What is the Difference in Modest Dress Code between Orthodox Jewish and Apostolic Pentecostal Women?
The modest dress codes for women amongst Orthodox Jews and Apostolic Pentecostals share a common commitment to covering the body, but they differ in specific practices and interpretations influenced by their respective religious observances and traditions.
Orthodox Judaism reflects a desire to maintain humility and respect in appearance, adhering closely to interpretations of Jewish law (Halacha) regarding dress and personal conduct. There is an emphasis is on avoiding tight or revealing clothing.
Pentecostals emphasize external reserve as a reflection of inner spirituality and separation from worldly influences Dress standards are often articulated by church leadership and vary somewhat among different congregations.
Clothing:
Orthodox Jewish women typically wear long skirts or dresses that cover the knees. The clothing also covers the elbows and collarbones, often with sleeves extending to the wrists. Necklines are kept above the collar bone and low cut clothing is avoided.
Apostolic Pentecostal women typically wear dresses or skirts that extend below the knees. Pants or shorts are generally avoided due to understandings of religious standards. Sleeves are often longer, covering at least shoulders or elbows. Cleavage cover is encouraged.
Hair Covering:
Most Orthodox Jewish women typically cover their hair after marriage. This can be done using wigs (Sheitels), scarves (tichels), hats, or snoods. The type of hair covering differs by community. Unmarried women do not cover their hair.
In some Apostolic Pentecostal communities, women might choose to cover their hair with a scarf or other head covering during prayer, worship services, or other religious ceremonies. This Apostolic Pentecostal women may wear head coverings more broadly as a sign of submission to their spouse, religious leaders and God.
Cultural Influence and Flexibility:
Orthodox Jewish Women: Dress code can vary significantly based on the specific community (e.g., Hasidic, Yeshivish, Modern Orthodox, and Israeli National Religious), level of religious observance and the cultural subsets of Western Ashkenazi Jews and Eastern Sephardic Jews.
Apostolic Pentecostal Women: Generally adhere to a more uniform standard of dress across different congregations, with similarities in practice. Southern states tend to be more conservative, while Western and Northeastern states might incorporate more contemporary elements. Northern and Midwestern states often find a balance between these extremes.
Adornment:
Orthodox Jewish Women: There are no specific prohibitions against makeup or jewelry, although more conservative communities may discourage excessive adornment.
Apostolic Pentecostal Women: Avoid makeup and jewelry entirely, emphasizing a natural and simple appearance.
Body Modification
Both Orthodox Jewish and Apostolic Pentecostal Women do not allow tattoos!
Interestingly both groups use the same biblical reference from Leviticus 19:28: “You hall not make gashes in your flesh for the dead, or incise any marks on yourselves: I am the Lord.” This verse explicitly prohibits the practice of making permanent marks on the body.
In summary, while both Orthodox Jewish and Apostolic Pentecostal women adhere to similar modesty standards in dress, there are some variations in hair coverings and accessories. Each group follows the specific teachings and interpretations of Torah/Bible/Scriptural, the practices of local and regional traditions, and in sometimes distinct cultural backgrounds.
