What are
tefillin
, and why should I buy them?
Tefillin
are a pair of black leather boxes containing Hebrew parchment scrolls. A set includes two
tefillin -
one for the head and one for the arm. Each consists of three main components: the scrolls, the box and the strap. The Torah
commands Jewish men to bind the
tefillin
onto the head and upper arm every weekday, in fulfillment of the verse, "You shall bind them as a sign upon your hand, and they shall be for a reminder between your eyes" (
Deut. 6:8)
.
Tefillin
is one of the most potent mitzvahs
in the Torah. We bind the
tefillin
on the head and on the arm, close to the heart, as a reminder that we must harness our intellect, emotions and actions to the service of G‑d
. Buying a pair allows you to fulfill this important mitzvah
yourself each day.
Although all
tefillin
consist of the same basic components, the price of a pair can vary dramatically based on subtle distinctions in quality. Purchasing a first pair of
tefillin
can be a confusing experience. This guide will explain the different types of
tefillin
, and help you choose a pair that is right for you.
For more on
tefillin
, read
tefillin 101
. To learn how to put on
tefillin
check out our comprehensive
tefillin Guide
.
The different types of
tefillin
Although all
tefillin
look very similar to the untrained eye, there are actually several different types.
Tefillin
boxes are molded from leather, and the verses inside the boxes are handwritten on parchment by a specially trained scribe. The different types of
tefillin
are classified based on the quality of these components.
Tefillin
are divided into three categories based on the quality of the leather boxes:
-
Tefillin
crafted from two separate pieces of leather are known as
tefillin peshutim
, the simplest
tefillin
.
-
Tefillin
made from one very thin piece of leather are called
tefillin dakkot
, thin
tefillin
.
-
Tefillin
formed from one very thick piece of leather are called
tefillin gassot
, thick
tefillin
. These are the most durable (and expensive) kind.
Each of these three types can be purchased in various sizes. According to tradition, the greatest sages wore large
tefillin
(40mm × 40mm), and it is considered praiseworthy to follow their example.
Pricing
Tefillin
prices range between $300 and $1,000, depending on quality. While that may seem steep, remember that a lot of skill and effort goes into making a pair of
tefillin
, and that the raw materials are not cheap. If you find
tefillin
for below $250, be wary; they are very likely not authentic.
Which pair is right for me?
Looking at all the categories of
tefillin
, and considering their price differences, it can be hard to know which pair is right for you.
Tefillin peshutim
may be the cheapest, but they are also the lowest quality. And while
tefillin gassot
are most expensive, they are extremely durable and much easier to repair.
Ideally, we try to fulfill mitzvahs in the most beautiful manner we can. With your budget in mind, consider buying the highest quality
tefillin
that you can afford. Of course, you fulfill the mitzvah of
tefillin
with even the most basic pair, provided they are kosher
according to Jewish law.
Where should I buy my
tefillin
?
Once you’ve figured out which pair is right for you, you’ll need to find a reliable source from which to purchase them. Chabad of Islip is happy to help with that.
Before you check out
Before you take home your
tefillin
, make sure you discuss this with the seller:
-
Are you left- or right-handed? It is important to know this, because the box of the arm-
tefillin
is placed on the less dominant arm. This will affect where the knot will be tied in the strap.
How to care for your
tefillin
Once you’ve purchased your
tefillin
, it is important to continue to care for them. Changes in temperature or weather can cause the ink on the parchment to crack or fade, and over time the leather of the boxes and straps can become misshapen or damaged. To prevent most damage to the boxes and straps, be careful to avoid hard knocks, and try not to rub the leather unnecessarily. Outer covers made from plastic or wood are available to protect the boxes when not in use. Make sure that the covers fit the boxes, otherwise they may do more
harm than good.
To avoid discoloration, minimize your
tefillin
’s exposure to moisture. Store
tefillin
at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Never leave them in your car for long periods of time.
All
tefillin
, no matter the quality or the amount of use, should be checked at least twice every seven years by a qualified scribe to make sure that the parchments are still kosher. Lower-quality
tefillin
, or
tefillin
that do not see daily use, may need to be checked more often. Of course, if your
tefillin
fall or hit something, you should have them checked by a qualified scribe immediately.