Wearing the Yarmulke

• The yarmulke is worn by Jews as a sign of respect for God and an acknowledgment of God's presence above. It is also viewed as a device to mark the division between Earth and Heaven. Many members of the Jewish religion continue to wear the yarmulke; however, in spite of their faith, many do not.
  
  

Law or Custom?

• Jews have covered their heads during religious ceremonies for centuries; however, there is a debate over whether or not the wearing of a yarmulke is an actual law or simply a custom. Today, Orthodox and many Conservative Jews will wear the yarmulke constantly, while Reform Jews will often wear the yarmulke only on religious and ceremonial occasions, if at all.
  
  

Variations

• Yarmulkes come in many fabrics, designs, and colors, although members of the Chassidic (or "Hasidic") branch of Orthodox Judaism will wear only the traditional black yarmulke. A hat, even a baseball cap or other head covering, can substitute for a yarmulke. For security, though, many members of the Orthodox Jewish community also wear yarmulkes underneath hats and caps.
  
  

Yarmulkes and Women

• Traditionally, women in Judaism often wore head coverings but not yarmulkes. Today, many women, particularly in Conservative Judaism, are also opting to wear the yarmulke.
  
  

Further Debate

• In recent times, much discussion has taken place regarding the occasions when it may be acceptable for yarmulke-wearing Jews to refrain from wearing a yarmulke. As the website, Judaism 101, points out, some religious scholars have said that removing a yarmulke for job interviews, for example, is not improper, while other religious scholars disagree.