Rafi Hecht

Rafi Hecht holds degrees from Lander College for Men and Stevens Institute of Technology. He has written extensively on techeiles, runs BlueFringes.com, and has contributed to Ptil Tekhelet’s digital efforts. In 2021, he led the Porphyrology.com project restoring Rabbi Herzog’s doctorate, earning a letter of thanks from President Isaac Herzog. He can be reached at bluefringes613@gmail.com.

In Print / Torah

What the Loss of Tefillin Can Teach Us About Techeiles Today

By Rafi Hecht

While a few, such as certain Amoraim and Natronoi Gaon, retained access, it became almost exclusive to non-Jewish royalty. The last known Jewish mention came from the Ramban in the 13th century, who noted that the Melech Goyim – possibly James I of Aragon – still wore it in his day.