Topical Encyclopedia In the context of Jewish religious practices, the eye holds significant symbolic and practical importance, particularly in relation to the wearing of phylacteries, also known as tefillin. These are small black leather boxes containing scrolls of parchment inscribed with specific verses from the Torah. The practice of wearing phylacteries is rooted in several biblical commandments, most notably found in the Shema, a central declaration of the Jewish faith.The commandment to wear phylacteries is derived from passages such as Deuteronomy 6:8, which states, "Tie them as reminders on your hands and bind them on your foreheads." This directive is understood to mean that the words of God should be kept close to one's mind and actions, symbolized by the physical act of wearing the phylacteries. The placement of the phylacteries "between the eyes" is a figurative expression, as they are traditionally worn on the forehead, slightly above the hairline, aligning with the area between the eyes. The Berean Standard Bible provides a clear translation of these instructions, emphasizing the importance of keeping God's commandments at the forefront of one's thoughts and actions. The practice of wearing phylacteries serves as a daily reminder of the covenant between God and His people, reinforcing the commitment to live according to His laws. In Jewish tradition, the eye is often seen as a gateway to the soul, and by extension, a means of perceiving and understanding divine truth. The placement of the phylacteries near the eyes symbolizes the desire to see the world through the lens of God's commandments, ensuring that one's vision and perspective are aligned with His will. The wearing of phylacteries is a deeply ingrained ritual within Jewish life, observed by devout Jewish men during weekday morning prayers. This practice underscores the importance of maintaining a constant awareness of God's presence and commandments, integrating them into daily life. The symbolic act of binding the phylacteries serves as a physical manifestation of the spiritual commitment to uphold the teachings of the Torah. In summary, the eye, in relation to the wearing of phylacteries, represents a focal point for spiritual reflection and adherence to divine law. The practice is a testament to the enduring significance of the commandments given to the Israelites, serving as a perpetual reminder of their covenant with God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 13:16And it shall be for a token on your hand, and for frontlets between your eyes: for by strength of hand the LORD brought us forth out of Egypt. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 23:5 Library Jesus at the Well of Sychar Resources Is there such a thing as the evil eye? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did Jesus mean when He said it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to get into heaven? | GotQuestions.org What did Jesus mean when He said, “the eye is the lamp of the body” (Matthew 6:22)? | GotQuestions.org Eye: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Eye of Evil Desire, Never Satisfied The Eye: (Anointing With Eyesalve) of Healing by the Spirit The Eye: (Open) Spiritual Illumination The Eye: Actions of, Mentioned in Scripture: Directing The Eye: Actions of, Mentioned in Scripture: Seeing The Eye: Actions of, Mentioned in Scripture: Weeping The Eye: Actions of, Mentioned in Scripture: Winking The Eye: Not Evil Thing to be Set Before The Eye: Not Satisfied With Riches The Eye: Not Satisfied With Seeing The Eye: Often Put out As a Punishment The Eye: Parts of Mentioned in Scripture: The Apple or Ball The Eye: Parts of Mentioned in Scripture: The Brow The Eye: Parts of Mentioned in Scripture: The Lid The Eye: Punishment for Injuring The Eye: The Jewish Women often Painted The Eye: The Jews: Cast, on the Ground in Humiliation The Eye: The Jews: Not to Make Baldness Between The Eye: The Jews: Raised Up, in Prayer The Eye: The Jews: Wore Their Phylacteries Between The Eye: The Light of the Body The Eye: The Light of, Rejoices the Heart Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |