Wrapping Tefillin Straps Around the Finger

December 31st, 2007 | Category: Ask the Rabbi

Why do we wrap the tefillin strap around the middle finger 3 times?

First of all, it is vital to note that there are several accepted traditions as to how precisely the tefillin straps should be wrapped around your hand. However, all of them include some scheme of wrapping the strap 3 times around the middle finger. The symbolism of the 3 is that of the triple-bond of love amidst G-d and Israel, as referred to in the verse, “A three-ply cord is not quickly broken” (Ecclesiastes 4:12). As such, it is as whether we are placing a triple wedding ring on our finger. Significantly, as we wrap the straps around our finger, we say the verses which describe the three-fold “I betroth you

to me…” (Hosea 2:21-22).

Original post by ATR