יום ה Date: 15 Tishrei, 5774 (10/9/14) – Yevamos#5 {Eliezer}

FRINGE REMINDERS

[5b top] The Gemarah tries to derive laws [namely that a positive commandment overrides other more stringent prohibitions] from Tzitzis [because wool and linen (the strings and garment) are normally prohibited to wear together, but in this case it is a Mitzvah].

D-E-ep Thoughts: Tzitzis is a wonderful reminder not only of the specialty in its unique overriding laws, but of the significance to our constant connection with our creator. The Gematria (hebrew numerical value) of ציצית is 600 and the 5 knots + 8 strings (on each corner of the garment) = 613 [the number of Mitzvos (commandments) in the Torah]. Also, the Techeiles (blue string) reminds us of the water, which reflects the color of the sky where G-d’s Throne resides. R’ Scheinbaum quoting Maharal: “Tzitzis” may be derived from the phrase “tzitz ha’sadeh,” flowers of the field, reminding us Adam and man’s obligation to be “motzi min ha’koach el ha’poel”  (to maximize his potential) in order to realize his goal and objective in life. We should wear our Tzitzis out as constant reminders to ourselves to keep all of G-d’s commandments while fulfilling our greatest potentials.