Did not the early Christians, who spoke the same language as Paul, understand this passage to mean that a woman should wear a veil or artificial covering on her head? The earliest Christian artwork (which admittedly is a century or two latter) seems to indicate this, and the writings of the early Church Fathers seem to indicate an artificial covering was the practice of the early Church. Women's fashion in the western world from the time of Constantine until the early 20th century always incorporated a hat, bonnet or veil into women's normal dress. This wasn't an issue until women began to rebel against the authority of men in the early 20th century.
Thanks for your comment Malcom. I hear what you saying about artwork as a potential argument in favor of a veil, but I just don't see that in the actual text of 1 Corinthians 11. My focus here is on interpreting the passage in light of what we know about Paul, his audience, and the context of this letter. I just don't see sufficient support in the actual text for the veil position, but I understand and respect those who do and don't wish to demean anyone. As I explain in the video, the idea that long hair is the covering seems better supported by the text.
Did not the early Christians, who spoke the same language as Paul, understand this passage to mean that a woman should wear a veil or artificial covering on her head? The earliest Christian artwork (which admittedly is a century or two latter) seems to indicate this, and the writings of the early Church Fathers seem to indicate an artificial covering was the practice of the early Church. Women's fashion in the western world from the time of Constantine until the early 20th century always incorporated a hat, bonnet or veil into women's normal dress. This wasn't an issue until women began to rebel against the authority of men in the early 20th century.
Thanks for your comment Malcom. I hear what you saying about artwork as a potential argument in favor of a veil, but I just don't see that in the actual text of 1 Corinthians 11. My focus here is on interpreting the passage in light of what we know about Paul, his audience, and the context of this letter. I just don't see sufficient support in the actual text for the veil position, but I understand and respect those who do and don't wish to demean anyone. As I explain in the video, the idea that long hair is the covering seems better supported by the text.