Why Do Jews Have Curls? The prominent sidecurls, or payos, seen on many Jewish men, particularly within the Hasidic community, stem from a specific interpretation of Jewish law. At WHY.EDU.VN, we will explore the rich history, varying styles, and deeper significance behind this practice, offering clarity and understanding. Delve deeper into Jewish customs, religious observance, and spiritual significance.
1. What Are Payos and Why Do Jewish Men Wear Them?
Payos, also known as sidelocks or sidecurls, are worn by some Jewish men, primarily those in Orthodox and Hasidic communities, in adherence to a Torah commandment. The Torah states in Leviticus 19:27, “You shall not round the corner of your heads.” This verse is interpreted as a prohibition against cutting or shaving the hair at the temples. Therefore, men allow the hair in this area to grow long, often forming distinct curls.
The practice stems from an interpretation of Jewish law found in the Torah, specifically Leviticus 19:27, “Ye shall not round the corners of your heads.” Rabbinic scholars have interpreted this to mean that Jewish men should not shave or cut the hair at their temples. The reason for this commandment isn’t explicitly stated, and like many religious laws, it is followed as an act of obedience and devotion to God.
2. The Biblical Basis for Payos
The primary source for the practice of wearing payos is the biblical verse in Leviticus 19:27, which prohibits “rounding the corner of your head.” This verse is interpreted differently by various Jewish groups, leading to a range of practices. The interpretation that leads to the wearing of payos involves refraining from cutting the hair at the temples, allowing it to grow naturally.
2.1 Historical Interpretations
Throughout Jewish history, rabbinic scholars have debated the precise meaning and application of this verse. These debates have influenced the different customs and interpretations observed today. Some scholars emphasize the importance of maintaining a distinct appearance to differentiate Jews from other cultures, while others focus on the symbolic significance of the commandment.
2.2 The Significance of Differentiation
One interpretation suggests that maintaining distinct hairstyles, such as payos, helps to preserve Jewish identity and culture in diverse societies. By adhering to specific customs, individuals reinforce their connection to their community and heritage.
3. Who Wears Payos?
While not all Jewish men wear payos, the practice is most common among those in Orthodox and Hasidic communities. Within these groups, payos serve as a visible symbol of religious observance and commitment to Jewish law.
3.1 Orthodox Jewish Communities
In many Orthodox Jewish communities, wearing payos is a standard practice for men. These communities emphasize strict adherence to Jewish law and tradition, and payos are seen as an essential part of fulfilling the commandment in Leviticus 19:27.
3.2 Hasidic Jewish Communities
Hasidic Jewish communities place a particularly strong emphasis on wearing payos. The length and style of payos can vary among different Hasidic groups, reflecting their unique customs and traditions. For example, some groups have long, twisted curls, while others have shorter, untrimmed sidelocks.
4. Different Styles of Payos
The style of payos can vary significantly depending on the community and individual preferences. Common styles include long, twisted curls, shorter, untrimmed sidelocks, and hair tucked behind the ears.
4.1 Twisted Curls
Long, twisted curls are perhaps the most recognizable style of payos. This style involves allowing the hair to grow long and then twisting it into tight curls that hang down from the temples.
4.2 Untrimmed Sidelocks
Some men opt to wear their payos as untrimmed sidelocks, allowing the hair to grow naturally without twisting or styling. This style can result in thick, bushy sidelocks that extend down the sides of the face.
4.3 Tucked Behind the Ears
In some cases, men may choose to tuck their payos behind their ears for practical reasons or to make them less conspicuous. This style allows them to fulfill the commandment of not cutting the hair at the temples while keeping their hair out of their face.
5. The Significance of Payos in Jewish Culture
Payos hold significant cultural and religious meaning for those who wear them. They serve as a visible reminder of Jewish law and tradition and symbolize a commitment to living according to religious principles.
5.1 Symbol of Religious Observance
For many Jewish men, wearing payos is an essential part of their religious identity. It is a way of demonstrating their commitment to following Jewish law and tradition and expressing their faith publicly.
5.2 Connection to Tradition
Payos also serve as a connection to Jewish history and tradition. The practice of wearing payos has been observed for centuries, and by continuing this tradition, individuals feel connected to their ancestors and the broader Jewish community.
6. Practical Considerations
While wearing payos is primarily a religious practice, there are also practical considerations to take into account. The length and style of payos can impact daily activities, and individuals may need to adjust their grooming routines accordingly.
