Throughout the Bible, hair holds various cultural and religious meanings, especially for men. From Nazarite vows to New Testament teachings, the Bible mentions hair in a variety of contexts. Understanding these references can provide insight into the spiritual significance of hair and grooming for men.
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What Does The Bible Say About Man Cutting Hair
Numbers 6:5
“All the days of their vow of separation no razor shall touch their head. Until the time is completed for which they separate themselves to the Lord, they shall be holy. They shall let the locks of hair on their head grow long.”
This verse refers to the Nazirite vow, in which individuals dedicate themselves to the Lord for a specific period of time. One aspect of this commitment is refraining from cutting or shaving their hair. Letting their hair grow symbolizes their consecration and separation to God, signifying their spiritual devotion and commitment to God’s service.
It is important to note that this command is specific to the Nazirite vow and does not apply to every individual. However, it can serve as a reminder of the significance of dedicating ourselves fully to God and demonstrating our commitment through visible signs of separation.
1 Corinthians 11:14
“Does not nature itself teach you that if a man wears long hair it is a disgrace for him?”
This verse from the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Corinthians addresses the cultural norms of the time regarding hair length for men. In the context of Corinthian society, long hair on men was considered culturally inappropriate and a sign of moral decadence. Paul encourages the Corinthians to abide by the cultural norms of their society, recognizing that maintaining a respectable appearance is important for believers in order to avoid causing unnecessary offense or stumbling others.
While this verse acknowledges the cultural context of the Corinthians, it is essential to understand that cultural norms regarding hair length can vary across different societies and time periods. The emphasis here is on maintaining a Christlike witness by respecting the cultural expectations of the community in which one resides.
Leviticus 19:27
“You shall not round off the hair on your temples or mar the edges of your beard.”
This verse is part of the Old Testament law given to the Israelites. It prohibits the Israelites from shaving the hair on the sides of their heads, commonly referred to as the temples, as well as from cutting the edges of their beards. The command was meant to distinguish the Israelites from the surrounding nations and symbolize their obedience and devotion to God.
While this command was specific to the Israelites under the Old Covenant, it highlights the importance of maintaining cultural and religious distinctiveness in honor of God. It reminds us to reflect on how our appearance and grooming choices can either reflect or detract from our identity as God’s chosen people.
1 Samuel 16:7
“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.’”
In this passage, the prophet Samuel is looking for the future king of Israel and is initially drawn to the physical appearance of Jesse’s sons. However, God reminds Samuel that outward appearance is not the primary factor of importance to Him. God’s focus is on the heart and inner character of an individual, rather than their physical attributes.
This verse teaches us the valuable lesson that external appearances, including hairstyles, should not be the sole basis for evaluating a person’s worth or spiritual standing. Instead, we should prioritize cultivating a heart that is pleasing to God, founded on faith, humility, and a desire to follow His commandments.
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.””
In this passage, the Apostle Paul addresses the issue of hair length in the context of worship and gender distinction. He affirms that long hair is considered a glory and natural covering for women. This statement highlights the significance of gender-specific roles and recognizes the beauty and importance of a woman’s natural hair as a God-given attribute.
While the specific length of hair is not explicitly outlined, the emphasis is on women embracing and valuing their natural appearance as aligned with God’s design. This verse encourages women to embrace their femininity and recognize their unique role within the context of worship and Christian community.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.””
These verses remind believers that our bodies are not our own but temples of the Holy Spirit. As such, we are called to honor and glorify God with our bodies. This includes how we present ourselves outwardly, including our hairstyles.
While the Bible does not prescribe specific guidelines for hairstyles, the underlying principle is that our appearance should reflect our commitment to living a life that pleases God. Our choices should align with biblical values, modesty, and cultural sensitivity, as we seek to represent Christ and demonstrate respect for ourselves and others.
1 Peter 3:3-4
“Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.””
These verses teach believers not to solely focus on external appearance and adornment but rather to prioritize cultivating inner qualities of character and spiritual beauty that are precious in the sight of God.
While hairstyles and external adornment are not condemned here, the emphasis is on the superiority of inner beauty. This encourages believers to invest more in developing qualities such as gentleness, a quiet spirit, humility, and love for God and others rather than merely focusing on outward appearances. When our hearts are right before God, our external appearance will naturally reflect the beauty of our transformed lives in Christ.
Ezekiel 44:20
“They shall not shave their heads or let their locks grow long; they shall surely trim the hair of their heads.””
In this verse, the Lord gives specific instructions to the Levitical priests concerning the maintenance of their appearance. They were instructed not to shave their heads completely or let their hair grow too long, but to keep their hair properly trimmed.
