Payot are worn by some men and boys in the Orthodox Jewish community based on an interpretation of the Tenach injunction against shaving the “sides” of one’s head. Literally, pe’ah means “corner, side, edge”. There are different styles of payot among Haredi or Hasidic, Yemenite, and Chardal Jews.
What is the meaning of sidelocks?
: a lock of hair falling at the side of the face and often worn as a distinguishing mark especially by some Jews and by children in some cultures an old Jew … with a beard and sidelocks— Walter Sorell & Denver Lindley wearing the sidelock of youth.
Why do Jewish men rock when they pray?
Today, shuckling is generally understood as a physical accompaniment to the rhythm of prayers and as a way to concentrate on them more deeply.
Why do Jewish men wear hats?
Most Jews will cover their heads when praying, attending the synagogue or at a religious event or festival. Wearing a skullcap is seen as a sign of devoutness.
Why do Jews wear black?
While the tradition of Jews wearing black headgear goes back ages (it was a sign of mourning for the loss of Jerusalem), it wasn’t until the 1960s that ultra-Orthodox yeshiva students, as well as Chabad-Lubavitch Jews, began wearing the black fedora to distinguish themselves.