The Tallit prayer shawl is a vastly important piece of Judaica, used daily and cherished as a major symbol of Judaism as a religion. This special fringed garment is traditionally kept in a unique bag befitting its spiritual (and sometimes also visual) beauty. Tallit bags are more that just protective sacks, although part of their job is to protect the tallis from damage and keep it dry and well suited for morning prayers. In addition to protecting the tallit though, the tallit bag also decorates it with embroidered beauty, traditional Jewish art and a soft surface to enjoy as you prepare for that unique part of everyday morning prayers that elevates you and puts you in a mental state of sanctity and prayer. Often, Tallit bags will come with small counterparts to hold tefillin, thus giving you a matching set of protective cases for both of your most used but also most cherished Judaica belongings. Lined with silky material and covered in embroidered velvet, these zipped up bags are the best way to keep your tallit safe and respected. Respected is more than just a word here, too.
Tallits, like many other ritualistic Judaica and Jewish books, much be covered when those around it aren't entirely clothed or in places with foul smells. In order to not risk that disrespect, it is best that Tallits be covered up when not in use, and these bags are ideal for the task. Tallits are generally given to sephardic boys at Bar mitzvah age, and to Ashkenazi men just before they get married, after which they don the garment every morning but Shabbat and recite the blessing over the tallit:
בָּרוּך אַתָּה ה' אֱ-להֵינוּ מֶלֶך הָעוֹלָם אַשֶׁר קִדְשָנוּ בְּמִצְוֹתָיו וְצִוָנוּ עַל מִצְוַת צִיצִת
Baruch ata Ado-noy Elo-hai-nu Melech Ha'olam Asher Kideshanu B'mitzvotav V'tzivanu Al Mitzvat Tzitzit.
Blessed are you, Lord our G d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us concerning the mitzvah of the fringes.
Tallit bags make wonderful gifts for weddings and Bar mitzvahs, and are an item that is sometimes so beloved that they are passed on to future generations, along with the Tallit. Regal looking and quite useful, these bags are an easy choice of gift that will certainly be appreciated. Also wonderful gifts for any occasion when you know someone who doesn't have one yet, or whose Tallit bag is in need of replacement.
