1 Corinthians 11:10

KJV

For this cause ought the woman to have power on [her] head because of the angels.

KJV (with Strong's)

For this {G5124} cause {G1223} ought {G3784} the woman {G1135} to have {G2192} power {G1849} on {G1909} her head {G2776} because {G1223} of the angels {G32}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The reason a woman should show by veiling her head that she is under authority has to do with the angels.

Berean Standard Bible

For this reason a woman ought to have a sign of authority on her head, because of the angels.

American Standard Version

for this cause ought the woman to have a sign of authority on her head, because of the angels.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Corinthians 11:10 concludes a section of Paul's instructions regarding head coverings and decorum in public worship, asserting that "for this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels." This verse, often debated, underscores the theological significance of outward practices, linking the woman's presentation in worship to an acknowledgement of divine order and the observation of spiritual beings, thereby emphasizing the profound implications of human conduct within the cosmic realm.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Paul's broader discussion in [1 Corinthians 11](/1_corinthians/11 "1 Corinthians 11 - Order in Worship") concerning proper conduct and order in public worship, specifically addressing the roles of men and women and the symbolism of head coverings (or lack thereof) in the Corinthian church. Paul begins this chapter by commending the Corinthians for remembering his traditions ([1 Corinthians 11:2](/1_corinthians/11-2 "1 Corinthians 11:2 - Paul Commends the Corinthians")), but quickly pivots to correct practices that were causing confusion or dishonor. The preceding verses ([1 Corinthians 11:3-9](/1_corinthians/11-3-9 "1 Corinthians 11:3-9 - Headship and Creation Order")) establish a hierarchy of authority: God is the head of Christ, Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of the woman, rooted in the creation narrative. The "cause" mentioned in verse 10 directly refers back to this established divine order and the implications for how men and women should present themselves when praying or prophesying, particularly regarding the woman's "power on her head."
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan port city, known for its diverse population, wealth, and often, its moral laxity. Public life, including religious gatherings, was highly visible, and social customs regarding appearance, particularly for women, were significant. In Greco-Roman society, a woman's public appearance, including her hairstyle or head covering, often communicated her marital status, modesty, and social standing. Unveiled women in public might be associated with prostitutes or women of loose morals. Paul is not merely imposing a foreign custom but is navigating how Christian worship can maintain decorum and honor God within a specific cultural framework, ensuring that the church's practices do not bring disrepute to the gospel or cause offense. The challenge was to uphold Christian principles while being sensitive to cultural perceptions, without compromising truth.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Corinthians 11](/1_corinthians/11 "1 Corinthians 11 - Order in Worship") contributes to several major theological and narrative themes found throughout the broader book of [1 Corinthians](/1_corinthians/1 "1 Corinthians - Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians"). First, the theme of **Divine Order and Authority** is paramount, emphasizing God's established hierarchy in creation and its implications for relationships within the church. Paul consistently calls for order and unity, as seen in his later instructions regarding spiritual gifts in [1 Corinthians 14:33](/1_corinthians/14-33 "1 Corinthians 14:33 - God is a God of Order"). Second, the **Symbolism in Worship** is crucial; outward actions and appearances are not arbitrary but carry significant meaning, reflecting inner spiritual realities and theological truths. The "power on her head" serves as a visible sign of an invisible principle. Third, the **Angelic Observation** introduces a profound cosmic dimension to human worship, suggesting that our actions have implications beyond the immediate human community, potentially teaching even spiritual beings about God's manifold wisdom, as alluded to in [Ephesians 3:10](/ephesians/3-10 "Ephesians 3:10 - God's Wisdom Made Known to Rulers and Authorities"). Finally, the overarching theme of **Decorum and Reverence** in corporate worship is evident, aligning with Paul's exhortation for all things to be done "decently and in order" ([1 Corinthians 14:40](/1_corinthians/14-40 "1 Corinthians 14:40 - Let All Things Be Done Decently and in Order")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **power (Greek, _exousía_):** (G1849) This word primarily means "authority," "right," or "privilege." In this context, it is highly debated whether it refers to the woman's *own* authority (e.g., her right to pray or prophesy) or a *sign* of authority (e.g., a head covering symbolizing her submission to authority, which paradoxically grants her dignity and freedom within that order). Given the preceding verses, the latter interpretation, where the "power" is a symbol of her acceptance of the established order, is more consistent with Paul's argument about headship.
* **head (Greek, _kephalḗ_):** (G2776) Literally "head" (the anatomical part), but frequently used metaphorically in the New Testament to denote "source," "chief," or "authority." In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul uses it metaphorically in verses 3-5 to describe the hierarchy of authority (God as head of Christ, Christ as head of man, man as head of woman), making its appearance here in the context of "power on her head" significant. It links the physical head to the concept of authority and submission.
* **because of (Greek, _diá_):** (G1223) This preposition denotes the channel or cause of an act. Here, it signifies the reason or ground for the woman's conduct. The phrase "because of the angels" provides the ultimate, cosmic justification for the instruction, elevating the significance of the practice beyond mere cultural custom.
* **angels (Greek, _ángelos_):** (G32) Meaning "messenger," this term refers to spiritual beings who serve God. Their presence in this verse suggests they are observers of human worship and the order within the church. Their observation adds a profound, cosmic dimension to the decorum and spiritual principles being upheld in the Christian community.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For this cause ought the woman":** This introductory phrase connects the verse directly to Paul's preceding argument in [1 Corinthians 11:3-9](/1_corinthians/11-3-9 "1 Corinthians 11:3-9 - Headship and Creation Order") regarding the divine order of headship and creation. The word "ought" (Greek, _opheílō_, G3784) implies a moral obligation or duty, not merely a suggestion, stemming from the established theological principles.
* **"to have power on [her] head":** This is the most debated part of the verse. "Power" (Greek, _exousía_) here is likely a metonymy for a *symbol* or *sign* of authority. It could signify a head covering that indicates either the woman's submission to the man's headship or her own dignity and right to participate in public worship *within* that established order. It is a visible acknowledgment of the spiritual realities Paul has just outlined.
* **"because of the angels":** This phrase provides a profound, cosmic rationale for the instruction. Angels are understood as observers of human activity, particularly the order and conduct within the church. Their presence elevates the stakes of Christian worship, suggesting that the church's adherence to God's order serves as a testimony or lesson to these spiritual beings, perhaps even demonstrating God's wisdom and glory.

