The topic of head coverings in the Bible is primarily addressed in the New Testament, specifically in the writings of the Apostle Paul. The most detailed discussion is found in 1 Corinthians 11:2-16, where Paul provides instructions regarding the practice of head coverings during worship.

Cultural Context and Historical Background

In the Greco-Roman world of the first century, head coverings were a common cultural practice, often associated with modesty and social status. For women, wearing a veil or head covering was a sign of respectability and submission to authority, particularly within the context of marriage. Men, conversely, typically did not cover their heads during worship, as it was seen as a sign of honor to remain uncovered.

Biblical Instructions and Symbolism

1. Authority and Submission: In 1 Corinthians 11:3, Paul writes, "But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God." This verse establishes a hierarchy of authority, which is symbolically represented through the practice of head coverings. For women, covering the head during prayer or prophecy is a sign of submission to this divinely ordained order.

2. Honor and Shame: Paul further explains in 1 Corinthians 11:4-5, "Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head. But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head—it is the same as having her head shaved." Here, the head covering serves as a symbol of honor for women, while for men, an uncovered head is a sign of honor. The absence of a head covering for women is equated with shame, akin to having a shaved head, which was a sign of disgrace.

3. Creation Order: Paul appeals to the creation order in 1 Corinthians 11:7-9, stating, "A man ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but the woman is the glory of man. For man did not come from woman, but woman from man; neither was man created for woman, but woman for man." The head covering thus symbolizes the distinct roles and relationships established at creation, with man as the image and glory of God and woman as the glory of man.

4. Angelic Witnesses: In 1 Corinthians 11:10, Paul adds, "For this reason a woman ought to have a sign of authority on her head, because of the angels." This enigmatic statement suggests that head coverings serve as a visible sign of authority and order, observed by angels who are present during worship.

5. Nature and Propriety: Paul appeals to the natural order in 1 Corinthians 11:14-15, "Does not nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a disgrace to him, but if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For long hair is given to her as a covering." Here, Paul uses the natural distinction between male and female hair length to reinforce the propriety of head coverings for women.

Contemporary Application

The practice of head coverings has been interpreted and applied in various ways throughout church history. Some Christian traditions continue to observe the practice as a literal command, while others view it as a cultural custom specific to the Corinthian church. The underlying principles of authority, honor, and the distinct roles of men and women remain central to the discussion, with head coverings serving as a symbol of these theological truths.