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1 Corinthians 11:3
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The head of every man is Christ - The apostle is speaking particularly of Christianity and its ordinances: Christ is the Head or Author of this religion; and is the creator, preserver, and Lord of every man. The man also is the lord or head of the woman; and the Head or Lord of Christ, as Mediator between God and man, is God the Father. Here is the order - God sends his Son Jesus Christ to redeem man; Christ comes and lays down his life for the world; every man who receives Christianity confesses that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father; and every believing woman will acknowledge, according to Gen 3:16, that God has placed her in a dependence on and subjection to the man. So far there is no difficulty in this passage.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The Corinthian women, on the ground of the abolition of distinction of sexes in Christ, claimed equality with the male sex, and, overstepping the bounds of propriety, came forward to pray and prophesy without the customary head-covering of females. The Gospel, doubtless, did raise women from the degradation in which they had been sunk, especially in the East. Yet, while on a level with males as to the offer of, and standing in grace (Gal 3:28), their subjection in point of order, modesty, and seemliness, is to be maintained. Paul reproves here their unseemliness as to dress: in Co1 14:34, as to the retiring modesty in public which becomes them. He grounds his reproof here on the subjection of woman to man in the order of creation. the head--an appropriate expression, when he is about to treat of woman's appropriate headdress in public. of every man . . . Christ-- (Eph 5:23). of . . . woman . . . man-- (Co1 11:8; Gen 3:16; Ti1 2:11-12; Pe1 3:1, Pe1 3:5-6). head of Christ is God-- (Co1 3:23; Co1 15:27-28; Luk 3:22, Luk 3:38; Joh 14:28; Joh 20:17; Eph 3:9). "Jesus, therefore, must be of the same essence as God: for, since the man is the head of the woman, and since the head is of the same essence as the body, and God is the head of the Son, it follows the Son is of the same essence as the Father" [CHRYSOSTOM]. "The woman is of the essence of the man, and not made by the man; so, too, the Son is not made by the Father, but of the essence of the Father" [THEODORET, t. 3, p. 171].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Every man praying or prophesying,.... This is to be understood of praying and prophesying in public, and not in private; and not to be restrained to the person that is the mouth of the congregation to God in prayer, or who preaches to the people in the name of God; but to be applied to every individual person that attends public worship, that joins in prayer with the minister, and hears the word preached by him, which is meant by prophesying; for not foretelling future events is here meant, but explaining the word of God, the prophecies of the Old Testament, or any part of Scripture, unless singing of psalms should rather be designed, since that is sometimes expressed by prophesying: so in Sa1 10:5 "thou shalt meet a company of prophets coming down from the high place, with a psaltery, and a tabret, and a pipe, and a harp before them, and they shall prophesy". The Targum renders it thus, , "and they shall sing praise"; upon which Kimchi observes, that it is as if it was said, their prophecy shall be "songs" and praises to God, spoken by the Holy Ghost. So in Sa1 19:23 it is said of Saul, that he "went on and prophesied". The Targum is, he went on, "and praised". And again, "he stripped off his clothes also, and prophesied". Targum, "and praised", or sung praise. Once more, in Ch1 25:1 it is said of Asaph, and others, that they "should prophesy with harps, with psalteries, and with cymbals"; which Kimchi explains of Asaph's singing vocally, and of his sons playing upon musical instruments. Having his head covered; which, it seems, was the custom of some of them so to do in attendance on public worship: this they either did in imitation of the Heathens (r), who worshipped their deities with their heads covered, excepting Saturn and Hercules, whose solemnities were celebrated with heads unveiled, contrary to the prevailing customs and usages in the worship of others; or rather in imitation of the Jews, who used to veil themselves in public worship, through a spirit of bondage unto fear, under which they were, and do to this day; and with whom it is a rule (s), that "a man might not stand and pray, neither with his girdle on, , nor with his head uncovered; nor with his feet