### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ṭôwphâphâh**, represented by `{{H2903}}`, refers to a **frontlet** or a fillet for the forehead. It originates from an unused root that means to go around or bind. This specific term is rare, appearing just **3 times** across **3 unique verses**, yet it holds significant symbolic weight in each instance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H2903}}` consistently appears as a physical symbol of a spiritual reality, worn "between the eyes." In Deuteronomy, the Israelites are commanded to bind God's words as **frontlets** between their eyes, serving as a constant reminder of His law ([[Deuteronomy 6:8]], [[Deuteronomy 11:18]]). In Exodus, the command is linked to the deliverance from Egypt, where the **frontlets** act as a memorial or **token** `{{H226}}` of how the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` brought them forth by **strength** `{{H2392}}` of **hand** `{{H3027}}` [[Exodus 13:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential for understanding the context of **frontlets**:
* `{{H7194}}` **qâshar** (bind): This is the action associated with the frontlets. It means to tie something physically or to join together mentally, highlighting the intentional act of keeping God's law central, as seen in the command, "And thou shalt **bind** them for a sign upon thine hand" [[Deuteronomy 6:8]].
* `{{H226}}` **ʼôwth** (sign, token): This word describes the purpose of the frontlets. They are not merely ornamental but serve as a visible **sign** or evidence of a covenant and a historical event, namely the deliverance from **Egypt** `{{H4714}}` [[Exodus 13:16]].
* `{{H1697}}` **dâbâr** (word, thing): This specifies what the frontlets represent. It is God's **words** that are to be laid up in the heart and bound as a symbol, indicating that the Law should permeate one's thoughts and perspective [[Deuteronomy 11:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2903}}` is centered on complete devotion and remembrance.
* **Constant Focus:** By placing the **frontlets** "between your eyes," the command emphasizes the need for God's law to be the lens through which one sees the world. This external symbol is tied directly to an internal state, as the people are told to lay up these **words** `{{H1697}}` in their **heart** `{{H3824}}` and **soul** `{{H5315}}` [[Deuteronomy 11:18]].
* **Memorial of Redemption:** The frontlets serve as a perpetual reminder of God's redemptive power. They commemorate the exodus from **Egypt** `{{H4714}}`, a foundational event brought about by the **strength** `{{H2392}}` of the **LORD's** `{{H3068}}` **hand** `{{H3027}}`, not by human might [[Exodus 13:16]].
* **Total Consecration:** The parallel command to also bind these signs upon the **hand** `{{H3027}}` signifies that both thought (eyes) and action (hand) are to be governed by God's commandments, reflecting a life wholly dedicated to Him.
### Summary
In summary, **ṭôwphâphâh** `{{H2903}}` is far more than an ancient fillet. It is a powerful biblical symbol representing the internalization of divine instruction and the memory of God's salvation. It illustrates the principle that faith should be visible, shaping one's perspective and actions as a constant reminder of the covenant relationship between the **LORD** and His people.
TRV