Why Does the Pope, Cardinals and Bishops wear a Zuchetto?

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At work today we were discussing last night's documentary on Jesus. (Peter Jennings, ABC)..

A co-worker, who is Jewish, asked me why the Pope wears a Yarmulke? I told her it is called a Zuchetto and that Cardinals and Bishops wear one also (different colors)...but, I don't know why.

I'm sure someone here can answer this for me. (as always, and always so appreciated)

It does look like a yarmulke and I am wondering if it has anything to do with Jesus being a Jew - if wearing it goes back to historical times.

-- MaryLu (mlc327@juno.com), April 06, 2004

Answers

Good Queastion, thats why I am bumping it, I want to know too.

-- ZAROVE (ZAROFF3@JUNO.COM), April 06, 2004.

It use to cover the tonsure and was a sign of modesty in the middle ages. Don't know about why it is worn today. Maybe just a custom.

-bill

-- Bill Nelson (bnelson45-nospam@hotmail.com), April 06, 2004.


On the humourous side:

My Archbishop says, "for a young bishop it stays on by friction. For an old bishop, by suction."

Dano

-- Dan Garon (boethius61@yahoo.com), April 07, 2004.


ha,ha,ha...that was funny, Dan.

Again, thank you for answering my question. That is what I love about this site, there are so many knowledgeable people in the faith and I know I can always get an answer to my questions.

I wish all of you a very blessed, Happy Easter! May peace come through the risen Jesus!

-- MaryLu (mlc327@juno.com), April 07, 2004.


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