1 Corinthians 11:6 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 11:6 mean?

1 Corinthians 11:6 says that if a woman does not cover her head, she might as well have her hair cut short or shaved off, but if it is considered disgraceful for a woman to have her hair cut or shaved, then she should cover her head. The verse uses this comparison to stress the importance of head coverings for women in the context Paul is addressing.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, responding to questions about worship practices. In this verse, Paul is highlighting the cultural expectation of women covering their heads as a sign of respect and propriety during gatherings. The logic is that, just as it would be shameful for a woman to have her hair cut off or shaved, it is also inappropriate for her to be uncovered in that setting.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 11:6

• γυνή (gynē, “woman”): This word refers specifically to an adult female, and in this context, it can mean either “woman” or “wife,” depending on the situation. Here, it points to women in the worship setting.
• κατακαλύπτω (katakalyptō, “covered”): This word means “to cover fully” or “to veil.” The emphasis is on a physical covering, not just a symbolic one, which clarifies that Paul is talking about an actual head covering.
• κείρω (keirō, “shorn”): This word means “to shear” or “to cut the hair very short.” Paul uses it to draw a parallel between being uncovered and having one’s hair cut off, both seen as shameful in that culture.
• ξυράω (xuraō, “shaven”): This word means “to shave,” usually with a razor. The mention of both “shorn” and “shaven” underscores the seriousness of the comparison Paul is making.

Why 1 Corinthians 11:6 matters

• This verse clarifies that Paul’s instructions about head coverings were rooted in the cultural values of honor and shame in Corinth, not just a random rule.
• By comparing being uncovered to being shorn or shaven, Paul emphasizes how significant the head covering was for women’s public dignity in that time and place.
• The verse helps readers see that Paul is addressing outward signs of respect and propriety in worship, which ties into his larger discussion about order and roles within the church gathering.