Is it okay for a Christian man or woman to wear earrings?

Quick answer

Wearing earrings may or may not be appropriate for a Christian, depending on the circumstances and the individual. The Bible calls us to modesty and to focus on godliness instead of outward appearance. We are also to care for those around us. Ultimately, we are called to seek to wear that which is beneficial and honors God.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Both men and women wore earrings in Bible times as mentioned in passages like Exodus 32:2–3. The New Testament does not command for or against wearing earrings but emphasizes modesty and a focus on godliness rather than outward appearance (1 Timothy 2:9–10; 1 Peter 3:3). For women specifically, Paul encouraged them to prioritize good works over costly adornments, aiming for a Christ-centered life. Today, wearing earrings remains a personal choice as long as it does not hinder the faith of others or disobey parental guidance (Romans 14). Ultimately, believers are called to seek what is beneficial, honoring God in all choices, including what they wear (1 Corinthians 10:23).

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

It is clear both men and women wore earrings in ancient Israel (see, for example, Numbers 31:50; Judges 8:24; Song of Solomon 1:10–11).

In Exodus 32:2–3, Aaron said, "Take off the rings of gold that are in the ears of your wives, your sons, and your daughters, and bring them to me."

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

In the New Testament there is no command either for or against wearing earrings. However, Paul did write, "I desire that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling; likewise women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works" (1 Timothy 2:8–10). Paul wanted women’s focus to be on Christ, not what they wear or how they look.

The focus in 1 Timothy 2:9–10 was on modesty rather than whether earrings were acceptable or not. Peter gave a similar instruction in 1 Peter 3:3.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

There is no biblical command against a man or woman wearing earrings. In fact, a case can be made to show many men and women who have followed God have worn earrings. If doing so does not cause problems with the faith of others around you (Romans 14) and is not in disobedience to one's parents, then it is a matter of personal choice whether or not a man or woman wears earrings. Our goal, however, is not simply to please ourselves, but rather to honor God and live in service to Him. We must seek not only what is permissible, but also pray for wisdom regarding how to best serve God in every area of our lives, including what we wear. As Paul wrote, "'All things are lawful,' but not all things are helpful. 'All things are lawful,' but not all things build up" (1 Corinthians 10:23).

UNDERSTAND

Women and men wore earrings in biblical times.

The Bible does not forbid earrings.

Believers are called to dress modestly

REFLECT

How do you decide whether something you wear honors God and reflects your faith?

How do you prioritize your inner character over your outward appearance?

Are you sensitive to how your personal choices, like wearing earrings, might influence or impact the faith of others around you?

ENGAGE

Some have argued that men should not wear earrings because it is a sign of being effeminate or appearing to look like a female. Deuteronomy 22:5 is referred to, which says, "A woman shall not wear a man's garment, nor shall a man put on a woman's cloak, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the LORD your God." However, using this verse to claim that men today cannot wear earrings is difficult to justify.

How can we balance freedom in personal expression with honoring God in our appearance?

How is modesty defined differently across cultures, and how do we ensure our choices reflect godliness without becoming judgmental?