Is it common practice for devout christian women to wear veils in the Orthodox world?

Answer 1

Depends where in the world you are, and what the local tradition is in your area. I was born in Australia, and in my Russian parish it is the tradition that married women cover their heads (doesn't have to be a veil - can be a fancy hat, whatever) - especially if she is going to be receiving Holy Communion. Half an hour down the road is another parish where most of the women don't, full stop. Yet another parish I went to (Antiochian) where all females who went to Communion put a veil on, and took it off as soon as they were done. See what I mean by diversity? Someone above said it's because it pleases the angels - that is very true, St. Paul taught that.
But the main point to make is this - it is by no means any rule or RESTRICTION that any female cover their head in the Orthodox Church. If you want to talk restriction, the restriction is actually on MEN - men aren't allowed to wear any head covering in church AT ALL, EVER (unless they are a member of the clergy, in which case a blessing is given and the headwear is symbolic). I hope this helps whoever asked and all interested. God bless :)

Answer 2

It is quite common, although somewhat less here in the U.S., perhaps. The "veil" may be anything from a bandana to a mantilla (a lace triangular scarf) to a square scarf folded in a triangle or even a long rectangular scarf draped around the head and neck. Either way, it is a symbol of our position as children of God. We have as our model the Mother of God, who in Orthodox iconography is always portrayed with Her head covered.

Answer 3

I don't know what the practice is of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Women should cover their heads because of angels.

Answer 4

Actually this topic is to be covered (no pun intended) shortly by my fellowship group. Currently in our group it is required to wear a headcovering during times of prayer, teaching and worship gatherings.

Answer 5

christians do not have to wear burkhas