uncovered.'' Accordingly it is said (t) of Nicodemus ben Gorion, "that he went into the school grieved, and "veiled himself", and stood in prayer;'' and a little after that "that he went into the sanctuary and "veiled" himself, and stood and prayed;'' though the Targum on Jdg 5:2 suggests, "that the wise men sit in the synagogues, , "with the head uncovered", to teach the people the words of the law;'' and on Jdg 5:9 has these words, "Deborah in prophecy said, I am sent to praise the Scribes of Israel, who when they were in tribulation did not cease from expounding the law; and so it was beautiful for them to sit in the synagogues, "with the head uncovered", and teach the people the words of the law, and bless and confess before the Lord;'' but it seems that a different custom had now prevailed; now from this Gentile or judaizing practice, the apostle would dissuade them by observing, that such an one that uses it, "dishonoureth his head"; meaning either in a figurative, spiritual, and mystical sense, his head Christ, in token of the liberty received from him, and because he is above in heaven, and clear of all sin, the head must be uncovered in public worship; or otherwise the reverse is suggested of him, which is highly to dishonour him, and is the sense many interpreters give into: rather the reason should be, because Christ, the believer's head, appears for him in heaven, opens a way of access for him, gives him audience and acceptance in his person, and through his blood and righteousness; and therefore should appear with open face and head uncovered, as a token of freedom and boldness; otherwise he dishonours his head as if his blood and sacrifice were not effectual, and his intercession not prevalent: but the natural head, taken in a literal sense, is rather meant; and the sense is, that by covering it, it looks as if he was guilty and ashamed, and in subjection; whereas to appear uncovered expresses freedom, boldness, and superiority, like himself, who is the head of the woman; whereas to be covered, as with a woman's veil or hood, is effeminate, unmanly, and dishonourable. (r) Macrob Saturnal. l. 3. c. 6. Alex. ab. Alex. Genial. Dier. l. 2. c. 14. & 19. & 22. (s) Maimon. Hilch. Tephilla, c. 5. sect. 5. (t) T. Bab. Taanith, fol. 20. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:3-16 Paul now addresses a woman’s use of a head covering. Paul argues that women publicly praying or prophesying should wear a veil as an element of dressing modestly and appropriately in public worship (cp. 1 Tim 2:9; 1 Pet 3:3). Apparently some in Corinth were rejecting head coverings based on freedom in Christ. Paul’s argument in favor of the custom is based on traditional social conventions, the Genesis account of creation, and the watchful eye of angels. 11:3 The head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God: The NLT gives the literal reading head, which is a metaphor for either source or authority. The immediate context and Paul’s overall teaching both favor understanding head in this context as meaning authority (see Gen 3:16; Eph 5:21-23; Col 3:18; 1 Pet 3:1).
1 Corinthians 11:3
Roles in Worship
2Now I commend you for remembering me in everything and for maintaining the traditions, just as I passed them on to you.3But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Destroying Pop-Christian Views of Marital Bliss - Part 1
By Paul Washer11K41:08MarriageJOS 24:15MAT 6:33ROM 8:281CO 11:3EPH 5:231TI 5:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of a man loving his wife as God loves her. He highlights how many great preachers and missionaries often neglect their wives, and urges the young man listening to prioritize his relationship with his future wife. The preacher also encourages the young man to care about what God cares about, including providing for and loving his wife. He concludes by reminding the congregation that God works all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
(The Missing Messages in Today's Christianity) Godly Husbands and Wives
By Zac Poonen2.3K58:25ChristianityGEN 2:24PSA 45:101CO 11:3EPH 5:231PE 3:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of wisdom in relationships, particularly in the context of marriage. He shares a story about the sun and the wind competing to see who could get a man to take off his coat, illustrating that wisdom is more powerful than strength. The speaker also addresses the issue of women being suppressed in churches and urges brothers to repent for their role in this. He concludes by highlighting the significance of building a godly home and encourages spouses to warm each other with love rather than resorting to shouting and yelling.
