1 Corinthians 11:10

11:10 For this reason a woman should have a symbol of authority ¹  on her head, because of the angels. ² 

1 Corinthians 5:10

5:10 In no way did I mean the immoral people of this world, or the greedy and swindlers and idolaters, since you would then have to go out of the world.

1 Corinthians 9:10

9:10 Or is he not surely speaking for our benefit? It was written for us, because the one plowing and threshing ought to work in hope of enjoying the harvest.

1 Corinthians 11:7

11:7 For a man should not have his head covered, since he is the image and glory of God. But the woman is the glory of the man.

1 Corinthians 7:36

7:36 If anyone thinks he is acting inappropriately toward his virgin, ³  if she is past the bloom of youth ⁴  and it seems necessary, he should do what he wishes; he does not sin. Let them marry.

[11:10]  ¹ sn Paul does not use a word specifying what type of “covering” is meant (veil, hat, etc.). The Greek word he uses here (ἐξουσία exousia; translated symbol of authority) could be (1) a figure of speech that may substitute the result (the right to participate in worship) for the appropriate appearance that makes it possible (the covered head). Or (2) it refers to the outward symbol (having the head covered) as representing the inward attitude the woman is to possess (deference to male leadership in the church).

[11:10]  ² sn Paul does not explain this reference to the angels, and its point is not entirely clear. It seems to reflect an awareness that angels are witnesses to church life (cf. Eph 3:10) and would be particularly sensitive to resistance against God’s created order.

[7:36]  ³ tn Grk “virgin,” either a fiancée, a daughter, or the ward of a guardian. For discussion see the note at the end of v. 38.

[7:36]  ⁴ tn Or referring to an engaged man: “if he is past the critical point,” “if his passions are too strong.” The word literally means “to be past the high point.”