Date: 03 Jul 2004
Time: 19:18:52 -0700
The talith still is just a garment-according to Jewish Law. As such, it has no inherent qedusha / kavod as a garment goes. However, in the Ashkenaz world, it has taken on the status of a holy garment-as a matter of custom. I am not sure how or when this happened. Technically, there is no problem sitting on it or treading on it or using it to carry groceries as was done in Yemen. Or going to the rest room with it on. But to the Ashkenazim, it became something else. This explains why Temani Talitoth never have prayers written on them that mention the name of HaShem or other holy verses. This concept is 100% clearly demonstrated by the Rambam who mentions wearing the Talith into a bathroom as no problem whatsoever. Also, one should note that the same people that consider a Jathol to be holy wear the Qatan into the bathroom. I have not (as of yet) heard one convincing answer as to why they should not also avoid wearing the Qatan into the bathroom as well. Some Talith's are holy and some are not? Either way, it is different strokes for different folks. But the law is clear. It is just a piece of clothing -- technically and accurately. Either way, I know many Temani Rabbonim who say one should not wear it into the Bathroom unless one is wearing it all day --where it surely has attained the status of clothing. This is doubtful for one who takes it on and off only for prayer. Thus, there is the custom of Yemenite Jews to wear it all day. Alyssa, please consider advertising on our site.
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