what is a kippah in judaism

A kippah, also known as a yarmulke or skullcap, is a headcovering for Jews. It is a small hat or headcovering that is traditionally worn by Jewish males to fulfill the customary requirement that the head be covered. In traditional Jewish communities, only men wear kippot, and they are worn at all times except when sleeping and bathing. However, in non-Orthodox communities, some women also wear kippot, and people have different customs about when to wear a kippah, such as when eating, praying, studying Jewish texts, or entering a sacred space such as a synagogue or cemetery. The Reform movement has historically been opposed to wearing kippot, but in recent years it has become more common and accepted for Reform men and women to cover their heads during prayer and Jewish study. There is no halakhic requirement to cover one’s head, but it is considered a sign of reverence for God. The kippah can be made out of many materials, and the color and fabric of the kippah can be a sign of adherence to a specific religious movement, particularly in Israel.