The Importance of Tallit Clips
A tallit clip really is only something to hold the tallit in place, however, for something that seems so insignificant, it really is actually quite important.
Prior to wearing a tallit, a blessing must be said. If the tallit remains in place, then the blessing is said just the one time. However, if the tallit slips off or falls down, then the blessing must be repeated – every time it slips or falls. A badly-positioned tallit would mean that you might have to repeat the blessing a number of times, which can be very distracting when you are trying to concentrate on prayer.
Therefore, tallit clips, although a small item, remain a way to stay focused in mind and spirit during the morning prayer.
Naturally, tallit clips are also a lovely way to accentuate the beauty of a tallit. For many tallitot that exhibit colorful or even luxurious qualities, particularly talitisha (prayer shawls for women), tallit clips are a wonderful way to enhance these.
Designs include flowers, gold mesh, those inset with sparkling Swarovski crystals, and more, in a variety of colors, for a variety of prices.
For tallitot that are more traditional and more likely to be worn by men, such as those with the black or blue stripes, tallit clips ought to be quite simple, relatively plain, and somewhat masculine. Silver plated designs incorporating everything from the Ten Commandments to the skyline of Jerusalem are available for this purpose. For those whose budget does not extend to purchasing a solid silver or silver plated set of tallit clips for several hundred dollars apiece, metal ones are also available for a fraction of the price and produce a similar effect.
Depending on the fragility of the tallit clips, some of which are very delicate, they may even have their own little bag. It is important to make sure tallit clips are well-cared for, as along with the tallit or prayer shawl, they form part of the religious attire and should be respected as such.
Many people do prefer to choose their own tallit clips as it gives them a chance to exert a certain degree of individuality when in prayer. However tallit clips can also make a wonderful present. Even if the recipient already has a set of his or her own, an additional set of well-chosen tallit clips can always be put to good use.
In fact, particularly unique or beautiful tallit clips are a very humble way to convey your good wishes to someone else. Sometimes, the difference between feeling that you are dressed in an appropriate and respectful manner during prayer time, which is very important, and not, comes down to what tallit clips you are wearing at that time.
