Significance of the kippah?

[iitb]

Hey all,

I'm getting a little "polite pressure" by members of the congregation I attend to start wearing a kippah. However, I really don't want to conform just for the sake of conformity; I'd like to know why I'm doing this.

So, what's the significance of wearing a kippah?

[simchat_torah]

Hi Justin,

I have seen a lot of articles, explanations, and rabbinical quotes on the subject. The best thing I've ever read that enlightened me more than any other is this article:

http://www.netzarim.cc/netzarim/headcoverings.htm
title: men's head coverings
written by: Rabbi Edward Levi Nydle B’nai Avraham Messianic Congregation


another small tidbit can be found here:
http://www.geocities.com/rabbi1.geo/beit.html

it is by T.O.M.J. (torah observant messianic jews)

I hope these help.

I do understand your frustration, I too underwent the same thing. It was easy to pick up the Tallit/tzitzit as it is so clearly stated in the Torah, but the Kippah took some adjusting.

Shalom to you as you weigh this out in your mind,
Yafet.

[simchat_torah]

I know most people don't really read links that are posted, etc... but Justin, I would really encourage you to at least read the first article. It really has settled a lot of issues for me.

[iitb]

I don't know if it's frustration as much as confusion combined with dealing with the rebellious streak I've always had. Basically, I need a better reason than "everybody else is doing it." I don't want to be disruptive, but I also don't want to conform just to fit in.

I'm reading those articles right now, though.

edit: I really should proof-read before posting!

[iitb]

Okay, after reading the first article, I was convinced! Definitely more convincing than this little tidbit from the T.O.M.J. article:

The Source

The source for not walking four cubits with the head uncovered is the statement in the Talmud that the mother of Rabbi Nachman bar Yitzchak would not allow him to go with his head uncovered for she said, "Cover your head in order that you should have the fear of heaven upon you." There is another statement that Rav Huna brei d'Rabbi Yehoshua would not go four cubits with his head uncovered.
???

[simchat_torah]

hehe... welcome to the world of rabbinical judaism. lol...

Where most of the stories have little meaning.


or do they? *wink*

[yod]

I only wear one if every man there is required to wear one...like at the Great Synagogue in Jerusalem. It would be rude to do otherwise in that case..but I find it nowhere in the Bible so I don't wear it any other time.

[simchat_torah]

but I find it nowhere in the Bible so I don't wear it any other time.


Ah, I see someone hasn't read the first article... hehehe.

[iitb]

I would agree with Yafet. You might want to check out the first article he posted.:)