Braiding hair is mentioned in the Bible in the context of modesty and focus on inner beauty. Today, we’ll explore what Scripture says about outward appearance and how it aligns with godly character.
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What Does The Bible Say About Braiding Your Hair
1 Peter 3:3-4
“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”
This verse reminds us that true beauty is not found in outward appearance, such as fancy hairstyles or expensive accessories. Instead, God values inner beauty, like having a gentle and quiet spirit. It teaches us to focus on cultivating our character and inner qualities rather than being preoccupied with external adornments.
While there is nothing inherently wrong with braiding your hair, this verse encourages us to prioritize the condition of our hearts and the qualities that reflect Christ’s image in us. It reminds us to seek a beauty that is lasting and meaningful, rooted in a relationship with God.
1 Timothy 2:9
“I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes.”
This verse encourages women to dress modestly and emphasizes the importance of inner beauty. It discourages the use of extravagant hairstyles or expensive adornments as a means of drawing attention or displaying wealth. God values a modest and humble heart over outward displays of luxury.
The focus here is on modesty, which extends to our appearance and the way we present ourselves. While braiding hair may be a form of self-expression and personal style, this verse reminds us to prioritize modesty and not let outward adornments become a source of pride or distraction from our inner qualities.
1 Corinthians 11:15
“But that if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For long hair is given to her as a covering.”
This verse speaks to the significance of hair for women and the symbolic representation of their glory. It suggests that long hair can serve as a natural covering and symbolizes the God-given distinction between genders. It is a reminder that our physical appearance can carry symbolic meaning and should be viewed in light of God’s design.
Braiding hair can be seen as a way to take care of and adorn long hair, enhancing its appearance. However, it is important to remember that the true glory lies not in the hairstyle itself, but in the heart and character of a person. Hair, whether braided or not, should reflect an inner beauty that glorifies God.
1 Corinthians 11:6
“For if a woman does not cover her head, she might as well have her hair cut off; but if it is a disgrace for a woman to have her hair cut off or her head shaved, then she should cover her head.”
This verse focuses on the cultural context of head coverings, particularly in worship settings. It acknowledges that there are societal norms and expectations regarding hair and its presentation. However, the deeper message is about honoring the appropriate decorum and cultural practices of the time.
While the specific cultural practice of covering one’s head may not be applicable today, the underlying principle can still be relevant. It encourages us to be mindful of our actions and appearances in ways that show respect for our surroundings and uphold godly virtues.
Luke 12:7
“Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”
This verse highlights God’s deep care and concern for every aspect of our lives, even down to the details of our physical appearance. It reassures us that we are precious and valuable to Him, far more than any other creation.
While this verse doesn’t directly address the act of braiding one’s hair, it reminds us that our beauty and worth are not determined by outward appearance or any hairstyle choice. God’s love for us is unconditional, and we should find our identity and value in Him rather than in our physical attributes.
Matthew 6:17-18
“But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
This verse speaks to the importance of sincerity and humility in our outward expressions of faith. It advises us to maintain a normal appearance and not draw attention to ourselves when practicing spiritual disciplines like fasting.
While this verse does not directly reference hairstyling, it suggests that our focus should not be on outward displays or appearances when it comes to our spiritual practices. The message translates to our general approach to personal appearance, emphasizing humility and genuine devotion over extravagant or attention-seeking practices.
Psalm 144:4
“They are like a breath; their days are like a fleeting shadow.”
This verse highlights the transient nature of human life. It reminds us that in the grand scheme of eternity, our physical appearances, including hairstyles, are fleeting and of little significance.
While it can be enjoyable and fulfilling to experiment with different hairstyles, this verse encourages us to keep our focus on God and the eternal aspects of life. It reminds us not to place undue importance on temporary and superficial aspects of our physical appearance.
Proverbs 31:30
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.”
This verse highlights the temporary nature of physical beauty and the importance of cultivating godly virtues. It teaches us that true worth and praise come not from external attractiveness but from having a reverential fear of the Lord.
While taking care of our appearance is not inherently wrong, this verse reminds us that our efforts should be in pursuit of inner beauty and a deepening relationship with God. It challenges us to place more value on developing godly character than on simply looking attractive in the eyes of others.
Leviticus 19:27
“Do not cut the hair at the sides of your head or clip off the edges of your beard.”
This verse is part of the Old Testament law given to the Israelites. It specified certain cultural and religious practices that were expected of them during that time, including restrictions on beard trimming and specific hairstyles.
As Christians today, we are not bound by Mosaic law in the same way the Israelites were. Therefore, this verse does not carry the same direct application for believers today. However, it serves as a reminder of how God instructed His people in the past, highlighting the importance of obedience and reverence in their cultural context.
1 Samuel 16:7
“But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not look at his appearance or his stature, because I have rejected him. Man does not see what the LORD sees, for man sees what is visible, but the LORD sees the heart.’”
This verse reminds us that God’s perspective differs from that of humans. While we may judge or value people based on their outward appearance, God looks at our hearts and the motives behind our actions.
While hairstyle choices can contribute to our outward appearance, this verse encourages us to focus on cultivating a heart that reflects God’s values and aligns with His will. It teaches us to prioritize inner beauty and character over external factors.
1 Samuel 16:12-13
“So, he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features. Then the LORD said, ‘Rise and anoint him; this is the one.’ So, Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon David.”
