Spodik

In this article, we are going to delve into the fascinating world of Spodik. From its origins to its impact today, we will explore all the relevant aspects of this Spodik. Throughout history, Spodik has played a crucial role in different aspects of society, whether as a source of inspiration, as an agent of change or as a symbol of cultural identity. Through detailed analysis, we will examine the many facets of Spodik, from its influence on art and culture to its relevance in people's daily lives. Furthermore, we will address its importance in the current context, considering its impact on the modern world and possible implications for the future. In summary, this article aims to offer a comprehensive view of Spodik, providing readers with a deep and enriching understanding of this topic that is so relevant today.

Rabbi Isser Zalman Meltzer wearing a spodik

A spodik (or spodek; Yiddish: ספּאָדיק spodik, from Polish spodek "saucer") is a tall,[1] black fur hat worn by some Hasidic Jews, particularly by members of sects in 19th-century Congress Poland.[2] The origins of the spodik and the shtreimel are unclear, but it is often thought that the Jews living in Europe adopted wearing fur hats from the Eastern European culture,[1] and perhaps from the nobility.[3]

Description

Spodiks are to be distinguished from kolpiks, and from shtreimels, which are a similar types of fur hat worn by Hasidim.[4] Shtreimels are shorter in height, wider, and donut-shaped, while spodiks are taller, thinner in bulk, and of cylindrical shape.[4] Kolpiks and spodiks have the same shape, but the former are brown, while the latter are black.[4] Such hats are typically worn only on special occasions, such as the Sabbath, holidays, and weddings.[5]

Spodiks used to be made from fisher tails in North America. Nowadays they are made also from fox fur.[citation needed]

Use

Ger Hasidim, being the largest Hasidic community of Polish origin, are the most famous for wearing spodiks. Virtually all married men among the Gerer Hasidim wear a spodik. Due to an edict by the Grand Rabbi of Ger designed to stop the extravagance of the hats, Gerrer Hasidim are only allowed to purchase fake fur spodiks that cost less than $600.[6]

Other groups that wear Spodiks include Alexander, Amshinov, Ashlag, Kotzk, Modzitz, Ozharov, Radzin and Sochatchov.

See also

References

  1. ^ a b "Of 'spodiks' and 'shtreimels'". The Jerusalem Post | JPost.com. 17 July 2014. Retrieved 2021-02-04.
  2. ^ Levi Cooper: Shtreimel Variations: The History of a Hat. Segula Magazine.
  3. ^ "Shtreimels and Spodiks – NJOP". njop.org. Retrieved 2021-02-04.
  4. ^ a b c Shurpin, Yehuda. "Why Do Many Chassidim Wear Shtreimels (Fur Hats)?". Chabad.org. Retrieved 2019-03-22.
  5. ^ "Shtreimel Variations". Segula The Jewish History Magazine. Retrieved 2019-12-15.
  6. ^ Slifkin, Natan (2006). Man and Beast: Our Relationship with Animals in Jewish Law and Thought. Zoo Torah. p. 199. ISBN 1-933143-06-1.
  • Media related to Spodiks at Wikimedia Commons