Schaff's Bible Dictionary
FRIN'GES, a part of the outer garment, and the same as the hem or border of the garment. Deut 22:12; Matt 9:20; Matt 14:36. See Clothes. The children of Israel were enjoined to wear them by Moses, Num 15:38, and to place them on the four borders or edges of their outer garment, which was usually rectangular in shape. They were of a blue color. The object of the fringes was to remind the children of Israel of the commandments of God. Num 15:39. " The "hem of the garment" which the woman with the issue of blood touched. Matt 9:20, was the ancient fringe enjoined by Moses.
They became with time, as did the rolls containing the Scriptures, phylacteries, and other things, objects of superstitious regard, and a Jewish commentator on Num. 15 says that any man clothed with this fringe is safe, and shall be delivered from all hurt and destruction.