Halachot and Customs
Is It Permitted to Cut a Thread from a Garment While Wearing It?
Question
From a halachic standpoint, is there any concern that it is forbidden to cut a tag or thread from a garment while it is already being worn? This is apart from mourning customs, Heaven forfend.
Thank you.
Answer
Greetings,
It is indeed brought in Kaf HaChaim, Yoreh Deah (siman 116, seif katan 212), in the name of Chupas Eliyahu (Shaar 3), that one who sews his garments while they are on him has difficulty remembering things (see also what is brought on this in the book Shemirat HaGuf VeHaNefesh, part 1, siman 74, and in the responsum VeDarashta VeChakarta, part 2, Yoreh Deah, siman 19). However, cutting off a tag or thread is not included in sewing - therefore, it may be done even when the garment is on him.
With blessings,
Hillel Meirs
