Head coverings are mentioned in the Bible in relation to cultural and spiritual practices. Today, we’ll see what the Scriptures say about this topic and how it relates to worship and tradition.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Sin And Forgiveness
What Does The Bible Say About Head Covering
1 Corinthians 11:3
“But I want you to realize 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 highlights the biblical hierarchy in relationships, stating that the man is the head of the woman. Though controversial, head coverings can be seen as a symbol of submission and reverence to this divine order.
Head coverings can serve as a tangible reminder for women to honor their husbands and respect the authority in their lives, while also acknowledging the authority of Christ over the man.
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.”
In this verse, Paul explains that men should not cover their heads while praying or prophesying, as it dishonors their authority. Conversely, women should cover their heads during these spiritual activities to honor their submission to the man’s authority.
By covering their heads, women demonstrate their reverence for God’s divine order and their acknowledgment of their role in the church.
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 emphasizes the significance of head coverings for women. It implies that if a woman does not cover her head, it is comparable to having her hair cut short or shaved, which is considered disgraceful.
By wearing head coverings, women display modesty and honor in their appearance, aligning themselves with biblical principles and cultural norms of the time.
1 Corinthians 11:10
“It is for this reason that a woman ought to have authority over her own head because of the angels.”
This verse suggests that women should have symbols of authority on their heads because of the presence of angelic beings. While the exact meaning behind this statement is unclear, head coverings may serve as a sign of spiritual protection and acknowledgment of the spiritual realm.
Wearing a head covering can be seen as a way for women to demonstrate humility and reverence in the presence of heavenly beings.
1 Corinthians 11:13
“Judge for yourselves: Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered?”
Paul poses this rhetorical question to the Corinthians, challenging them to consider whether it is appropriate for a woman to pray to God without a head covering.
By asking this question, Paul implies that a woman praying with an uncovered head is not appropriate, reinforcing the importance of head coverings in maintaining spiritual decorum.
1 Corinthians 11:15
“But if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For her hair is given to her for a covering.”
This verse suggests that a woman’s long hair can serve as a natural covering. It implies that a woman’s hair is given to her as a sign of beauty and modesty.
While the context of this verse is debated, some interpret it as an alternative to physical head coverings, allowing women to use their natural hair as a symbol of submission and reverence.
1 Corinthians 11:16
“If anyone wants to be contentious about this, we have no other practice—nor do the churches of God.”
Paul concludes this section by emphasizing the unity and consistency of the churches in their practice of wearing head coverings.
He implies that if anyone insists on questioning or challenging this practice, they should consider the collective tradition and teaching of the churches as the norm.
Genesis 20:16
“To Sarah he said, ‘Look, I am giving your brother a thousand pieces of silver. This is to silence those who would accuse you of wrongdoing. This will vindicate your honor before all who are with you and everyone else as well.'”
This verse indirectly speaks to the importance of maintaining a woman’s honor and reputation. Head coverings can serve as a symbol of chastity and modesty, protecting a woman’s virtue from false accusations and ensuring her honor remains intact.
Wearing a head covering can act as a visible sign of purity and righteousness in a woman’s conduct and character.
Deuteronomy 22:5
“A woman must not wear men’s clothing, nor a man wear women’s clothing, for the LORD your God detests anyone who does this.”
This verse addresses the importance of gender distinctions and the avoidance of cross-dressing. While not directly related to head coverings, it underscores the significance of honoring and respecting God’s design for men and women.
By adhering to gender-specific norms, such as head coverings for women, believers demonstrate their obedience and reverence for God’s instructions.
Psalm 23:5
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
Although not directly addressing head coverings, this verse highlights the significance of the head, which is often associated with protection, honor, and blessing.
Just as the Lord anoints the psalmist’s head with oil, head coverings can symbolize the blessings, favor, and divine protection that believers receive as they submit to God’s order.
Proverbs 12:4
“A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.”
This verse underscores the importance of a virtuous wife and her role in honoring her husband. Head coverings can be seen as a physical representation of a wife’s character, reflecting her commitment to godly submission and respect.
By wearing a head covering, a wife demonstrates her desire to be a source of honor, support, and blessing to her husband, symbolizing her status as his “crown.”
Ruth 3:3
“Wash, put on perfume, and get dressed in your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don’t let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking.”
In this narrative, Ruth prepares herself to meet her potential husband, Boaz. Similarly, head coverings can serve as a symbol of preparation and adornment for women as they approach God in prayer and worship.
Wearing a head covering can be viewed as an act of spiritual readiness and respect, demonstrating a desire to present oneself in a manner that is pleasing and honoring to God.
Numbers 5:18
“Then the priest shall take the grain offering of jealousy from the woman’s hand, wave the offering before the LORD, and bring it to the altar.”
This verse pertains to a specific ritual involving a suspected unfaithful wife. It illustrates the involvement of priests in matters related to marriage and women.
