Kippah (literally: dome) is the Hebrew word for skullcap, also referred to in Yiddish as a yarmulke, or less frequently as a koppel.
Jewish law requires men to cover their heads as a sign of respect and reverence for G‑d when praying, studying Torah, saying a blessing or entering a synagogue.
This practice has its roots in biblical times, when the priests in the Temple were instructed to cover their heads.
Traditionally, Jewish men and boys wear the kippah at all times, a symbol of their awareness of, and submission to, a "higher" entity.
Although it is not explicitly required by law, the practice is noted in the Talmud, and through the ages, this became an accepted Jewish custom to the point that according to the majority of halachic authorities, it is mandatory. One should, therefore, not walk or even sit, bareheaded. Small children should also be taught to cover their heads.
Aside from the common black kippah, many wear kippot (plural form of kippah) of various colors or designs. Some communities have developed kippah designs that are highly intricate works of art, such as those made by Jewish artisans from Yemen and Georgia, most of whom now live in Israel.
Can anyone answer this question for me please? I am Jewish (not Orthodox). A non Jewish friend was at a meeting recently where one of the main people in the meeting was seen without his kippah. She asked him if he minded her asking why he wasn’t wearing it, when he has worn it in every meeting in all the time she has known him (5+ yrs). He declined to reply, and she was worried she had insulted him, so apologised. However, could anyone tell me why on that occasion he could have chosen to not wear his kippah. All my Jewish friends are unable to tell me and are mystified how he can choose as and when to wear it.
For Joanne 1. He might have lost it on the way to the office. Seriously. I had that happen to me twice! Once, it blew away in a strong wind. On the other ocassion, I fell asleep on the commuter bus and my kipah fell off while I was asleep; I didn't realize it was gone until after I'd exited the bus.
2. He might possibly be feeling some pressure at work to not wear it. On my college campus, I have felt quite a bit of pressure regarding my observance. Given that, technically, some rabbis hold a man can claim the roof as a head covering while indoors, it might be that he was trying this option out. If so, he would then only 'need' to cover his head while outdoors or praying/learning. In the early 20th century, many to most orthodox men did not wear their kippot to work unless they worked for a Jewish establishment, and they used this paradigm.
3. He might be considering switching to a more modern Jewish tradition. Generally, only orthodox men cover their heads.