Don
1. Shame from not meeting human expectations
In the context of
1 Corinthians 11, Paul is addressing a specific issue related to worship and the roles of men and women. The focus is on honoring God and maintaining order in worship, rather than human expectations.
2. Eve and the veil
The question about Eve and the veil is irrelevant to the discussion, as the context of
1 Corinthians 11 is about worship in the early Christian church, not about pre-Fall or pre-clothing practices.
3. Long hair or veil as symbols
While both long hair and a veil could serve as visual symbols, in the context of
1 Corinthians 11 Paul is specifically addressing the use of a veil (or covering) as a symbol of authority and respect in worship.
4. OT command and progressive revelation
The argument that the OT doesn't command the veil is irrelevant. Progressive revelation is a valid concept, as God's revelation to humanity unfolds throughout Scripture.
5. Reconciling vv. 5 and 15
Verse 5 addresses the specific situation of women prophesying or praying in worship, while v. 15 discusses the general principle of long hair being a natural covering for women. The two verses are not contradictory; rather, they are supportive.
6. Reconciling vv. 5 and 15 (continued)
The commentary reconciles the verses by explaining that v. 5 addresses a specific situation, while v. 15 provides a general principle.
7. Tradition of veiling
The tradition of veiling is not tied to an OT command. It is commanded by Paul for the NT church.
8. God commanding the veil
God's commands transcend cultural practices.
9. Nature's examples and symbolism
The supposed contradiction between the specificity of nature's examples (e.g., long hair) and the flexibility of symbolism (e.g., a 4" doily) can be resolved by recognizing that Paul is using natural examples to illustrate a principle, rather than providing an exhaustive list of acceptable symbols. The key is to understand the underlying principle of respect, authority, and worship, rather than getting bogged down in specific examples or symbols.