Halachot and Customs

May a non-Jew put on tefillin?

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Question

I would like to know whether a non-Jew is permitted to put on tefillin. Thank you

Answer

Greetings,

A non-Jew may not put on tefillin, even without a blessing.

Sources: It is true that the Rambam wrote (Laws of Kings 10:10) that a Noahide who wishes to perform a mitzvah from among the other mitzvot of the Torah in order to receive reward is not prevented from doing so properly. However, the Radbaz wrote there that in any case, in mitzvot that require sanctity and purity, such as tefillin, a Torah scroll, and a mezuzah, I am inclined to be strict that they should not put them on and perform them. See also the book Derech Sichah, part 1 (page 519).

With blessings,

Hillel Meirs


Tags:TefillinNon-JewsHalacha

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