Q&A: Synagogue Etiquette and Rules
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Synagogue Etiquette and Rules
Question
Is a man allowed to enter a synagogue wearing shorts and sandals without socks?
And is it permitted to remain in the synagogue without a kippah?
Answer
It depends on the accepted norms in that particular place. As for a kippah, there is no halakhic prohibition.
Discussion on Answer
Halakhically, yes. See Maharshal in the responsa, section 72; Pri Chadash 91:3; and the Biur HaGra 8:15. And in Rabbi Akiva Eiger’s glosses on section 91, in the name of Terumat HaDeshen, this applies even to mentioning God’s name.
Is it permitted to study Torah without a kippah?