Tekhelet Tzitzit Explained: Ptil Tekhelet vs Radzin
Tekhelet is the blue thread the Torah commands to include in tzitzit (Numbers 15:38). Today two main kinds are available: Ptil Tekhelet, dyed from the murex trunculus sea snail, and Radzin techelet, based on the tradition of the Radziner Rebbe. Whether to wear tekhelet, and which kind, is a matter of custom and halachic opinion, so ask your rabbi.
What is tekhelet?
Tekhelet is a specific blue dye mentioned many times in the Torah, including in the commandment of tzitzit. For centuries its source was unknown, so most Jews wore all-white tzitzit. In modern times, research and tradition led to tekhelet strings that many people wear today.
Ptil Tekhelet vs Radzin techelet
| Ptil Tekhelet | Radzin techelet | |
|---|---|---|
| Source of the dye | Murex trunculus sea snail | Based on the tradition of the Radziner Rebbe (19th century) |
| Color | Deep blue | Light to medium blue |
| Who wears it | Many who follow the murex identification | Radzin and Breslov chassidim and others who follow this tradition |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
How to choose tekhelet strings
- Ask your rabbi whether to wear tekhelet and which identification to follow.
- Choose your tying custom. The number of blue strands and the knotting pattern depend on the opinion you follow.
- Thin or thick strings. Both are available in Ptil and Radzin.
- Strings or a ready garment. Buy strings to tie on your own tallit, or a tzitzit T-shirt with Ptil Tekhelet ready to wear.
Shop tekhelet
Ptil Tekhelet Strings (Murex)From $79.00
Radzin Techelet StringsFrom $34.00
Tzitzit T-Shirt with Ptil TekheletFrom $52.99
Frequently asked questions
What is tekhelet in tzitzit?
Tekhelet is the blue thread the Torah commands to include in tzitzit. Today it is available as Ptil Tekhelet (from the murex snail) and Radzin techelet.
What is the difference between Ptil Tekhelet and Radzin?
Ptil Tekhelet is dyed from the murex trunculus sea snail and is deep blue. Radzin techelet follows the tradition of the Radziner Rebbe and is lighter blue.
Do I have to wear tekhelet?
Customs differ. Many wear all-white tzitzit and many wear tekhelet. Ask your rabbi which practice to follow.
Can I buy a tzitzit shirt with tekhelet already tied?
Yes. VeAhavta offers a tzitzit T-shirt with Ptil Tekhelet, tied and ready to wear. Orders ship the same business day from our US warehouse, and US shipping is free over $85.
Explore tekhelet tzitzit
Ptil Tekhelet and Radzin strings, and ready-to-wear garments.
Shop tekhelet