#### Literary Devices
1 Corinthians 11:10 employs several literary devices to convey its complex message. **Symbolism** is central, as the "power on her head" (often interpreted as a head covering or a symbolic representation of authority) stands for deeper theological truths about divine order and headship. The physical act or appearance becomes a visible sign of an invisible spiritual reality. There is also an element of **Metonymy**, where "power" (exousia) is used to represent the *sign* or *token* of that power or authority, rather than the abstract concept itself. Furthermore, Paul introduces a **Cosmic Dimension** by invoking the presence of "angels." This device expands the audience of human worship beyond the earthly congregation, suggesting that the order and decorum of the church have implications for the spiritual realm, serving as a testament or even an instruction to unseen beings. This adds a layer of solemnity and profound significance to the seemingly mundane practice.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Corinthians 11:10, despite its interpretive challenges, profoundly connects to the broader biblical themes of divine order, the significance of human conduct in worship, and the cosmic scope of God's redemptive plan. It highlights that our actions in the church are not merely human rituals but are observed by spiritual beings and reflect God's established design for creation and community. The "power on her head" becomes a visible affirmation of an invisible spiritual reality, demonstrating an alignment with God's wisdom and authority. This verse reminds us that the church, in its ordered worship, is a display of God's wisdom not only to humanity but also to the heavenly hosts.

* [Ephesians 3:10](/ephesians/3-10 "God's Wisdom Made Known to Rulers and Authorities")
* [Hebrews 1:14](/hebrews/1-14 "Angels as Ministering Spirits")
* [1 Timothy 2:11-14](/1_timothy/2-11-14 "Women, Learning, and Creation Order")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific cultural practice of head coverings may be interpreted and applied differently across various Christian traditions today, the underlying principles of 1 Corinthians 11:10 remain profoundly relevant for contemporary believers. This verse calls us to consider the spiritual weight of our actions and attitudes in corporate worship. It challenges us to reflect on how our outward presentation and conduct in the assembly communicate our reverence for God and our understanding of His divine order. Recognizing that our worship is not just a human gathering but has a spiritual dimension, observed by unseen beings, should inspire greater intentionality, humility, and decorum. It encourages us to cultivate a spirit of submission to God's design, not out of legalism, but out of a desire to honor Him and present a unified, respectful witness to both humanity and the spiritual realm. Our worship, therefore, becomes a powerful testimony to God's wisdom and glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the "cosmic audience" (angels) impact your perspective on the significance of corporate worship and personal conduct within the church?**
* **In what ways can we, as believers, demonstrate respect for God's established order and authority in our lives and in the church today, even if specific cultural expressions differ?**
* **What "signs" or practices in our contemporary worship might convey our submission to Christ's headship and our commitment to biblical order?**

