• 1 Timothy 2:9
    The Kingdom Interlinear Translation of the Greek Scriptures

    • 9 Ὡσαύτως As-thus γυναῖκας women ἐν in καταστολῇ dress κοσμίῳ adorning μετὰ with αἰδοῦς modesty καὶ and σωφροσύνης soundness of mind κοσμεῖν to be adorning ἑαυτάς, themselves, μὴ not ἐν in πλέγμασιν braiding καὶ and χρυσίῳ gold ἢ or μαργαρίταις pearls ἢ or ἱματισμῷ garb πολυτελεῖ, of much cost,

  • 1 Timothy 2:9
    The Emphasized Bible

    • 9 In the same way that the women—In seemly attire, with modesty and sober-mindedness be adorning themselves,—Not with plaitings and ornamentation of gold or with pearls or with costly apparel,—

  • 1 Timothy 2:9
    King James Version

    • 9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;

  • 1 Timothy Study Notes—Chapter 2
    New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (Study Edition)

    • 2:9

      appropriate: Or “respectable.” In this context, the Greek word used suggests dress that would be considered honorable and proper. Such attire would be suitable for one who professes to be a minister of God.

      with modesty: In this context, modesty includes taking into consideration one’s own conscience as well as the feelings or opinions of others. A modest Christian would avoid adornment that is considered indecent, that draws undue attention, or that is likely to offend or stumble others.​—1Co 10:32, 33.

      soundness of mind: Or “good judgment; sensibleness.”​—See study note on 1Ti 3:2.

      not with styles of hair braiding and gold or pearls or very expensive clothing: In Paul’s day, many pagan women made a showy display of their wealth or importance. They braided their hair in elaborate designs, set gold ornaments in the braids, and wore very costly garments along with an abundance of jewelry. Such displays were considered excessive even by many non-Christians. Showy adornment was certainly unbecoming to Christians, since it could stir up competition or even distract many from true worship. Paul thus urged Christian women to use good judgment and avoid going to extremes in their personal appearance. Similarly, Peter counseled faithful women to focus their attention, not on external adornment, but on “the secret person of the heart.”​—1Pe 3:3, 4; compare Pr 31:30.