1 Corinthians 14:7

7 It is the same as with lifeless things that make sounds -- like a flute or a harp. If they do not make clear musical notes, you will not know what is being played.

1 Corinthians 14:7 Meaning and Commentary

1 Corinthians 14:7

And even things without life giving sound
He instances in things inanimate, that have neither reason, sense, nor life, in musical instruments, and these of various sorts:

whether pipe or harp;
wind music, or hand music; either that which is blown with the breath, or pressed or stricken with the hand:

except they give a distinction in the sounds;
or "tunes", so as one may be discerned from another; as that this is such a musical note, and that is another:

how shall it be known what is piped or harped?
what tune is played; such an use of instruments would be a mere jargon, and not music, and so yield no pleasure to the ear, or mind; and just the like must speaking in an unknown tongue be, to one that understands it not.

1 Corinthians 14:7 In-Context

5 I wish all of you had the gift of speaking in different kinds of languages, but more, I wish you would prophesy. Those who prophesy are greater than those who can only speak in different languages -- unless someone is there who can explain what is said so that the whole church can be helped.

6 Brothers and sisters, will it help you if I come to you speaking in different languages? No! It will help you only if I bring you a new truth or some new knowledge, or prophecy, or teaching.

7 It is the same as with lifeless things that make sounds -- like a flute or a harp. If they do not make clear musical notes, you will not know what is being played.

8 And in a war, if the trumpet does not give a clear sound, who will prepare for battle?

9 It is the same with you. Unless you speak clearly with your tongue, no one can understand what you are saying. You will be talking into the air!