### FAQ

**What does "power on her head" truly mean in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "power on her head" (Greek: *exousia* on *kephalē*) is one of the most debated phrases in the New Testament. The Greek word *exousia* primarily means "authority," "right," or "privilege." It does not directly mean a physical covering. There are two main interpretations:
* **A sign of authority:** This view suggests that the "power" refers to a head covering (or a particular hairstyle) that *symbolizes* the woman's submission to the established divine order of headship. Paradoxically, by accepting this symbol of submission, she gains the "authority" or "right" to pray or prophesy publicly in a way that honors God and the community. It grants her dignity and freedom within the framework of order.
* **Her own authority:** Less common, this view posits that "power on her head" refers to the woman's *own* right or authority to participate in public worship, exercised in a way that respects the divine order. However, this interpretation often struggles to reconcile with the immediate context of [1 Corinthians 11:3-9](/1_corinthians/11-3-9 "1 Corinthians 11:3-9 - Headship and Creation Order") which emphasizes male headship.
Most scholars lean towards the first interpretation, understanding "power" as a metonymy for a symbol of authority, specifically a head covering, which visually affirmed her place within God's created order.

**Why are "angels" mentioned in this context?**

Answer: The mention of "angels" adds a profound, cosmic dimension to the discussion of decorum in worship. While the exact reason is not explicitly stated, several interpretations exist:
* **Angels as observers:** Angels are spiritual beings who observe human affairs, particularly the church. Paul suggests that they are witnesses to the order (or disorder) in Christian worship. The church's adherence to God's established order serves as a testimony to these heavenly beings, perhaps demonstrating God's wisdom and glory, as suggested in [Ephesians 3:10](/ephesians/3-10 "God's Wisdom Made Known to Rulers and Authorities").
* **Angels as guardians:** Some suggest angels are present as guardians of divine order and holiness in worship. Disrespecting God's order might offend them.
* **Angels as examples:** Angels themselves are often depicted as submitting to God's authority. The church's submission to divine order might serve as an example or instruction to them.
Regardless of the precise nuance, the inclusion of angels elevates the significance of human worship beyond the earthly realm, reminding believers that their conduct has implications in the spiritual world.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Corinthians 11:10, though focused on specific cultural practices and church order, ultimately points to Christ as the ultimate embodiment and fulfillment of divine order and headship. Paul begins this very chapter by stating, "the head of every man is Christ" ([1 Corinthians 11:3](/1_corinthians/11-3 "Christ as Head of Man")). The entire discussion of submission, authority, and order within the church finds its perfect expression and purpose in Christ, who perfectly submitted to the Father's will ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Christ's Humility and Obedience")) and yet holds "all authority in heaven and on earth" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "All Authority Given to Jesus")). The "power" (authority) that flows through God's established order is ultimately Christ's, exercised through His body, the church. The church's ordered worship, including the respectful roles of men and women, becomes a visible testimony to the wisdom of God's design, a design that culminates in Christ as the Head of His church ([Ephesians 5:23](/ephesians/5-23 "Christ as Head of the Church")), and through whom even the angels learn of God's manifold wisdom ([Ephesians 3:10](/ephesians/3-10 "God's Wisdom Made Known to Rulers and Authorities")). Thus, the seemingly mundane instruction about head coverings becomes a profound reflection of the cosmic order established and redeemed in Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 24:64

And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she lighted off the camel.

Genesis 24:65

For she [had] said unto the servant, What man [is] this that walketh in the field to meet us? And the servant [had] said, It [is] my master: therefore she took a vail, and covered herself.

Hebrews 1:14

Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?

Matthew 18:10

Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.

Genesis 20:16

And unto Sarah he said, Behold, I have given thy brother a thousand [pieces] of silver: behold, he [is] to thee a covering of the eyes, unto all that [are] with thee, and with all [other]: thus she was reproved.

Ecclesiastes 5:6

Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the angel, that it [was] an error: wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands?