Old Testament

Numbers 15:39

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Numbers 15:39, God instructs the Israelites to wear tassels on the corners of their garments as a physical reminder of His commandments.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Moses
Written
Around 1400 BC
Genre
Law (Pentateuch)
Original Audience
The Israelites in the wilderness
CBTClear Bible Translation

These tassels will serve as a reminder. Whenever you see them, you'll remember all the LORD's commandments and obey them, instead of chasing after whatever your own hearts and eyes desire — which is how you've been led into unfaithfulness.

KJVKing James Version

And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments of the LORD, and do them; and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own eyes, after which ye use to go a whoring:

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Numbers 15:39, God instructs the Israelites to wear tassels on the corners of their garments as a physical reminder of His commandments. These tassels are meant to help them remember to follow God's laws and not to be led astray by their own desires or temptations. The verse emphasizes the importance of obedience to God and warns against the dangers of pursuing personal desires that can lead to unfaithfulness. By looking at the tassels, the people are encouraged to reflect on their commitment to God and to resist the pull of their hearts and eyes, which can lead them away from His path. This practice serves as a tangible way to keep God's commandments at the forefront of their minds, reinforcing their identity as His chosen people and their responsibility to live according to His will. Explore related reflection.

How to apply Numbers 15:39 to your life

To apply this verse today, consider using reminders in your life that help you stay focused on your values and commitments. This could be a bracelet, a note, or a daily reminder to reflect on your goals and the principles you want to live by, helping you resist distractions and temptations.

Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Numbers 15:39 mean?

Numbers 15:39 instructs the Israelites to wear tassels on their garments as a reminder to obey God's commandments. These tassels serve to help them remember to follow God's laws and resist their own desires that could lead them away from faithfulness.

What is the significance of the tassels in Numbers 15:39?

The tassels in Numbers 15:39 are significant because they act as a physical reminder for the Israelites to keep God's commandments in mind. They symbolize the importance of obedience and help prevent distractions from personal desires.

How can I apply Numbers 15:39 in my life?

You can apply Numbers 15:39 by creating personal reminders that align with your values and commitments, such as wearing a bracelet or setting daily reminders. This practice can help you stay focused on your goals and resist temptations.

What does 'chasing after your own heart and eyes' mean in Numbers 15:39?

'Chasing after your own heart and eyes' in Numbers 15:39 refers to following personal desires and temptations that can lead to unfaithfulness. It warns against allowing one's own wants to distract from God's commandments.

The Book of Numbers
Book Summary

The Book of Numbers

Numbers 1: First Census and Tribal Leaders

The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai and orders a count of the men of Israel who are twenty years old and able to go to war. A leader from each tribe stands with them: Elizur for Reuben, Shelumiel for Simeon, Nahshon for Judah, Nethaneel for Issachar, Eliab for Zebulun, Elishama for Ephraim, Gamaliel for Manasseh, Abidan for Benjamin, Ahiezer for Dan, Pagiel for Asher, and Ahira for Naphtali. The totals are recorded by tribe, and the combined number of fighting men is six hundred three thousand five hundred fifty.

Premium

Unlock the full Numbers summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Numbers — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 36 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Numbers summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.