Q: Why do some Jews wear
sneakers on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year?
A: Contrary to popular opinion,
sneakers are not worn for comfort during the long service on the Day of
Atonement. They are worn out of respect
for life.
We think nothing of wearing a
dead animal. Think of furs. Think of alligator wallets or pocketbooks. Snakeskin boots. Even leather belts come from an animal. In our faith these things have a dual
meaning. First they represent a life. We always need to cognizant of the lives that
sustain us whether for food or clothing.
Secondly, animal skins are considered by our tradition to be luxuries. As such, we refrain from using them on the
day when we deprive ourselves of all comforts.
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