1 Corinthians 11:4

1 CORINTHIANS—NOTE ON 1 Corinthians 11:4 head covered. The Greek phrase may refer to long hair that hangs loose (vv. 1 Corinthians 11:14), to a veil that covers the face, or to a piece of cloth pulled over the head (like a modern shawl or scarf) that leaves the face revealed. Roman men sometimes pulled the loose folds of their toga over their head while they worshiped pagan gods. Paul emphasizes that men should not dishonor Christ by praying according to pagan custom (1 Corinthians 8:4). He uses the idea to prepare for his argument that wives should not pray or prophesy in public with their heads uncovered (1 Corinthians 11:5, 1 Corinthians 11:11).