Sunday, August 19, 2012

Covering one's head when called to the Torah

Hi,

Am I required to cover my head when receiving an aliyah, or when serving as Baal Keriah?

The Rama wrote that one may not read the Torah with "an uncovered head." This statement seems odd, since we require a yarmulka for all of davening!

The Mishneh Berurah explained that the Rama was referring to a child, saying that he is exempt from the standard yarmulka requirement but he must wear one when reading from the Torah. On the other hand, the Aruch haShulchan understood that the Rama required a hat. Customs vary in this regard, and one should follow local practice.

It is worth noting that some authorities rule that an unmarried man should never cover his head with a tallis.

(Rama Orach Chaim 282:3; Magen Avraham 8:3; Aruch haShulchan Orach Chaim 282:10; Mishneh Berurah 282:16; Biur Halachah 14 sha'alah; Shaarei Ephraim 3:18; Tefillah l'Hilchasah 16:34; www.yutorah.org/lectures/lecture.cfm/726345)

Have a great day,
Mordechai

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