"Shalom aleichem" without a yarmulka

Hi,

One is not supposed to say "Shalom aleichem" without a yarmulka, because the word "Shalom" in the greeting is a reference to Gd ("Gd be with you").

However, many authorities permit a person to greet someone who lacks a yarmulka with "Shalom aleichem", despite the concern that this person will then respond in kind. One reason to permit it is to prevent strife when he fails to offer a greeting; another is because people who say "Shalom aleichem" tend not to think of "Shalom" as a Name of Gd in that context.

(Rabbi Ephraim Greenblatt, Rivivot Ephraim 1:7:1)

Have a great day,
Mordechai

Davening without a yarmulka

Hi,

A man who prays, and then realizes his head was uncovered, must pray again. Because some of the religions of our non-Jewish neighbours require prayer with one's head uncovered, Jews are specifically to avoid that when praying. [See the comments for more regarding women.]

(Rav Moshe Feinstein, Igrot Moshe Orach Chaim 4:40:14)

Have a great day,
Mordechai

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