6.1 Grooming and Maintenance
Maintaining payos requires regular grooming and care. Depending on the style, individuals may need to wash, comb, and style their payos to keep them neat and presentable.
6.2 Impact on Daily Activities
The length and style of payos can also impact daily activities. For example, long, twisted curls may require extra care when participating in sports or other physical activities. Some individuals may choose to tuck their payos behind their ears to keep them out of their face during these activities.
7. Jewish Law and Halakha on Hair Cutting
Jewish law, known as Halakha, provides detailed guidelines on various aspects of Jewish life, including hair cutting. These guidelines are based on interpretations of the Torah and rabbinic teachings.
7.1 The Prohibition Against Rounding the Corners of the Head
The primary source for the Halakha on hair cutting is the verse in Leviticus 19:27, which prohibits “rounding the corner of your head.” This prohibition is interpreted as a restriction on cutting the hair at the temples.
7.2 Rabbinic Interpretations
Rabbinic scholars have debated the precise meaning and application of this verse for centuries. These debates have resulted in a range of different customs and practices among Jewish communities. Some scholars emphasize the importance of maintaining a distinct appearance, while others focus on the symbolic significance of the commandment.
8. The Zygomatic Process of the Temporal Bone
The zygomatic process of the temporal bone is a bony structure located on the side of the head that is often used as a reference point in determining the boundaries of the area where hair should not be cut.
8.1 Identifying the Boundary
According to Jewish law, you cannot cut, trim, or shave the hair above this bone. The question is what to do below this bone.
8.2 Different Possibilities
Here are the different possibilities:
- Many religious Jews will fully cut or shave their hair below this line, so they will simply have fairly typical sideburns which do not stand out or attract much attention.
- Then there are some who maintain their hair longer here beyond the line, so it’s openly visible, but they trim it or cut it occasionally.
- Finally, most of the strictest Ultra-Orthodox Hasidic Jews do not ever cut their hair below the line. Therefore, they have conspicuous, pronounced bunches of hair that protrude here.
9. Payos Sidecurl Styles
There are numerous ways which payos ringlets are worn. Here are the most common:
- Twisted curls hanging freely: This is the most conspicuous style that attracts curiosity. The payos are wrapped circularly and hang down off of the wearer’s head. A common length would about 3-5 inches long, in their curled state. If they were stretched out fully they’d be longer. There are various ways in which the hair can be shaped into curls. One way is to apply hair gel and then twist the hair into curls using a brush. Another possible way could be to wrap the hair around a stick or pencil.
- Free hanging but not twisted or curled: The hair simply hangs down naturally. These payos sidelocks could be kept thin and narrow, or they might be thick and bushy.
- Wrapped behind the ear: The payos sidecurls are wrapped behind the wearer’s ear, and therefore are less visible. One reason why this might be done is to make them less noticeable. This could also be convenient if conducting an activity where the payos hair might get in the way.
These different styles of wearing the payos sidecurls are not specifically based on scripture. These are simply fashion modes that likely evolved for different reasons, including practicality and convenience.
10. The Reason Behind the Hair Rule
As for the reason behind the hair rule, the reason why the scripture dictates this restriction, there is generally not a clearly known reason. It is commonly thought that this is a type of commandment which God has provided no explanation for. God simply instructed it, and devout Jews are expected to adhere. Overall, many of the 613 Jewish commandments are based with logic or practicality (such as washing one’s hands before eating) while other commandments are dictated with no explanation and the worshiper is expected to follow without questioning it.
10.1 Commandments with No Explanation
These are known as chukim, laws for which no logical reason is given. Jews observe them simply because they are commanded by God.
10.2 Logic and Practicality
Many Jewish commandments are rooted in logic or practicality, such as washing hands before eating, which promotes hygiene.
11. Other Aspects of Orthodox Jewish Male Appearance
In addition to payos, there are several other aspects of Orthodox Jewish male appearance that are governed by religious law and tradition. These include beards, head coverings, and body garments.
11.1 Beards
Many Orthodox Jews are known for wearing a beard. The reason for the beard is as follows: there are regulations on how a man may shave his facial hair. Most Orthodox Jews will not use a razor to shave, instead they will use an electric shaving device. Other Hasidic Jews go further with this and they do not shave at all. They are making a clear open statement that they go above and beyond the minimal requirements of the rules. Unlike women’s hair rules that only apply upon marriage, men’s beard rules apply immediately when a teenager starts to grow facial hair.
