Topical Bible: Measure: A Seah, About a Peck and a Half

◄ Measure: A Seah, About a Peck and a Half ►

Jump to: Nave's • Greek • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, various units of measurement were used to quantify dry and liquid goods. One such unit is the "seah," a term found in the Hebrew Scriptures. The seah is a measure of volume used primarily for dry goods, and it is approximately equivalent to a peck and a half in modern English measurements. This entry explores the significance and usage of the seah within the biblical context.

Biblical References and Context

The seah is mentioned in several passages throughout the Old Testament, providing insight into its use in ancient Israelite society. One notable reference is found in the narrative of Abraham, when he prepares a meal for the three visitors at the oaks of Mamre. Genesis 18:6 states, "So Abraham hurried into the tent and said to Sarah, 'Quick, prepare three seahs of fine flour, knead it, and bake some bread.'" This passage illustrates the seah as a measure for flour, indicating its role in food preparation and hospitality.

Another significant mention of the seah is in the account of the siege of Samaria. In 2 Kings 7:1 , the prophet Elisha prophesies, "Hear the word of the LORD. This is what the LORD says: 'About this time tomorrow at the gate of Samaria, six quarts of fine flour will sell for a shekel, and twelve quarts of barley will sell for a shekel.'" Here, the seah is used to describe quantities of flour and barley, highlighting its importance in trade and economic transactions.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The seah, as a unit of measurement, reflects the agrarian lifestyle of ancient Israel. It was a practical measure for everyday life, used in the preparation of food and in commerce. The use of the seah in biblical narratives underscores the importance of hospitality, sustenance, and provision, themes that are recurrent throughout Scripture.

In the context of ancient Near Eastern culture, the seah was part of a larger system of weights and measures that facilitated trade and ensured fairness in transactions. The precise measurement of goods was crucial for maintaining social and economic stability, and the seah played a vital role in this system.

Theological Implications

The use of the seah in Scripture often carries theological implications, particularly in demonstrating God's provision and faithfulness. For instance, the miraculous provision of flour and barley during the siege of Samaria, as prophesied by Elisha, serves as a testament to God's power and care for His people. The seah, in this context, becomes a symbol of divine intervention and blessing.

Moreover, the act of Abraham preparing three seahs of flour for his guests can be seen as an expression of generosity and reverence, reflecting the biblical principle of hospitality. This act of service is emblematic of the broader biblical call to love and serve others, a theme that resonates throughout both the Old and New Testaments.

Conclusion

The seah, as a unit of measurement, is more than a mere historical artifact; it is a window into the daily life and spiritual values of ancient Israel. Through its appearances in Scripture, the seah reveals the interconnectedness of the physical and spiritual realms, illustrating how ordinary acts of provision and hospitality can reflect deeper theological truths.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 18:6
And Abraham hastened into the tent to Sarah, and said, Make ready quickly three measures of fine meal, knead it, and make cakes on the hearth.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Samuel 25:18
Then Abigail made haste, and took two hundred loaves, and two bottles of wine, and five sheep ready dressed, and five measures of parched corn, and an hundred clusters of raisins, and two hundred cakes of figs, and laid them on asses.
Nave's Topical Index

1 Kings 18:32
And with the stones he built an altar in the name of the LORD: and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two measures of seed.
Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 7:1,16,18
Then Elisha said, Hear you the word of the LORD; Thus said the LORD, To morrow about this time shall a measure of fine flour be sold for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in the gate of Samaria.
Nave's Topical Index

Greek

4568. saton -- seah, a (Heb.) measure (equiv. to about one and a ...
... a large measure equivalent to nearly three English gallons" (Souter); the measure
for grain, "about a peck and a ... seah Definition seah, a (Heb.) measure (equiv ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4568.htm - 7k