Do you have a question about the Orthodox faith? If so, please feel free to ask. It could be a question related to Liturgy and worship, or a question about cultural practices. Honest answers based on the theology of the church, and patristic sources (the ancient fathers of the church) will be provided. The recent glorification of Matushka Olga in Alaska sparked much interest. Among the questions raised were those of cultural practices: why did all of the women have their heads covered?It is true that this is a cultural practice, but it has historical significance and is rooted in theological principles. It has nothing to do with gender bias, or an attempt to subjugate women. It pre-dates Christianity, and was even common in Catholicism and Protestantism until the latter part of the 20th Century. In the book of Genesis, we read about Rebekah, on a journey to meet her future husband, Isaac: “Then Rebekah lifted her eyes, and when she saw Isaac she dismounted from her camel; for she had said to the servant, “Who is this man walking in the field to meet us?” The servant said, “It is my master.” So she took a veil and covered herself” (Genesis 24:64-65). Her godly discretion is a model for women today. She did not flaunt her physical beauty. Rather, she veiled herself, increasing her allure through an outward display of modesty. Women’s head coverings are one of the many points of similarity between Israel and the Church. Godly women had covered their heads for thousands of years prior to the advent of Christ. And when the New Testament Church was born, godly women continued the practice. In St. Paul’s first epistle to the church in Corinth, he instructs everyone to follow the holy traditions which have been received: “Now, I praise you, brethren, that you remember me in all things and keep the traditions just as I delivered them to you” (1 Corinthians 11:2). Women’s head coverings are one of the holy traditions which the Church had received, and St. Paul says that head coverings manifest honor, in the context of worship: “Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonors his head.” (1 Corinthians 11:4); “Every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head” (1 Corinthians 11:5). The message is pretty clear: It is honorable for a woman to wear head coverings during worship, but it is dishonorable for men to wear them. This is why men remove their hats for prayer, even to this day. There is a symbolism and significance dealing with modesty and humility: modesty isn’t just about attire but also about attitude. Covering the hair is a symbolic act of humbling oneself before God. Covering one’s hair can also be seen as a tangible commitment to one’s faith. It symbolizes dedication and a deep spiritual connection. As with many traditions, perspectives on hair covering have evolved. Some view it as outdated, while others see it as an essential link to their spiritual heritage.Today’s feminist movements often question traditional practices. However, many Orthodox women argue that covering their hair is a personal choice, deeply rooted in faith and not enforced patriarchy.