A Christlike Home (1) Christlike Husbands and Wives
By Zac Poonen1.6K1:04:20GEN 2:24PSA 45:10ECC 10:8ISA 45:15JHN 14:161CO 11:31PE 3:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of building a Christ-like home, focusing on the roles of a Christ-like husband, wife, father, and mother to raise Christ-like children. It highlights the need for humility, acknowledging when the home is not fulfilling God's purpose, and seeking Jesus for restoration. The sermon also addresses the significance of leaving and cleaving in marriage, avoiding debt, and living within one's means to maintain a godly home.
The Meaning of Head in the Bible
By Wayne Grudem1.4K1:08:22HeadshipGEN 2:18EXO 18:21MAT 6:331CO 11:32CO 4:2EPH 5:231PE 3:7In this sermon transcript, the speaker discusses the importance of citing references in a way that makes them difficult to locate. He emphasizes that evangelical scholarship should aim to follow the procedure used by Paul, who commended himself to every person's conscience by openly stating the truth. The speaker also mentions a system used by Chris, where the word "A" is used to refer to a person in authority. The transcript includes references to a conference on building strong families and the Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood. The speaker concludes by mentioning a conversation with Stan Gundry, a senior vice president, who holds a different view but allows for the publication of opposing views in his work.
A Clear Gospel Message - Part 5
By Zac Poonen1.3K08:59JHN 3:16JHN 14:26ROM 6:231CO 6:191CO 11:3HEB 12:1This sermon emphasizes the profound sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, where He faced being forsaken by God for three hours to take on the punishment for the sins of the world. It highlights the foundational beliefs of Christianity - that Christ died for our sins and rose from the dead, proving the truth of His teachings. The importance of inviting the Holy Spirit into our lives to transform us into Christ-like individuals is also emphasized, guiding believers to live in alignment with God's will and purpose.
A Word to the Critical Heart
By Shane Idleman83612:09MAT 23:271CO 11:3This sermon addresses the issue of critical hearts within the church, emphasizing the dangers of being led by the flesh rather than the spirit, which often leads to a critical and judgmental attitude. It highlights the importance of infusing God's truth with love and humility to truly impact hearts and avoid becoming obnoxious in our convictions. The message warns against being proud, unteachable, and eager to dispute, as these are characteristics of a critical spirit that lacks God's presence.
Husband and Wife - Like Christ and the Church
By Zac Poonen51258:04GEN 1:28PRO 14:1MAT 8:81CO 11:3EPH 5:22EPH 5:251PE 3:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of husband-wife relationships in the New Testament, highlighting the need for love, humility, and mutual respect within families. It contrasts the true strength of a church, which lies in strong family units, with the superficial emphasis on numbers and external activities. The message underscores the significance of humility, submission, and building godly homes as foundational aspects of Christian life and leadership.
Head Coverings
By Jerry Aman5021:10:56ROM 10:101CO 11:3PHP 2:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of maintaining God's divine order, particularly in the church, highlighting the significance of head covering as a symbol of submission to Christ's authority. It delves into the historical context of how divine order was established in a community of believers and the challenges faced in upholding this order. The message stresses the need for both brothers and sisters to keep their heads covered under Christ's headship, with sisters wearing a physical head covering as a public testimony of their submission to God's authority.
Convicting a Contentious Spirit
By Shane Idleman161:05:21Biblical Roles in the ChurchContentious SpiritPRO 16:18MAT 7:1ROM 12:101CO 11:31CO 11:17GAL 5:22EPH 4:2COL 3:12JAS 4:61PE 5:5Shane Idleman addresses the issue of contentious spirits within the church, emphasizing the need for conviction and humility in leadership and congregational life. He highlights the importance of understanding biblical roles for men and women, advocating for a complementarian view that respects God's design. Idleman warns against the dangers of a contentious heart, which can provoke arguments and create division, urging believers to approach others with compassion rather than judgment. He calls for a return to humility and brokenness before God, stressing that true worship and effective ministry stem from a heart aligned with God's will. Ultimately, he encourages the church to confront sin with love and truth, fostering a spirit of unity and growth.
