1 Corinthians 11:10
What does 1 Corinthians 11:10 mean?
A plain-English look at 1 Corinthians 11:10 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 1 Corinthians 11:10 means
“For this cause” sums up the prior reasons and adds one more: a woman ought to have a sign of authority on her head, because of the angels. The covering signifies that she honors God’s order and exercises her role under rightful authority while praying or prophesying. Mention of angels suggests that worship occurs before heavenly observers who delight in God’s order. The church’s gathered actions are not trivial; they are watched and weighed. This lifts the matter above mere custom to reverent awareness that our assemblies are part of a cosmic theater. The sign is not demeaning but dignifying, marking her as a participant under God’s good authority.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000for this cause ought the woman to have a sign of authority on her head, because of the angels.
KJV
King James Version · 1611For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901for this cause ought the woman to have a sign of authority on her head, because of the angels.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949For this reason it is right for the woman to have a sign of authority on her head, because of the angels.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862because of this the woman ought to have <FI>a token of<Fi> authority upon the head, because of the messengers;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Therefore ought the woman to have a power over her head, because of the angels.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Therefore ought the woman to have authority on her head, on account of the angels.
Context
After grounding his instructions in creation and glory, Paul now introduces a transcendent motive. “Because of the angels” nudges readers to consider the unseen realm involved in worship. With this, he concludes the primary rationale for head coverings. However, before error arises—such as argumentative dominance or denigrating women—Paul immediately balances his teaching with affirmations of mutuality and dependence in the Lord (verses 11–12). He will then return to practical discernment and common sense (verses 13–15) and finally close the section by appealing to broader church custom (verse 16).
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Hebrews 1:14
Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to do service for the sake of them that shall inherit salvation?
- Genesis 24:64
And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she alighted from the camel.
- Matthew 18:10
See 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 who is in heaven.
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