Sephardic Tallit Options

Posted by Ben G. on 20th Aug 2015

What is the difference between a Sephardic Tallit and a Yemenite, Ashkenazi or Chassidic? The foremost distinction is a different custom for tying the tzitzit, with a spiral ridge, followed by most Sephardim. Also, in many traditional Orthodox Sephardic congregations, a white tallit with white stripes, rather than black stripes is customary.

One specific example, the Beit Yosef Talit, is made entirely of wool, including the atara (neckband) and the corner patches. This tallit was so popular, that slight variations were also introduced, including the Beit Yosef Prestige and the Beit Yosef Tashbetz. The base color of the Beit Yosef Sephardic Tallit is an off-white matte color that lends it subtle refinement and sets it apart from other classic white-striped tallits.

While the Beit Yosef, including its variations, is made by Mishkan Hatchelet, rival companies have similar offerings: Talitania makes the Malchut and the David Tashbetz, and Pe'er HaKodesh makes the Ben Porat Yosef.

The White Striped Prima A.A. Wool Tallit is the standard white-on-white wool tallit, with a smooth weave and top-notch finishing work. It features satiny white stripes. Hamefoar is similar, but with a slightly textured weave, to help keep the tallit on your shoulders. The white-on-white Tashbetz has a more discernibly textured box weave, designed to optimize the nonslip properties.

Some white-on-white tallits also feature silver pinstripes.

Note that you will see Sephardic tzitzit options on every tallit we sell.