ציצית

Parshat שלח ends with the Mitzva of ציצית. There appears to be three different messages learned from this commandment.

The first idea focuses on the word, וזכרתם, that we must remember. The wearing of ציצית is meant to be a constant reminder that we are Jews with a special mission and special expectations. We are to strive for holiness in the way we live our lives.

The second message comes from the mention of יציאת מצרים, our exodus from Egypt. Rabbi Soloveitchik says that this is designed that we accept עול מלכות שמים, the yoke of Heaven. It is also a reminder that Hashem rules the world.

And the final point is related to the blue Techeilet combined with white on ציצית. Again, the Rav explains that White represents clarity, purity, and forgiveness. The Blue, which is likened to the sea and the sky, is only vaguely grasped. It represents the enigma of the Jewish people. It is difficult to understand why we have lived so long in the Exile and how we survived. Blue is to remind ourselves that we surrender to Hashem and we are not meant to understand all that takes place around us. We must rely completely on Hashem. Shabbat Shalom