During a typical Saturday morning synagogue service, you will see all the men and many boys wearing white prayer shawls with fringes, known as the tallit. In Eastern European Hebrew, it is pronounced as TAH-liss (plural tallesim, tah-LAY-sim), while in modern Hebrew it is tah-LIT. The fringes on the tallit are called tzitzit (TSI-tsit).
This traditional Jewish artifact has a deep biblical background that teaches important spiritual lessons about God’s character and our obedience.
The Symbolism of the Tallit and Tzitzit in the Hebrew Scriptures
1. Reminder of Identity
The tallit was originally a four-cornered garment with attached fringes (tzitzit). Although the word “tallit” is not found in the Bible, the concept is based on Old Testament Scripture. The tzitzit are mentioned in Numbers.
The LORD said to Moses, “Speak to the people of Israel, and tell them to make tassels on the corners of their garments throughout their generations, and to put a cord of blue on the tassel of each corner. And it shall be a tassel for you to look at and remember all the commandments of the LORD, to do them … and be holy to your God.” (Numbers 15:37–40)
You shall make yourself tassels on the four corners of the garment with which you cover yourself. (Deuteronomy 22:12)
The purpose of the fringes was to remind Israel of God’s commandments.
The true significance of the tallit lies in the fringes rather than the garment itself. It serves as a reminder of God’s commandments.
2. Symbol of Authority
In addition to its primary purpose based on the Pentateuch, the tzitzit also symbolized authority. In ancient times, tassels were part of the hem of a garment, representing the wearer’s authority. This symbolism is seen in the story of David sparing Saul’s life.
Now behold, I know that you shall surely be king, and that the kingdom of Israel shall be established in your hand. (1 Samuel 24:20)
Tzitzit indicated that the wearer was more than a commoner—they were a noble or royal figure.
3. Color and Material Representing Royalty and Holiness
The colors of the tzitzit held significance, with one blue strand among the white cords on each tassel. This color combination symbolized royalty.
There were white cotton curtains and violet hangings fastened with cords of fine linen and purple to silver rods and marble pillars, and … couches … of gold and silver on a mosaic pavement of porphyry, marble, mother-of-pearl, and precious stones. (Esther 1:6)
Then Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal robes of blue and white, with a great golden crown and a robe of fine linen and purple. (Esther 8:15)
Blue was associated with settings where God’s kingship was proclaimed. It was used to cover the ark and other objects in the tabernacle, as well as in the curtains where God dwelt.
Then they shall put on it a covering of goatskin and spread on top of that a cloth all of blue, and shall put in its poles. (Numbers 4:6)
You shall make a veil of blue and purple and scarlet yarns and fine twined linen. It shall be made with cherubim skillfully worked into it. (Exodus 26:31)
You shall make a screen for the entrance of the tent, of blue and purple and scarlet yarns and fine twined linen, embroidered with needlework. (Exodus 26:36)
The color symbolized royalty, while the fabric represented priestly holiness.
Although the combination of wool and linen was considered holy, it did not make the wearer more spiritual. It simply marked them as being set apart for God’s service. The tzitzit were made of this combination, reflecting the attire of the priests.
The tzitzit served as a physical reminder to the Israelites of their identity, God’s character, and His expectations.
The wearing of garments symbolizing authority, royalty, and holiness by common Israelites was a reminder of their role as a kingdom of priests mediating between God and the nations. This role depended on their obedience to God.
The tzitzit served as a tangible reminder for the Israelites of their identity, their relationship with God, and the expectations He had for them. Rabbinic laws regarding the tallit and tzitzit have been expanded beyond what is outlined in the Bible, including specifications on the size of the tallit, when it should be worn, and the blessing to be recited before putting it on.
In the New Testament, Jesus referenced the tzitzit as part of everyday attire, criticizing those who displayed overly long fringes for show. Jesus himself wore a garment with tzitzit, and individuals sought healing by touching the fringe of his garment, symbolizing their belief in his authority and power.
The symbolism of the tallit serves as a reminder to Jewish believers in Jesus of their identity in the Messiah and the call to obedience. While not explicitly required in the New Testament, believers are encouraged to reflect their commitment to God through their actions and presentation in daily life. Just as the tzitzit symbolized allegiance in ancient times, followers of Jesus are called to embody their commitment to Him through their behavior and proclamation of His glory.
Overall, the tallit and tzitzit serve as physical reminders of spiritual truths and commitments, encouraging believers to live out their faith in a tangible way. Can you please rewrite this sentence?
Source link