80

To bind tefillin on the arm

The Luchos - Ten Commandments
מִצְוָה עֲשֵׂה - Positive Commandment
מִצְוָה לֹא תַעֲשֶׂה - Negative Commandment
Tefillin – תְּפִלִּין

Men are obligated to wrap tefillin on their arms.

This mitzvah commands Jewish men to bind Tefillin on the arm, positioned facing the heart. The Tefillin contain passages affirming Hashem’s unity and the Exodus from Egypt, serving as a reminder to dedicate one’s actions and emotions to divine service. While the head Tefillin represents the intellect, the arm Tefillin symbolizes the heart and deeds, uniting thought and action in devotion to Hashem.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

  • Rambam (Hilchot Tefillin 4:1): Rules that the Tefillin must be placed on the weaker arm, opposite the heart, as a sign of subjugating our desires to Hashem.
  • Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 422): Explains that binding the Tefillin aligns the heart with faith, reminding us to channel love and emotion toward Hashem’s service.
  • Talmud (Menachot 37a): Specifies proper placement on the bicep, and that the commandment is invalid if positioned incorrectly.
(Source: Chabad.org)
וּקְשַׁרְתָּ֥ם לְא֖וֹת עַל־יָדֶ֑ךָ וְהָי֥וּ לְטֹטָפֹ֖ת בֵּ֥ין עֵינֶֽיךָ׃ - פָּרָשַׁת וָאֶתְחַנַּן
Deuteronomy 6:8 - "And you shall bind them for a sign upon your hand, and they shall be for ornaments between your eyes."

This Mitzvah's Fundamentals

Faith - אֱמוּנָה

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Represents Emunah—the deep, inner trust in Hashem’s presence, oneness, and constant involvement in our lives. This badge symbolizes a heartfelt connection to G-d, rooted in belief even when we cannot see. It is the emotional and spiritual core of many mitzvot.

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Holiness - קְדֻשָּׁה

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Represents the concept of  spiritual intentionality, purity, and sanctity—set apart for a higher purpose.

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