Jewish Ritual Clothing

Reinterpreting Tefillin

Some interpretations of the meaning of tefillin have faded, and others have been invented to take their place.

Tefillin (Phylacteries)

Tefillin are reminders of God's laws.

Rashi and Rabbenu Tam: Two Sets of Tefillin

Evidence from Qumran shows that the medieval debate about the order of biblical passages in tefillin has ancient roots.  

Tefillin: Spiritual Significance

The details of this precept, using powerful symbols of allegiance to divine law and of membership in the Jewish religious community, have been subject to many interpretations.

Tallit (The Prayer Shawl)

The corner fringes on this ritual garment remind the wearer of all the commandments in the Torah.

The Tallit: Spiritual Significance

The commandment to attach fringes to garments was invested with deep theological meaning. 

Men’s Head Covering in Synagogue: Reform Judaism’s Views

Changing ideas about whether men should wear a kippah (skullcap) during prayer reflect development and maturation of American Reform attitudes toward tradition.