The Bible does not explicitly prohibit or permit Christian women from wearing makeup or jewelry. However, there are principles and examples in Scripture that can guide women in making wise, godly choices about their appearance and adornment.
Principles for Christian Women’s Appearance
Modesty and Propriety
Christian women are called to dress and present themselves modestly, with decency and propriety (1 Timothy 2:9). Makeup and jewelry should not be worn lavishly or to draw inappropriate attention. The focus should be on developing inner beauty more than overdone outward adornment.
Avoiding Ostentation and Excess
In both the Old and New Testaments, God’s people are instructed to avoid wearing gold, pearls, expensive clothes or hairstyles as status symbols or to flaunt wealth (1 Timothy 2:9, 1 Peter 3:3-5). Makeup and jewelry should reflect humility, not vanity or arrogance.
Focus on the Heart
Outward adornment is less important than the inward condition of the heart and character (1 Peter 3:3-4). Makeup and jewelry should reflect a gentle and quiet spirit, not self-centeredness. Righteous character matters most to God.
Glorifying God
In whatever Christian women do, including how they dress and wear jewelry or makeup, their goal should be to glorify God, not draw attention to themselves (1 Corinthians 10:31, 1 Peter 3:3-4). God looks at the heart more than outward appearance.
Liberty in Christ
Within biblical principles, makeup and jewelry are matters of personal conscience and Christian freedom for women today (Romans 14:1-13). Women should follow their convictions based on study of Scripture, guidance of the Holy Spirit and being sensitive to others.
Biblical Examples for Women
Old Testament Jewish Culture
In ancient Jewish culture, makeup and jewelry were commonly worn by women, as evidenced by various Old Testament references (Genesis 24:53, Isaiah 3:18-23, Ezekiel 16:11-13). However, ostentatious displays were associated with pride and idolatry.
New Testament Greco-Roman Culture
In the Greek and Roman cultures of New Testament times, many women wore decorative cosmetics, jewelry, and elaborate hairstyles as status symbols. The apostles cautioned against such showiness (1 Timothy 2:9, 1 Peter 3:3).
Example of Sarah (Genesis 12, 18, 20)
Sarah, a righteous woman and wife of Abraham, is honored in Scripture as a model of respect and beauty. She wore modest gold jewelry typical of her culture (Genesis 12:11-16, 20:14-16), but is primarily praised for her inner virtues.
Example of Esther (Esther 2, 4-5)
As a Persian queen, Esther underwent 12 months of beauty treatments including cosmetics and jewelry (Esther 2:12-13). Yet her courage in risking her life to save her people makes her an example of noble character and faith.
Example of the Virtuous Wife (Proverbs 31:10-31)
This exemplary wife wore tasteful, valuable clothing and jewelry as fitting her means (Proverbs 31:21-22). However, her focus was on honoring God, caring for her household, and serving others with strength and wisdom.
Example of the Bride of Christ (Revelation 21:2)
In depicting the heavenly Jerusalem, Scripture metaphorically portrays the Church, the bride of Christ, as beautifully adorned with gold, jewels and fine linen (Revelation 21:2, 9-21). Yet the true beauty is the bride’s purified righteousness.
Key Considerations for Christian Women
Heart Attitude and Motives
Rather than for vain display, women should wear makeup and jewelry with pure motives to honor God, bless their husbands, and serve others with grace and modesty (Matthew 6:21, 1 Corinthians 10:31, 1 Peter 3:1-6).
Cultural Appropriateness and Discretion
Choices about makeup and jewelry should take into account cultural norms and expectations, not violating local standards of decency and propriety (1 Corinthians 9:19-23). Sensitivity to how it affects others is important.
Husband’s Preference and Approval
Christian wives should consider their husbands’ tastes and desires regarding jewelry and cosmetics. A wife’s appearance can impact her husband, for good or bad. However, his authority is not absolute (Ephesians 5:22-33, 1 Peter 3:1-6).
Setting an Example for Others
More mature believers should exercise wisdom in their use of makeup and jewelry to set a godly example for younger women to follow (Titus 2:3-5). Younger women should respectfully heed their counsel.
Stewardship of Finances
Expensive makeup and jewelry may not be the best use of a limited budget. Women should practice responsible stewardship and wise financial management (Luke 16:10-13, Romans 14:7-9).
Sincerity, Conscience and Conviction
A clear conscience before God is vital. Women should follow their personal convictions according to their study of Scripture, guided by the Spirit (Acts 24:16, Romans 14:5-9, 23). Legalism and judgmental attitudes should be avoided.
Questions Christian Women Should Ask
Here are some questions Christian women can ask themselves when making decisions about wearing makeup and jewelry:
- Is my motive to glorify God or draw attention to myself?
- Does my appearance reflect modesty, self-control, and godly virtues?
- Do I want to please God or impress others?
- Is it appropriate for my culture and situation?
- How would my choice affect or stumble others?
- What is my husband’s view of this decision?
- Is this a wise use of money or promoting excess?
- Am I sincerely following my biblically-informed conscience?
Concluding Guidance for Christian Women
The Bible does not prohibit all makeup and jewelry for Christian women but emphasizes inner beauty, modest dress, purity of heart, right motives and wise conduct as more important. Outward adornment can glorify God but should not be excessive. Women should apply biblical principles in their unique context and culture under the Spirit’s guidance. Legalistic rules should be avoided in matters of conscience. A woman’s meek and gentle spirit is precious to God.