Parshat Vayigash
December 13, 2002

Vayomer – Tzitzit I

“Vayomer Hashem el Moshe Laymor Daber el Bnai Yisrael Veamarta Lahem Tzitzit – And G-d spoke To Moshe saying that Bnai Yisrael should make for themselves Tzitzit on the corner of their garments.”

This is the opening phrase of the final paragraph of the Shema that pertains to the Mitzvah of Tzitzit. According to most authorities the requirement to recite the passage of Tzitzit is Rabbinic in nature. It was strategically inserted for a number of reasons – 1) It contains within it a reminder of our Exodus from Egypt 3300 years ago (which fulfills our Biblical commandment to remember the Exodus each day) 2) When one looks at his Tzitzit he is reminded to fulfill all of G-d’s commandments 3) It contains the vital warnings not to be influenced by non-believers, idol worship, and ones own physical desires.

Tzitzit symbolize and represent so many fascinating and important lessons. In Gematria (numerical equivalent) Tzitzit equals 600. When we add 8 strings and 5 knots it equals 613- the number of Mitzvot in the Torah that we are required to fulfill. Rav Schwab zt”l remarks that although the Tzitzit are filled with knots, two thirds of each set of strings are left free flowing. This implies that although there are a significant number of laws and restrictions in Jewish life, in the end these laws and restrictions unleash an unmatched freedom to live and enjoy life. The word Tzitz in Hebrew means fringe as well as a sprouting flower. Wearing Tzitzit, which extend off of our clothing manifests the unique opportunity for every Jew to grow and develop towards their potential through Mitzvot.

Tzitzit also help to guard us from immorality and failure. There is a well-known piece in the Talmud Menachot 44A that tells of a man who literally traveled across the world and spent 400 gold coins to spend the night with a famous madame. As he undressed he took note of his Tzitzit and refrained from consummating his visit. Not only did the Tzitzit inspire the man to do Teshuva, but also the harlot herself was so moved by the spirit and restraint of her customer and the power of Tzitzit that she came to the great Rebbe Chiya to convert as well.

The Shema teaches us to accept G-d’s sovereignty over the world, to love Him, and to accept Mitzvoth. The Parsha of Tzitzit teaches us how to safeguard our endeavors and inspire us to improve.

Shabbat Shalom.
Rabbi Ephraim Epstein

*Helpful Hint* Jot down some of the interpretations you learn into the margins of your personal siddur. This will enable you to access and utilize these and other Tefilla tips more easily.