What is the minimum and standard length requirement for tzitzit strings?
Synopsis
The Mechaber records a minimum of 4 thumb-widths and a preferred custom of 12. The Rema clarifies this measurement applies after tying, excluding the portion on the corner. Rambam and Rabbeinu Tam dispute whether 4 or 12 represents the halakhic standard.
More in Who Is Obligated in Tzitzit
Must tzitzit strings be spun with explicit verbal declaration of intent (lishmah)?
5 opinions
Are tzitzit strings valid if spun by a non-Jew while a Jew stands over him and instructs him to do it lishmah?
4 opinions across 3 eras
Must tzitzit strings also be twisted/spun-together (shezurah) lishmah?
3 opinions across 3 eras
If tzitzit strings come undone from their twisting and become sixteen strands, are the tzitzit valid?
2 opinions
Are tzitzit strings made from low-quality wool (caught on thorns, plucked from the animal, or warp remnants) valid?
2 opinions
Are tzitzit strings made from stolen wool valid?
3 opinions
Are borrowed tzitzit strings valid (do they count as 'his own')?
1 opinions
Are tzitzit strings from wool of an animal that was worshipped (avodah zarah) valid?
1 opinions
Related from other topics
What minimum length must remain on a torn tzitzit string for the tzitzit to remain kosher?
Minimum Length for Valid Tzitzit
When a string tears and both ends have insufficient length individually, but combined they have k'dei anivah, is the tzitzit valid?
Minimum Length for Valid Tzitzit
How is k'dei anivah (the minimum remaining length) measured when the strings are unusually thick?
Minimum Length for Valid Tzitzit
From where must the minimum remaining length (k'dei anivah) be measured — from the anaf (branch/hanging section) or may it include the gedil (wound/twisted section)?
Minimum Length for Valid Tzitzit
When relying on Rabbeinu Tam's standard (two complete strings required), is it preferable to seek replacement tzitzit or may one simply continue wearing the current pair?
Minimum Length for Valid Tzitzit
Is it permitted to recite a blessing over tzitzit that are valid only according to the first (lenient) opinion, against Rabbeinu Tam's standard?
Minimum Length for Valid Tzitzit
Discussion
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