Question
What is the typical Ashkenaz know tying custom for the Tefillin?
Answer
Shalom,
Thank you for your question. There are several customs as to how to tie the knots of the tefillin. Even within the Ashkanzi world you will find two main ways of how to tie the knot of the head tefillin – either with a knot that looks like the hebrew letter delet, or a knot that looks like a square, with the two straps falling out of the square to either side. Both of these knots have support in Jewish law. Generally one should follow their family custom, or local practice.
As tying the knots is a tricky practice, may I advice you to be in touch with a Rabbi or Sofer Stam who can help you tie them – and they also be able to advice you on the correct type of knot used in your comminity.
Blessings.