For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.
Now, х arti (G737)] - in our present state.
See - appropriate in connection with the "prophets" or seers (1 Samuel 9:9).
Through a glass - i:e., in a mirror: the reflection seeming behind, so that we see it thorough the mirror. Ancient mirrors were of polished brass or other metals. The contrast is between the inadequate knowledge gained by seeing an object reflected in the dim mirror of the ancients, compared with the perfect idea we have by seeing itself directly.
Darkly - literally, in enigma. As a 'mirror' conveys an image to the eye, so an enigma' to the ear. But neither 'eye nor ear' can fully represent (though the believer gets now a revealed glimpse of) "the things which God hath prepared for them that love him" (1 Corinthians 2:9). Paul alludes to Numbers 12:8, "not in dark speeches;" the Septuagint, 'enigmas.' Compared with the visions and dreams vouchsafed to other prophets, God's communications with Moses were 'not in enigmas.' But compared with the intuitive, direct vision of God hereafter, even the revealed Word is now 'a dark discourse,' shadowing forth by enigma God's likeness. Compare 2 Peter 1:19, where the "light," or 'lamp,' "in a dark place" is contrasted with the "day" dawning (cf. 2 Corinthians 3:18).
Then - "when that which is perfect is come" (1 Corinthians 13:10). Face to face - not merely "mouth to mouth" (Numbers 12:8). Genesis 32:30 was a type (John 1:50-51).
Know even as also I am known - rather х epignoosomai (G1921)] 'fully know even as also I am fully known.' Then first the saints shall enjoy full mutual recognition-as the disciples recognized Moses and Elijah, whom they had never seen, at the transfiguration. Previously, "sleep in Jesus" implies not unconsciousness, but that the sleeping saints are shut up unto Him in trance-like vision. Now we are known by, rather than fully know, God (note, 1 Corinthians 8:3; Galatians 4:9). Whatever knowledge God's people have is due to God first knowing them. Hereafter we shall "see Him as He is:" here we see Him only as He is in us (Olshausen, 1 John 3:2).