- Family and Society
- Head Covering
Question
I would like to know if the following is true: Wigs are only worn today with a heter, that really wigs are assur legamrei?
If that is so then how do so many women wear wigs?
(I personally do not wear a wig, but mitpachot, but this came up in a discussion with a woman who is opposed by religious belief not to wear wigs)
Answer
ב"ה
Shalom
I have already written two answers in regard to wigs on this website. You may refer to them in addition to this answer.
Basically, there are two issues at hand. Is it proper at all for a woman to use as a head covering. This issue was well disputed more than one hundred years ago. The opinions are summarized in Otzar Haposkim. (Even Haezer 21:2:5). The Mishna Brura (75:15) allowed to wear a wig as a head covering where the custom is to allow them and since the time I was young I know of many G-D fearing women married to important Talmidei Chachamim who have used wigs.
Another issue which came up a few years ago was the claim that the hair used to make some of the wigs is forbidden to be used since it comes from countries where the hair was cut as a ritual for idol worship, therefore rendering the wigs forbidden due to Avoda Zara. To my understanding, those who have the custom to wear wigs and the wig makers have resolved that problem.
I hope I have provided you with basic information on this Halachic issue.
Shavua tov and all the best
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