Make-up and jewelry have always been central to cultural definitions of beauty. For many Christian women, the decision to wear them is fraught with spiritual implications. Our primary focus here is not to enforce a specific rule or decree, but to provide insight and stimulate thoughtful discussion based on biblical teachings. We aim to inspire reflection on how these principles align with personal faith and practice.
Examining Biblical Teachings on Adornment
When interpreting the Bible, we often come across verses that may seem to contradict each other. For instance, concerning the issue of adornment, you will find both affirmation and caution in different passages.
For example, the description of the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31. This woman is depicted as one who cares for her household diligently, exemplifying the virtues of hard work, wisdom, and kindness. Her beauty does not rely on external adornments but rather on the fear of the Lord, the foundation of her character (Proverbs 31:10-31). The emphasis here is on inner beauty.
The book of Ezekiel offers a more nuanced view, where God uses the metaphor of Jerusalem as a woman to whom He gave splendid adornments: bracelets, necklaces, and a beautiful crown (Ezekiel 16:11-13). This metaphor illustrates the grace and favor God bestowed upon Jerusalem. It doesn’t condemn adornment but uses it symbolically.
The New Testament also provides insights. In 1 Timothy and 1 Peter, we are reminded that our primary focus should be on cultivating a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight (1 Timothy 2:9-10; 1 Peter 3:3-4). These passages caution women against relying on external adornments for their worth or attraction, urging them to invest more in their inner spiritual character.
The caution isn’t an outright prohibition but a call to prioritize inner beauty over outward appearance. It doesn’t mean Christians should reject make-up or jewelry altogether; instead, it calls for moderation and propriety, underlining that these shouldn’t be the basis of a woman’s value or attractiveness.
Proverbs 31 places emphasis on inner beauty over physical adornment. Ezekiel’s metaphorical use of adornment shows its symbolic significance in demonstrating God’s favor, rather than condemning its use. The New Testament reinforces the importance of inner spiritual beauty, suggesting that while adornments are not forbidden, they should not supersede the cultivation of a gentle and quiet spirit. The biblical view, therefore, promotes balance: it does not outright condemn the use of make-up or jewelry but warns against relying on them for worth or attraction.
Historical and Cultural Context of Biblical References
The Bible, while timeless in its wisdom and guidance, was written within a specific historical and cultural context. This context can shed light on the biblical teachings regarding adornment.
In biblical times, jewelry was often associated with wealth and status. This is evident in Genesis when Abraham’s servant gifts Rebekah nose rings and bracelets, symbolizing the wealth of Isaac’s family (Genesis 24:22). On the other hand, excessive jewelry was also associated with idolatry and pride, as seen in the case of the Israelites who donated their earrings to create the Golden Calf while Moses was on Mount Sinai (Exodus 32:2-4).
Make-up, too, carries certain cultural implications in the Bible. Jezebel, a figure often portrayed negatively, is described as painting her eyes (2 Kings 9:30). Her use of make-up has been interpreted not as a critique of make-up itself, but of her deceit and manipulation.
In New Testament times, the context had slightly changed. The apostle Paul, in his letters to Timothy and Peter, warned against the excessive use of adornments (1 Timothy 2:9-10; 1 Peter 3:3-4). This was not an indictment of make-up or jewelry but a caution against the societal trends of the time where excessive adornment was associated with extravagance, vanity, and societal status. The focus was to remind the believers that their worth came from their godly character and not from external adornments.
Paul’s advice was intended for a society where external appearances were often given undue importance. His words were directed not against the adornments themselves, but against the immoderate pursuit of physical attractiveness at the expense of inner beauty.
The historical and cultural contexts of biblical times shaped the references to make-up and jewelry in the Bible. Jewelry was often linked to wealth and status, but also to idolatry and pride in excess. Make-up carried negative connotations in some contexts, not as a critique of its use, but as a symbol of deceit. In the New Testament era, excessive adornment was linked to vanity and status, leading to cautionary advice from Paul. The biblical teachings do not condemn adornment, but caution against its excessive use and the neglect of inner beauty.
Applying Biblical Principles to Modern Times
The principles from the Bible offer wisdom and guidance for contemporary Christian women navigating the issue of make-up and jewelry.
Consider the principle of modesty. Both Paul and Peter urged for modesty in appearance, encouraging focus on inner beauty rather than ostentatious adornment (1 Timothy 2:9-10; 1 Peter 3:3-4). This doesn’t dictate abandonment of make-up or jewelry, but rather points to a moderate use of such adornments that doesn’t overshadow one’s inner virtues.
Then there’s the principle of conscience. As highlighted by Paul in the book of Romans, each person should be convinced in their own mind about matters that aren’t expressly forbidden or commanded in the scriptures (Romans 14:5). This principle encourages individuals to reflect on their choices, including the use of make-up or jewelry, and determine whether these choices align with their Christian faith.
Also significant is the principle of not causing others to stumble. As followers of Christ, we are called to consider how our actions might impact others, being mindful not to cause them to stumble in their faith (Romans 14:13). If, for instance, wearing flashy jewelry or excessive make-up could potentially distract others or cause them to struggle with issues like envy or lust, then it might be loving and wise to refrain.
Lastly, the principle of liberty in Christ comes into play. The apostle Paul reminds us that we are free in Christ and that this freedom should be used not for self-indulgence, but to serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13). This doesn’t impose a ban on the use of make-up or jewelry, but invites us to consider how we use our freedom to honour God and bless others.
Applying biblical principles to the issue of make-up and jewelry encourages modesty, self-reflection, consideration for others, and the use of our freedom in Christ. Modesty calls for a balanced approach, while the principle of conscience prompts personal reflection and discernment. Considering others asks us to be mindful of our influence, and the freedom we have in Christ invites us to use such freedom in ways that honour God. None of these principles impose an outright ban on make-up or jewelry but offer guidance for their thoughtful and considerate use.
Bridging Faith and Adornment
We’ve navigated through the rich tapestry of biblical teachings, historical context, and practical principles concerning make-up and jewelry for Christian women. Our faith guides us towards inner beauty, emphasizing the virtues of modesty and character over external appearance. The use of make-up and jewelry, while not condemned, is cautioned to be exercised with thoughtfulness and balance, ensuring it doesn’t overshadow the radiance of our spiritual character.
As you consider your own perspective on this topic, consider these questions:
- How do your personal practices around make-up and jewelry align with the biblical principles discussed?
- In what ways can you ensure that your external appearance does not overshadow your inner spiritual beauty?
- How can you use your freedom in Christ to honor God in your choices about make-up and jewelry?
Every choice we make as followers of Christ can be an act of worship, even in something as simple as our personal appearance. Each day is an opportunity to let the love and grace of Christ shine through us, in our words, actions, and even our adornments. Let’s let our true beauty be the reflection of our faith, a light that can shine brightly in a world that needs the hope and love of Christ.
