Chapter 9 – Tzitsis (fringes)

9.1) Observe and apply the precept of fringes.

9.2) Varying opinions abound on the make and quality of threads permitted to be used for fringes of different lengths.

9.3) Rules govern the placement of the threads in relationship to the corners of your garment, so be sure that the fringes are attached at the corners of your garment.

9.4) If your fringes rip or look worn, you may allow the threads to remain on your garment since the law requires you “to make fringes upon the corners.”  Even so, keeping your fringes in good repair is the best practice.

9.5) Threads of fringes should be tied and knotted in a particular manner.

9.6) Fringes must be put on in a lawful, proper, and orderly manner.

9.7) Examine the threads, knots and spacing of fringes before putting on the talith (prayer shawl), unless you are running late and would miss prayer while checking them.

9.8) Prior to putting on the talith, you should say the benediction and then put it on without interruption. Take the talith in both hands, and being mindful of what you are doing, place it over your head. Be careful not to let the threads drag on the ground.

9.9) The talith benediction is said during daytime only, not at night. In addition, rules regarding order, large, and small talith as well as times of day to put them on require adherence. See source, or consult a rabbi for details.

9.10) If you take off the talith for just a moment (e.g.., to go to the bathroom), you need not repeat the prayer upon putting it back on. Exceptions exist for when accidents occur, or if you are praying.

9.11) Taking the talith belonging to another is permissible, even without that person’s permission, for prayer. The presumption is that the owner) is willing to allow his talith to be used so that the precept of the requirement of a talith for prayer is abided by so long as no loss on his part occurs. However, different rules govern the borrowing or using of the synagogue’s talith.

9.12) Rules govern the type of wool and other material used to make a talith.

9.13) Rules govern the threads and thread-breadths to be used to make a talith.

9.14) “The threads of the fringes must be twisted, and if any threads became untwisted, the untwisted part is then considered as entirely cut off and as out of existence.”

9.15) Rules govern how to treat garments that come apart.

9.16) If the corner of the talith (prayer shawl) is either cut off or torn off, and if it is a small area, you can sew it back together or piece together fabric to replace the missing area.

9.17) Rules govern the distance of the entire space of the corner where it is suitable to put fringes.

9.18) Rules govern how you receive permission to replace or upgrade fringes to the talith.

9.19) Be respectful when disposing of errant fringes.

9.20) Anyone who neglects the talith is guilty of violating a positive law of the Torah, and must do service. If you are scrupulous in your care of talith, you are worthy of beholding the Divine Presence.