Yarmulke Vs Kippah: What are the Differences and Similarities?
Headwear has always played a significant role in cultures all over the world. From the top hats of the English to the colorful turban of Sikhs, every culture has its headgear. Similarly, Jewish communities have headwear too. Yarmulkes and Kippahs are the two most common headwear that Jewish men wear. Both are used interchangeably, but are they the same? And what makes them different? Let’s explore.
What is a Yarmulke?
A Yarmulke is a Hebrew word for a skullcap that Jewish men wear as a sign of respect and reverence to God. It is one of the most popular and widely recognized forms of Jewish clothing. The Yarmulke is a small cloth usually made from suede or velvet material. It covers only the top of the head and is usually round in shape. The Yarmulke is also referred to as Kippah.
What is a Kippah?
Kippah is a Hebrew word that means “dome” or “covering.” It is also known as a skullcap that Jewish men wear as a sign of respect for the holy presence of God. Kippah is usually made from fabric or leather and is round in shape. It usually covers the entire top of the head and sometimes, the back of the neck.
Comparison
While the terms Yarmulke and Kippah are sometimes used interchangeably, they differ slightly in terms of origin, style, and purpose. Here are some of the differences and similarities between the two:
Origin:
Yarmulke is a Yiddish word that originated from Eastern Europe. The term Kippah, on the other hand, is a Hebrew word that comes from the Bible. So, the language is the main difference between Yarmulke vs Kippah.
Style:
The Yarmulke is traditionally made from suede or velvet material and is usually round in shape. It is worn to show respect and reverence towards God. Kippah, on the other hand, is made from fabric or leather and is typically larger and covers the entire head rather than just the top.
Purpose:
The purpose of both Yarmulke and Kippah is to show respect towards God. Wearing them signifies that Jewish men are aware of the presence of God and want to show their reverence towards Him.
Similarities:
Despite the few differences mentioned, both Yarmulke and Kippah serve the same purpose. They symbolize the respect and reverence of Jewish men towards God.
FAQs about Yarmulke and Kippah
Here are some frequently asked questions about Yarmulke and Kippah:
Q. Is it compulsory for Jewish men to wear Yarmulke or Kippah all the time?
A. It is customary for Jewish men to wear a Yarmulke or Kippah when praying, studying, or entering a synagogue. However, not all Jewish men wear them all the time.
Q. Are Yarmulkes and Kippahs only for men?
A. Yarmulkes and Kippahs are mostly worn by Jewish men, but some women also wear them as a sign of respect and reverence towards God.
Q. Can non-Jewish people wear Yarmulkes or Kippahs?
A. Yes, non-Jewish people can wear Yarmulkes or Kippahs when visiting a synagogue or attending a Jewish event as a sign of respect towards Jewish customs.
Conclusion
Headwear has always been an essential part of Jewish tradition and culture. The Yarmulke and Kippah are two types of headwear that Jewish men wear as a sign of respect and reverence towards God. While both terms are used interchangeably, they are somewhat different in terms of origin, style, and purpose. Both Yarmulke and Kippah are symbols of tradition and respect that Jewish people have maintained for generations.