In Numbers 15 How Can The Practice Of Wearing Tassels Be Applied To Our Lives Today?
Understanding the Commandment of Tassels in Numbers 15
Numbers 15 introduces a unique commandment given to the Israelites regarding the wearing of tassels, or fringes, on the corners of their garments. To understand its significance and how it can shape our lives today, let's explore the biblical context, its theological meaning, and practical application.
The Biblical Command
After recounting Israel's journey in the wilderness and their repeated struggles with obedience, God instructs Moses:
Speak unto the children of Israel, and bid them that they make them fringes in the borders of their garments throughout their generations, and that they put upon the fringe of each border a cord of blue: and it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments of Jehovah, and do them; and that ye follow not after your own heart and your own eyes, after which ye use to play the harlot; that ye may remember and do all my commandments, and be holy unto your God. - Numbers 15:38-40 ASV
This commandment was a physical reminder for the Israelites to keep God's law at the forefront of their lives. The blue cord likely symbolized heavenly things, setting their minds on God and His holiness.
The Meaning Behind the Tassels
The tassels served as an outward sign of an inward reality—a call to remember God's commandments and to live in obedience. This was not about legalistic ritual, but about cultivating a heart that seeks after God.
- Reminder of God's Word: The tassels provided a continuous, visible prompt to remember God's instructions.
- Call to Holiness: They reminded Israel to be distinct from the nations, set apart for God.
- Guard Against Sin: By looking at the tassels, the Israelites were to remember to follow God, not the inclinations of their own hearts.
How Does This Apply to Us Today?
While New Testament believers are not under the Old Testament ceremonial law (Galatians 3:24-25 ASV), the principle behind the tassels remains profoundly relevant. God still calls His people to remember, obey, and live holy lives.
1. Remembering God's Word
Like the Israelites, we are prone to forgetfulness. Scripture encourages us to keep God's Word close:
Thy word have I laid up in my heart, That I might not sin against thee. - Psalm 119:11 ASV
Today, this might mean memorizing Scripture, posting Bible verses in visible places, or using reminders on our phones to meditate on God's promises.
2. Living as People Set Apart
The tassels signified the Israelites’ unique identity as God's people. As believers, we are called to be distinct in our conduct:
But like as he who called you is holy, be ye yourselves also holy in all manner of living; because it is written, Ye shall be holy; for I am holy. - 1 Peter 1:15-16 ASV
Living set apart may involve making choices that reflect Christ’s character, even when it means standing out from the world.
3. Guarding Our Hearts
God warned Israel not to "follow after your own heart and your own eyes." The New Testament echoes this call to self-examination:
Keep thy heart with all diligence; For out of it are the issues of life. - Proverbs 4:23 ASV
We can apply this by intentionally evaluating our desires and motives in light of God’s Word, relying on the Holy Spirit to guide us.
Christ: The Fulfillment of the Law
Ultimately, the tassels pointed to a deeper reality fulfilled in Christ. He perfectly obeyed God's commandments and calls us to abide in Him:
If ye love me, ye will keep my commandments. - John 14:15 ASV
As believers, our motivation for obedience flows not from external symbols, but from a transformed heart empowered by God’s grace.
Conclusion
While we do not wear tassels today, the principle of remembering God’s Word, living set apart, and guarding our hearts remains essential. Let us seek creative and intentional ways to keep God’s truth before us, living daily in the light of Christ’s finished work and the power of the Holy Spirit.