11.2 Hats and Head Coverings
Orthodox Jewish men are known for wearing hats or head coverings. There are several different headwear items which they may use. The most basic is called a “Yarmulke” or “Kippah.” A Hasidic Yarmulke is usually made of velvet and covers the head only partially. An observant Jewish man will always have this on his head. This is an essential rule, and the purpose is to remind himself constantly that God is above him in heaven. With any other hat that an Ultra-Orthodox man wears, he will still be wearing a Yarmulke underneath.
Hasidic Jewish men also frequently wear hats. There is a variety, although all of them are usually a black color. The hat is a European Jewish tradition to wear while praying, and many men will go further and wear it all of the time. The basic hat worn on weekdays commonly resembles a fedora or bowler hat. On Sabbath and holiday festivals, a fancier hat is worn, made of velvet or fur. This grand hat is known as a “Shtreimel” in Yiddish. A young man begins to wear a shtreimel upon marriage. Some fur streimels can cost $1000 or more.
11.3 Men’s Body Garments
Ultra Orthodox men and boys typically have their full bodies covered, even though modesty rules are stricter for women. Clothing is mainly black, with some white color. The basis for the clothing customs is the following: it was considered formal or respectable attire in Eastern Europe back when Hasidic Jews lived there (1700’s, 1800’s and early 1900’s). Commonly, a man will wear some/all of the following:
- A long jacket or frock coat.
- A special 4-cornered white or yellow garment called ‘Tzitzis.’ There might be white strings hanging down from here.
- A white formal button-up shirt.
- Socks pulled up the calves. Sometimes they are white color.
- A white-yellow prayer shawl wrapped over the back and/or head.
The “Tzitizis” mentioned above, is another case where people go beyond the actual requirement, because the original rule of tzitzis only applies to a garment that has 4 corners. Such a garment must have special string fringes tied to each corner (the strings are usually a white color). A garment which does not have 4 distinctive corners does not need to have any strings tied to it. Therefore if none of your clothing has 4-corners then you don’t need to follow this rule. However most Ultra-Orthodox men deliberately wear a special designated 4-cornered garment which was made solely for this purpose. This garment is worn underneath their shirt or jacket and the strings are untucked in order to hang out and be openly visible. The reason for Tzitsis is so that the wearer will be reminded of God whenever he sees the strings.
12. Understanding Hasidic Jewish Male Appearance
Much of the Ultra-Orthodox culture and rules seem unusual in today’s Western society. However in the past this was not as much the case. These sets of clothing and customs used to be less dissimilar to the surrounding people. In fact, the main Hasidic men’s clothing is likely based originally on the style of the surrounding non-Jewish community. The Hasidic men’s clothing attire is based heavily on Eastern Europe in the 1700’s or 1800’s. Their clothing back then would have not been seen nearly as different. Also, the heavy layers they wear could have been more appropriate in the colder climates of Poland, Russia, Ukraine, etc. where they lived. The language spoken by Hasidic Jews – Yiddish – is based mainly on German.
12.1 Historical Context
Beards, top hats, or formal jackets would also have not been unusual in the past. In United States or Europe, almost all men wore hats and jackets until the recent past.
One example of how Hasidic Jewish men’s clothing is not so different from public fashion in the past is: 1800’s USA. Frock coats and top hats were common among formal men. Beards were common. And a lot of men even had biblical first names which share a similarity with Jewish names. An example of this is Abraham Lincoln – many images show him wearing a long frock coat and beard. In the following image he’s even wearing a vest and button-up white shirt, which are also worn by Hasidic men.
12.2 Modern Fashion Trends
Furthermore, fedora hats and beards have both become common among cosmopolitan “hipsters” in recent years. This suggests that Hasidic attire may not have been as irreconcilably different as it may have seemed. All it took was a shift in public fashion trend for major aspects of Hasidic Jewish appearance to no longer be considered ‘outlandish’ or old-fashioned, but now rather considered avant-garde or ‘cool.’
13. Where Are Hasidic Jews From?
Although the Jewish religion is over 4000 years old and originates in the Middle East, Ultra Orthodox Hasidic culture began only around 250 years ago, in Eastern Europe. A new movement was introduced that emphasized physical activity (example: dancing) over studying text (example: reading Talmudic books). This movement had a heightened fraternal nature to it – participants formed extremely close-knit communities that centered around a grand rabbi leader (known as a ‘Rebbe’). The movement survived through oppression, mass emigration, and the Holocaust and is now located mainly in the USA and Israel.