God Needs Women
By Zac Poonen2GEN 2:18PRO 31:10JHN 14:16ACT 2:17ROM 12:131CO 11:31CO 11:5EPH 5:241TI 2:91PE 3:1Zac Poonen preaches about the importance of women faithfully portraying God's intended glory through their roles as helpers, mothers, and witnesses for Christ. He emphasizes the significance of a woman's submission to her husband, drawing parallels to Jesus' submission to God. Poonen highlights the power of humble submission and the impact it can have on a woman's home and her eternal destiny. He also stresses the value of a woman's heart that fears God, her diligent work, and her kind words, rather than focusing on physical beauty or charm.
1 Peter 3:5
By John Gill0Faith and SubmissionInner Beauty1SA 16:7PRO 31:301CO 11:3GAL 5:22EPH 5:22COL 3:181TI 2:9HEB 11:111PE 3:4John Gill emphasizes the importance of inner beauty over outward adornment in his sermon on 1 Peter 3:5. He reflects on the examples of holy women from the Old Testament, such as Sarah and Ruth, who exemplified faith and trust in God while maintaining a humble and submissive spirit. Gill encourages women to prioritize their spiritual adornment, which is characterized by meekness and humility, rather than focusing on external appearances. He asserts that true beauty in God's eyes comes from a heart that is devoted to Him and in alignment with His design for relationships. This inward adornment is not only pleasing to God but also serves as a powerful witness to others.
As to Repentance
By John Nelson Darby0RepentanceGod's GraceISA 5:4MAT 4:17MRK 1:15LUK 24:47ACT 17:30ROM 2:41CO 11:32CO 7:101JN 1:9REV 2:28John Nelson Darby emphasizes the critical nature of repentance in the Christian faith, arguing that it should not be seen merely as a preliminary step to faith but as a vital response to God's claim on our lives. He asserts that true repentance involves a deep self-judgment in the presence of God, recognizing our state as sinners and the necessity of turning to Christ for salvation. Darby warns against a diluted message that omits the call to repentance, as it undermines the seriousness of God's judgment and the urgency of His grace. He highlights that while God loves us, His call to repentance is essential for true reconciliation with Him. Ultimately, Darby calls for a preaching that balances God's grace with His righteous claim on humanity, urging all to repent and believe in the gospel.
Give Ye Them to Eat
By Bakht Singh0PSA 133:1MAT 14:16MRK 6:401CO 11:31CO 14:331CO 14:40COL 2:5Bakht Singh preaches on the miracle of Jesus feeding the 5,000, emphasizing the disciples' initial helplessness and the Lord's command to provide for the hungry multitude. He highlights the importance for believers to offer spiritual bread to those in need around them, stressing that human advice cannot satisfy spiritual hunger. Bakht Singh teaches the significance of acknowledging our own spiritual poverty before God can use us to meet the needs of others. He also emphasizes the necessity of bringing all we have to the Lord in faith for His blessing and multiplication.
Bobbed Hair
By John R. Rice0DEU 22:51CO 6:91CO 11:3EPH 5:22COL 3:181PE 3:7John R. Rice preaches on the importance of men and women embracing their God-given differences, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 11:3-15. He emphasizes that men and women have distinct roles and appearances, with men symbolizing their authority by having short hair and women symbolizing their submission with long hair. Rice highlights the significance of these symbolic gestures in honoring God's design for gender distinctions and the importance of women embracing their femininity and submission to authority.
Epistle 240
By George Fox0GEN 4:31CO 7:141CO 11:3GAL 6:15COL 2:16JAS 1:17JUD 1:11REV 14:6George Fox preaches about the importance of staying true to the power of God and not getting caught up in outward rituals or worship practices. He highlights how various individuals and groups throughout history, like Cain, the children of Israel, and the Corinthians, strayed from the true worship of God by focusing on external observances. Fox emphasizes the need to focus on the life and power of God, rather than on temporary, earthly matters, and to seek unity, righteousness, and joy in the Holy Spirit. He warns against falling into disputes over trivial matters like food, drink, or outward appearances, and encourages believers to prioritize the new creature in Christ, faith working through love, and the eternal gospel.
