1 Corinthians 11:6
For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered.
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 16
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
6 of 16
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Historical Context
Public shaming of women through forced head-shaving was practiced in Greco-Roman society for adultery, prostitution, or collaboration with enemies. The psychological and social impact was devastating—loss of beauty, femininity, and social standing. Paul's argument assumes shared cultural values about women's appearance and modesty. He doesn't merely impose arbitrary rules but appeals to the Corinthians' own sense of shame and honor, redirecting it toward worship practices that honor God's design.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Paul use cultural shame constructively to reinforce biblical values rather than imposing arbitrary legalism?
- What practices in your cultural context communicate honor versus dishonor toward God and others?
- How should Christians navigate cases where cultural norms and biblical principles intersect?
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Analysis & Commentary
For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered—Paul uses reductio ad absurdum argumentation. If a Corinthian woman insists on praying unveiled, she should go all the way and shave her head—fully embrace the shame her action already implies. The Greek conditional structure (εἰ γάρ + imperative) presses the logic: uncovered = shaven in symbolic meaning.
The second clause assumes universal agreement: if it be a shame (εἰ δὲ αἰσχρὸν)—and it obviously was in that culture. Since no respectable woman would willingly shave her head, why symbolically do the equivalent by removing the covering? Paul argues from shame to propriety: the cultural revulsion against shaved heads should extend to uncovered heads in worship. The covering preserves a woman's honor and signifies her embrace of created order while exercising spiritual gifts.