Expert: Brian Thompson - 1/12/2003

Question
Paraclete, is there a difference between "other tongues" and "unknown tongues?"  If there is what is the difference.

Answer
Hi Melanie

When we speak in tongues not all the tongues we speak in are unknown tongues, although they may be unknown to us. There are recorded instances of people holding conversations with people who speak other languages without necessarily understanding what they have said.

Tongues is essentially a prayer language, a communication between our spirit and God. I am aware that some of the words I use sometimes are not unknown "Yeshua" "Shah" and so on are used. I have also become aware that I use particular words when for example referring to the Holy Spirit. I have become aware that emphasis comes from repeating a word.Paul tells us that our mind should not be unfruitfull when praying in tongues

The reference unknown tongues essentually means a language which is not of this earth and so is not translateable. I hope this helps you