The Torah commands us to wear Tzitzit (fringes) at the corners of our garments as a reminder of mitzvot (good deeds). The mitzvah to wear tzitzit applies only to four-cornered garments, which were common in biblical times but are not common anymore. To fulfill this mitzvah, adult men (and in Reform Judaism, some women) wear a four-cornered shawl called a tallit. Typically, tallitot are white with navy or black stripes across the short ends. They also commonly have an artistic motif of some kind along the top long end (the outside of the part that goes against your neck). This motif is referred to as an atarah (crown). While there is no particular religious significance to the atarah, it does let you know which end is up! There is a complex procedure for tying the knots of the tzitzit, filled with religious and numerological significance. These knots are also called Sephardic or Ashkenazi knots, depending upon the style.
At the Museum Store, we continue to look for items from Israel, whenever possible as well as items with an artful aesthetic. We are happy to let you know that we have just received some very special tallitot from Israeli designer Efrat Schwartz who uses her fine sense of style and design to create tallit of uncommon beauty. Made from fine wool or raw silk, each one is a work of art; something to be handed down. L’dor V’dor.
—Helen Fineberg, Museum Store Manager
