The kippah, also known as a yarmulke, is a small round cap traditionally worn by Jewish men during prayer, religious study, and other sacred occasions. The wearing of the kippah is an ancient tradition that originated over 2,000 years ago as a sign of respect and reverence before God. Though the specifics of how and why this tradition began are not entirely clear, the kippah has become an enduring symbol of Jewish faith and identity.
The Hebrew word “kippah” literally means “dome” and refers to the round shape of the cap. “Yarmulke” comes from the Polish/Ukrainian word “jarmulka” which also means “skullcap.” In the Bible, the kippah is not expressly mentioned or commanded to be worn. However, there are several passages that refer to some kind of head covering being used during prayer and worship, such as:
- “Bind your turban on your head” (Ezekiel 24:17 ESV)
- “Everyone who prays or prophesies with something on his head disgraces his head” (1 Corinthians 11:4 ESV)
Based on these and other references, wearing some sort of head covering appears to have been a common cultural practice in biblical times. The kippah likely evolved as a symbol of piety and submission to God’s presence. By covering one’s head during prayer and study, a person showed humility before the Almighty. Donning the kippah was a tangible way to fulfill God’s command: “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man” (Ecclesiastes 12:13 ESV).
Today, the wearing of a kippah is an established tradition in both religious and cultural Jewish life. Most Jewish men wear a kippah at all times to fulfill the biblical command to “serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul” (Deuteronomy 11:13 ESV). For Orthodox Jews, wearing a kippah is mandatory and reflects one’s awareness of God above. Even non-Orthodox Jews typically wear a kippah during prayer services, religious ceremonies, and other occasions connected with Judaism. The kippah serves as a “physical reminder of God’s presence atop one’s head” (Chabad.org).
Beyond religious significance, the kippah has also become a cultural symbol of Jewish identity. Much like a cross identifies someone as a Christian, a kippah instantly identifies an individual as Jewish. The kippah is one of the most visible and recognizable markers of Jewish faith and peoplehood. Author Thomas Mann described the kippah as “the mark of a Jew just as the cross is the mark of a Christian” (Chabad.org). For many Jews, wearing a kippah is an expression of community, tradition, and shared history.
There are many styles, sizes, and varieties of kippah today. Here are four of the most common types:
- Crocheted (or knitted) kippah – These are the most popular everyday kippahs made of cotton or synthetic yarn. Originally from Europe, the crocheted kippah is lightweight and allows air circulation.
- Suede kippah – These kippahs are made from soft suede leather. They are more durable and formal than crocheted kippahs.
- Velvet kippah – These are fashioned from velvet fabric and are worn on the most formal occasions like weddings and bar mitzvahs.
- Bukharian kippah – A large, domed kippah popular among Sephardic Jews. Taller and tighter-fitting than other styles.
The size and style a Jewish man chooses to wear can depend on community customs, personal preference, and level of religious observance. But regardless of these variations, the essence and symbolic meaning remain constant – the kippah is a physical reminder of God’s presence and authority.
The only times a kippah is traditionally not worn are during sleeping, bathing, swimming, and sports for safety reasons. Some rabbis also allow kippah removal for safety concerns in dangerous neighborhoods where wearing a kippah could make one a target for attack. Otherwise, Jewish law calls for wearing a head covering as much as possible.
Women are not required to wear a kippah under traditional Jewish law, although some do. In recent decades the practice of women wearing kippot has increased alongside broader trends of expanding women’s roles in Judaism. Female scholars, activists, and progressive congregations are increasingly adopting the kippah as a sign of Jewish identity and spiritual engagement.
Here are several reasons why the kippah remains an essential symbol and practice in the Jewish tradition:
- Shows reverence before God – As a “physical reminder of God’s presence,” the kippah reflects humility and respect before the Creator. It symbolizes taking yoke of heaven.
- Reminder to live righteously – By wearing a kippah, a Jew acknowledges the duty to live according to God’s commands and walk in God’s ways.
- Orthodox requirement – For Orthodox Jews, wearing a kippah is not optional but obligatory as part of halacha (Jewish law). Not wearing one would be considered inappropriate and disrespectful.
- Identification with Jewish people – The kippah has become a powerful identifier and unifier that connects Jews with each other and their collective past.
- Equalizer – Wearing a kippah reminds both the rich and poor that all stand equal before God. Status, wealth, and position do not matter.
At the same time, there is diversity of opinion across Judaism when it comes to wearing a kippah:
- Orthodox Jews wear a kippah at all times except during sleeping, bathing, swimming, etc. Not wearing a kippah would be seen as a sin.
- Conservative Jews also wear kippot during prayer, study, and sacred times but may be more selective when wearing them publicly.
- Reform and secular Jews are more flexible, with many reserving the kippah for synagogue services and life cycle events.
There is no direct biblical commandment to wear a physical head covering like a kippah. The tradition stems from cultural practices of ancient Israel and interpretations of various scriptural passages. Yet for millions of Jews worldwide today, the kippah remains an important religious and cultural symbol that connects them to God, community, and heritage.
In summary, the significance of the kippah throughout history includes:
- Showing reverence during prayer, study, and sacred times
- Fulfilling the biblical ideal of living life mindful of God’s presence
- Demonstrating humility and submission to God’s authority for observant Jews
- Identifying with the community and continuity of the Jewish people
- Serving as an equalizer among all Jewish men
For religious Jews, wearing a kippah is a sacred act of faith. For all Jews, it is a powerful unifier that ties them to God, Torah, and thousands of years of living tradition. Though a small head covering, the kippah carries enormous religious and cultural weight for Jews across history and around the world.