Frontals, also known as phylacteries or tefillin, are small leather boxes containing Hebrew texts from the Torah. These are traditionally worn by Jewish men during weekday morning prayers. The practice of wearing frontals is rooted in several biblical passages that emphasize the importance of keeping God's commandments close to one's heart and mind.

Biblical References:

The concept of frontals is derived from passages in the Torah where God commands the Israelites to bind His words as a sign upon their hands and as frontlets between their eyes. The Berean Standard Bible provides these key references:

1. Exodus 13:9 : "It shall be a sign for you on your hand and a reminder on your forehead that the law of the LORD is to be on your lips. For with a mighty hand the LORD brought you out of Egypt."

2. Deuteronomy 6:8 : "Tie them as reminders on your hands and bind them on your foreheads."

3. Deuteronomy 11:18 : "Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as reminders on your hands and bind them on your foreheads."

These passages underscore the importance of keeping God's commandments at the forefront of daily life, symbolizing constant mindfulness and dedication to His laws.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In ancient Israel, the use of frontals was a physical manifestation of obedience and devotion to God's commandments. The practice was a tangible way to fulfill the command to remember and meditate on God's laws continually. The frontals typically contain four specific passages from the Torah: Exodus 13:1-10, Exodus 13:11-16, Deuteronomy 6:4-9, and Deuteronomy 11:13-21. These passages emphasize themes of remembrance, obedience, and the centrality of God's word in the life of His people.

New Testament Context:

In the New Testament, Jesus references the use of phylacteries in His critique of the Pharisees. In Matthew 23:5 , He states, "All their deeds are done for men to see. They broaden their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels." Here, Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their ostentatious display of piety, suggesting that their focus was more on outward appearances than on genuine devotion to God.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, frontals serve as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and His people. They symbolize the need for constant awareness of God's presence and commandments in daily life. The practice of wearing frontals is a physical expression of the Shema, the central declaration of faith in Judaism found in Deuteronomy 6:4-9, which calls for love and devotion to God with all one's heart, soul, and strength.

Modern Practice:

Today, the wearing of frontals remains a significant practice within Orthodox Judaism, serving as a daily reminder of faith and commitment to God's commandments. While not a common practice in Christianity, the concept of keeping God's word close to one's heart and mind is a shared value, emphasizing the importance of Scripture in guiding one's life and actions.2903. totaphoth -- bands
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