Tallit Clips
One of the changes that are extremely visible is the use of design on the tallits or tallilot. Today, the tallit no longer has to sport bland colors, since a number of tallis designs are available. This is not forbidden by the mitzvah, or even by Jewish authorities, although the user should of course practice restrain and common sense when choosing the designs on the tallits.
Another change that has occurred in the practice is the use of tallit clips. The use of tallit clips is not required when wearing the talit or the tallis. After all, the tallit itself is not really important in this practice; rather, it is the tzitzit that the Jew place grave importance on. But despite this, many Jews use tallit clips for its convenience. It also adds color and character to otherwise bland prayer shawls.
The tallit clips are used to hold the tallis or the prayer shawl in to place. This is actually a very important function, giving the tallit clips not just an aesthetic purpose but also a practical one. Remember that every time someone wears the tallit, he recites a blessing. Hence, the tallit or the prayer shawl should always be in place when one wears in. When he removes the tallit without the intention of using it again, but then puts it on to resume prayer, the user should recite the blessing again. This is how important the blessing when putting the talit on is. Now, if the tallit falls completely from the user’s shoulder or body, he has to recite the blessing again. This is not to say that reciting the blessing is an inconvenience. However, this can seriously hinder one’s prayer or meditation. With the use of the tallit clips for the tallilot, the wearer need not worry but keeping the prayer shawl into place; the tallit clip will do it for him.
These tallit clips come in various types and designs, and they are made from various materials. While a number of tallit clips look like jewelry pieces, this accessory is both suitable for men and women (this is imperative, since the use of tallits or Jewish prayer shawls are only required for men). Also, a number of tallit clips come in various religious designs. While this does not add religious or spiritual importance to the tallit or tallis, it is important to have appropriate designs for the tallit clips. After all, the prayer shawl is used for prayer.
