Laine’s Study of Headcoverings

Dear Laura & Sisters,
You asked about head coverings, Laura. This is a very interesting subject that I have studied and prayed about for some time. I think every woman who reads 1 Corinthians 11 is concerned about it. After much study and prayer this is what I have learned:
"For if a woman is not covered, let her also be shorn. But if it is shameful for a woman to be shorn or shaved, let her be covered" 1 Corinthians 11:6
Notice, Laura, the word "if" in the passage. "If" it is shameful for her to be shorn. Shorn means having her hair cut. Shaved is hair completely taken off. In Paul's time it was shameful for a woman to have her hair cut or shaved as this is what many of the prostitutes did, which was rampant in Corinth. They also went about without head coverings which spoke volumes to the men around them--enticing immorality--as the proper custom was for a woman to wear a head covering. Especially a married woman. So Paul is concerned that the women of God do not look or behave in such a worldly manner in the church causing men to take notice of them inappropriately. So he says, "if" it is shameful for a woman to be shorn or shaved, let her be covered.
Now in our society, Laura, women can have haircuts (be shorn) and not wear head coverings while being very godly women who love and respect their husbands. ( Also not luring other men in any way by such an appearance.) It is not shameful in our society or the church ( as a whole) to wear one's head uncovered. Some women are shaved due to problems with cancer, so often when I see an older woman without hair I say a prayer knowing that she is probably suffering in some way. We have many women in our church who I look up to for guidance who are very godly women, but do not have long hair or head coverings. "'If' it is shameful for a woman to be shorn or shaved, let her be covered": it is not shameful in our society or in our church for a woman to have her hair cut or to be shaved (perhaps due to cancer), so I do not look at women thus and feel shame at their appearance.
First Corinthians 11 also speaks of a woman's long hair as her glory and her God given covering . When I see an older woman with long white and gray hair coiled on her head, I think it is beautiful! I think the same when I see a young girl's long hair cascading down her back or a mother's long hair coiled at the nape of her neck. So very beautiful and so very feminine. And His Words "her glory" come to my mind causing me to marvel at the beauty of His Creation around me.
The important part is a woman's heart. A heart that beats after God. Because a woman can have long hair or a head covering and take pride in it. Everything must be done for the glory of God. I have seen women with short, short hair who are in love with the LORD and glorify Him in their lives. And I have seen women who wear head coverings and take pride over those that don't. So the important part is the condition of our heart. If you wear a head covering, is it all for the glory of God? Then you are pleasing Him. Quietly go about your service. If you feel a head covering is not necessary, is it all for the glory of God? Then you are pleasing Him. Quietly go about your service. The most important thing: Does your heart beat for God? Is everything else considered a loss at the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus your LORD? Do you long to serve Him and others in His incredible love? This means much more than long hair and head coverings. Much more.
And the fascinating thing about this chapter in 1 Corinthians 11 is how a woman mirrors Jesus Christ in His submission to the Father when she submits to her husband as her head. I really love to meditate on that truth. We are so blessed with the Word of God, Laura. And you are wise to seek His Will in all matters concerning your womanhood.
Love to you,
Laine