Title: Head Covering and Christian Practice in Nigeria: Tradition, Interpretation, and Contemporary Relevance
Authors: Rev. Jezreel Smith Mietuade, PhD.
Volume: 10
Issue: 8
Pages: 180-188
Publication Date: 2026/08/28
Abstract:
This study examines the practice of head covering in contemporary Nigerian Christianity from theological and socio cultural perspectives, with attention to its biblical foundation, historical development, and present significance in church life. The diversity of interpretation and practice across Nigerian denominations reflects an ongoing tension between tradition, biblical interpretation, and cultural adaptation. The study critically evaluates whether head covering in 1 Corinthians 11:2-16 should be understood as a universal Christian command, a culturally shaped instruction from Paul, or a symbolic practice related to order and gender relations in worship. Methodologically, the study adopts a qualitative approach, combining exegetical analysis of Pauline texts, historical theological review from the early church to modern Christianity, and socio cultural interpretation within the Nigerian church context, using hermeneutical frameworks that emphasize the relationship between text, tradition, and culture. The findings show that head covering in Paul's teaching is rooted in first century honour shame culture and worship practice, while its historical reception shows wide differences in interpretation and application. In Nigeria, these differences are influenced by denominational traditions, cultural ideas of modesty, and changing gender roles in the church and society. The study argues that strict universal application may ignore cultural meaning, while purely relative interpretation may weaken theological depth. It concludes that head covering is best understood as a culturally shaped theological symbol that expresses order, honour, and reverence in worship rather than a fixed trans cultural command, and it calls for a balanced interpretation that combines biblical faithfulness with cultural awareness in contemporary Nigerian Christianity.