Dear Rabbi Joshua,

My name is Michael Rodriguez and I’ve often observed that some Jewish men have distinctive side curls. Could you explain the reason and significance behind these curls? Thank you for your insights.

The Roots of Payot in Jewish Law

Dear Michael,

Thank you for your thoughtful question. The side curls, known as payot in Hebrew, are worn by some Jewish men as a symbol of piety and adherence to Jewish law. The practice of growing payot comes from a literal interpretation of a commandment found in the Torah, in the book of Vayikra (Leviticus) 19:27, which states: “לֹא תַקִּפוּ פְּאַת רֹאשְׁכֶם וְלֹא תַשְׁחִית אֵת פְּאַת זְקָנֶךָ” — “Do not round off the hair at the temples or mar the edges of your beard.”

Payot Through the Ages

Historically, this commandment has been interpreted in various ways by different Jewish communities. The Talmud, in Masechet Makkot 20b, discusses the parameters of this mitzvah, advising against shaving the corners of one’s head. In more recent times, the practice of growing payot became particularly associated with certain Hasidic communities, who emphasize the mystical aspects of fulfilling the commandments with joy and physical expression.

Spiritual Significance and Contemporary Practice

The wearing of payot is not just a matter of tradition, but one of spiritual expression as well. Many see it as a reminder of the covenant between God and the Jewish people, a physical embodiment of the commandments, and a symbol of their distinct identity. In today’s diverse Jewish population, the practice varies, with some men choosing to wear their payot long and conspicuous, others tucking them behind their ears, and still others interpreting the commandment in a way that does not require growing them at all.

I hope this provides you with a clearer understanding of the practice of growing payot and its place within Jewish life and law.

Warm regards,

Rabbi Joshua

Dear Rabbi Joshua,

I’ve often noticed that in my Jewish friends and in pictures, individuals wear various types of hats and head coverings. This has piqued my curiosity. Could you please enlighten me on the reasons why Jews wear hats? Thank you.

Warm regards,
Eli Sheinfeld

The Tradition of Head Coverings in Jewish Culture

Shalom Eli,

Your question taps into one of the most visible and significant customs within Jewish tradition. The practice of wearing hats or head coverings, which can take the form of kippot (singular: kippah), hats, or streimels among others, is deeply rooted in Jewish law, custom, and historical identity.

Halakhic Foundations

The halakhic (Jewish legal) basis for covering one’s head is not explicitly commanded in the Torah. However, it is derived from various Talmudic sources. In tractate Shabbat (156b), it is noted that covering the head can inspire a fear of Heaven (יראת שמים – Yirat Shamayim): “Rav Huna son of Rav Joshua would not walk four cubits (about 2 meters) with his head uncovered. He explained: ‘Because the Divine Presence is above my head.’” This reflects a mindset of humility and reverence before God, a constant reminder of the Divine that watches over us.

Cultural and Historical Perspectives

Historically, head coverings have also been a mark of social status and respectability. In many societies, it was a common practice for learned and distinguished individuals to cover their heads. Over time, this custom was adopted more broadly within Jewish communities, becoming a marker of one’s Jewish identity and a symbol of respect for the traditions handed down through generations.

Variations Among Communities

The style and type of head covering can vary greatly among Jewish communities, often reflecting the geographical, cultural, and mystical traditions of each group. For instance, the kippah is widespread among many Jewish men and is worn during prayer, meals, and throughout daily activities. In more traditional communities, such as many Haredi and Hasidic groups, hats or larger head coverings like the shtreimel are worn, especially on Shabbat and festivals, as a sign of extra respect and celebration.

Modern Context and Personal Expression

In today’s world, the choice of head covering can also be an expression of personal religious commitment and identity. While Orthodox men typically wear a head covering at all times, others may choose to do so only during religious activities. For many, it is a proud badge of their heritage and faith, a declaration of identity in an increasingly global and interconnected world.

Conclusion

The act of wearing a hat or head covering is a multifaceted tradition within Judaism. It is a practice rich with religious, historical, and personal significance, representing a covenantal bond with God, a gesture of respect, and a statement of identity. Like many aspects of Jewish life, it is a custom that tells a story, linking the individual to the collective history and spiritual journey of the Jewish people.

May your journey into understanding Jewish customs deepen your appreciation for the diversity and profundity of Jewish life. Please reach out should you have more questions on this or other topics related to Judaism.

B’Shalom,

Rabbi Joshua

Dear Rabbi Joshua,
I’ve always been curious about different religious beliefs and recently I’ve been wondering about something specific within Judaism. Why do Jews not believe in Jesus as the messiah or the son of God, as is common in Christian belief? I would appreciate your insight on this matter.
Warm regards,
Rocco

The Jewish Understanding of the Messiah

Dear Rocco,

Thank you for your thoughtful question. The Jewish perspective on Jesus, and the messianic belief as a whole, is deeply rooted in Jewish scripture and theological understanding. According to Jewish belief, the messiah is a future Jewish king from the Davidic line who is expected to be anointed with holy anointing oil and is anticipated to come and rule over the Jewish people during the Messianic Age. This is based on prophecies found in the Hebrew Bible, particularly in Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel.

The concept of the messiah in Judaism is not divine. The messiah is expected to be a human leader, proficient in both the Jewish laws and observant of its commandments (Deut. 17:15). He is expected to bring about certain changes in the world and fulfill specific criteria mentioned in the scriptures, such as rebuilding the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, gathering all Jews back to the land of Israel, ushering in an era of peace, and spreading knowledge of the God of Israel, which will unite humanity (Isaiah 2:2-4).

Jesus, as a figure in history, does not fulfill these prophecies in the eyes of Jewish interpretation. The rebuilding of the Temple, the ingathering of all Jews to Israel, and the establishment of a world of universal peace did not occur during his lifetime or as a direct result of his life’s work. Moreover, in Judaism, there is no concept of a second coming; the messiah is expected to accomplish these tasks in his lifetime.

Furthermore, the Jewish understanding of God is strictly monotheistic. The belief in the indivisibility of God is central, as stated in the Shema prayer: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one” (Deuteronomy 6:4). The concept of the Trinity, or any division of God into parts, is not in line with Jewish theology. Therefore, the Christian concept of Jesus as the son of God or a divine being is contrary to Jewish teachings.

The lack of belief in Jesus as the messiah or a divine figure is not a repudiation of his existence or a dismissal of his followers’ faith. Rather, it is a reflection of a different understanding and set of expectations based on Jewish texts and the continuous interpretation of those texts throughout Jewish history.

Engaging with these profound questions deepens our understanding of the diversity within the tapestry of faith in our world. Your inquiry is a testament to the respect and curiosity necessary for interfaith dialogue and understanding. May your journey of exploration bring you insight and peace.

Shalom,
Rabbi Joshua