Source: Likkutei Sichos, vol. 33, Shelach 3.
In the Alter Rebbe's Shulchan Aruch: Orach Chaim, Siman 8, seif 18.
1. Overview of the Practice: Talis Katan Placement
This section discusses the different customs regarding how to wear a talis katan—small tallis. Notably, among Chassidim, it is common to see the talis katan worn on top of one’s garments, with both the garment and the tzitzis—fringes—fully visible. In contrast, others wear the talis katan underneath their shirts, sometimes even tucking the tzitzis into their pants so they are not visible at all. The prevalent tradition in most communities is to wear the talis katan under one’s shirt, but with the tzitzis hanging out and visible on the outside.
2. Halachic Reasoning: Visibility of Tzitzis
The underlying reason for these customs is rooted in halacha. The Torah states that the purpose of the mitzvah of tzitzis is “so that you will see them and remember all the mitzvos.” Based on this, some authorities maintain that not only should the fringes be visible, but ideally, the entire garment should be worn on top of one’s clothing. This would maximize visibility and fulfill the verse’s intent most completely.
3. Kabbalistic Perspective: Distinction Between Garments
Kabbalah, particularly as taught by the Arizal, introduces a distinction between two types of tallis garments: the large tallis (talis gadol) worn during prayer, and the small tallis (talis katan) worn throughout the day. According to these teachings, while the talis gadol is meant to be worn externally and openly during davening (prayer), the talis katan serves a different spiritual function and does not necessarily need to be displayed outwardly in its entirety.
4. Synthesis: The Rebbe’s Discussion and Practical Custom
The Rebbe addresses how these differing perspectives manifest in actual halachic practice. There are two aspects to tzitzis: one is their role as a reminder of mitzvos (which would favor full visibility), and another is simply fulfilling the mitzvah by wearing them (which can be done even if concealed). According to Kabbalah as explained by the Arizal, wearing tzitzis during daytime fulfills primarily the mitzvah itself; however, there remains value in having a visual reminder.
The widespread custom thus emerges as a compromise: while we wear our talis katan under our shirt for reasons rooted in Kabbalah and modesty, we ensure that at least the fringes—the tzitzis—are left outside and visible. This way, we maintain a constant reminder of mitzvos throughout our daily activities while also honoring deeper spiritual traditions.
5. Conclusion: Balancing Remembrance and Mitzvah Fulfillment
The practical outcome is that although some may choose to wear both garment and fringes externally or keep everything hidden, most communities follow this balanced approach: garment underneath for modesty or spiritual reasons, but fringes outside for continual remembrance. This synthesis reflects both halachic requirements and mystical considerations as discussed by leading authorities including the Rebbe.