The Misunderstood Doctrine of Head Covering in Corinthians 11

Many Christians often overlook a significant passage in the New Testament that addresses the practice of head covering during prayer and worship. In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul writes about the head covering for women, leading many to question its relevance and application.

Common Practices of Head Covering in Ancient Times

It is important to understand the cultural context in which this letter was written. Historically, women in most cultures covered their heads as a matter of custom, modesty, and social norms. In ancient times, it was common for women to wear veils or other forms of head coverings in public. In fact, it was considered indecent not to cover the head. Today, this practice is still observed by some Orthodox Jewish communities.

Paul's Emphasis on Cultural Custom

Paul's instruction in 1 Corinthians 11 to cover the head is rooted in the cultural customs of the time. He references the natural behavior of women covering their heads, suggesting that it was a culturally accepted practice. His intention was to emphasize that the unadorned head in a Christian setting was seen as disrespectful and contrary to societal norms at the time. Just as it would be inappropriate to attend church in swimwear today, people would have recognized the impropriety of an unveiled head in a worship context.

The Significance of Head Covering

Many Christians believe that the head covering is a sign of submission to men. However, the text does not explicitly state that the covering is for this purpose. Instead, it suggests that the covering is a tribute to women's hair as their natural adornment and glory. In other words, long hair is seen as a covering for a woman. As 1 Corinthians 11:15 states, 'But if a woman have long hair it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.' It is not about submission to men, but rather to God, as the head being covered refers to the family's or household's leader.

The Misunderstanding in the Modern Context

Today, the practice of head covering is often misunderstood and misapplied. Many versions of Christianity do not require women to cover their heads in worship, and many women feel that a mandatory head covering is an imposition that constrains their freedom. These concerns are valid and should be taken into account.

The text in question does not specify that all women must cover their heads, but rather that those who have long hair should see it as a sign of glory and importance. Additionally, Paul mentions that women who did not cover their hair were considered unacceptably disgraceful, associating it with the shameful acts of adultery and prostitution.

Thus, the teaching in Corinthians 11 is intended to uphold certain moral and social standards and to ensure that the Christian community does not bring shame upon itself through inappropriate behavior. It is rooted in the cultural and social norms of the time and should be understood within that context.

Conclusion

In summary, the practice of head covering mentioned in 1 Corinthians 11 is a cultural and societal norm that was deeply embedded in the ancient context. While it is now largely irrelevant in many modern Christian communities, understanding its original intent helps to provide clarity and context for this often misunderstood passage.