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Tassel

Artifacts

What is the meaning of Tassel in the Bible?

Tassels are decorative or functional fringes attached to the corners of garments, specifically the outer cloaks worn by Palestinian peasants for protection against cold and rain.

SIGNIFICANCE

Recognizing the physical reality of tassels on ancient outer garments clarifies the practical application of the tzitzit command in the Hebrew Bible, illustrating how ancient Israelites visually marked their clothing to fulfill religious obligations and maintain distinct cultural identity.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Physical & Symbolic Reality: Physical objects and natural elements like Tassel were everyday realities for biblical writers, frequently used as living metaphors for spiritual truths.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Tassel in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Tassel clarify?

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

"Tassel." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/tassel/
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