1 Corinthians 11:7

1 Corinthians 11:7 is a foundational verse in Paul's discussion on order, authority, and public worship within the early Corinthian church. It directly addresses the roles and symbolic representations of men and women in relation to God and each other, particularly concerning head coverings.

Context of 1 Corinthians 11:7

This verse is situated within a broader passage (1 Corinthians 11:2-16) where Paul addresses various issues concerning conduct during Christian assembly. Specifically, he is discussing the practice of head coverings for women and the uncovering of men's heads during prayer or prophesying. Paul grounds his instructions not merely in cultural norms but in the created order, reflecting God's design for humanity. The Corinthian church was grappling with how to express their Christian liberty while maintaining order and clear distinctions that honored God's established hierarchy. This verse provides the theological underpinning for his directives, linking human identity and roles directly to the creation account in Genesis.

Key Themes

Man as the Image and Glory of God

Paul states that "a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God." This assertion draws directly from the creation narrative in Genesis 1:27, where both male and female are created in God's image. However, Paul here emphasizes the man's direct representation of God's authority and nature in a unique way in this context. To cover his head, in the cultural context of Corinth, might have signified submission or dishonor, which would be contrary to his role as a direct reflection of God's glory and authority in the created order. The man, in this sense, is seen as the primary representative of God's direct headship.

Woman as the Glory of Man

The second part of the verse, "but the woman is the glory of the man," points to the distinct relationship between man and woman established at creation. This statement is rooted in Genesis 2:18-23, where Eve was created from Adam's side to be a helper suitable for him. The woman's glory is not lesser, but it is derived from and reflects the man, indicating a complementary relationship within the created order. Her existence and purpose, in this specific context, are seen as a testament to the man's existence and need for companionship, reflecting his glory. This does not imply inferiority but a difference in origin and role within God's design.

Order and Authority

Underlying this verse is the theme of divine order and authority. Paul explains that God has established a pattern of headship: God is the head of Christ, Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of the woman (1 Corinthians 11:3). Verse 7 reinforces this structure by appealing to the created order, emphasizing that outward symbols (like head coverings) should reflect this spiritual reality. It's about acknowledging and honoring the roles God has ordained, not about diminishing the inherent worth or spiritual equality of any individual in Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "image" is eikōn (εἰκών), which denotes a likeness, a representation, or a manifestation. The word for "glory" is doxa (δόξα), referring to honor, splendor, or dignity. When Paul says man is the "image and glory of God," he emphasizes man's direct representation of God's character and authority. When he says woman is the "glory of man," he is pointing to her derived glory, reflecting the man, much like the moon reflects the sun's light. This highlights a distinction in roles and origin, not necessarily in value or spiritual standing before God.

Practical Application

While the specific cultural practice of head coverings may not be universally applied today, the underlying principles of 1 Corinthians 11:7 remain relevant. This verse encourages believers to consider:

• Honoring God's Design: It calls us to respect the created order and complementary roles God has established for men and women, recognizing that these differences are part of His wise and good plan.
• Understanding Authority: It prompts reflection on the concept of headship and submission within different spheres of life, acknowledging that God works through ordered relationships.
• Symbolism and Conduct: It reminds us that our outward conduct and choices can reflect deeper spiritual truths and should be done in a way that honors God and promotes order within the community of faith.