Jump to: Smith's • ISBE • Easton's • Webster's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Greek • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia A fathom is a unit of measurement traditionally used to measure the depth of water. In biblical times, the fathom was understood as the length of a man's outstretched arms, approximately six feet. While the term "fathom" itself does not appear frequently in the Bible, the concept of measuring depth is present in various passages, particularly in the context of seafaring and maritime activities.Biblical Context The Bible often uses imagery related to the sea and water, which would have been familiar to the people of the ancient Near East, including the Israelites. The sea is depicted as a place of mystery and danger, as well as a source of sustenance and trade. Understanding the depth of water would have been crucial for navigation and fishing, activities that are mentioned in several biblical narratives. Relevant Passages While the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically use the term "fathom," the concept of measuring depth is implied in passages that describe maritime activities. For example, in Acts 27, the Apostle Paul is aboard a ship that encounters a storm. The crew takes soundings to measure the depth of the water to avoid running aground: · Acts 27:28 : "They took soundings and found that the water was twenty fathoms deep. A short time later they took soundings again and found it was fifteen fathoms deep." This passage illustrates the practical use of measuring water depth to ensure the safety of the ship and its passengers. The act of taking soundings reflects the ancient practice of using a weighted line to determine the depth of the sea, a method that would have been familiar to sailors of the time. Symbolic Use In addition to its practical application, the concept of depth in the Bible often carries symbolic meaning. Depth can represent the vastness and incomprehensibility of God's creation, as well as the profound nature of His wisdom and knowledge. For instance, the psalmist speaks of the depths of the sea as a metaphor for the greatness of God's works: · Psalm 107:23-24 : "Others went out to sea in ships, conducting trade on the mighty waters. They saw the works of the LORD, and His wonders in the deep." Here, the "deep" signifies not only the physical depth of the sea but also the spiritual depth of God's power and majesty. Cultural and Historical Significance In the ancient world, the ability to measure and understand the sea was crucial for trade and exploration. The Israelites, though not primarily a seafaring people, would have been aware of the importance of maritime activities through their interactions with neighboring cultures such as the Phoenicians, who were renowned for their seafaring skills. The use of the fathom as a unit of measurement reflects the practical needs of ancient societies to navigate and utilize the sea effectively. It also underscores the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty over the natural world, including the vast and often unpredictable waters. Conclusion While the term "fathom" itself is not prevalent in the biblical text, the concept of measuring depth is integral to understanding the maritime context of certain passages. The use of depth as both a practical and symbolic element in the Bible highlights the multifaceted nature of God's creation and His dominion over all things, both seen and unseen. Easton's Bible Dictionary (Old A.S. faethm, "bosom, " or the outstretched arms), a span of six feet (Acts 27:28). Gr. orguia (from orego, "I stretch"), the distance between the extremities of both arms fully stretched out. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A measure of length, containing six feet; the space to which a man can extend his arms; -- used chiefly in measuring cables, cordage, and the depth of navigable water by soundings.2. (n.) The measure or extant of one's capacity; depth, as of intellect; profundity; reach; penetration. 3. (v. t.) To encompass with the arms extended or encircling; to measure by throwing the arms about; to span. 4. (n.) The measure by a sounding line; especially, to sound the depth of; to penetrate, measure, and comprehend; to get to the bottom of. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia FATHOMfath'-um (orguia): The literal meaning is the length of the outstretched arms, and it was regarded as equal to 4 cubits, or about 6 feet. (Acts 27:28). Greek 3712. orguia -- a fathom (the length of the outstretched arms) ... a fathom (the length of the outstretched arms). Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: orguia Phonetic Spelling: (org-wee-ah') Short Definition: a ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3712.htm - 6k Library What to do with Doubt Love in the Triune Being of God. The Eternity of God Salvation: Grace: Faith The Cause and Cure of Earthquakes His Past Work. The Beatific vision. (Continued. ) "Love that Passeth Knowledge. " "Love and I" --A Mystery The Shortest of the Seven Cries Thesaurus Fathom (5 Occurrences)... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. FATHOM. ... (Acts 27:28). See WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. Multi-Version Concordance Fathom (5 Occurrences). ... /f/fathom.htm - 9k Fathers' Fathomed (2 Occurrences) Depths (56 Occurrences) Mysteries (11 Occurrences) Plumb (6 Occurrences) Probe (6 Occurrences) Sound (1245 Occurrences) Span (14 Occurrences) Snow (25 Occurrences) Resources Does God make mistakes? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God strike Uzzah dead for touching the Ark of the Covenant? | GotQuestions.org What are the modern equivalents of biblical weights and measures? | GotQuestions.org Fathom: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Fathom (5 Occurrences)1 Corinthians 13:2 Job 11:7 Psalms 145:3 Ecclesiastes 3:11 Isaiah 40:28 Subtopics Fathom: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |
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