Speak unto 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 upon the fringe of the borders a ribband of blue:
NUMBERS 15:38KJVWhat does Numbers 15:38 mean?
Numbers 15:38 commands the Israelites to make fringes, or tassels, on the edges of their garments for all generations, and to attach a blue cord to each fringe. This instruction is meant to be a lasting practice for the people of Israel, marking them out in a visible way.
In this verse, God is speaking to Moses, telling him to instruct ("bid") the people of Israel about a specific way to modify their clothing. The setting is during the Israelites’ journey in the wilderness, as God gives them laws to shape their identity and daily life. The command is not just about clothing style, but about creating a physical reminder for the Israelites, setting them apart and helping them remember their relationship with God.
The Hebrew behind Numbers 15:38
- The word for "fringes" is צִיצִת (tsitsit), which refers to tassels or decorative threads. This is a specific kind of fringe, not just any border decoration, and it becomes a symbol for the Israelites.
- "Borders" uses the word כָּנָף (kanaph), which means "corner" or "edge." This shows the tassels were to be placed at the four corners or edges of their garments, not just anywhere.
- The "ribband of blue" is פְּתִיל תְּכֵלֶת (p'til techelet). "P'til" means cord or thread, and "techelet" is a blue dye, often understood as a deep blue or violet color. This blue thread was distinctive and had special significance, possibly symbolizing holiness or a connection to God.
Why Numbers 15:38 matters
- Numbers 15:38 clarifies that the tassels and blue cord were not just decorative, but commanded by God as a sign for all generations of Israelites, giving the practice deep meaning beyond fashion or tradition.
- The verse highlights how God gave physical reminders to help the Israelites remember His commandments, showing a practical way that faith and daily life were connected.
- This instruction connects to the verses that follow, which explain the purpose: so the people would look at the tassels and remember to obey God’s laws, making this a key example of how outward symbols can serve an inward purpose.