Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terminology, the concept of a "token" often refers to a sign or symbol that serves as a reminder of a covenant or commandment. One specific instance of a token in the form of a fringe is found in the Old Testament, where God commands the Israelites to wear fringes on the corners of their garments. This practice is deeply rooted in the covenantal relationship between God and His people, serving as a tangible reminder of their identity and obligations under the Law.Biblical Mandate The instruction regarding fringes is found in the Book of Numbers. God commands Moses to instruct the Israelites to make tassels on the corners of their garments, with a blue cord on each tassel. This is described in Numbers 15:38-39 : "Speak to the Israelites and tell them that throughout the generations to come, they are to make tassels for the corners of their garments, with a blue cord on each tassel. You will have these tassels to look at so that you will remember all the commands of the LORD, that you may obey them and not prostitute yourselves by chasing after the lusts of your own hearts and eyes." Purpose and Significance The fringes, or tassels, served as a constant visual reminder of the commandments of God. They were a physical representation of the Israelites' commitment to live according to God's laws. The blue cord, in particular, is significant as blue is often associated with divinity and heavenly authority in biblical symbolism. The fringes were not merely decorative but were imbued with spiritual significance, reminding the Israelites of their unique calling and the holiness required of them as God's chosen people. Cultural and Religious Context In the ancient Near Eastern context, clothing often held symbolic meaning, and the addition of fringes to garments was a distinctive feature that set the Israelites apart from surrounding nations. This practice underscored their identity as a people set apart for God. The fringes were a daily, visible sign of their covenant with God, reinforcing their duty to adhere to His commandments and to live in a manner that reflected His holiness. New Testament References While the specific command to wear fringes is not reiterated in the New Testament, the concept of outward symbols reflecting inward faithfulness continues. Jesus Himself, as a devout Jew, would have worn such fringes. In the Gospels, there are accounts of people touching the fringe of Jesus' garment to be healed, as seen in Matthew 9:20 : "Just then a woman who had suffered from bleeding for twelve years came up behind Him and touched the fringe of His cloak." This act signifies faith and recognition of Jesus' authority and divine power. Theological Implications The fringes serve as a reminder of the importance of obedience and the need for constant mindfulness of God's commandments. They symbolize the call to holiness and the distinctiveness of God's people. In a broader theological sense, the fringes can be seen as a precursor to the New Covenant, where the law is written on the hearts of believers (Jeremiah 31:33), emphasizing an internal transformation rather than external adherence alone. In summary, the token of a fringe in biblical tradition is a profound symbol of covenantal faithfulness, serving as a perpetual reminder of the Israelites' commitment to God's commandments and their identity as His chosen people. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 15:38-40Speak to the children of Israel, and bid them that they make them fringes in the borders of their garments throughout their generations, and that they put on the fringe of the borders a ribbon of blue: Nave's Topical Index Library Prayers Answered Chapter nine Christ's Resurrection and Our Newness of Life The Baptism of Jesus: Its Higher Meaning. Resources What does the Bible say about hair length? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the lily of the valley (Song of Solomon 2:1)? | GotQuestions.org What is genuflection? What does it mean to genuflect? | GotQuestions.org Token: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Token: Blood of the Paschal Lamb Token: Circumcision, of the Covenant of Abraham Token: Consecration of the Firstborn Token: Miracles of Moses, of the Divine Authority of his Missions Token: Prayer for Tokens of Mercy Token: Rainbow, That the Earth Would Never be Destroyed by a Flood Token: Sun and Moon for Time and Seasons Related Terms |
    |