Monday, May 2, 2011

Minimum size of a yarmulka

Hi,

I've been contemplating a switch from the "topic" approach, to instead draw on responsa on a variety of topics. This will sacrifice continuity, but gain practical relevance. If you have thoughts or preferences on using this approach, please let me know.

Rav Shlomo Kluger ruled that a yarmulka must cover the majority of one’s head, both when reciting a blessing and when walking about. As a matter of strict law, though, Rav Moshe Feinstein ruled that this is not obligatory; a yarmulka must only cover enough of the head that an on-looker would deem the head “covered”.

(Rav Moshe Feinstein, Igrot Moshe Orach Chaim 1:1)

Have a great day,
Mordechai

5 comments:

  1. I think size doesn't really matter, just as long as the head is covered and the wearer truly believes in what a kippah symbolizes.

    -------
    Jasper @ Best Kippah

    ReplyDelete
  2. Lis/Jasper-
    But what does "the head is covered" mean?

    ReplyDelete
  3. "Head is covered"- I don't mean that the whole head is covered, as long as there's a kippah on regardless of the size, it's ok. Anyway, the kippah's symbol is important than the size of it. :)

    -------
    Jasper @ Best Kippah

    ReplyDelete
  4. Lis/Jasper-
    But you still need to define it - after all, would you consider a cap from a beer bottle to be a yarmulka?

    ReplyDelete
  5. You've got a point there. My bad. Maybe just as long as the kippah is seen on your head is ok.

    --------
    Jasper @ Best Kippah

    ReplyDelete