E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Fringe.
The Jews wore fringes to their garments. These fringes on the garments of the priests were accounted sacred, and were touched by the common people as a charm. Hence the desire of the woman who had the issue of blood to touch the fringe of our Lord’s garment. (Matt. ix. 20–22.)
