Deuteronomy 22:12
Thou shalt make thee fringes upon the four quarters of thy vesture, wherewith thou coverest thyself.
Original Language Analysis
תַּֽעֲשֶׂה
Thou shalt make
H6213
תַּֽעֲשֶׂה
Thou shalt make
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
2 of 10
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
4 of 10
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
כַּנְפ֥וֹת
quarters
H3671
כַּנְפ֥וֹת
quarters
Strong's:
H3671
Word #:
6 of 10
an edge or extremity; specifically (of a bird or army) a wing, (of a garment or bedclothing) a flap, (of the earth) a quarter, (of a building) a pinna
כְּסֽוּתְךָ֖
of thy vesture
H3682
כְּסֽוּתְךָ֖
of thy vesture
Strong's:
H3682
Word #:
7 of 10
a cover (garment); figuratively, a veiling
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
H834
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
8 of 10
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
Historical Context
This command was given to Israel entering Canaan, where they would face constant temptation toward Canaanite practices. The visible tassels created a tangible, daily reminder of covenant identity. Archaeological findings include garments with corner tassels from the Second Temple period. Rabbinic tradition elaborated detailed regulations for tzitzit construction and wearing. Jesus's rebuke of Pharisees for enlarged tassels (Matthew 23:5) shows how a good practice can be corrupted into proud display rather than humble remembrance.
Questions for Reflection
- What tangible practices or symbols help you maintain daily awareness of God's word and your covenant identity in Christ?
- How can you distinguish between legitimate reminders that focus your heart on God versus outward religious displays that feed pride?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Thou shalt make thee fringes upon the four quarters of thy vesture—The Hebrew gedilim (fringes/tassels) appears only here; the parallel in Numbers 15:37-41 uses tzitzit. These tassels, attached to garment corners, served as visual reminders of God's commandments. Numbers 15:39 explains: 'that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments of the LORD, and do them; and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own eyes.'
The tassels symbolized covenant obedience and identity as God's people. Each time an Israelite saw or touched them, he remembered his calling to holiness. Jesus wore these (Matthew 9:20; 14:36), affirming His observance of the law. The Pharisees made theirs ostentatiously large as displays of piety (Matthew 23:5), perverting the symbol's purpose. The principle: build tangible reminders of God's word into daily life to maintain focus on obedience. For Christians, this might be Scripture memorization, displayed verses, or liturgical practices that anchor faith to God's truth.