Source: Igros Kodesh, vol. 17, no. 6382.
In the Alter Rebbe's Shulchan Aruch: Orach Chaim, Siman 11, seif 1.
1. The Background of Techeles in Tzitzis
The discussion today centers on the topic of techeles—the blue dye referenced in the Torah as part of the tzitzis commandment. The Torah describes a special process involving the dyeing of wool with a unique blue color, produced from a sea creature known as the chilazon. In recent times, there has been renewed interest in identifying and using this dye, leading some individuals to incorporate blue threads into their tzitzis. This raises the question: Is this practice relevant or required in our days?
2. The Rebbe’s Response Regarding Modern Techeles
The Rebbe addressed this issue directly in correspondence. He notes that when the idea of reintroducing techeles arose—specifically through the efforts of the Radzin Rebbe, who claimed to have rediscovered the chilazon—it was met with significant opposition. Leading Torah authorities at that time voiced strong objections, basing their stance not only on mystical teachings but also on sources from nigla—the revealed dimension of Torah law.
3. The Position of Chabad Rebbeim and Kabbalistic Considerations
The Rebbe Rashab (Nishmaso Eden) was particularly emphatic in his rejection of these new claims regarding techeles. Although the Rebbe did not have the exact text of the Rebbe Rashab's letter at hand, he recalled that according to Kabbalah, the restoration of authentic techeles is reserved for the future era. At present, we do not possess genuine techeles. Therefore, Chabad tradition is to follow strictly the guidance of our Rebbeim and not to innovate by introducing questionable forms of techeles into our tzitzis. If one identifies with Chabad, there is no need for concern or experimentation—simply adhere to what our Rebbeim have established.
4. Halachic Precedent and Gemara Sukkah’s Analogy
The Rebbe further references a passage in Gemara Sukkah (daf lamed beis amud beis), which discusses differing opinions regarding how to fulfill certain mitzvos optimally. Even when a more stringent or enhanced approach exists, if one’s teacher or tradition prescribes a simpler method that is fully valid, there is no need to seek out stringencies beyond that standard. The example given is that although some sought higher levels of fulfillment for certain mitzvos, others specifically adhered to their teacher’s ruling even if it represented a more basic fulfillment.
5. Practical Guidance for Today’s Practice
In conclusion, if our Rebbeim have ruled that tzitzis do not require techeles, then we are not obligated—nor encouraged—to add it ourselves. There is no need to pursue enhancements beyond what has been established by our leaders. For those following Chabad custom, this means continuing with white threads alone and refraining from adopting innovations regarding techeles, confident that this fulfills both halachic and spiritual requirements as taught by our Rebbeim.