Numbers 15:39

Hebrew Bible Modern 1977

והיה לכם לציצת וראיתם אתו וזכרתם את כל מצות יהוה ועשיתם אתם ולא תתרו אחרי לבבכם ואחרי עיניכם אשר אתם זנים אחריהם:

What Does This Mean?

This verse tells the Israelites to wear fringes on their clothing as a reminder to obey all of God's commandments. God is speaking here, emphasizing that these fringes should help them avoid following their own desires, which can lead them astray.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a special bracelet that reminds you to be good and follow the rules. Just like that, God asks the Israelites to wear fringes on their clothes to help them remember to do what's right and not follow their own naughty thoughts.

Historical Background

This verse is part of the Book of Numbers, written around the 14th to 13th century BCE. It was given to the Israelites while they were wandering in the wilderness, as a reminder of God's commandments and to help them stay true to their faith.

Living It Out Today

In today's world, you might use a reminder on your phone or a special item to help you stay focused on your goals, like studying more or being kinder to others. This verse encourages us to have tangible reminders of what's important.

Topics

• obedience
• remembrance
• commandments
• faithfulness
• sin
• holiness

Related Verses

• Exodus 20:2-17
• Deuteronomy 6:8-9
• Joshua 1:8
• Matthew 22:37-40
• James 1:22

Recommended Reading

Commentary Numbers Commentaries → Get This Bible Hebrew Bible Modern Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the fringes important?

The fringes are important because they serve as a physical reminder for the Israelites to obey God's commandments and to avoid following their own sinful desires.

How can we apply this verse today?

Today, we can use this verse by finding our own reminders to stay faithful to God's teachings, whether it's through a daily prayer, a Bible verse on our phone, or a special item that holds spiritual significance.

What does it mean to 'go a whoring'?

In this context, 'go a whoring' refers to the Israelites following their own desires and straying from God’s path, which can be understood as choosing to sin and not following God’s commandments.

How does this verse relate to other parts of the Bible?

This verse connects with other passages in the Bible that emphasize the importance of remembering God's commandments and staying faithful, such as the Ten Commandments in Exodus and Jesus' teaching about loving God and others in the New Testament.