what does the bible say?
In 1 Corinthians 11:3–15, a dispute in the town of Corinth caused the apostle Paul to write directly to the church about culture, authority, and rebellion. In Corinth, it was common for women to show their submission to their husbands by wearing a veil. Those who did not were either pagan temple prostitutes or rebellious women. A woman who attended a Christian gathering, such as church, without a veil would be confusing at best and dishonoring her husband and others at worst. Similarly, a man wearing a veil was not culturally acceptable in Corinth. In verse 6, Paul writes that women who unveil themselves may as well shave their heads. He also communicates that it would be odd for a man to wear a veil or have long hair (v. 14). In summary, Paul urges the Corinthians to fit in with the culturally acceptable standards of male and female appearance.