Phylacteries
ArtifactsWhat is the meaning of Phylacteries in the Bible?
Phylacteries are small leather boxes containing parchment scrolls of biblical verses worn by practitioners of Judaism. In modern Hebrew, these ritual items are known as tephillin.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding these physical objects clarifies the historical context of Jesus' critique in Matthew 23:5, where he contrasts the external display of piety through such items with the internal requirements of justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Phylacteries were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Phylacteries in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Phylacteries clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
Matthew 23:5
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Phylacteries." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/phylacteries/