κράσπεδον

the fringe, edge

Definition

The Greek word κράσπεδον primarily refers to the fringe or tassel on a garment, specifically the tassels (Hebrew: צִיצִת, tzitzit) worn by Jewish men on the four corners of their outer cloak as commanded in Numbers 15:38-39 and Deuteronomy 22:12. In the Gospels, it describes the 'edge' or 'hem' of Jesus' garment, which people touched for healing (Matthew 9:20, Luke 8:44). It can also denote the 'borders' or 'edges' of garments more generally, as in the Pharisees' practice of enlarging their tassels for show (Matthew 23:5).

Biblical Usage

Κράσπεδον is used exclusively in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke) in five key verses. It consistently refers to the tassels or edge of a garment. In three passages, it is the specific part of Jesus' garment touched by those seeking healing (Matthew 9:20, Mark 6:56, Luke 8:44). In Matthew 14:36, many sick people seek to touch it. The final usage criticizes the Pharisees for ostentatiously lengthening their tassels (Matthew 23:5).

Etymology

The word κράσπεδον is of Greek origin, likely related to the verb κρεμάννυμι (kremannymi, 'to hang'), referring to something that hangs down, like a fringe or border. It entered Koine Greek as a standard term for the edge or fringe of a garment.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects Jesus directly to Jewish piety and the Mosaic law. The tassels were a visual reminder of God's commandments (Numbers 15:39-40). When people touch the κράσπεδον of Jesus' garment, they are not performing magic but expressing faith in him as the one who fulfills the law and embodies God's healing power. Jesus' criticism in Matthew 23:5 highlights that true righteousness is a matter of the heart, not external display.

In first-century Jewish culture, the κράσπεδον (tzitzit) was a sacred, covenantal symbol. Every Jewish man wore a four-cornered garment (tallit) with these blue-tasseled fringes as a daily reminder to obey God's commandments. Touching the fringe of a rabbi's garment was a sign of respect and a way to seek blessing or healing from him. This makes the actions of the hemorrhaging woman and others bold acts of faith in Jesus' authority.

πτερύγιον (pterygion, G4419) — A synonym used in Matthew 23:5 meaning 'little wing' or 'extremity,' also referring to the tassel or corner of a garment.

Word Details

Scripture References