Ask the Rabbi
- Halacha
- Prayer
- General Questions
Question
I have seen different people grasping the four tzitziot in different ways during Shema. The main difference is which fingers on the left hand grasp the tzitzit and which fingers they are wrapped around.
What is the "proper" way to hold the tzitzit during shema?
Answer
6th Candle- Eve of Rosh Chodesh Tevet
The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 24:2) states that during the Shema the Tzitzit should be held in the left hand by the heart. The Mishna B'rura there elaborates that according to the Ari z"l the Tzitzit should be held between the zeret (pinky) and the Kemitza (ring finger) of the left hand. When you reach the portion dealing with the Tzitzit, the tzitzit should be taken in the right hand as well and should remain there until you reach the words "Ne'amanim venechmadimץ"

running from shul in rain
Rabbi Ari Shvat | Cheshvan 17, 5772

Advice for the Slow Davenner
Rabbi Jonathan Blass | 9 Tishrei 5764

Havara- Sefaradic or Ashkenazic Pronunciation
Rabbi Ari Shvat | Nisan 17, 5785




