Meaning
Phylacteries are small leather boxes containing passages from the Law. The English word comes from Greek phylaktērion, meaning a safeguard or protective object.
Biblical Usage
Jesus mentioned the phylacteries worn by the scribes and Pharisees. He reproved those who enlarged them to make themselves appear more religious before men.
The practice was associated with the commandments concerning God’s words in Deuteronomy, where the Israelites were instructed to bind His words as a sign upon their hands and as frontlets between their eyes.
Key References
- Exodus 13:9
- Exodus 13:16
- Deuteronomy 6:4-9
- Deuteronomy 11:18
- Matthew 23:5
Related Terms
- Pharisees
- Scribes
- Law
- Traditions
- Borders of Garments