Jewish religious clothing

The term Jews costume is a name for the special clothing that Jews were required in many European countries since the Middle Ages, to distinguish them from the rest of the population.

Already in 1180 German Jews were required to wear a yellow pointed hat, the " Jewish hat ". It was common until the 16th century. The Fourth Lateran Council decided in 1215 (at the time of Pope Innocent III. ) To introduce different clothes for the identification of other faiths. And unto the Jews a yellow spot or ring were prescribed in fabric then in many European countries, which had to be worn on the chest. The Mainz diocesan council intended for the German Jews then in 1229 that they would sign with yellow chest to wear the aforementioned yellow pointed hat, a long "Jewish Rock" ( caftan ) a long pointed beard and a "Jewish stock".

This so-called Jews costume theme is repeated in many comedies of the 16th century.