debka_notion: (Default)
debka_notion ([personal profile] debka_notion) wrote2006-03-08 12:34 pm

Tfillin and Marriage Symbols

Just noticed this morning that not only do we recite psukim (verses) about being bethrothed to G-d while wrapping tfillin straps around our fingers, we then go on to wrap the strap around the ring where people contemporarily wear wedding rings. I wonder if there was some influence, although I very much doubt it. But it was a striking sort of coincidence.

I wonder if that affects how married Jews feel about their rings and/or about their tfillin. (Input, anyone?)

[identity profile] debka-notion.livejournal.com 2006-03-10 01:35 am (UTC)(link)
You're enhancing existing ritual. I'm a big fan of that as long as it doesn't get too new-age-y. And adding/changing psukim seems pretty staid in that regard. It feels traditional, even when it's making a major behavioral or theological shift.

I could see adding that pasuk right before putting on the tfillah shel yad, honestly. It goes well with a practice I learned from a friend who counts out her 7 arm circlings with "poteakh et yadekha umasbia l'khol khai ratzon"...