While this command applies specifically to the Levitical priesthood, it underscores the importance of maintaining a respectable and modest appearance as representatives of God. It reminds us to consider our appearance and grooming choices in light of our roles and responsibilities within the community of believers.
1 Samuel 1:11
“And she vowed a vow and said, ‘O Lord of hosts, if you will indeed look on the affliction of your servant and remember me and not forget your servant, but will give to your servant a son, then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life, and no razor shall touch his head.’”
This verse tells the story of Hannah, who, in her desperation for a child, made a vow to God. She promised that if God granted her a son, she would dedicate him to the Lord as a Nazirite, meaning his hair would never be cut.
Hannah’s vow demonstrates her deep faith and commitment to God, as she was willing to sacrifice her son’s appearance for his entire life for the sake of dedicating him to God’s service. This serves as a reminder of the importance of making vows and promises to God and honoring them, even if they involve significant personal sacrifice.
Proverbs 16:31
“Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life.””
This verse acknowledges the significance and beauty of gray hair, seeing it as a symbol of honor and wisdom. It recognizes that the experience and maturity that come with age can offer valuable insight and understanding.
Gray hair is not something to be ashamed of. Instead, it serves as a reminder of the Lord’s faithfulness and the blessings of a well-lived life. It encourages respect for the elderly and the wisdom they have to offer, reminding us to honor and cherish those with gray hair as they bear the crown of glory.
Psalm 133:2
“It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes!””
This poetic and picturesque verse describes the anointing of Aaron, the high priest, with oil. The anointing oil represents God’s favor, blessing, and consecration for a specific purpose.
While the verse does not directly relate to hair cutting, it symbolizes the sacredness and significance of consecration and anointing. It reminds us that our lives, like the oil, should be consecrated and set apart for God’s purposes. Just as Aaron’s appearance was impacted by the anointing oil, our lives should reflect the anointing of the Holy Spirit and signal our dedication to God’s work.
Genesis 3:7
“Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths.””
After Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden, they became aware of their nakedness and attempted to cover themselves by sewing fig leaves together. This act of covering their bodies reflects their shame and attempts to hide their guilt from God.
This verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the inherent desire to hide and conceal our true state from God. It teaches us that true redemption and restoration can only be found through repentance and acceptance of God’s forgiveness, rather than through relying on external attempts to cover our shortcomings.
Exodus 32:25
“And when Moses saw that the people had broken loose (for Aaron had let them break loose, to the derision of their enemies), then Moses stood in the gate of the camp and said, ‘Who is on the Lord’s side? Come to me.’ And all the sons of Levi gathered around him.””
This verse recounts an incident when the Israelites, instigated by Aaron, had engaged in idolatry and immoral behavior. Moses, in his anger and zeal for the Lord, called those who were faithful to God to come to him. The sons of Levi responded and stood with Moses.
While this verse does not directly address the topic of hair cutting, it highlights the importance of loyalty and commitment to God. When faced with spiritual compromise or rebellion, we are called to separate ourselves from such actions and stand firmly on the Lord’s side. Our ultimate allegiance should always be to God, even if it means going against the norms or opinions of others.
Judges 16:17
“And he told her all his heart, and said to her, ‘A razor has never come upon my head, for I have been a Nazirite to God from my mother’s womb. If my head is shaved, then my strength will leave me, and I shall become weak and be like any other man.’”
This verse refers to the narrative of Samson, who was a Nazirite from birth. One of the stipulations of the Nazirite vow was to avoid cutting one’s hair. Samson attributes his strength and distinction from other men to his uncut hair, symbolizing his commitment to God.
While this verse is unique to Samson’s story, it highlights the importance of recognizing and upholding the vows and commitments we make to God. Samson’s uncut hair represented his dedication and separation to the Lord. It serves as a reminder for us to faithfully fulfill our own commitments to God, whatever they may be.
Jeremiah 9:26
“Egypt, Judah, Edom, the sons of Ammon, Moab, and all who dwell in the desert who cut the corners of their hair, for all these nations are uncircumcised, and all the house of Israel is uncircumcised in heart.””
In this verse, the prophet Jeremiah denounces various nations, including Egypt, Judah, Edom, and others, for cutting the corners of their hair. While the specific purpose and cultural significance of this act are not fully explained, it is implied that it is contrary to God’s commandments and symbolizes a lack of obedience and consecration to Him.
