“Because of the angels” (1 Cor. 11:10): Ancient and Contemporary Threats to Women’

Abstract

Strictures about women: their bodies, their clothing, their speaking and silence, pervade cultures and religions. Christianity is not immune from this trajectory, exemplifying this within the Second Testament text of 1 Corinthians it is argued that women should cover their heads and men should not (1 Cor. 11.2-16).. One of the reasons offered for this imposition on women is ‘because of the angels’ (1 Cor. 11.10). Through research spanning biblical studies and theology, this article investigates 1 Cor. 11.10 and does so from three distinct perspectives. The first perspective invites readers into closer analysis of the passage and it is demonstrated that this claim is grounded in a cosmology of evil angels. The second perspective is offered by stepping back from the biblical, intertestamental and early church evidence to consider the potential implications of re-engaging with this ancient world-view in order to recognise contemporary malevolent forces. The third, and final, perspective turns to Christian mystical traditions in order highlight resources that may assist in the work of liberation. It is hoped that this multifocal approach to the ancient angels will stimulate discussion and contribute to ongoing experiments in being free.