The Final Shaking
By Phil Beach Jr.0MAL 4:61CO 3:131CO 11:32CO 5:10EPH 5:23EPH 5:271PE 4:102PE 3:101JN 2:28REV 2:5Phil Beach Jr. preaches about the urgent need for divine order to be restored in the home and church, emphasizing the failure of men to lead selflessly and the resulting rebellion in women who are forced to take the lead. He highlights the importance of men stepping up to their God-ordained leadership roles to prevent spiritual decay and destruction. Phil stresses the necessity for every member of Christ's church to pray for guidance and cooperate with God's plan for a healthy local body, rather than relying solely on human-initiated methods. He concludes by emphasizing the call for all believers to die to self, discover the abundant life of Jesus, and prepare for the imminent judgment that will begin in God's house.
The Church the Body of Christ
By Elijah Goodwin0MAT 1:23JHN 1:1JHN 1:3ROM 6:31CO 11:31CO 12:12GAL 3:27EPH 1:22EPH 5:23COL 1:18HEB 1:101JN 4:11Elijah Goodwin preaches about the significance of Christ as the head of the church, emphasizing His supremacy in various biblical figures and the pre-eminence He should have in all aspects. The sermon delves into the character of Christ, highlighting His divine nature as the creator and upholder of all things, and the unity that exists between Christ as the head and the church as His body. Practical reflections are drawn on the importance of loving one another, honoring Christ, cooperating for the church's welfare, maintaining purity, and the assurance of resurrection for the members of Christ's body.
Last Things Last
By A.W. Pink0Spiritual PrioritiesEschatologyDEU 8:2DEU 32:29MAT 6:331CO 11:3COL 3:21TI 2:112TI 2:15HEB 5:121PE 3:6REV 1:3A.W. Pink emphasizes the importance of prioritizing 'last things' in our lives, warning against the human tendency to procrastinate on matters of eternal significance, such as preparing for death and meeting God. He reflects on the need for a solemn review of the past year, urging believers to recognize God's guidance and grace while acknowledging their shortcomings. Pink critiques the modern church's focus on sensationalism and prophecy at the expense of foundational teachings, arguing that young converts should first develop their character in Christ before delving into eschatology. He warns that the inversion of divine order leads to spiritual incompetence and distracts believers from their true purpose. Ultimately, Pink calls for a return to the essentials of faith, urging that 'last things' should be addressed only after mastering the foundational truths of Scripture.
Fallacious Fundamentalism
By Derek Melton0EXO 8:23MAT 5:131CO 11:3COL 2:8JAS 1:27Derek Melton delivers a powerful sermon on the warning in Colossians 2:8, emphasizing the grave danger of being spoiled through worldly philosophies and deceit that lead believers away from Christ. He highlights the concern of the Apostle Paul for the purity and effectiveness of the early church, warning against embracing worldly ideologies that diminish the church's divine influence and holiness. Melton points out how modern Christianity has lost its distinction and influence by adopting secular practices and principles, leading to a weakened spiritual impact and a focus on temporal benefits over eternal purposes.
(New Wine in New Wineskins) 3. God Needs Women
By Zac Poonen0Godly WomanhoodWomen in the ChurchGEN 2:18PSA 127:3PRO 12:4PRO 21:19JHN 14:16ACT 1:81CO 11:3EPH 5:241PE 3:11PE 3:4Zac Poonen emphasizes the vital role of women in manifesting God's glory as originally intended at creation. He highlights that women are called to be helpers, mothers, and witnesses for Christ, drawing parallels between their roles and the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Poonen stresses the importance of submission in marriage, using biblical examples to illustrate how a woman's faithfulness and character can transform her home and influence her husband. He encourages women to embrace their calling as homemakers and mothers, asserting that their contributions are invaluable to the church and society. Ultimately, Poonen calls for women to uphold their God-given identity and responsibilities in a world that often distorts these roles.
