Ask the Rov: Is a sheitel that looks like human hair permitted?
By Rabbi Chaim Hillel Raskin – Rov of Anash in Petach Tikvah
A married woman is obligated to cover her hair, and failure to do so transgresses Das Moshe and Das Yehudis (which qualify as reasons for divorce).1 The uncovered hair of a married woman has the status of ervah (nakedness), and a man cannot say a bracha in its presence.2 Additionally, the Zohar emphasizes the importance of covering all parts of the hair.3
In the times of the Gemara and Rishonim, women commonly covered their hair with a cloth and veil. Yet, the Shiltei Giborim (16th century) shows from the Gemara that a wig (sheitel) is also an acceptable covering since ervah only applies to hair connected to the woman’s scalp.4 The poskim accept this lahalacha, as does the Alter Rebbe.5
Moreover, the Rebbe strongly preferred a sheitel over a tichel, explaining that this way the hair would more likely remain covered. A tichel often doesn’t cover all the hair and can be easily slipped off when it becomes uncomfortable. The Rebbe often reiterated that careful observance of this mitzvah elicits the flow of abundant brachos for the woman and all her family members.6
With sheitels made of human hair, some poskim are concerned about marris ayin as it may appear to be the woman’s own hair.7 However, the Gemara and poskim mention women using human hair.8 Moreover, today it is common knowledge that religious women wear sheitels.9
The sheitel must fully cover the hair, and the sheer areas — e.g., the part and hairline — need to be fully lined. Specifically with lace-top sheitels, it is essential to ensure that the lining is opaque so that the hair doesn’t show through.
Of course, one must also ensure that the sheitel is refined and modest, just as with any other garment.
See Sources (open PDF)
From The Weekly Farbrengen by Merkaz Anash
Discussion
We appreciate your feedback. If you have any additional information to contribute to this article, it will be added below.