by Janet Mushi | 30 May 2019 08:46 pm05
Shalom, beloved child of God! Welcome as we dive into the Word of God, the only true light that guides our path in a dark world.
Today, we will briefly examine why Scripture instructs that a man should not wear clothing designed for a woman, and vice versa, and why this matters spiritually.
The foundational verse for this teaching is found in Deuteronomy 22:5:
“A woman must not wear men’s clothing, nor may a man put on a woman’s clothing, for whoever does these things is detestable to the Lord your God.” (NIV)
This command is part of the Mosaic Law, given to Israel as part of God’s holiness code. It underscores God’s desire for clear distinctions in His creation, reflecting His order and design.
The key to understanding this verse is the concept of clothing “suitable” for one’s gender, or more accurately, clothing that corresponds to one’s created nature. God made male and female distinctly (Genesis 1:27, NIV):
“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”
Because God created two distinct sexes, each with unique physical characteristics, clothing that aligns with those natural differences is expected. Men’s bodies tend to be muscular and angular; women’s bodies softer and curvier. Thus, clothes made for men generally suit a male’s frame, and clothes made for women suit a female’s.
The Bible does not condemn wearing clothes simply because they were manufactured for the opposite gender, but rather the intent and appearance of adopting the opposite gender’s role or identity.
This law is part of the broader biblical theme of holiness and order. The Old Testament repeatedly calls God’s people to be holy as He is holy (Leviticus 19:2, 1 Peter 1:16). God’s order in creation, including gender distinctions, reflects His holy nature.
When a man or woman deliberately blurs these distinctions through clothing, it goes against the created order God established. It is an act of rebellion and confusion, which Scripture calls “detestable” or “an abomination” (the Hebrew word to’evah) — a serious moral violation.
Paul reaffirms the importance of gender distinctions in the New Testament, emphasizing modesty and proper conduct (1 Timothy 2:9-10, NIV):
“I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God.”
The idea of something being “detestable” to God (Deuteronomy 22:5) means it deeply offends His holiness. God is offended when His created order is ignored or mocked because it reflects a rejection of His authority and design.
Recall Genesis 3:7, where Adam and Eve tried to cover their nakedness with fig leaves after sinning. They attempted to hide themselves with inadequate coverings, which symbolized their broken relationship with God. God provided proper garments made from animal skins (Genesis 3:21), showing His care for holiness and dignity.
Similarly, when men or women wear clothing inappropriate to their gender, it symbolizes a confusion of roles that God does not accept.
Today, many women wear pants and claim these are “women’s pants.” However, historically and culturally, pants were designed to fit the male body structure. There is no biblical support for women adopting men’s clothing styles as a norm.
Furthermore, modern examples like male bras reflect attempts to blur gender distinctions, which Scripture warns against. Such trends can lead believers astray and undermine God’s created order.
The Bible calls women to dress modestly and with dignity (1 Timothy 2:9), meaning clothing should cover appropriately and not emphasize sexual allure or confuse gender distinctions.
Paul writes that modesty and good deeds are the true adornments of a believer, not fashion trends or worldly styles.
Scripture warns that those who persist in disobedience and rebellion against God’s commands risk eternal separation from Him (Matthew 25:41; Revelation 21:8). The reality of hell is not a myth but a solemn truth.
Therefore, living according to God’s design in every area of life—including how we dress—is crucial to walking in holiness and avoiding His judgment.
It is my hope and prayer that God opens your eyes to see His truth clearly and to live in obedience, avoiding what offends Him.
May the Lord bless you abundantly and guide you in holiness!
Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2019/05/30/the-right-way-to-dress/
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