Paul is not saying a woman needs to have long hair to look attractive. He is saying a woman needs to have a symbol of authority on her head:
1 Corinthians 11:10 ESV
That is why a wife ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels.
1. *Ἐξουσία (Exousia)*: In
1 Cor 11:10, "ἐξουσία" (authority) refers to a symbol of authority, not inherent authority (BDAG, 348). Paul emphasizes the headcovering as a visual representation.
2. *Κεφαλή (Kephale)*: The Greek "κεφαλή" (head) signifies "source" or "origin," not merely "authority" (BDAG, 508). Paul highlights Christ as the source of humanity.
3. *Ἐπι (Epi)*: In
1 Cor 11:10, "ἐπί" (on) indicates spatial proximity, emphasizing the headcovering's presence on the woman's head.
4. *Primitive Church Context*: headcoverings signified modesty, respect, and submission to authority (Bruce, 1961). Jewish culture valued public displays of reverence.
5. *Corinthian Church Dynamics*: The Corinthian church struggled with disorderly worship (
1 Cor 14:33-35). Paul addresses headcoverings to promote order and respect.
*References*
- BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature)
- Bruce, F. F. (1961). The Epistle to the Corinthians (TNTC)
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