A Dictionary of the Older Scottish Tongue (up to 1700)
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First published 1983 (DOST Vol. V).
This entry has not been updated since then but may contain minor corrections and revisions.
Philactrie, n. Also: philaterie. [ME. philaterie (Wyclif), philaterium (Trevisa), e.m.E. phylactery (1645), L. phylactērium (Vulg.), OF. filatière (12th c.).] A phylactery. a. A small box containing a piece of vellum on which are inscribed certain texts from Scripture. By Nisbet, appar. applied to the vellum. Also fig. in the phr. to draw on breed the philacterie, to vaunt one's righteousness (after Purvey and Matthew xxiii. 5). b. A vessel or case containing a holy relic. —c1520-c1535 Nisbet Matth. xxiii. 5.
Tharfor thai do al thare werkis that thai be sene of men, for thai draw on breed thar philateries [P. filateries: marg. Philateries war wrettingis quhair in the commandementis war writtin] 1595 Anderson Winter Night 18.
Wide coules, side caps, with philactries, With shaving, jowking and juglaries Into the kirk each day
