26 June 2003
Question
if u don't mind i wanted to ask u a question reagarding the covering of the head with a yamaka or a hat. let me prephasis by saying i don't mean to be disrespectful in anyway. my question is: if i know covering the head recognizes that G-d is above u, why do i have to actually cover the head as long as i know he is above me in my heart and mind? jonny
Answer
Firstly, it is never disrespectful to ask a sincere question.
The Yarmulka or Kippa is a bit like a wedding ring. A wedding ring is a sign that you belong to someone. If you anyway think of your loved-one all the time, do you no longer need to wear the ring? Is a ring only worn until you love each other enough not to need a reminder?
Of course not, because: 1) just because you "know" that you're married, doesn't mean you won't "forget" when temptation comes your way. 2) the ring isn't only a symbol for the one wearing it. it also has a message for everyone else who sees it, that they should be aware that this person belongs to somebody else, so don't mess 3) if you see marriage as a burden, then you wear the ring like a ball and chain. but if you are in a relationship that is deep and real, then you wear the ring with pride, because the very existence of the ring means that there is someone out there that loves you more than anyone in the world.
Same with the Yarmulka. 1) Only a very holy person could be conscious of G-d absolutely all the time. The rest of us (men) need something very tangible to remind us that He is always there. 2) It is also to identify ourselves as Jews in the eyes of those around us, that we "belong" to something and Someone. 3) And we wear it with pride, because the Jewish people has an intimate love relationship with G-d. True love is with you all the time, and you want to tell the world!
Keep well,
