צִיצִת (tsi.tsit)
tsi.tsit
tassel
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun tsi.tsit refers to a fringe or tassel, specifically the decorative cords attached to garments. In the Old Testament, it appears only twice, both times in the book of Numbers where God instructs the Israelites to attach blue cords to the corners of their outer clothes (Numbers 15:38-40). This physical detail served as a visible reminder for the community to obey divine commands.
While the word can simply mean a lock of hair or a fringe in general contexts, its biblical usage is distinctively ritual. The sources highlight that this was not merely decorative but functional as a mnemonic aid. By wearing these tassels on their garments, Israelites carried a constant visual cue to remember their covenant responsibilities throughout daily life.
Translators typically render tsi.tsit as "tassels" or "fringes," capturing the tangible nature of the object. The emphasis in the text is on the act of wearing these cords as an outward sign of inward devotion. This practice linked everyday clothing with spiritual identity, making the sacred visible in ordinary attire.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word tsi.tsit refers to a tassel or fringe attached to the corners of garments. In Numbers 15, God instructed the Israelites to add blue cords to their clothing. This was not just a fashion choice but a practical tool for memory. It turned everyday dress into a reminder of spiritual commitments.
For you today, this image highlights how small physical habits can support your faith. Just as the fringe served as a visual cue to remember God's commands, you might find value in simple reminders that keep your focus on what matters most. These aids help bridge the gap between routine life and deeper devotion.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- tassel[s]1×
- [the] tassel[s] of1×
- <into>/ tassel[s]1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- צִיצִ֥ת1×
- צִיצִ֛ת1×
- לְ/צִיצִת֒1×
Key Verses
-
Numbers 15:38
“Speak to the children of Israel, and tell them that they should make themselves fringes on the borders of their garments throughout their generations, and that they put on the fringe of each border a cord of blue.
This verse establishes the specific instruction to create fringes with blue cords, defining the physical object as a commanded practice rather than optional decoration.
-
Numbers 15:39
It shall be to you for a fringe, that you may see it, and remember all Yahweh’s commandments, and do them; and that you don’t follow your own heart and your own eyes, after which you used to play the prostitute;
Here the text explains the purpose of the fringe: seeing it triggers memory of all commandments and guards against following selfish desires.