What is jot and tittle?

Here's some information about "jot and tittle":

The phrase "jot and tittle" is an idiomatic expression that means every tiny detail, the smallest and most insignificant parts of something. It emphasizes the importance of precision and thoroughness.

  • Jot: The "jot" refers to the Greek letter iota (ι), the smallest letter in the Greek alphabet. Symbolically, it represents something extremely small or insignificant. The <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Jot">jot</a> is also sometimes associated with the Hebrew letter "yod" (י), which is also small.
  • Tittle: The "tittle" refers to a small stroke or point, like the dot over the lowercase letters "i" and "j." In some contexts, it might describe a small mark distinguishing one letter from another. The <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Tittle">tittle</a> reinforces the idea of meticulous attention to even the most minute features.

The phrase appears in the King James Version of the Bible, in Matthew 5:18: "For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled." This passage emphasizes the permanence and inviolability of the law, suggesting that even the smallest detail will be upheld until its purpose is accomplished. This <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/King%20James%20Version">King James Version</a> of the Bible helped to popularize the phrase.

Therefore, when someone says to pay attention to "every jot and tittle," they are stressing the need to be precise and careful about even the smallest details. It often appears in legal or formal contexts where accuracy is paramount. The overall <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Meaning">meaning</a> indicates great care.