Topical Encyclopedia In the Bible, measurements of length are frequently mentioned, reflecting the ancient systems used by the Israelites and surrounding cultures. These measurements are often used in the context of construction, land division, and ritual practices. Understanding these units provides insight into the historical and cultural context of biblical narratives.Cubit The cubit is one of the most frequently mentioned units of length in the Bible. It is generally understood as the distance from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger, approximately 18 inches or 45 centimeters. The cubit was used in the construction of the Ark of the Covenant, the Tabernacle, and Solomon's Temple. For example, in the construction of Noah's Ark, God instructed Noah, "This is how you are to build it: The ark is to be three hundred cubits long, fifty cubits wide, and thirty cubits high" (Genesis 6:15). Span A span is another unit of measurement, equivalent to the distance between the thumb and little finger when the hand is fully extended, approximately 9 inches or 23 centimeters. The span is used in descriptions of the size of Goliath's spear: "The shaft of his spear was like a weaver’s rod, and its iron point weighed six hundred shekels. His shield bearer went before him" (1 Samuel 17:7). Handbreadth The handbreadth is a smaller unit of measurement, roughly equivalent to the width of four fingers, about 3 inches or 7.5 centimeters. It is used in the description of the altar in the Temple: "The altar hearth is four cubits high, and four horns project upward from the hearth. The altar hearth is square, twelve cubits long and twelve cubits wide" (Ezekiel 43:15-16). Reed The reed is a larger unit of measurement, often used in the context of measuring land or large structures. It is typically considered to be about 6 cubits, or approximately 10 feet (3 meters). In Ezekiel's vision of the new Temple, the measuring reed is used: "In his hand was a measuring rod six cubits long, each of which was a cubit and a handbreadth" (Ezekiel 40:5). Furlong The furlong, or "stadion" in Greek, is a unit of length used in the New Testament, particularly in the context of distances. It is approximately 600 feet or 185 meters. In the Gospel of John, the distance from the shore to the disciples' boat is described: "When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the sea" (John 6:19). Mile The Roman mile, mentioned in the New Testament, is approximately 1,000 paces or about 4,800 feet (1,480 meters). Jesus refers to this measurement in His teaching on going the extra mile: "If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles" (Matthew 5:41). These measurements, while varying slightly in exact length due to cultural and historical differences, provide a framework for understanding the scale and scope of biblical events and structures. They reflect the practical aspects of daily life and the divine instructions given to God's people throughout the biblical narrative. Library Concerning Masada and those Sicarii who Kept It; and How Silva ... Heroic Faith Ill-Temper Difficulties and Objections Man. The Accession of Darius. The Time of the Evening. The Gods of the Different Nations Varro's Gentile Class. Their ... The Demons Shall be Punished More Severely than Men. The Condescension of Christ Thesaurus Lengths (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Lengths (2 Occurrences). 2 Samuel 8:2 He struck Moab, and measured them with the line, making them to lie ... /l/lengths.htm - 7k Lengthens (1 Occurrence) Lengthwise (1 Occurrence) Weights (14 Occurrences) Exorcism Exorcist (1 Occurrence) Measures (50 Occurrences) Pattern (28 Occurrences) Bond (32 Occurrences) Chapter Resources How does the translation process impact the inspiration, inerrancy, and infallibility of the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is the idea of eternal damnation so repulsive to many people? | GotQuestions.org Why do so many people seek after signs and wonders? | GotQuestions.org Lengths: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Lengths (2 Occurrences)2 Samuel 8:2 Ezekiel 13:18 Subtopics Related Terms |