This verse describes the anointing of David as the chosen future king of Israel. It mentions his fine appearance and handsome features as part of his physical qualities. However, the crucial factor in David’s anointing was not his external appearance but the divine calling and the presence of God’s Spirit upon him.
While it is natural to appreciate physical attractiveness, this verse serves as a reminder that inner qualities and a heart committed to God are of greater importance. It encourages us to seek His anointing and the work of His Spirit in our lives, regardless of our physical appearance.
Ecclesiastes 3:11
“He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”
This verse reassures us that God has a purpose for everything and has designed things to be beautiful in their appropriate time. It speaks to the sense of eternity that God has placed in the human heart, reminding us that our true value goes beyond our physical appearance.
Braiding one’s hair can be a way of enhancing beauty or expressing personal style, but this verse invites us to have an eternal perspective. It encourages us to see God’s handiwork in everything and to find our ultimate worth and fulfillment in Him, rather than in temporary beauty trends or outward appearances.
Psalm 139:14
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
This verse celebrates the fact that each person is fearfully and wonderfully made by God. It acknowledges that our bodies, including our hair, are part of God’s intricate design and should be appreciated and valued.
While braiding one’s hair can be seen as a form of self-expression, this verse reminds us that we can take joy in our physical attributes without becoming overly preoccupied with them. It encourages us to appreciate the uniqueness of how God created us and to give thanks for His marvelous works.
Genesis 1:27
“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”
This verse speaks to the foundational truth that every human being is created in the image of God. It emphasizes the inherent value and worth of each person, regardless of external appearances or hairstyles.
While braiding hair can be a way of expressing gender identity or personal style, this verse reminds us that our true identity lies in being made in the image and likeness of God. It calls us to recognize the divine imprint on each person and to treat others with respect and dignity, irrespective of their physical appearance.
Matthew 5:36-37
“And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.”
This verse addresses the importance of maintaining integrity in our speech and actions. It discourages making oaths or swearing by one’s own head, as it highlights our limited control over even the smallest details of our physical appearance, such as the color of our hair.
While this verse does not directly reference hairstyles, it teaches us to prioritize simplicity and truthfulness in our interactions. It reminds us that our worth and credibility do not depend on external factors, but on our commitment to honesty and living in alignment with God’s principles.
Proverbs 3:9-10
“Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”
This verse encourages believers to honor God with their resources, giving the first and best of what they have. It speaks to the principle of generosity and acknowledging God’s provision in our lives.
While this verse does not directly relate to hairstyles, it reminds us of the broader principle of honoring God in all areas of our lives, including how we use our time, talents, and even the way we present ourselves. It teaches us to prioritize giving our best to God and others, including how we approach external appearance.
1 Samuel 16:22
“So, Saul sent for him and had him brought in. David was with Saul, and he loved him greatly, and David became his armor-bearer.”
This verse describes the relationship between David and King Saul. David’s qualities, such as his musical talent and bravery, were admired by Saul, and he loved him greatly. His physical appearance, including his hairstyle, is not explicitly mentioned or relevant in this context.
While we should take care of our appearance, this verse highlights the importance of character and inner qualities in building meaningful relationships. It encourages us to focus on developing attributes such as loyalty, integrity, and genuine love for others, rather than placing undue emphasis on outward appearance.
James 4:6
“But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.’”
This verse reminds us of the importance of humility in our relationship with God and others. It emphasizes the need to cultivate a humble attitude and avoid prideful behavior.
Braiding hair, like any other form of personal grooming, is not inherently prideful. However, this verse teaches us that our focus should be on cultivating humility and understanding that any beauty or attractiveness we possess is ultimately a gift from God. It encourages us to approach our physical appearance with a humble and grateful heart.
Isaiah 40:8
“The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.”
This verse speaks to the transient nature of earthly things, noting that grass withers and flowers fade with time. However, it emphasizes the everlasting nature of God’s word, highlighting its enduring significance and reliability.
In regards to hairstyles, this verse serves as a reminder that physical appearances, including hairstyles, are subject to change and fade over time. It encourages us to focus on the eternal truths found in God’s word, which provide a solid foundation for our lives, rather than becoming overly preoccupied with temporary and superficial aspects of our physical appearance.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”
This verse reminds believers that their bodies are a dwelling place of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the sanctity and value of our physical beings. It calls us to recognize that we belong to God and should honor Him with how we treat and present ourselves, including our outward appearance.
While this verse does not specifically address hairstyles, it speaks to the broader principle of honoring God with our bodies. It encourages us to make choices that align with godly values and reflect a desire to bring glory to Him, allowing our appearance to be an expression of our faith.
Galatians 6:4-5
“Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load.”
This verse advises believers not to compare themselves with others and to take personal responsibility for their own actions. It discourages seeking validation or self-worth by comparing appearances or hairstyles to those of others.
While it is natural to notice and appreciate different hairstyles, this verse reminds us that our value and worth are not determined by how we measure up to others in matters of physical appearance. It encourages us to focus on our own individual journey and to find fulfillment by living in accordance with God’s calling for our lives.
Proverbs 31:10
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.”
This verse praising a virtuous wife and highlighting her great worth emphasizes the significance of character and inner qualities over external appearances. It recognizes that true value is found in a woman’s noble character rather than in material possessions or physical attractiveness.
Braiding one’s hair can be a way of expressing personal style or enhancing appearance, but this verse encourages us to place greater importance on cultivating godly character and fulfilling our God-given roles and responsibilities. It reminds us that our worth is measured by our character and how we live out our faith, rather than the hairstyles we choose.