A Christian Home (A Spirit-Filled, Praying Husband, and a Gentle, Loving Wife)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Christian MarriageFamily Dynamics1CO 11:3EPH 5:29COL 3:181PE 3:4Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the significance of a spirit-filled husband and a gentle, loving wife in creating a Christian home. He highlights that the husband must have Christ as his head to lead the family effectively, while the wife should embody a meek and quiet spirit, nurturing her home. Waldvogel stresses that a family rooted in prayer and love reflects God's design for marriage, serving as a foundation for the church. He warns against the consequences of broken homes and the importance of mutual respect and love between spouses. Ultimately, he calls for homes to be places where God is recognized and honored.
1 Corinthians 11
By John Nelson Darby0Authority in the ChurchOrder in Worship1CO 11:3John Nelson Darby discusses 1 Corinthians 11, emphasizing the connection between spiritual truths and everyday practices, such as a woman's head covering during prayer and prophesying. He explains that women have a role in the church but must recognize the authority of men, and he stresses the importance of order and modesty in worship. Darby also addresses the significance of the Lord's Supper, warning against disorder and emphasizing the need for self-examination among believers. He highlights the distinction between preaching and teaching, asserting that women should not take on teaching roles in the assembly. Ultimately, he calls for a proper understanding of authority and the divine order within the church.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The head of every man is Christ - The apostle is speaking particularly of Christianity and its ordinances: Christ is the Head or Author of this religion; and is the creator, preserver, and Lord of every man. The man also is the lord or head of the woman; and the Head or Lord of Christ, as Mediator between God and man, is God the Father. Here is the order - God sends his Son Jesus Christ to redeem man; Christ comes and lays down his life for the world; every man who receives Christianity confesses that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father; and every believing woman will acknowledge, according to Gen 3:16, that God has placed her in a dependence on and subjection to the man. So far there is no difficulty in this passage.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The Corinthian women, on the ground of the abolition of distinction of sexes in Christ, claimed equality with the male sex, and, overstepping the bounds of propriety, came forward to pray and prophesy without the customary head-covering of females. The Gospel, doubtless, did raise women from the degradation in which they had been sunk, especially in the East. Yet, while on a level with males as to the offer of, and standing in grace (Gal 3:28), their subjection in point of order, modesty, and seemliness, is to be maintained. Paul reproves here their unseemliness as to dress: in Co1 14:34, as to the retiring modesty in public which becomes them. He grounds his reproof here on the subjection of woman to man in the order of creation. the head--an appropriate expression, when he is about to treat of woman's appropriate headdress in public. of every man . . . Christ-- (Eph 5:23). of . . . woman . . . man-- (Co1 11:8; Gen 3:16; Ti1 2:11-12; Pe1 3:1, Pe1 3:5-6). head of Christ is God-- (Co1 3:23; Co1 15:27-28; Luk 3:22, Luk 3:38; Joh 14:28; Joh 20:17; Eph 3:9). "Jesus, therefore, must be of the same essence as God: for, since the man is the head of the woman, and since the head is of the same essence as the body, and God is the head of the Son, it follows the Son is of the same essence as the Father" [CHRYSOSTOM]. "The woman is of the essence of the man, and not made by the man; so, too, the Son is not made by the Father, but of the essence of the Father" [THEODORET, t. 3, p. 171].