Topical Encyclopedia The "hem of garment" holds significant symbolic and theological meaning within the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the New Testament. The term refers to the fringe or border of a garment, which in Jewish tradition, often included tassels known as "tzitzit." These tassels were commanded by God in the Mosaic Law as a reminder of the commandments: "Speak to the Israelites and tell them that throughout the generations to come, they are to make tassels for the corners of their garments, with a blue cord on each tassel" (Numbers 15:38).Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the hem of a garment could symbolize authority and identity. For instance, when David cut off a corner of Saul's robe, it was a symbolic act indicating the transfer of royal authority (1 Samuel 24:4-5). The hem, therefore, was not merely a decorative element but a significant part of the garment that carried deeper meanings related to covenant and identity. New Testament Significance The New Testament provides a profound illustration of the hem's significance in the accounts of Jesus' ministry. In the Gospels, the hem of Jesus' garment becomes a focal point of faith and healing. The most notable account is found in the Synoptic Gospels, where a woman suffering from a bleeding disorder for twelve years approaches Jesus: "She came up behind Him and touched the fringe of His cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped" (Luke 8:44). This act of faith, touching the hem, resulted in her immediate healing, demonstrating the power and authority of Jesus. The woman's action reflects a deep faith in Jesus' ability to heal, as well as an understanding of the significance of the garment's fringe. Her belief that even the slightest contact with Jesus' garment could bring healing underscores the recognition of His divine authority and the fulfillment of messianic expectations. Cultural and Theological Implications The act of touching the hem of Jesus' garment also highlights the cultural and religious context of first-century Judaism. The tassels on the garment were a daily reminder of God's commandments and the wearer's commitment to live according to His laws. By reaching for the hem, the woman not only sought physical healing but also expressed a desire to connect with the divine power embodied in Jesus. Furthermore, this narrative emphasizes the accessibility of Jesus' healing power to all who approach Him in faith, regardless of social or religious status. The woman's condition rendered her ceremonially unclean, yet her faith transcended these barriers, illustrating the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry. Conclusion The hem of the garment, therefore, serves as a powerful symbol within the biblical text, representing faith, authority, and the fulfillment of God's promises. It invites believers to recognize the profound connection between faith and divine power, as well as the transformative impact of encountering Jesus Christ. Smith's Bible Dictionary Hem of GarmentThe importance which the later Jews, especially the Pharisees, (Matthew 23:5) attached to the hem or fringe of their garments was founded upon the regulation in (Numbers 15:38,39) which gave a symbolical meaning to it. [See DRESS] Greek 2899. kraspedon -- a border, tassel ... edge, corner, tassel. 2899 -- the hem (border, trim) of a garment. 2899 () refers to the of a garment, especially with . Word Origin ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2899.htm - 6k Library Of the Raising of the Daughter of the Ruler of the Synagogue, and ... The Touch of Faith and the Touch of Christ A Sight of the Crowned Christ Futility of the Arguments Adduced to Demonstrate the Sufferings of ... Answer to Mr. W's First Objection. Curing the Incurable. Whether the Miracles which Christ Worked were a Sufficient Proof ... St. Ambrose, Addressing Christ, Complains of the Novatians, and ... Matt. xiv. 23, 24 The Power of Feeble Faith Resources What is the meaning of the story of the woman with the issue of blood? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about Limbo? | GotQuestions.org What was the significance of the priestly garments? | GotQuestions.org Hem: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |