Tonsures refer to the practice of cutting or shaving some or all of the hair on the scalp, traditionally as a sign of religious devotion or humility. This practice has been observed in various religious traditions, including Christianity, where it has been particularly associated with monastic life.

Biblical Context

While the Bible does not explicitly mention the practice of tonsure as it is understood in later Christian tradition, there are several passages that discuss hair in the context of religious vows and practices. One notable example is the Nazirite vow described in the Old Testament. Nazirites were individuals who took a vow of dedication to God, which included abstaining from cutting their hair for the duration of the vow. Numbers 6:5 states, "For the entire period of his vow of separation, no razor shall pass over his head. He must be holy until the time of his consecration to the LORD is complete; he must let the hair of his head grow long."

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul is noted to have taken a vow that involved shaving his head. Acts 18:18 records, "Paul stayed on in Corinth for quite some time before saying goodbye to the brothers. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea because of a vow he had taken."

Historical Development

The practice of tonsure became more formalized in the early Christian church, particularly within monastic communities. It served as a visible sign of a monk's renunciation of worldly fashion and vanity, symbolizing humility and a commitment to a life devoted to God. The most common form of tonsure in Western Christianity was the "crown" or "Roman" tonsure, where the top of the head was shaved, leaving a ring of hair around the scalp. This style was said to symbolize the crown of thorns worn by Christ.

In Eastern Christianity, the practice of tonsure also existed but often took different forms. The tonsure was typically performed during the rite of monastic initiation, marking the individual's entry into the monastic life.

Theological Significance

Tonsure, as a religious practice, carries deep theological significance. It is an outward expression of an inward commitment to God, reflecting the biblical call to humility and separation from worldly concerns. The act of cutting one's hair can be seen as a form of self-denial, aligning with the teachings of Jesus on taking up one's cross and following Him (Matthew 16:24: "Then Jesus told His disciples, 'If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me.'").

Furthermore, tonsure can be understood as a symbol of spiritual renewal and transformation. Just as the cutting of hair marks a physical change, so too does the commitment to a religious life signify a spiritual rebirth and dedication to living according to God's will.

Contemporary Practice

In modern times, the practice of tonsure has largely fallen out of use in many Christian denominations, though it remains a part of certain monastic traditions. Some orders within the Roman Catholic Church and Eastern Orthodox Church continue to observe tonsure as part of their monastic rites. The practice serves as a reminder of the historical and spiritual heritage of the Christian faith, emphasizing the values of humility, devotion, and separation from the world.

Preface of Dr. Martin Luther.
... in the Council, they would have all hands so full that the child's play and absurdity
of long gowns [official insignia], large tonsures, broad cinctures [or ...
/.../luther/the smalcald articles/preface of dr martin luther.htm

First Sunday in Lent
... Most adroitly does Paul score in particular our fine idle youths who draw interest
from their money, have an easy life, and imagine their tonsures, their long ...
//christianbookshelf.org/luther/epistle sermons vol ii/first sunday in lent.htm

The Third Part of the Articles.
... This holiness does not consist in albs, tonsures, long gowns, and other of their
ceremonies devised by them beyond Holy Scripture, but in the Word of God and ...
//christianbookshelf.org/luther/the smalcald articles/the third part of the.htm

Tonsures (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Tonsures (1 Occurrence). Leviticus 21:5 "'They
shall not shave their heads, neither shall they shave off ...
/t/tonsures.htm - 6k

To-night (15 Occurrences)
To-night. Tonight, To-night. Tonsures . Multi-Version Concordance To-night
(15 Occurrences). ... Tonight, To-night. Tonsures . Reference Bible.
/t/to-night.htm - 11k

Too (1003 Occurrences)

/t/too.htm - 6k

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