If one has only one tefilla (either hand or head), may he put it on and recite a blessing?

Synopsis

When a person possesses only one of the two tefillin, the question is whether each tefilla constitutes its own independent mitzvah sufficient to warrant wearing and blessing. The consensus is that each tefilla is a separate mitzvah and may be worn independently.

Early Acharonim
Late Acharonim
Lenient
Strict
Lesser cited
Major authority

Discussion

Discussion coming soon.

The Daily Law

One question. Every opinion. Every morning.

A new halakhic question and the full spectrum of rabbinic thought, delivered daily.