The Greek word xyráō, represented by G3587, is defined as to shave or "shear" the hair, stemming from a word meaning a razor. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses, where it denotes the specific act of shaving one's head, often with significant symbolic or ceremonial implications.
In the biblical narrative, G3587 is used in two distinct contexts. In Acts, it is part of a formal purification rite under the law, where men are instructed to shave their heads to demonstrate their adherence to religious customs Acts 21:24. In 1 Corinthians, Paul uses the term hypothetically to illustrate a point about cultural and spiritual propriety. He states that a woman praying with her head uncovered is in a state of dishonor, equivalent to if she were shaven 1 Corinthians 11:5. This act is presented as a shame for a woman, alongside being shorn 1 Corinthians 11:6.
Several related words provide a fuller picture of concepts surrounding head coverings and hair removal:
- G2751 keírō: Defined as "to shear," this word is used in parallel with xyráō. It can describe Paul shearing his head to fulfill a vow Acts 18:18, the shearing of a sheep Acts 8:32, or an act of shame for a woman if done to her hair 1 Corinthians 11:6.
- G2619 katakalýptō: Meaning "to cover wholly, i.e. veil," this word is presented as the proper and honorable alternative to being shorn or shaven. Paul argues that if a woman will not be covered, she should be shorn, but since that is a shame, she should be covered 1 Corinthians 11:6.
The symbolic weight of G3587 is tied to its specific context.
- Ceremonial Purification: Shaving the head is presented as a legitimate and necessary part of a vow or purification ritual, demonstrating one's commitment to the law Acts 21:24.
- Symbol of Dishonor: In the context of 1 Corinthians, for a woman to be shaven is equated with shame and dishonor. It represents a state contrary to the expected order, which a head covering is meant to uphold 1 Corinthians 11:5.
- Contrast with Covering: The act of shaving is explicitly contrasted with the act of covering. One is a mark of shame to be avoided, while the other is a sign of proper order 1 Corinthians 11:6.
In summary, G3587 is a specific verb for the act of shaving with a razor. While it appears infrequently, its usage carries significant weight. It can signify either a sacred act of religious observance for men fulfilling a vow or a symbol of cultural and spiritual disgrace for women in the Pauline church. The word's meaning is therefore heavily dependent on the context and the subject to whom the action is applied.
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