What Does “Because of the Angels” Mean in 1 Corinthians 11:10?
In 1 Corinthians 11:3-16 Paul addresses the cultural issue of wives wearing a head covering while praying & prophesying at the fellowship. Within this context he makes the puzzling statement:
It is for this reason that a woman ought to have authority over her own head, because of the angels.
What exactly does “because of the angels” mean here? There is no clear interpretation since Paul neglects to explain it. As such, the most obvious reading is likely the answer, which is that angels in the spiritual realm participate in worship with humans on earth, specifically the believers of whom they’re assigned (Matthew 18:10 & Psalm 91:11), although it could also refer to the angels assigned to watch over that particular fellowship in Corinth (e.g. Revelation 2:1 & 3:1).
This makes sense when you consider that angels participated in praise & worship when God created the earth & universe (Job 38:4-7). If this reading is true, the angels in the scenario of 1 Corinthians 11:3-16 would evidently be offended by wives disrespecting their husbands in that culture by not wearing a head covering while praying or prophesying. (See this article for why it’s not wise to provoke angels).
Related Topics:
Should Women Cover Their Heads When They Pray & Prophesy?
ANGELS — What Are They? What’s Their Purpose?
How to Enlist the HELP OF ANGELS
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