While not directly connected to head coverings, the role of priests in examining and addressing marital issues signifies the spiritual importance of maintaining trust, faithfulness, and purity in relationships.
Genesis 38:14-15
“So she took off her widow’s garments, covered herself with a veil to disguise herself, and then sat down at the entrance to Enaim, which is on the road to Timnah. For she saw that, though Shelah had now grown up, she had not been given to him as his wife.”
In this account, Tamar disguises herself by wearing a veil as a means to secure her rightful position as a wife. While not directly related to head coverings, this event highlights the significance of veiling as a symbol of identity and relationship status.
Head coverings can similarly be seen as a marker of a woman’s marital status and her commitment to fidelity in her relationship with her husband.
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.”
While not explicitly referencing head coverings, this verse emphasizes the value of inner beauty over external appearances.
Head coverings can be seen as a manifestation of humility and modesty, reflecting a woman’s desire to focus on her inner character and spiritual qualities rather than outward display.
Song of Solomon 4:1
“How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how beautiful! Your eyes behind your veil are doves. Your hair is like a flock of goats descending from the hills of Gilead.”
In this romantic passage, the bride’s veil is described as a beautiful and alluring feature. While it is a metaphorical expression, it hints at the significance and attractiveness associated with veiling.
Head coverings can be viewed as a symbol of femininity and allure, contributing to a woman’s elegance and charm according to biblical principles.
Isaiah 3:23
“The mirrors, the linen garments, the tiaras, and the shawls.”
Although not directly related to head coverings, this verse references various articles of clothing worn by women in ancient times.
The mention of shawls suggests the use of cloth coverings, potentially including head coverings, as part of women’s attire in both practical and cultural contexts.
Judges 5:2
“When the princes in Israel take the lead, when the people willingly offer themselves—praise the LORD!”
This verse speaks to the importance of leadership within the nation of Israel. While not specific to head coverings, it acknowledges the significance of individuals willingly offering themselves to fulfill their respective roles.
Wearing head coverings can be seen as a voluntary act of submission and obedience, as women willingly offer themselves to fulfill their God-given roles.
Exodus 34:33-35
“When Moses finished speaking to them, he put a veil over his face. But whenever he entered the LORD’s presence to speak with him, he removed the veil until he came out. And when he came out and told the Israelites what he had been commanded, they saw that his face was radiant. Then Moses would put the veil back over his face until he went in to speak with the LORD again.”
Although the context of this verse differs from head coverings for women, it portrays the veil as a symbol of God’s presence.
Head coverings can likewise be seen as a means for women to engage with God, seeking His guidance, wisdom, and favor as they approach Him in humility and reverence.
Esther 2:12
“Before a young woman’s turn came to go in to King Xerxes, she had to complete twelve months of beauty treatments prescribed for the women, six months with oil of myrrh and six with perfumes and cosmetics.”
Although not directly related to head coverings, this verse highlights the preparation and grooming practices women underwent before approaching an authority figure.
Head coverings can be viewed as part of a woman’s spiritual preparation, signifying her readiness and respect as she presents herself before God in prayer and worship.
Job 24:7
“They spend their nights naked, without clothing, they have no covering against the cold.”
While this verse does not specifically discuss head coverings, it emphasizes the importance of having coverings for protection against external elements.
Head coverings can serve as a symbol of spiritual protection and covering, aligning with the biblical principle of seeking divine shelter and refuge in God.
Leviticus 10:6
“Then Moses said to Aaron and his sons Eleazar and Ithamar, ‘Do not let your hair become unkempt and do not tear your clothes, or you will die and the LORD will be angry with the whole community. But your relatives, all the Israelites, may mourn for those the LORD has destroyed by fire.”
While this verse does not directly address head coverings, it emphasizes the importance of maintaining a proper appearance and attire when engaging in sacred duties.
Head coverings can be seen as a way for women to present themselves with dignity and reverence as they participate in worship and spiritual practices.
Lamentations 2:10
“The elders of Daughter Zion sit on the ground in silence; they have sprinkled dust on their heads and put on sackcloth. The young women of Jerusalem have bowed their heads to the ground.”
In this verse, the young women of Jerusalem are described as bowing their heads to the ground. Although they are not wearing literal head coverings, this passage demonstrates an act of humility and reverence.
Head coverings can similarly represent an outward expression of inner submission and respect as women approach God in prayer and worship.
Jeremiah 14:3
“Their nobles send their lambs for water; they go to the cisterns but find no water. They return with their jars unfilled; dismayed and despairing, they cover their heads.”
This verse depicts individuals covering their heads in a state of despair and disappointment. While not tied directly to head coverings for women, it illustrates the practice of using head coverings as a visual expression of grief or anguish.
Head coverings can serve as a means for women to express their humility and dependence on God, seeking comfort and strength in times of trial and distress.