Jews wear skullcaps, called kippah (plural: kippot) or yarmulke, primarily as a sign of reverence and respect to God. The practice is rooted in Jewish tradition and the Talmud, which teaches "Cover your head in order that the fear of heaven may be upon you." Wearing a kippah serves as a constant reminder that there is a higher power above watching over one's actions, instilling humility and fear of heaven. The custom developed over time to become a halachic (religious legal) obligation for Jewish men, especially during prayer and religious activities, symbolizing recognition of God's presence and Jewish identity. It is also a distinctively Jewish dress that helps distinguish Jews from non-Jews. Though not originally biblically mandated, it became a widespread practice among Jewish men roughly 1800 years ago and is deeply meaningful within Jewish religious and cultural life.
