1 Corinthians 12:2

that ye were Gentiles Most modern editors read -that whenye were Gentiles" here. The similarity of ὅτε and ὅτι, and the fact that the introduction of the former produces an unfinished construction, may have led to its omission. But if omitted we should be driven to the conclusion that the Corinthian Church was an exclusively Gentilecommunity, which would contradict Acts 18:8; Acts 18:13, and possibly ch. 8 and 1 Corinthians 10:1-11 (where see notes).

unto these dumb idols Literally, -unto the dumb idols." The word dumb (see note on next verse) draws attention to the contrast between the voiceless idol and the delusive utterances of its pretended priests or priestesses, as at Delphi, Dodona and elsewhere. Cf. for the expression Habakkuk 2:18; Habakkuk 2:10. Also Psalms 115:5; Wis 13:17-19; Bar 6:8.