Kitzur Yomi #79 | Siman 9, Seif 8 | How to Properly Put On a Tallis

What is the proper way to put on a tallis, and what should you be thinking about when performing the mitzvah?In this episode of Kitzur Yomi, the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch teaches the principle of oveir la'asiyasan—a berachah on a mitzvah is recited before performing the mitzvah, and the mitzvah should then be performed immediately, without interruption.Before putting on the tallis, you should hold it with both hands and consciously remember the purpose of tzitzis: Hashem commanded us to enwrap ourselves in tzitzis so that seeing them will remind us to fulfill all of His mitzvos.While standing, one recites the berachah “lehisa'teif ba'tzitzis” and immediately wraps himself in the tallis. The Kitzur describes covering the head, bringing the corners around the neck, and remaining wrapped this way for the amount of time it takes to walk four amos, while saying Mah Yakar.The Kitzur also reminds us to treat the tzitzis with respect. They should not be allowed to drag along the floor; when necessary, they should be lifted or tucked into the belt.A berachah on a mitzvah should generally be made before performing the mitzvah—oveir la'asiyasan.There should be no unnecessary interruption between the berachah and putting on the tallis.Before the berachah, consciously remember the purpose of tzitzis: to remind us of all Hashem's mitzvos.The berachah is recited while standing, followed immediately by wrapping oneself in the tallis.The Kitzur describes remaining wrapped for the time it takes to walk four amos while reciting Mah Yakar.Tzitzis should be treated respectfully and not allowed to drag on the floor.This se'if brings together three important elements of performing a mitzvah: timing, intention, and respect. We make the berachah immediately before the act, pause mentally to understand what we are doing, and then perform the mitzvah with dignity.Putting on a tallis can easily become automatic because we do it so regularly. The Kitzur reminds us that even a daily routine can become a meaningful encounter with Hashem when we take a moment to remember why we are doing it.Key TakeawaysPractical Lesson