Topical Encyclopedia The term "measuring reed" appears in several passages of the Bible, serving as a tool for measurement in visions and prophetic imagery. It is a rod or staff used to measure dimensions, often in the context of divine instructions or visions concerning sacred spaces.Biblical References: 1. Ezekiel's Vision of the Temple: In the book of Ezekiel, the prophet is given a vision of a new temple. A man with the appearance of bronze holds a measuring reed to measure the temple's dimensions. Ezekiel 40:3-5 states, "He brought me there, and I saw a man whose appearance was like bronze, with a linen cord and a measuring rod in his hand. And he was standing in the gateway. He said to me, 'Son of man, look with your eyes, hear with your ears, and pay attention to everything I am going to show you, for that is why you have been brought here. Report everything you see to the house of Israel.' And behold, there was a wall surrounding the temple area. The measuring rod in the man’s hand was six long cubits, each of which was a cubit and a handbreadth. So he measured the thickness of the wall, one rod, and the height, one rod." 2. Zechariah's Vision: In Zechariah 2:1-2 , the prophet sees a man with a measuring line, which is similar in purpose to a measuring reed. "Then I lifted up my eyes and saw a man with a measuring line in his hand. 'Where are you going?' I asked. 'To measure Jerusalem,' he replied, 'and to determine its width and length.'" 3. The Book of Revelation: The measuring reed is also mentioned in the apocalyptic visions of John in the book of Revelation. Revelation 11:1 says, "Then I was given a measuring rod like a staff and was told, 'Go and measure the temple of God and the altar, and count the number of worshipers there.'" Symbolic Significance: The measuring reed symbolizes God's authority and precision in establishing His plans and purposes. It represents divine order, judgment, and the setting apart of holy spaces. The act of measuring indicates God's sovereignty in defining boundaries and His meticulous care in the construction of His dwelling places, whether earthly or heavenly. Historical and Cultural Context: In ancient times, a reed was a common tool for measurement, akin to a modern-day ruler or tape measure. Reeds were straight and sturdy, making them suitable for this purpose. The use of a measuring reed in biblical visions underscores the importance of accuracy and divine intention in the construction and restoration of sacred spaces. Theological Implications: The measuring reed serves as a reminder of God's meticulous nature and His desire for order and holiness. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to divine standards and the careful planning involved in the fulfillment of God's promises. The imagery of measuring also points to the future restoration and perfection of God's kingdom, as seen in the prophetic visions of Ezekiel and John. In summary, the measuring reed is a powerful symbol in biblical literature, representing God's precise and sovereign control over His creation and His plans for redemption and restoration. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Measuring ReedMEASURING REED (qeneh hamiddah; kalamos): Used in Ezekiel 40:5;; 42:16:00; 45:01:00; Revelation 11:1; Revelation 21:15, 16. The length of the reed is given as 6 cubits, each cubit being a cubit and a palm, i.e. the large cubit of 7 palms, or about 10 ft. See CUBIT. Originally it was an actual reed used for measurements of considerable length, but came at last to be used for a measure of definite length, as indicated by the reference in Ezekiel (compare "pole" in English measures). Greek 2563. kalamos -- a reed ... Transliteration: kalamos Phonetic Spelling: (kal'-am-os) Short Definition: a reed, reed-pen Definition: a reed; a reed-pen, reed-staff, measuring rod. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2563.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 7070. qaneh -- a stalk, reed... From qanah; a reed (as erect); by resemblance a rod (especially for measuring), shaft, tube, stem, the radius (of the arm), beam (of a steelyard) -- balance ... /hebrew/7070.htm - 6k Library The New Jerusalem. Valentine Weigel and Nature Mysticism The Seven Trumpets. The Meaning The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem: The Second vision "On Earth" The People of the New Earth The Beginning, Increase, and End of the Divine Life The Death of the Blessed virgin Mary at Ephesus The Complaint: Or, Night Thoughts. Resources What are the meanings of the various visions in the book of Zechariah? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does God have to say to single fathers? | GotQuestions.org Can a Christian woman consider getting breast implants / breast augmentation? | GotQuestions.org Measuring: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |