The Torah reveals to us that by seeing the tzitzis we might remember all of the mitzvos. Consequently, we will be inspired to perform them. How does this transpire? Rashi explains that the numerical equivalent of tzitzis is 600. In addition, there are eight threads and five knots, bringing it to a total of 613, the number of mitzvos which we are commanded to observe. In the Talmud Menachos 43b Chazal comment that the techeilas, turquoise wool, which was the color of one string of each fringe, brings the Almighty to mind. Techeilas is similar to the color of the sea, the sea to the sky, and the sky to Hashem’s Throne. Thus, techeilas helps the wearer to focus on Hashem and his duty towards Him.
Chazal imply that one string can inspire a person, so that he can visualize the Holy Throne. How does this happen? Horav Zaidel Epstein, Shlita, suggests that the key lies in the word “u’reisem,” “that you may see.” We should approach the Torah in a manner that we can visualize it. We should look at tzitzis and visualize mitzvos. It must be something tangible, something that we can see, something that we can perceive.
Chazal tell us, “Who is a wise man? He who can see that which will be born.” It is not sufficient to merely know what will be. It is necessary that one understand it so well that he actually sees before his very eyes what will take place. Everyone knows that one day our sojourn on this world will come to an end, and we will eventually have to give an accounting for our behavior. But, how many of us actually see it? We are to focus on mitzvos and their message to the point that we actually perceive that message.
The Alter M’Kelm was wont to say, “The difference between a tzaddik and a rasha is the ability to visualize the Torah’s truth. The Rasha is not simply a non-believer, he does not see! If he would apply himself and/or open his eyes he would see. Thus, he would believe.
