Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Tefillin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

📜
Add to dictionary

tefillin

[təˈfiːlɪn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

Jewish tradition

Tefillin are small, black leather boxes containing scrolls of parchment inscribed with verses from the Torah. They are worn by observant Jewish men during weekday morning prayers as a sign of their faith and as a reminder of their obligations to God.

Examples of usage

  • He wrapped his tefillin before the morning service.
  • The rabbi instructed the children on how to put on their tefillin.
  • Observant Jews wear tefillin during morning prayers.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Significance

  • The practice of wearing tefillin dates back to ancient times, mentioned in texts as early as the Second Temple period.
  • Tefillin are linked to the biblical commandment in the Torah where believers are instructed to bind these words as a sign on their hands and between their eyes.
  • Throughout history, tefillin have symbolized the Jewish commitment to faith and tradition despite numerous challenges and exiles.

Cultural Importance

  • Tefillin are typically worn by Jewish men during weekday morning prayers, marking a daily ritual that reinforces spiritual connection.
  • In some communities, women may also wear tefillin, particularly in more progressive branches of Judaism, indicating a shift in traditional practices.
  • The design and details of tefillin can vary among different Jewish communities, reflecting diverse interpretations of religious texts.

Religious Context

  • The boxes used in tefillin contain scrolls with verses from the Torah, specifically from the books of Exodus and Deuteronomy.
  • Wearing tefillin is considered a mitzvah, a commandment within Judaism, emphasizing its importance in daily spiritual life.
  • Proper placement and care of tefillin are crucial practices in Jewish law, stressing respect for sacred objects.

Psychological Impact

  • For many practitioners, the act of wearing tefillin is a physical reminder of their faith and a way to bring mindfulness into daily routines.
  • Studies suggest that rituals like this can have calming effects, enhancing focus and dedication to spiritual practices.
  • Tefillin serve as a personal spiritual tool, allowing individuals to feel a deeper connection to their roots and community.

Origin of 'tefillin'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'tefillin' comes from the Hebrew root 't-filah', meaning 'prayer'.
  • Often translated as 'phylacteries' in English, though this term is less commonly used among practitioners.
  • Tefillin are also known as 'Shel Yad' (for the arm) and 'Shel Rosh' (for the head), indicating their specific placements.

The word 'tefillin' comes from the Hebrew root 't-fillah,' meaning 'to pray.' Tefillin are also known as phylacteries in Greek, which refers to their function as protective charms or amulets. This practice dates back to biblical times, with explicit mentions in the Torah, particularly in the passages that command their use during prayer and as a way to remember God's commandments. Over the centuries, tefillin have evolved into a significant aspect of Jewish daily worship; they symbolize the binding of the mind and heart to the service of God. The boxes contain four sections of the Torah: Exodus 13:1-10, Exodus 13:11-16, Deuteronomy 6:4-9, and Deuteronomy 11:13-21, each of which emphasizes the importance of the relationship between God and the Jewish people.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,296, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.