fashion
Photo by David Weiss
Judaism in fashion Written by Raya Benus From the beginning of creation, we learn that clothing is a basic necessity. Hebrew biblical terms for clothing (beged, kisoot, livoosh) are employed in connection with covering the body for warmth or reasons of modesty. At a point in time, clothing became more than just protection and warmth, it became an aesthetic expression. Clothing can display one’s personality. Fashion is a tool for communication and has the capacity of exhibiting cultures. Religion can play an integral role in the way one dresses. Judaism uses clothing in many customs and religious practices
and has always been influenced by societal trends. Jewish dress was inspired from Jewish law and throughout time has been influenced by modernity. While Jewish religious beliefs are universal, no matter where Jews have lived, clothing adopted the artistic, cultural, and social influences of the host society. Today, religious Jews have adapted modern day dress to abide by these older restrictions. Costume has always been a marker of Jewish identity, despite the fact that no universal Jewish costume
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