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Why Do Jews Wear a Yamaka?

Thursday, April 23, 2009
 

Instructions

Kippot

  • Step 1:
    According to the Talmud (Jewish Religious Commentary), wearing the kippah reminds Jews that there is a higher authority, and it reminds us that God is always watching. The Yarmulke is one method used to bring out our respect for God.

Shul

  • Step 1:
    It is quite simple to be mindful of the Lord when we are at Shul, the time spent breaking bread together on Shabat. The Lord wants his servants to be seeking his ways in the ordinary lives as well; the kippah serves as a tangible reminder of his presence.

Etymology

  • Step 1:
    Etymologically, the Yiddish word yarmulke is derived from the Aramaic "yira malka," which means the awe of the king. Looking back even further, one can see a link to the word melech, a word that is Hebrew for king. The Hebrew name for the head covering (kippah) simply means dome.

Observant

  • Step 1:
    Wearing a kippah proclaims that a person is proud to be a Jew. Even non-observant Jews will wear a Kippah when they visit Israel. Certainly, they will wear one when entering a synagogue.

Symbol

  • Step 1:
    The wearing of the kippah does not stop some people from committing indiscretions. The yarmulke does not have any mystical or magical powers; it is simply a symbol of the person's heritage and devotion to God.

Resources

Photo/Video Credit

http://www.archangelswisdom.com/judaismjewishjudaictalmudyarmulkewithstarofdavid.jpg

Why Do Jews Wear a Yamaka? Provided by eHow.com
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