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Every man praying or prophesying,.... This is to be understood of praying and prophesying in public, and not in private; and not to be restrained to the person that is the mouth of the congregation to God in prayer, or who preaches to the people in the name of God; but to be applied to every individual person that attends public worship, that joins in prayer with the minister, and hears the word preached by him, which is meant by prophesying; for not foretelling future events is here meant, but explaining the word of God, the prophecies of the Old Testament, or any part of Scripture, unless singing of psalms should rather be designed, since that is sometimes expressed by prophesying: so in Sa1 10:5 "thou shalt meet a company of prophets coming down from the high place, with a psaltery, and a tabret, and a pipe, and a harp before them, and they shall prophesy". The Targum renders it thus, , "and they shall sing praise"; upon which Kimchi observes, that it is as if it was said, their prophecy shall be "songs" and praises to God, spoken by the Holy Ghost. So in Sa1 19:23 it is said of Saul, that he "went on and prophesied". The Targum is, he went on, "and praised". And again, "he stripped off his clothes also, and prophesied". Targum, "and praised", or sung praise. Once more, in Ch1 25:1 it is said of Asaph, and others, that they "should prophesy with harps, with psalteries, and with cymbals"; which Kimchi explains of Asaph's singing vocally, and of his sons playing upon musical instruments. Having his head covered; which, it seems, was the custom of some of them so to do in attendance on public worship: this they either did in imitation of the Heathens (r), who worshipped their deities with their heads covered, excepting Saturn and Hercules, whose solemnities were celebrated with heads unveiled, contrary to the prevailing customs and usages in the worship of others; or rather in imitation of the Jews, who used to veil themselves in public worship, through a spirit of bondage unto fear, under which they were, and do to this day; and with whom it is a rule (s), that "a man might not stand and pray, neither with his girdle on, , nor with his head uncovered; nor with his feet uncovered.'' Accordingly it is said (t) of Nicodemus ben Gorion, "that he went into the school grieved, and "veiled himself", and stood in prayer;'' and a little after that "that he went into the sanctuary and "veiled" himself, and stood and prayed;'' though the Targum on Jdg 5:2 suggests, "that the wise men sit in the synagogues, , "with the head uncovered", to teach the people the words of the law;'' and on Jdg 5:9 has these words, "Deborah in prophecy said, I am sent to praise the Scribes of Israel, who when they were in tribulation did not cease from expounding the law; and so it was beautiful for them to sit in the synagogues, "with the head uncovered", and teach the people the words of the law, and bless and confess before the Lord;'' but it seems that a different custom had now prevailed; now from this Gentile or judaizing practice, the apostle would dissuade them by observing, that such an one that uses it, "dishonoureth his head"; meaning either in a figurative, spiritual, and mystical sense, his head Christ, in token of the liberty received from him, and because he is above in heaven, and clear of all sin, the head must be uncovered in public worship; or otherwise the reverse is suggested of him, which is highly to dishonour him, and is the sense many interpreters give into: rather the reason should be, because Christ, the believer's head, appears for him in heaven, opens a way of access for him, gives him audience and acceptance in his person, and through his blood and righteousness; and therefore should appear with open face and head uncovered, as a token of freedom and boldness; otherwise he dishonours his head as if his blood and sacrifice were not effectual, and his intercession not prevalent: but the natural head, taken in a literal sense, is rather meant; and the sense is, that by covering it, it looks as if he was guilty and ashamed, and in subjection; whereas to appear uncovered expresses freedom, boldness, and superiority, like himself, who is the head of the woman; whereas to be covered, as with a woman's veil or hood, is effeminate, unmanly, and dishonourable. (r) Macrob Saturnal. l. 3. c. 6. Alex. ab. Alex. Genial. Dier. l. 2. c. 14. & 19. & 22. (s) Maimon. Hilch. Tephilla, c. 5. sect. 5. (t) T. Bab. Taanith, fol. 20. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
11:3-16 Paul now addresses a woman’s use of a head covering. Paul argues that women publicly praying or prophesying should wear a veil as an element of dressing modestly and appropriately in public worship (cp. 1 Tim 2:9; 1 Pet 3:3). Apparently some in Corinth were rejecting head coverings based on freedom in Christ. Paul’s argument in favor of the custom is based on traditional social conventions, the Genesis account of creation, and the watchful eye of angels. 11:3 The head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God: The NLT gives the literal reading head, which is a metaphor for either source or authority. The immediate context and Paul’s overall teaching both favor understanding head in this context as meaning authority (see Gen 3:16; Eph 5:21-23; Col 3:18; 1 Pet 3:1).