What do angels have to do with head covering?

Overview

• 1 Corinthians 11:10 says, “Therefore the woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels.”

• Many wonder about the phrase “because of the angels.” The reference to angels is very brief and is not fully explained in the text.

• Some wonder if “angels” refers to literal spiritual beings, or human messengers (like pastors), or even fallen angels who might be tempted by uncovered women.

Answer

• Paul states that head covering is appropriate “because of the angels.” Since this is part of God’s Word, this statement is true (regardless of whether we understand it or not).

• By giving “angels” as a reason for head covering, Paul indicates that practice is not a temporary cultural custom. Since angels transcend human culture and time, this reason for the symbol remains in effect for the church today.

• Though we may wish that additional details were provided, Paul simply doesn’t provide details about how angels are related to head covering. However, there are several potential explanations (see below).

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Explanation

1. Scripture may indicate that angels are unseen spiritual observers who watch what God does in His kingdom on earth (1 Corinthians 4:9, Ephesians 3:10, 1 Timothy 5:21, 1 Peter 1:12). So the use of head coverings may serve as a testimony to angels that Christian women are honoring God’s directions and His glory.

2. Some high-ranking angels (the seraphim) cover themselves when they are in the presence of God (Isaiah 6:2). So perhaps there is a similarity in practice between God’s women and God’s angels. On the other hand, the seraphim and Christian women cover different parts of their bodies, and so God may not intend there to be a connection between the two practices.

3. Since 1 Corinthians 11 teaches that head covering is related to prayer, perhaps there is some relationship between head covering and the angels’ involvement in the prayers of the saints (Revelation 8:3-4).

4. In contrast to each explanation above, there are a couple theories that lack any biblical support and are not likely to be valid explanations. (A) There is no Scriptural basis for the theory that a head covering prevents fallen angels from causing problems for Christian women. B Similarly, there is no biblical support for the theory that good angels (or fallen angels) would be sensually tempted by a women who doesn’t wear a head covering.

5. The Greek word translated “angel” can also be translated as “messenger.” In fact, this word is sometimes used in Scripture to refer specifically to humans (examples: Luke 7:24, Luke 9:52, James 2:25, and perhaps Revelation 2-3). Perhaps 1 Corinthians 11:10 is refering to pastors, with the spiritual headship of the local church being connected with the headship concepts discussed in other parts of 1 Corinthians 11.