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 The Mishna Berurah writes that in a situation that one needs to cut one’s tzitzis strings, a (metal) knife should not be used. One should rather cut them with one’s teeth. The reason for this halacha is that since the mitzvah of tzitzis has the zechus and ability to give one length of days it is not proper for it to come in contact with a metal knife, which can be used as a weapon to shorten one’s days. This is an extention of the mitzvah in the Torah (Devarim 27:5) not to use iron in the construction of the mizbeach. The Shelah writes that there are 32 strings and one has 32 teeth. This relates to the 32 pathways of knowledge. 

The ideal ratio between the section of the knots and wrappings, and the hanging strings should be 1/3 and 2/3 respectively. The Mishna Berurah says that this is נוי, the embodiment of the beautifying the mitzvah.

The Chazon Ish writes that as long as the strings are at least 2/3s they can be longer and one still maintains the beauty of the mitzvah. The Sefer Shiuran Shel Torah says that this does not need to be an exact measurement, so long as it is close to this stated ratio.

One needs to place 4 (doubled to 8) strings into each corner. If there is an extra string it is passul because it is deemed to be Baal Tosif. If one has already made the knots and wrappings, the Biur Halacha ( דה ואם הוסיף)  writes that one can cut and remove (in its entirely) the additional string. This decision is based on the opinion of the Rema that there is no תעשה ולא מן העשוי regarding the knots and wrappings in this case (רמא י:ו). A number of Achronim disagree with this position. They opine that תעשה מן העשוי is applicable, and, therefore, the entire knotting and wrapping would need to be redone. See Piskei Teshuvos #28 for further discussion regarding this.

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This email is intended as a supplement and review to your daily Mishna Berurah learning, but is available for everyone even if you do not participate in the program.  We will be following the Dirshu Schedule. Please understand that these emails should not be relied upon for Halachic Psak. If there is something that you question, please ask. These emails are complied by Rabbi Mordechai Millunchck.

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