew-5-32/
- biblegateway.com — https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%206%3A18&version=NIV;KJV
- etymonline.com — https://www.etymonline.com/word/fornication
General information, not legal or religious advice.