from an unused root meaning to go around or bind; a fillet for the forehead; frontlet.
Transliteration:ṭôwphâphâh
Pronunciation:to-faw-faw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew noun ṭôwphâphâh (טוֹפָפָה, `{{H2903}}`) is derived from an unused root, which is understood to convey the meaning "to go around" or "to bind." This etymological root directly informs the primary definition of ṭôwphâphâh as "a fillet for the forehead" or a "frontlet." It describes a band or ornament specifically designed to be worn on the forehead, implying an object that encircles or is bound to the head. The core semantic range thus encompasses both the physical object and the act of its attachment, emphasizing its fixed and prominent placement.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Ṭôwphâphâh appears in only three verses within the Hebrew Bible, yet its context in each instance imbues it with profound significance.
1. **[[Exodus 13:16]]**: "It shall be as a sign on your hand and as frontlets between your eyes, for by a strong hand the Lord brought us out of Egypt." This verse is part of the instructions given after the Passover, emphasizing the perpetual remembrance of God's mighty act of deliverance from Egyptian bondage. The ṭôwphâphâh here serves as a constant, visible reminder of this foundational historical and redemptive event.
2. **[[Deuteronomy 6:8]]**: "You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes." This command is part of the foundational *Shema* (Deuteronomy 6:4-9), which calls for absolute devotion to Yahweh and the diligent teaching of His commandments. The "them" refers to the words of God, specifically those articulated in [[Deuteronomy 6:4-7]]. Here, the ṭôwphâphâh symbolizes the binding of God's law to one's innermost thoughts.
3. **[[Deuteronomy 11:18]]**: "You shall therefore lay up these words of mine in your heart and in your soul, and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes." This passage reiterates the command from [[Deuteronomy 6:8]], reinforcing the imperative to internalize and physically manifest adherence to God's statutes. The preceding call to lay up the words "in your heart and in your soul" underscores that the external binding is a reflection of an internal commitment.
In all occurrences, ṭôwphâphâh is paired with "a sign on your hand" (אוֹת עַל-יָדְךָ, `{{H226}}` `{{H3027}}`) and specifically located "between your eyes" (בֵּין עֵינֶיךָ). This consistent pairing highlights a holistic call to remembrance and obedience, engaging both one's actions (hand) and one's thoughts, perceptions, and understanding (between the eyes/forehead).
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of ṭôwphâphâh is intrinsically linked to several other significant biblical terms and practices:
* **Sign (אוֹת - `{{H226}}`):** The ṭôwphâphâh is explicitly called a "sign" (אוֹת) in all its occurrences, indicating its function as a visible marker or reminder of God's covenant and commands.
* **Binding (קָשַׁר - `{{H7194}}`):** The verb "to bind" (קָשַׁר) is consistently used in conjunction with ṭôwphâphâh, directly reflecting the implied meaning of its root. This act of binding underscores the intentional and deliberate nature of attaching God's word to oneself.
* **Hand (יָד - `{{H3027}}`):** The "hand" is consistently paired with the "frontlet between the eyes," symbolizing the realm of action, labor, and practical obedience.
* **Heart (לֵב - `{{H3824}}`) and Soul (נֶפֶשׁ - `{{H5315}}`):** Especially in [[Deuteronomy 11:18]], the command to bind the words externally is preceded by the injunction to lay them up "in your heart and in your soul," emphasizing that external observance must stem from internal conviction and devotion.
* **Phylacteries (Tefillin):** While not explicitly mentioned in the biblical text, the commands concerning ṭôwphâphâh are the scriptural basis for the later Jewish practice of wearing *tefillin* (phylacteries), small leather boxes containing scrolls with specific biblical passages, worn on the arm and forehead during prayer. This demonstrates the enduring interpretation and literalization of the biblical injunction.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ṭôwphâphâh is profound, extending beyond a mere physical ornament to embody core principles of Israelite faith:
1. **Perpetual Remembrance:** The primary theological function is to serve as a constant, inescapable reminder of God's mighty acts (e.g., the Exodus) and His divine commands. By placing these "frontlets between your eyes," the worshiper is perpetually confronted with God's truth, preventing forgetfulness and spiritual apathy.
2. **Holistic Obedience:** The pairing of the "hand" (representing action and work) and "between the eyes" (representing thought, perception, and understanding) signifies a call for comprehensive, holistic obedience. It is not enough to merely *do* God's will; one must also *think* and *perceive* according to His truth. This demands an integration of one's entire being—mind, will, and action—in submission to God.
3. **Identity and Distinction:** For ancient Israel, adherence to these commands, including the symbolic ṭôwphâphâh, served as a visible marker of their identity as God's covenant people. It distinguished them from surrounding nations who did not live under the covenant of Yahweh.
4. **Internalization of Torah:** While the command involves an external binding, the Deuteronomic context, particularly [[Deuteronomy 11:18]], clarifies that the ultimate goal is the internalization of God's word. The external sign is meant to facilitate and reinforce an inward transformation, where God's laws truly govern one's thoughts and intentions. The ṭôwphâphâh therefore functions as a pedagogical tool, prompting reflection and meditation on the divine will.
### Summary
The Hebrew word ṭôwphâphâh (טוֹפָפָה, `{{H2903}}`), meaning "frontlet" or "fillet for the forehead," appears in a limited but highly significant biblical context. Derived from a root meaning "to bind" or "go around," it refers to an object worn "between the eyes" as a "sign." Its occurrences in [[Exodus 13:16]], [[Deuteronomy 6:8]], and [[Deuteronomy 11:18]] uniformly emphasize its role as a perpetual reminder of God's redemptive acts and His divine commands. The consistent pairing with "a sign on your hand" underscores a call for holistic obedience, integrating both thought (forehead) and action (hand) in devotion to God. Theologically, ṭôwphâphâh symbolizes the imperative for constant remembrance, deep internalization of the Torah, and the shaping of one's entire life—mind and deed—by God's truth, serving as the foundational concept for the later Jewish practice of *tefillin*.
TRV