Head Covering in Front of Sacred Texts
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Question
Hello, I would like to ask if it is permissible for a woman to be near sacred books without a head covering, both in purity and impurity. Also, is it permissible to bless and pray without a head covering, both for the woman and her husband who is next to her? If it is forbidden, is it enough not to look, or must one distance themselves? I would appreciate clear sources. Thank you very much.
Answer
Hello
The hair of a married woman is considered erva, and it should not be uncovered in front of sacred books.
Others are forbidden to bless and pray in front of uncovered hair, but she herself is permitted.
It is initially forbidden to bless opposite erva except by turning the whole body, but in a pressing situation, closing the eyes is sufficient.
Source
Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim, Laws of Reading Shema, Siman 75, סעיף 2
The hair of a woman that she usually covers, it is forbidden to read opposite it.
Mishna Berura, Siman 75, סעיף קטן 10
That she usually covers - and even if she only covers it in the market and not at home and in the courtyard, it is still considered erva according to all opinions, even at home, and it is forbidden to read there opposite it if some of it is revealed.