Topical Encyclopedia
The topic of women wearing men's clothing is addressed in the Bible, specifically in the Old Testament, and has been a subject of discussion among theologians and scholars throughout history. The primary scripture that addresses this issue is found in
Deuteronomy 22:5, which states: "A woman must not wear men’s clothing, nor shall a man put on women’s clothing, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the LORD your God" .
This verse is part of the Mosaic Law, given to the Israelites as a set of guidelines for living a life that is pleasing to God. The prohibition against cross-dressing is understood to be rooted in the preservation of the distinct roles and identities of men and women as ordained by God. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a strong emphasis on maintaining clear distinctions between genders, which was seen as a reflection of the order and design established by God in creation.
From a conservative Christian perspective, this commandment is often interpreted as a call to uphold the God-given differences between men and women, not only in clothing but also in roles and responsibilities. The underlying principle is that God created men and women with unique characteristics and purposes, and these should be respected and honored in all aspects of life, including attire.
The application of this verse in contemporary times varies among different Christian communities. Some hold to a literal interpretation, advocating for distinct clothing styles for men and women as a way to honor biblical teachings. Others view the verse as culturally specific to ancient Israel and emphasize the broader principle of honoring gender distinctions without prescribing specific dress codes.
In addition to
Deuteronomy 22:5, other biblical passages reinforce the importance of gender distinctions. For example,
1 Corinthians 11:14-15 discusses the natural differences between men and women, using hair length as an example of how these distinctions are to be maintained: "Does not nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a disgrace to him, but that if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For long hair is given to her as a covering" .
The New Testament also addresses the issue of modesty and propriety in dress. In
1 Timothy 2:9-10, Paul instructs women to dress modestly and with decency, focusing on good deeds rather than outward adornment: "Likewise, I want the women to adorn themselves with respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, as is proper for women who profess to worship God" .
While the specific cultural expressions of clothing may change over time, the biblical emphasis on maintaining gender distinctions and modesty remains a guiding principle for many conservative Christians. The discussion around women wearing men's clothing continues to be informed by a desire to honor God's design for gender and to live in a way that reflects His order and purpose.
Nave's Topical Index
Deuteronomy 22:5The woman shall not wear that which pertains to a man, neither shall a man put on a woman's garment: for all that do so are abomination to the LORD your God.
Nave's Topical Index
Library
Chaldaean Civilization
... ceremonies"Divorce: the rights of wealthy women; woman and ... recited; at another time
it was forbidden to eat ... to change the body-linen, to wear white garments ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm
Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ...
... Julia et Papia Poppea it had been forbidden under a ... they were among the number of
married men, and let ... The same thing we hold regarding women, and freely to ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period i the imperial state.htm
Seasonable Counsel: Or, Advice to Sufferers.
... that is not prescribed in the word of God is forbidden. ... four score and five persons
that did wear a linen ... edge of the sword, both men and women, children and ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/seasonable counsel or advice to.htm
The Pilgrim's Progress
... and so put themselves under those laws that are provided for the protection of women
(Deut.22:23-27). But the men still made their approach upon them, with ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the pilgrims progress.htm
Resources
What does the Bible have to say about women missionaries? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from what the Bible says about Jesus and women? | GotQuestions.orgSince women preachers can be just as good as men, doesn't that mean they are called to preach? | GotQuestions.orgWomen: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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