13.1 Community Affiliations
Hasidic Jewish community affiliations are based on the town or city where their families lived in Europe. There are dozens of sects, corresponding to various places of origin. For example, one of the largest sects is ‘Satmar’, named for the city of Satu Mare in Romania. Another sect is called ‘Vien’ whose origin is from Vienna. Although virtually none of the sect members still live in those cities, the sects maintain their affiliation based on those cities of origin.
14. Why Are Garments So Important?
The garments hold substantial significance in Jewish tradition, as they are directly associated with religious observance, modesty, and cultural heritage.
14.1 Yarmulke (Kippah)
The wearing of a Yarmulke or Kippah is seen as an essential rule, and the purpose is to remind himself constantly that God is above him in heaven.
14.2 Tzitzis
The reason for Tzitsis is so that the wearer will be reminded of God whenever he sees the strings.
14.3 Frock Coat
Considered formal or respectable attire in Eastern Europe back when Hasidic Jews lived there (1700’s, 1800’s and early 1900’s).
15. Contemporary Perspectives on Payos
In today’s world, the practice of wearing payos can be viewed in different ways. While some see it as an important expression of religious identity, others may find it unusual or out of touch with modern society.
15.1 Cultural Sensitivity
It is essential to approach the topic of payos with cultural sensitivity and respect. While it is natural to be curious about unfamiliar customs, it is important to avoid making generalizations or stereotypes about Jewish people based on their appearance.
15.2 Understanding Diversity
It is also important to recognize that there is diversity within Jewish communities. Not all Jewish men wear payos, and those who do may have different reasons for doing so. By understanding the range of practices and beliefs within Jewish culture, we can foster greater understanding and respect.
16. FAQ: Understanding Payos
16.1 What does the Torah say about cutting hair?
The Torah prohibits “rounding the corner of your head” (Leviticus 19:27), which is interpreted as a restriction on cutting hair at the temples.
16.2 Are payos mandatory for all Jewish men?
No, payos are not mandatory for all Jewish men. The practice is most common among those in Orthodox and Hasidic communities.
16.3 Can the Zygomatic Process of the Temporal Bone affect the length of Payos?
Yes, according to Jewish law, you cannot cut, trim, or shave the hair above this bone.
16.4 What are tzitzis?
Tzitzis are special string fringes tied to each corner of a four-cornered garment, worn as a reminder of God’s commandments.
16.5 Do women have to wear Payos?
No, women don’t wear Payos.
16.6 What is a Shtreimel?
A Shtreimel is a grand fur hat worn by Hasidic men on Sabbath and holiday festivals.
16.7 How do men typically maintain Payos?
Men typically maintain Payos by washing, combing, and styling their payos to keep them neat and presentable.
16.8 Can Payos affect a person’s daily activities?
Yes, the length and style of payos can also impact daily activities.
16.9 What are some common misconceptions about payos?
Some common misconceptions is that all Jews have to wear Payos and Payos don’t need to be cleaned or maintained.
16.10 What are some resources for learning more about payos and Jewish culture?
WHY.EDU.VN, local synagogues, Jewish community centers, and educational websites are valuable resources.
17. Conclusion: Exploring Jewish Traditions
Exploring the reasons why some Jews have curls, or payos, offers a fascinating glimpse into Jewish law, tradition, and culture. While the practice may seem unfamiliar to those outside of Orthodox and Hasidic communities, it holds deep religious and cultural significance for those who observe it. By understanding the origins, practices, and meanings associated with payos, we can foster greater appreciation for the diversity of Jewish life and the richness of its traditions.
For more in-depth answers and to explore other intriguing topics, visit WHY.EDU.VN. Our platform connects you with experts and provides reliable information to satisfy your curiosity. Do you have more questions about Jewish traditions or other topics? Our experts at WHY.EDU.VN are ready to provide clear, reliable answers. Visit us at 101 Curiosity Lane, Answer Town, CA 90210, United States, or contact us via WhatsApp at +1 (213) 555-0101. Explore, ask, and learn at why.edu.vn. Dive into Jewish customs, religious observance, and spiritual significance with our detailed explanations and expert insights. Discover the essence of Jewish tradition, religious practices, and cultural identity with our comprehensive coverage. Explore religious headwear, hair styles, and religious garments.
