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How can tzitzis actually remind us of all 613 mitzvos and prevent sin? The shiur develops Rashi (רש"י)'s understanding that tzitzis functions through kabbalat ol malchut shamayim - putting on God's 'uniform' with conscious acceptance of His sovereignty. This explains why the parsha emphasizes Yetziat Mitzrayim: redemption established our servant status, and tzitzis extends that recognition throughout the day.
This shiur provides a comprehensive analysis of Rashi (רש"י)'s understanding of the mitzvah (מצוה) of tzitzis, focusing on the fundamental question of how tzitzis actually works to remind us of all 613 mitzvos. The speaker begins by examining the famous gematria that tzitzis equals 600, plus 8 strands and 5 knots totaling 613, but questions how this mathematical calculation translates into practical spiritual effect. The discussion delves into the Tosafot's challenge regarding the gematria calculation, noting that tzitzis written without the extra lamed only equals 590, and explores various resolutions including the division of the additional lamed from 'l'tzitzis' across the three mentions of tzitzis in the parsha. However, the core question remains: how does seeing tzitzis actually remind one of the 613 mitzvos and prevent transgression?
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Menachos 43b, Parshat Shlach
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