For example, the parchment must be written by a scribe who is specifically trained in the laws of writing sacred texts. The ink must be black, made from a specific type of gallnut. The parchment must come from a kosher animal and be prepared in a specific way. The boxes must be made of leather from a kosher animal and be square in shape. The straps must be made from the hide of a kosher animal and be black.
Additionally, there are specific blessings that are recited before putting on Tefillin, emphasizing the significance and sanctity of the mitzvah. The process of putting on Tefillin is done with care and reverence, reflecting the deep connection and commitment to God that Tefillin represent.
Overall, Tefillin are a powerful symbol of the bond between the Jewish people and God. Through the physical act of binding ourselves with Tefillin, we express our love, dedication, and commitment to fulfilling God’s will. It is a reminder of our purpose and mission in this world, to live in accordance with God’s commandments and to strive for spiritual growth and connection.
May the practice of wearing Tefillin continue to inspire and uplift the Jewish people, serving as a beacon of light and strength in a world that is often dark and challenging.
To complete the arm-tefillin, the strap is wound around the hand, beginning at the middle finger and working towards the arm. The strap is wound around the hand three times, forming the shape of the Hebrew letter “shin.” The shin represents one of the names of God, Shaddai. As the strap is wound around the hand, the blessing is recited.
Once the arm-tefillin is properly in place, the head-tefillin can be put on. This process will be explained in the next section. To properly don the head-tefillin, it is essential to follow specific guidelines. The box of the Tefillin should be positioned just above the hairline, resting entirely on the hair. Even individuals who are balding should place the Tefillin where there used to be hair. It is crucial to educate those who wear their Tefillin below the hairline out of ignorance.
The strap of the head-tefillin forms a large loop that sits on the crown of the head, with a knot at the other end positioned on the nape of the head above the hairline. Both the box and the knot should be centered on the head, equidistant between the right and left sides. The smooth black side of the straps should always face outward, with the two straps of the head-tefillin hanging down in front.
Before reciting the blessing, ensure that the head-tefillin are in the “ready position.” For Ashkenazim, recite the blessing a moment before placing the tefillin on the head. Once the Tefillin are correctly positioned, recite the “Baruch Shem” prayer.
After donning the head-tefillin, the strap of the arm-tefillin is wrapped around the hand and fingers according to various customs. While wrapping the strap, many recite verses that emphasize the loving relationship between God and His people Israel.
At the conclusion of the morning prayers, the Tefillin should be removed while standing, with the head-tefillin taken off before the arm-tefillin. Some individuals kiss their Tefillin out of affection for the mitzvah, while others wrap the straps of the head-tefillin around the box to resemble the wings of a dove, inspired by a Talmudic story about Elisha.
It is crucial to periodically inspect Tefillin for signs of deterioration, especially for older pairs that may have been passed down through generations. Regular maintenance and inspection by a scribe are recommended to ensure the Tefillin’s integrity.
For more in-depth study on this topic, further resources and illustrations can be found in publications from Feldheim Publications and the Mezuzah Store. To regenerate means to restore or renew something to its original or better condition. This can refer to physical regeneration, such as the regrowth of tissue or cells, or it can also refer to mental or emotional regeneration, such as finding inner peace or renewing one’s sense of purpose. Regeneration is often associated with healing and growth.
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