This list brings up some powerful and often-heard reasons people give for not wearing tzitzit (fringes/tassels), and it also delivers a bold reminder at the end rooted in the scriptural command from Numbers 15:38-40. Here’s a breakdown and reflection on each point, along with how some interpret YaHuWaH’s unchanging expectation:
1. I did not know that was in scripture
Response: Ignorance may be honest, but once truth is revealed, action is expected. Hosea 4:6 says, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” The command is clear in Numbers 15:38 and Deuteronomy 22:12.
2. We are a different priesthood
Response: The command was given to all the children of Yisra’El, not just the Levites. Even in the renewed covenant, 1 Peter 2:9 calls believers a “royal priesthood” — set apart to uphold His ways, not abandon them.
3. That is only for the Yahudim
Response: The command wasn’t given only to the tribe of Judah, but to all twelve tribes — and to any sojourner who joined them. If you claim to be grafted in (Romans 11), you inherit both the blessings and the responsibilities.
4. The Torah is written on our hearts; we no longer need a reminder
Response: Having Torah on your heart should increase obedience, not replace visible obedience. Tzitzit are meant to help you remember and do all His commands (Numbers 15:39-40).
5. We are in a new covenant
Response: The new covenant does not cancel the old, but fulfills it (Jeremiah 31:31–33, Matthew 5:17–19). Tzitzit are a perpetual reminder of that covenant relationship.
6. I can’t wear them to work
Response: Tzitzit can be made discreet. There are ways to wear them respectfully and modestly under clothing. Obedience sometimes requires sacrifice (Luke 9:23)
7. They will offend my family
Response: The call to obey YaHuWaH comes before the approval of man. Yahusha said, “He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me” (Matthew 10:37).
8. Well, I see other people wearing them, and the way they act is hypocritical
Response: The hypocrisy of others is no excuse for disobedience. Each person will give account for their own actions (Romans 14:12). Don’t let others’ failure derail your faithfulness.
9. We can’t get the right color of blue
Response: While there’s ongoing debate about the exact blue (tekhelet), the command to wear tzitzit remains. Better to obey in sincerity with what you have than disobey over technicalities.
10. They are meant for prayer shawls
Response: The command is clear, tzitzit are to be on the corners of your garments (Numbers 15:38), not only on a tallit for prayer. This was intended for daily wear.
YaHuWaH’s answer to all 10 excuses…. I COMMANDED YOU TO MAKE THEM AND WEAR THEM!
The bottom line is obedience. Excuses fade when weighed against a direct command from the Most High. Tzitzit are a visual covenantal sign, just like the Sabbath is a sign (Exodus 31:13). He’s not asking, He’s commanding.