People get braided hair for many different reasons. Some do it because they think it looks nice, while others do it out of fashion. But is braided hair against the Bible? What does the Bible say about braided hair?
Bible said Acts 1 Timothy 2:9 – “In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array.”
It’s clear from the Bible that it’s unsuitable for women to have braided hair. So if you want to know what is right and wrong on this matter, read our article.
Are Braids A Religious Thing?
Braids are a trendy hairstyle amongst women, and many want to know whether braids can be done within a religious context. There is a citation in the Bible like this one:
1 Peter 3:3 – “Your beauty should not come from outward adornments, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes”.
This means that braids shouldn’t be something that’s worn for an outward purpose, such as to show off clothes or jewelry. It also implies plaiting of the hair isn’t a good idea.
Biblical Meaning of Braided Hair
Hair is a beauty of women. It’s used as protection for women against sexual advances from men.
1 Corinthians 11:15 – “But if a woman has long hair, it’s a glory to her; her hair is given for a covering”.
In Bible, braided hair means two places where the apostles stress the importance of good acts and spiritual grace above external beauty. However, the spiritual meaning of braided hair symbolizes marital status, wealth, and power over others.
Is Braiding Hair A Sin in The Bible?
The Bible doesn’t state that braiding hair is sinful. Instead, it says we shouldn’t change the natural form of our hair. But sin is when humans disobey God’s commands and do things.
And Bible is the word of God. It’s also a book that teaches us about our duty toward God. So if you don’t follow Bible, that means you disobey God. That’s why braiding hair is a sin.
Bible Verses About Braided Hair
There are multiple examples where women are commanded not to put up their hair in a braid. Let your hair down, and don’t constrain it with a headband or anything else. Here are some verses from Bible –
- In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; but with good works. (1 Timothy 2:9-10)
- Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. (1 Peter 3:3)
- But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her: her hair is given for a covering. (1 Corinthians 11:15)
- But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. (1 Peter 3:4)
- I clothed thee with broidered work and shod thee with badgers’ skin, girded thee about with fine linen, and covered thee with silk. (Ezekiel 16:10)
Where in The Bible Does It Talk About Braided Hair?
The Bible talk about braided hair in many passages. Some of the most well-known passages are:
- 1 Peter 3:3-4
- 1 Timothy 2:9
- 1 Timothy 2:10
- 1 Peter 3:1-22
- 1 Timothy 2:9-10
- Deuteronomy 22:5
- 1 Peter 3:4
- Proverbs 11:22
- Proverbs 31:30
- Romans 12:1
- 1 Corinthians 11:15
- 1 Peter 3:3
- Isaiah 61:10
- 1 Corinthians 14:34
- Matthew 5:13-18
Braids and cultural appropriation: what’s the story?
Braids have been around for centuries, with many different cultures having their own unique styles and techniques. Unfortunately, cultural appropriation has also been an issue when it comes to braided hairstyles.
The first instance of cultural appropriation with regards to hair braids happened in the 1979 movie “10”. In the film, actress Bo Derek wore her hair in cornrows, which are traditionally worn by African American women. This sparked a trend of white women wearing cornrows, without any acknowledgement of the cultural significance or meaning behind the style.
Cultural appropriation continues to happen today, with cornrows being a prime example. White celebrities and influencers often wear cornrows without any understanding of the history or culture behind them. This appropriative behavior is disrespectful and offensive to those who come from cultures that have traditionally worn these styles.
If you’re interested in wearing braids, it’s important to do your research and be respectful of the cultures they come from. Make sure you understand the meaning and significance behind different styles before you wear them yourself. Additionally, avoid using appropriative terms like “boxer braids” or ” Navajo war bonnet” when referring to traditional hairstyles. Respectful appreciation of other cultures is key to avoiding offensive appropriation.
FAQs
What does braided hair symbolize?
Braided hair is typically associated with wealth, social status, marital status, and age. Braids can also symbolize protection or safety due to their form as a protective measure.
What cultures braid your hair?
Africa is home to the braid, with women in Ghana and Nigeria being noted for their braids. Women in Europe, India, Japan, China, Central Asia, and Australasia also braid their hair.
Who were the first people to wear braids?
The Himba people of Africa are thought to have invented braids. Braids have been worn by people from many different cultures.
How Ancient Egyptians Barbering Influenced Modern Male Grooming
- The ancient Egyptians were the first people to practice barbering on a regular basis.
- They used a variety of methods to lengthen and curl their hair, including braiding in human hair and using short extensions.
- These techniques influenced modern male grooming practices, which continue to use similar methods to achieve the same results.
What is Frida Kahlo’s signature looks?
Frida Kahlo was a famous Mexican artist who is known for her traditional braid and her own unique look. Her style is still popular today and has been inspiration for many fashion designers.
What is the religious meaning of Bantu knots?
The religious meaning of Bantu knots is that they help bring the individual wearing them closer to heaven. It is believed that there is a unique spiritual power inside the style, which is why it holds such an important religious meaning outside of Africa.
Final Words
Braided hair originates from African culture 5000 years ago and is an important symbol of a woman’s femininity. In today’s society, it’s common to see many braided hairstyles, such as the braid.
However, before braiding your hair, it’s vital to know what does the Bible say about braided hair. The Bible has a few references to braided hair. We’ve tried to list those references and help you form your opinion on the matter. If you’ve got any other references, please share them with us.
It wasn’t the braided hair. It was the behavior of people with braided hair. Why pick and choose sin? Sin is sin period.
It’s true that the Bible does mention braided hair in relation to modesty and outward adornment, it’s important to understand the context and the overall message.
The Bible does not explicitly state that braiding hair is a sin. The verses that mention braided hair, such as 1 Timothy 2:9 and 1 Peter 3:3, emphasize the importance of inner qualities like modesty, good works, and a meek and quiet spirit. These passages caution against placing excessive focus on outward appearances and material possessions.
It’s crucial to remember that sin is not determined solely by external actions or appearances but by the intent and attitude of the heart. Sin is when humans disobey God’s commands and go against His will. Simply braiding one’s hair, without any sinful intent or disobedience, is not inherently sinful according to the Bible.
However, it’s worth noting that the Bible encourages believers to prioritize spiritual qualities and character over external beauty. It’s important to consider the underlying message of these passages and strive for a balance between external appearance and inner qualities.
Ultimately, each person should seek to understand the teachings of the Bible, apply them to their own lives, and strive to live in accordance with their own understanding of God’s will. It’s important to approach matters of personal appearance with discernment, modesty, and respect for others.
Hi miss! im 14 and im confused. i dont want to disobey God in any way. so.. what do i do? do i stop getting braids? im so confused and i just want some advice.
It’s wonderful that you want to honor God in all that you do. The Bible provides principles that can guide you in making decisions. Here’s some advice:
Seek God’s guidance: Prayerfully ask God for wisdom and understanding as you navigate this confusion. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Focus on the heart: Remember that God looks at the heart, not just outward appearances. 1 Samuel 16:7 states, “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
Respect your conscience: Romans 14:22-23 advises, “So whatever you believe about these things, keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves. But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.” If getting braids causes doubt in your heart, it may be best to avoid them.
Prioritize love: Remember the two greatest commandments: love God and love others (Matthew 22:36-40). Make decisions that align with love, respect, and kindness toward yourself and others.
Embrace freedom in Christ: Galatians 5:1 says, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” While some guidelines exist, don’t feel overly burdened by minor issues.
In the end, the decision to get braids or not should come from a place of seeking God’s will, understanding His love, and considering your own convictions. Trust that God will guide you in making choices that glorify Him and honor your unique relationship with Him.