We can now truly appreciate the amazing connection between the mitzvah of Tzitzis and the mitzvah of Shabbas. On Shabbas Kodesh, we complete the sixteen “aliyot” to the Torah and the sixteen lamb-korbanos that purge the heart of the yetzer hara residing in its left cavity. We express our desire to accomplish this feat in our tefilos on Shabbas with the words: "וטהר לבנו לעבדך באמת". Thus, by performing the mitzvah of Tzitzis by wearing a garment with sixteen strands in front—representing the sixteen “aliyot” to the Torah—and sixteen strands in back—representing the sixteen lamb-sacrifices—a Jew sanctifies and purifies his heart. By doing so, he is able to truly live up to the expectation of: "ולא תתורו אחרי לבבכם ואחרי עיניכם אשר אתם זונים אחריהם".
More in this printout
- The Amazing Connection between the Mitzvah of Tzitzis and the Mitzvah of ShabbasExplore the deep connection between the mitzvah of Tzitzis and the Shabbas incident in parshas Shelach—what lessons lie in this juxtaposition?
- 16 Strands of Tzitzis in Front Corresponding to the 16 Aliyot to the Torah 16 Strands of Tzitzis in Back Corresponding to the 16 Lamb SacrificesExplore the deep connection between Tzitzis and Torah readings, revealing how 32 strands symbolize our spiritual journey. What insights await?
- On Shabbas Kodesh We Complete the ל"ב ServicesUnravel the deep connection between Tzitzis and Shabbas as we explore the significance of the 16 aliyot and their impact on our spiritual journey.
- The Power of Torah and Korbanos to Purify the HeartUncover how Torah study and lamb offerings powerfully purify the heart from the yetzer hara, leading to spiritual transformation and renewal.
- Shabbas as a Respite from the Yetzer HaraExplore how Shabbas offers a unique respite from the yetzer hara, transforming struggle into peace—what wisdom does the Zohar reveal?