Numbers 15:39

And it shall bee vnto you for a fringe, that ye may looke vpon it, and remember all the commandements of the Lord, and doe them: and that ye seeke not after your owne heart, and your owne eyes, after which ye vse to goe a whoring: Numbers 15:39 (KJV)

The book of Numbers records the events of Israel’s journey from Mount Sinai to the border of the Promised Land, and this verse belongs to a section of instructions concerning conduct, worship, and observance of God’s laws. God commands the Israelites to make fringes on the borders of their garments. The fringe was intended as a visual token—a constant reminder that when the wearer looked upon it, the heart would be drawn back to the covenant and the commandments.

The primary purpose of the fringe was to help the people remember and keep God’s commandments. By keeping the law before their eyes, the Israelites were to remain mindful of divine instruction and live in obedience. Such a reminder served as a safeguard against wandering from the path of righteousness and being swayed by personal desire or the influences of surrounding nations.

The phrase “after which ye use to go a whoring” uses the metaphor of whoring to describe idolatry and spiritual unfaithfulness. Though the wording appears only here, Scripture elsewhere warns that following one’s own heart and eyes can lead to idolatry. The fringe therefore functioned as a guard against spiritual whoring—an appeal to avoid the lure of false gods and to stay faithful to the Lord.

While the specific command to wear fringes applied to Israel in its historical setting, the underlying principles are timeless. Believers today are called to actively remember and obey God’s commandments. Modern “fringes” may include regular Bible reading, prayer, and fellowship, all of which keep God’s law before our eyes and hearts, protecting us from the temptations that draw us away from His ways.

In summary, Numbers 15:39 underscores the importance of remembering and obeying God’s commandments. The fringe served as a visual reminder for the Israelites to remain faithful, guard against idolatry, and avoid following their own desires. Though the physical practice is not required for us, the principle of keeping God’s word ever before us remains relevant for every generation of believers.