Symbol of Authority

"For this reason the woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels." 1 Corinthians 11:10.

Have you ever wondered why men remove their hats before they pray? It seems to be an odd practice if you are unfamiliar with it. I once asked someone why they removed their hat before praying and they said it was to sign of respect towards God. I would agree with this, but what about if a woman has a hat on her head? Should she remove it? Or should a woman have a hat (or covering) on her head when she prays?

"Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonors his head. But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for that is one and the same as if her head were shaved." 1 Corinthians 11:4-5.

According to the Word of God, a woman shows disrespect when her head is uncovered. I have discussed this with different people to find that many do not understand the teaching or dismiss it as a "cultural practice" that is no longer observed. But taking a look at the 11th chapter of the letter to the church at Corinth, one will see that the Apostle Paul writes the above quoted verse 10, stating "...the woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head..."

What is the purpose of the headcovering? Is it to draw attention to men or Christ? It is to draw attention to Christ. Colossian 1:18, says "And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence." The headcovering is a symbol just as the Scripture says. For a symbol is something that stands for or suggests something else by reason of relationship, association, convention, or accidental resemblance; especially : a visible sign of something invisible (definition taken from Merriam-Webster).

The headcovering points to the authority of Christ. Man being the creation of God that shows forth character; males showing his authority and females showing his submission. Together as Man, they show forth the character of God. So when believers gather together to remember the Lord Jesus Christ, the men uncover their heads to show the Headship (authority) of Christ and the women cover their heads to show forth the submission of Christ. Both have their role so "...that in all things He may have the preeminence."

Some other Scriptures to consider along with 1 Corinthians 11:1-16.
- Job 1:6-12; 2:1-7. This Scripture shows us that the heavenly hosts are observing the things we do.
- 1 Peter 1:10-12. This Scripture tells us the heavenly hosts are looking at us even now.
- Ephesians 3:8-12. This Scripture reminds us of our purpose; to make God's wisdom to the Heavens.