Tuesday, August 20, 2019

halacha - What to do with old ציצית



What do you do with old ציצית that do not fit anymore? Can you cut off the corners and throw the rest out respectfully?



Answer



According to the Shulchan Aruch (O"C 21) if the tzitzit are no longer valid, one may dispose of them. The Ram"a adds that one should dispose of them respectfully, but they do not require geniza. The Ram"a then brings down a second opinion that they (the strings) should be put in geniza, and recommends it. Similarly with the article of clothing itself: it may be disposed, but may not be used disrespectfully. The Mishnah Berura (S"K 2) adds that one may invalidate the tzitzit if he wants to dispose of them, but one should not dispose of tzitzit while they are kosher.


(Edit- According to the Mishnah Berura 15:3, one is permitted to remove tzitzit, even in a sense that renders them invalid, if the beged became worn out (or, presumably, it no longer fits and is not usable).)


In your situation, where the article of clothing no longer fits you, you may invalidate the strings and dispose of everything in a respectful manner. If you wish to follow the stringency of the Ram"a, you should put the strings in geniza.


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