What is the Ideal Length of Tzitzit?

The length of tzitzit, as described in the Shulchan Oruch HaRav, should be at least 12 thumb breadths, approximately 9 inches, after the coils and knots are made. This detail is crucial for ensuring that the tzitzit are kosher for use. However, this question cannot be fully understood without considering the context of the tallit, a four-cornered garment mandated to be worn with the tzitzit.

The Commandment and Its Historical Origin

The Torah, in Devarim 22:12, commands its people to make tzitzit tassels on the four corners of their beged, or garment. This beged or tallit is the traditional garment to which the tzitzit were originally attached. The tallit is a garment worn over the shoulders and is an essential part of the Jewish prayer shawl.

Torah Devarim 22:12 - "You shall make tzitzit tassels on the four corners of the beged garment with which you cover yourself."

The Tallit: A Historical Perspective

The tallit was originally a very large garment worn around the entire body. This style was later adopted by the Edoceans, who later became known as Latins and used the term "toga" to describe the tallit. The term "toga" is an abbreviation of "tallit gadol," meaning "large tallit". In Hebrew, this is "TaGa."

There was also a small version of the tallit, called the tallit katan, worn by soldiers for practical reasons, such as mobility during combat. This version is still worn by some Haredi communities today, but without the visibility of the tzitzit.

The Role of Tzitzit in Jewish Fashion and Practice

In the past, the shape and size of the tallit were changed due to the influence of host societies on Jewish fashion. The desire was to avoid ridicule or easy identification as being 'Jewish' in a world of widespread persecution. As a result, the tallit was modified to include an opening for the head, allowing it to be worn under other garments. The tzitzit, however, were not visible under these new styles.

In prayer services, men traditionally hold the tzitzit of a tallit gadol in their hands, after gathering them and draping the fabric over their back and shoulders. This practice ensures that the tzitzit are visible, fulfilling the commandment. In this context, the tzitzit must be long enough to be seen, with at least the end of the tassels visible with peripheral vision. The standard is that they should reach to the upper abdomen area.

For Haredi observant Jewish communities, the tallit katan is worn continuously, but the tzitzit are not visible, meaning the full commandment is not fulfilled in this garment.

Conclusion

The length of tzitzit is crucial for their kosher status and proper fulfillment of the commandment. Understanding the historical context and the evolution of the tallit helps to appreciate the complexity of this tradition. The tzitzit must be at least 12 thumb breadths in length after the coils and knots are made, ensuring that they fulfill their function as a sign of commitment to the commandments and as a remembrance of God.