Phylactery Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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phylactery
[fษชหlรฆk.tษr.i ]
Definition
religious artifact
A phylactery is a small leather box containing Hebrew texts on parchment, worn by Jewish men during weekday morning prayers as a sign of faith and obedience to God's commandments. The purpose of the phylactery is to serve as a physical reminder of the covenant between God and the Jewish people. It is traditionally worn on the arm and forehead. The practice originates from biblical commandments and has been observed for centuries, particularly in Orthodox Jewish communities.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He carefully placed the phylactery on his head.
- During the morning service, many members donned their phylacteries.
- The rabbi explained the significance of the phylactery.
- He removed his phylactery after completing the prayer.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In Judaism, phylacteries are called 'tefillin' and are traditionally worn during weekday morning prayers.
- The boxes contain passages from the Torah, emphasizing the importance of remembering God's commandments.
Historical Usage
- Ancient Jewish texts hint that wearing phylacteries dates back to at least the 1st century, showcasing their long-standing tradition.
- Phylacteries have also been depicted in various artworks throughout Jewish history, symbolizing faith and devotion.
Modern Context
- Today, phylacteries are often hand-made, with different designs reflecting personal and cultural heritage.
- Some people choose to use phylacteries only during certain religious observances, adapting the practice to modern lifestyles.
Comparative Religion
- Similar to phylacteries, Christians have sacramentals like rosaries or medals, which serve as tangible items of faith.
- In Islam, prayer beads or 'misbaha' serve a purpose akin to reminding believers of prayers or virtues.
Origin of 'phylactery'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Greek word 'phylakterion,' which means 'to safeguard or protect.'
- It has roots in ancient practices where texts were written on parchment and preserved in small boxes.
The word 'phylactery' comes from the Greek word 'phylaktฤrion', which means 'a safeguard' or 'protection'. This term is derived from 'phylaktฤs', meaning 'to guard' or 'to protect'. The use of phylacteries has its roots in Jewish scriptural texts, specifically in the Torah, which instructs the faithful to bind certain words and commandments on their bodies and doorposts. Historically, this practice has become a significant ritual element in Judaism, symbolizing devotion and adherence to God's laws. Phylacteries consist of two black boxes made of leather, each containing scrolls with specific biblical passages. The tradition of wearing them is linked to the historical experiences and spiritual identity of the Jewish people, and it has been passed down through generations as a means of maintaining faith and religious observance.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #40,766, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.