In this article we deal with 1 Corinthians 11:1-16, where the Spirit through Paul gives direction concerning the head covering. This must be one of the most difficult passages in the New Testament, not helped by the absence of parallel passages on the subject. Any exposition must therefore be offered with a great measure of humility and an awareness that we must be prepared to listen to each other in understanding this chapter.
Some interpretations refer to social customs as part of their exposition. We propose to avoid this, firstly because we believe Scripture should be allowed to interpret itself, and secondly because no one can be dogmatic about first-century head-covering customs.1
The principle of headship has its origin in the creation of Eve. The woman was created from the man’s side, ensuring that he retained the headship, and the function of the head is used to symbolise his role in their relationship. While all parts of the body are essential, the head retains overall control and gives direction to the separate members. This use of the head is confirmed in the Law of Moses where the elders were referred to as “heads of the people” to reflect their particular responsibility. The head contains the mind which actually makes the decisions and is therefore responsible for the resulting way of life.
To continue reading this Bible article, click here.
Author: Michael Lewis
Keywords: Oppression of women, Women priests, Women pastors, Women bishops, Women evangelists, Women in the church, Serving women, Women, Feminism, Anti feminism, misogynist, misogyny, Women to remain silent, Silent in the churches, Women should not teach, Women are not to teach men, Women to be in subjection, Sexist, Paul sexist, Sexism, Women of prominence, Chauvinism, Male chauvinism, Chauvinist, Male chauvinist, Role of women in the church, Role of woman in the church, Woman's role, Feminist, Equality of women, Equality of woman, Equality of the sexes, Female bishop, Deaconess, Phoebe, Phoebe deaconess, Female deacon, Female deaconess, Headcovering, Head covering, Covered head, Covering the head, Women's hair, Usurp, Usurp authority, Usurping authority, Hair, Long hair, Woman's hair, Authority over the woman, Man's authority over women, Men and women, Man and woman
Bible reference(s): Genesis 2:18, Genesis 2:20, Genesis 3:16, Judges 4, Acts 18:26, Romans 16:7, 1 Corinthians 11:3-16, 1 Cor. 14:34-35, Gal. 3:28, Ephesians 5:22-24, Ephesians 4:11, 1 Timothy 2:9-14, 1 Timothy 3:2-3, 2 Timothy 2:2, Titus 1:5, Titus 1:8-9, Titus 2:3-4, 1 Peter 3:1-6
Source: “Man and Woman,” The Testimony, Vol. 60, No. 711, March 1990, pp. 87-94.
Page indexed by: inWORD Bible Software.