PHYLACTERIC Meaning and
Definition
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Phylacteric is a term with multiple meanings depending on the context, but its main definition is tied to the concept of protective amulets or charms. In the context of ancient Jewish customs, a phylacteric (also known as a tefillah or phylactery) refers to a small leather box containing biblical verses worn by devout Jewish individuals during prayer. These boxes are traditionally strapped onto the arm and forehead, although specific placements may vary across different Jewish communities. The purpose of wearing a phylacteric is to fulfill the biblical commandment to remember and internalize God's words.
Beyond its religious connotation, phylacteric can be applied more broadly to any object, belief, or action that is considered to have protective or amuletic properties. It can encompass various practices related to talismans, charms, or rituals that are believed to bring good luck, ward off evil, or offer protection against harm. The term draws from the Greek word "phylakterion," which means an amulet or charm.
This phylacteric sense can extend to figurative usage as well. For instance, it can be employed metaphorically to describe someone who is overly cautious or obsessed with protecting themselves from potential harm or danger. In this sense, phylacteric carries a negative connotation, implying excessive or irrational behavior stemming from an exaggerated sense of insecurity.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PHYLACTERIC
- ohylacteric
- lhylacteric
- -hylacteric
- 0hylacteric
- pgylacteric
- pbylacteric
- pnylacteric
- pjylacteric
- puylacteric
- pyylacteric
- phtlacteric
- phglacteric
- phhlacteric
- phulacteric
- ph7lacteric
- ph6lacteric
- phykacteric
- phypacteric
- phyoacteric
- phylzcteric
Etymology of PHYLACTERIC
The word "phylacteric" is derived from the Greek word "phylaktērion" (φυλακτήριον), which refers to an amulet or charm. In Greek, "phylaktērion" is derived from the verb "phylassein" (φυλάσσειν), meaning "to guard" or "to protect". The term was initially used in relation to small strips or boxes containing religious texts, typically worn by Jewish men during prayers. Over time, the term "phylacteric" came to be used more generally to describe anything used for protection or preservation.
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