jot or tittle

The phrase "jot or tittle" is an expression that means paying attention to even the smallest details or being meticulous. It comes from the Christian Bible, specifically the New Testament, in the book of Matthew. In Matthew 5:18, Jesus says, "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." Here, "jot" refers to the smallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet, and "tittle" refers to a tiny stroke or embellishment that distinguishes between similar-looking letters. Thus, the phrase "jot or tittle" emphasizes the importance of not disregarding even the slightest detail.