This verse emphasizes that true circumcision, a sign of obedience and covenant with God, is not merely a physical act but primarily a matter of the heart. The outward appearance and actions should reflect the inward reality of a circumcised heart, devoted to God and His ways.
Leviticus 21:5
“They shall not make bald patches on their heads, nor shave off the edges of their beards, nor make any cuts on their body.””
This verse lists various prohibitions for the Levitical priests regarding their appearance and bodily alterations. They were not permitted to make bald patches on their heads, shave the edges of their beards, or make cuts on their bodies.
These restrictions were in place to maintain the priests’ distinctiveness and holiness before God. The priests were to present themselves as set apart from the rest of society, serving as intermediaries between God and the people. These rules aimed to ensure the priests’ conduct and appearance reflected their sacred calling and exemplified God’s holiness.
Isaiah 43:4
“Because you are precious in my eyes, and honored, and I love you, I give men in return for you, peoples in exchange for your life.””
This verse affirms God’s love for His people and their high value in His sight. He considers them precious, honored, and loved. The language used here emphasizes the great worth and significance that believers have in God’s eyes.
While this verse does not directly connect to the topic of hair cutting, it reminds us of our value and worth in God’s sight, which should inform the way we perceive ourselves and others. Our identity and worth are not determined by external appearances or hairstyles but are rooted in God’s love for us.
2 Samuel 14:26
“And when he cut the hair of his head (‘at every year’s end he used to cut it; when it was heavy on him, he cut it), he weighed the hair of his head, two hundred shekels by the king’s weight.””
This verse describes the annual hair cutting ritual of Absalom, son of King David. Absalom had notoriously long and heavy hair. When it became burdensome, he would cut it, weighing the hair to measure its significant quantity.
Absalom’s hair cutting ritual may not have spiritual implications but sheds light on the significance people attached to hair length and appearance during that time. Personal grooming practices were often culturally and socially meaningful.
Song of Solomon 4:1
“Behold, you are beautiful, my love, behold, you are beautiful! Your eyes are doves behind your veil. Your hair is like a flock of goats leaping down the slopes of Gilead.””
This poetic verse from the Song of Solomon portrays the beauty of the beloved through metaphorical descriptions. The hair is likened to a flock of goats leaping down the slopes of Gilead, emphasizing its attractiveness and vitality.
While this verse is primarily about expressing admiration and affection, it showcases the significance of hair as a physical attribute associated with beauty. It reminds us that God’s creation includes diverse forms of beauty, including the uniqueness and luster of individuals’ hair.
Acts 18:18
“After this, Paul stayed many days longer and then took leave of the brothers and set sail for Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila. At Cenchreae he had cut his hair, for he was under a vow.””
This verse mentions the Apostle Paul cutting his hair while at Cenchreae as part of a vow. The exact nature and purpose of the vow are not explicitly specified, but it signifies Paul’s commitment to fulfilling the vow and its associated requirements.
Paul’s hair cutting serves as an example of honoring vows made to God and fulfilling them faithfully. It reminds us of the importance of personal dedication and commitment to God, even when it involves specific actions or requirements that others may not fully understand.
Matthew 5:36
“And do not take an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black.””
In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus specifically addresses the practice of taking oaths. He advises against taking oaths by one’s own head, as people have no control over the color or changes in their own hair.
This verse serves as a reminder of human limitations and the need for humility. It implies that our focus should be on being truthful and consistent in our words and actions rather than relying on external symbols or oaths to validate our integrity.
1 Samuel 28:20
“Then Saul fell at once full length on the ground, filled with fear because of the words of Samuel. And there was no strength in him, for he had eaten nothing all day and all night.””
This verse describes King Saul’s physical condition after visiting a medium to summon the spirit of the deceased prophet Samuel. Saul had gone without eating, leaving him physically weak and exhausted.
While this verse is not directly about hair cutting, it highlights the importance of taking care of our physical bodies. Neglecting one’s health and basic needs, such as nourishment, can have detrimental effects on overall well-being and effectiveness in fulfilling one’s duties and responsibilities.
Acts 18:18
“After this, Paul stayed many days longer and then took leave of the brothers and set sail for Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila. At Cenchreae he had cut his hair, for he was under a vow.””
This verse mentions the Apostle Paul cutting his hair while at Cenchreae as part of a vow. The exact nature and purpose of the vow are not explicitly specified, but it signifies Paul’s commitment to fulfilling the vow and its associated requirements.
Paul’s hair cutting serves as an example of honoring vows made to God and fulfilling them faithfully. It reminds us of the importance of personal dedication and commitment to God, even when it involves specific actions or requirements that others may not fully understand.