The Bible, particularly the Old Testament, contains numerous instructions and symbolic meanings surrounding clothing, including the wearing of fringes. This practice, often overlooked in modern interpretations, holds significance for understanding the cultural and religious context of ancient Israel. While the act of wearing fringes might seem simple, it serves as a tangible reminder of God's commands and serves as a visible expression of faith. Examining the biblical passages regarding fringes sheds light on their significance for ancient Israelites and provides insights for modern-day Christians seeking to understand their relevance.
The Command to Wear Fringes
The primary passage that instructs Israelites to wear fringes is found in Numbers 15:37-41. God commands Moses to tell the Israelites:
"Speak to the Israelites and tell them to make tassels on the corners of their garments throughout their generations, and to put a blue cord on the tassel of each corner. These tassels will be for you to look at and to remember all the commands of the Lord, and to do them, so that you may not follow your hearts and your eyes, which you are inclined to stray after. Then you will remember and do all my commands, and be holy to your God." (Numbers 15:37-41, NIV)
This passage clearly states that the fringes are a physical reminder to obey God's laws. The blue cord, often referred to as "tekhelet" in Hebrew, symbolizes the divine presence and serves as a constant visual reminder of their covenant with God.
The Significance of the Blue Cord
The blue cord, "tekhelet," was traditionally made from a specific type of dye extracted from a rare sea snail. This process, requiring expertise and careful handling, further emphasized the importance and sacredness of the fringes. The color blue itself holds symbolic significance, often associated with royalty, divinity, and the heavens. In the context of the fringes, it serves as a visible symbol of God's presence and the covenant he made with his people.
The Practical and Spiritual Significance
The command to wear fringes served both practical and spiritual purposes. In ancient times, loose-fitting garments were common, and fringes prevented fraying and tearing. The practical function, however, was secondary to the spiritual significance. By wearing fringes, the Israelites were visibly demonstrating their commitment to God's law and acknowledging their covenant with him.
The Wearing of Fringes in the New Testament
While the New Testament doesn't explicitly command Christians to wear fringes, it acknowledges the importance of remembering God's word and the symbolic value of visible reminders. In Matthew 5:17-20, Jesus emphasizes the importance of fulfilling the Law and the Prophets, suggesting that the principles behind these commands remain relevant.
Fringes as a Reminder of God's Presence
Although the practice of wearing fringes is not explicitly mentioned in the New Testament, the principle of remembering God's word remains a central theme. Christians can draw inspiration from the symbolism of the fringes, understanding them as a reminder of God's presence and guidance in their daily lives.
Contemporary Relevance
While the practice of wearing fringes may not be widely observed in modern times, the principles behind them remain relevant. The act of wearing fringes served as a visible expression of faith, a constant reminder of God's commands and the covenant with him. This principle can be applied to the contemporary Christian experience, encouraging us to seek tangible ways to express our faith and make our commitment to God visible in our daily lives.
Conclusion
The Bible's instructions regarding the wearing of fringes offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious context of ancient Israel. While the practice itself might seem outdated, the principles behind it remain relevant. The fringes served as a tangible reminder of God's commands and a visible expression of faith. Today, Christians can find inspiration from the symbolism of the fringes, remembering the importance of honoring God's word and seeking ways to express their faith visibly in their lives. While not all Christians will choose to wear fringes, the principles behind them can serve as a reminder to live out our faith in tangible and meaningful ways.
