Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
phylactery
noun
/fɪˈlæktəri/
Definition
A phylactery is a small leather box containing Hebrew texts on vellum, worn by Jewish men during weekdays as a sign of their faith.
Examples
- During morning prayers, he carefully adjusted his phylactery before reciting the Shema.
- The phylactery is traditionally worn on the forehead and left arm.
- In ancient times, phylacteries were considered a physical reminder of one’s faith.
Meaning
In a broader sense, a phylactery symbolizes religious devotion and the commitment to following God’s commandments.
Synonyms
- Tefillin
- Religious ornament
