Tefillin
תְּפִילִּין
Bind them as a sign upon your hand.
Origin
Given at Sinai. The four passages inside describe yetziat Mitzrayim and the unity of Hashem.
Halacha
Shel yad first on the left arm, then shel rosh. Not on Shabbat or Yom Tov.
How to perform Tefillin
- Wash hands. Wash hands and ensure body is clean before putting on tefillin.
- Shel yad — arm. Place the shel yad on the bicep of the weaker arm (left for right-handed). Recite the bracha 'lehaniach tefillin'.
- Wrap straps. Wrap the strap seven times around the forearm, knuckle-side up.
- Shel rosh — head. Place the shel rosh centered on the hairline, knot at the base of the skull. Many recite a second bracha 'al mitzvat tefillin'.
- Finish hand. Wrap the remaining strap around the middle finger three times forming the letter shin, then around the palm.
- Pray. Recite 'Shema' and the morning prayers while wearing tefillin. Remove after davening.
Reviewed by the editorial board · Updated 2026-04-28 · Halachic content based on Shulchan Aruch and Mishna Berura
Frequently asked questions
What is the source of Tefillin in the Torah?
The mitzvah of Tefillin (תְּפִילִּין) appears in Devarim 6:8, Torah · Va’etchanan. Given at Sinai. The four passages inside describe yetziat Mitzrayim and the unity of Hashem. It is classified as bein adam la-Makom (between a person and G-d) and is part of the daily observance of an observant Jew.
When is Tefillin performed?
Tefillin is performed after sunrise, before shacharit. Its frequency is each weekday morning, and a typical performance takes about 10 min. Performing the mitzvah at the prescribed time is part of the hiddur (beautification) of the mitzvah.
Who is obligated in Tefillin?
The mitzvah of Tefillin obligates men age bar mitzvah and above. The obligation derives from the classical definition of the mitzvah as recorded in Shulchan Aruch and the early poskim.
What is the basic halacha of Tefillin?
Shel yad first on the left arm, then shel rosh. Not on Shabbat or Yom Tov. The full details are codified in Shulchan Aruch and elaborated by the Mishna Berura and contemporary poskim. A practitioner reviews the laws beforehand and consults a rav for unusual situations.
How long does Tefillin take?
In practice, Tefillin takes about 10 min per performance, with frequency each weekday morning. Beginners should allow extra time at first to learn the halacha; with practice it becomes a natural and quick part of the day.
What is the spiritual meaning of Tefillin?
Bind them as a sign upon your hand. The mitzvah expresses a core value in avodat Hashem. The Torah itself (Devarim 6:8) is unpacked extensively by Chazal, the Zohar, and the major works of mussar and chassidut throughout the generations.
Where can I learn more about Tefillin?
The primary source is Devarim 6:8 in Torah · Va’etchanan. Comprehensive halachic discussion is in Shulchan Aruch and Mishna Berura. Free bilingual study is available on Sefaria (sefaria.org). In Madreiga, tap "Open app" to study with the daily companion.
How do I add Tefillin to my list in Madreiga?
Open the Madreiga app, go to the Mitzvot catalog, search for Tefillin, and tap "Add to my list". The app will remind you at after sunrise, before shacharit and track your daily completion.