Yarmulkes: Origin, Traditions & Etymology
Traditionally the yarmulke was worn only by men (women covered their heads more completely with scarves, hats, or wigs), but in modern times the push for equality between the sexes in the practice of Judaism has led some women to wear yarmulkes, although this is not the practice of Orthodox Judaism. Some Jews only wear yarmulke while praying, making blessings, or studying Jewish religious texts; more traditional Jews wear yarmulke the entire day, making sure not to walk more than four cubits without a head covering (especially outside).
Often, the color and fabric of the yarmulke can be a sign of adherence to a specific religious movement. The Israeli Religious Zionist community is often referred to by the name kippot srugot כיפות סרוגות, literally "woven kippot", though they are typically crocheted. Similarly, some Haredi sects are referred to by the name kipot shkhorot כיפות שחורות, literally "black kippot"; their yamakas are usually sewn of black fabric, often larger than kipot srugot.
The etymology of yarmulke is unclear. Some linguists (e.g. Max Vasmer) maintain that the Yiddish word is derived (via Ukrainian or Polish) from the Turkic yağmurluk, meaning 'rainwear'. Other linguists (e.g. Herbert Zeiden) regard this hypothesis as untenable but still believe a Turkic origin is likely, suggesting that the first part of the word may come from yarim, a Turkic adjective meaning 'half', while the second part may come from qap, a Turkic word for 'cap', 'shell', 'enclosure', or 'container'.
Traditionally, yarmulke is considered to have originated from the Aramaic phrase "yarei mei-elokah" (in awe of the Lord), in keeping with the principle that the yarmulke is supposed to reflect someone's fear of heaven. Or perhaps, "yira malkah" (fear of the King).In Hebrew, the word kippah means dome.
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