Jewish women, particularly Orthodox Jewish women, wear wigs as a form of hair covering after marriage to fulfill religious and cultural modesty requirements known as "tzniut." Covering their natural hair signifies a woman's married status and is rooted in traditional interpretations of Jewish law, biblical texts, and rabbinic teachings emphasizing privacy, dignity, and modesty. Wigs (called sheitels) provide a practical and socially accepted way for these women to observe this custom while allowing for personal expression through different styles and appearances. The purpose is not to appear unattractive but to create a boundary of privacy, signaling that a married woman's beauty is reserved for her spouse. This practice balances religious observance with practicality and community identity.
Reasons for Wearing Wigs
- Religious Obligation: Covering hair is a commandment for modesty in Orthodox Judaism, demonstrating respect for marriage sanctity.
- Modesty (Tzniut): The act shows that a woman is not publicly available and maintains her dignity.
- Practicality: Wigs offer convenience and ease in daily life compared to other coverings.
- Community Norms: Wearing wigs aligns with traditional community practices and fosters a sense of belonging.
- Personal Expression: Wigs allow women to maintain fashionable, styled appearances within religious guidelines.
Historical and Cultural Context
Hair covering began as a tradition in the 15th century from biblical inspiration, with buttresses from Jewish legal authorities. Wigs became common around the 17th century due to European fashion influences and evolved into an accepted method of modesty enforcement. The visual cue of wearing a wig marks marital status and upholds traditional Jewish values.
Addressing Misconceptions
It is a misconception that wigs defeat the purpose of modesty because they may look attractive. Jewish modesty focuses on privacy, not unattractiveness, and the wig is considered a respectful covering that conceals natural hair which is deemed intimate and private.
This blend of tradition, religious law, community identity, and personal choice explains why many Jewish women wear wigs after marriage.
