Topical Bible: Shekel: A Weight, Equal to Twenty Gerahs

◄ Shekel: A Weight, Equal to Twenty Gerahs ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The shekel is an ancient unit of weight and currency frequently mentioned in the Bible. It holds significant historical and theological importance, serving as a standard measure in various contexts, including commerce, temple offerings, and legal transactions.

Biblical References and Usage

The shekel is first introduced in the context of weights and measures. According to the Mosaic Law, the shekel was a standard weight used for trade and offerings. In Leviticus 27:25, the shekel is defined in terms of its value: "Every valuation will be according to the sanctuary shekel, twenty gerahs to the shekel." This passage establishes the shekel as a unit of weight equivalent to twenty gerahs, a smaller unit of measure.

The shekel's role in religious practices is evident in Exodus 30:13, where it is used as a standard for the atonement money: "Each one who crosses over to those counted must pay a half shekel according to the sanctuary shekel, which weighs twenty gerahs. This half shekel is an offering to the LORD." This half-shekel offering was a mandatory contribution for every Israelite male, symbolizing their participation in the community and their covenant relationship with God.

In the context of commerce, the shekel was a common unit of currency. Genesis 23:16 records Abraham's purchase of the cave of Machpelah: "Abraham agreed to Ephron’s terms and weighed out for him the price he had named in the hearing of the Hittites: four hundred shekels of silver, according to the current merchant’s standard." This transaction highlights the shekel's role as a medium of exchange and its acceptance in broader economic activities.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The shekel's significance extends beyond its biblical usage. It was a widely recognized unit of weight and currency in the ancient Near East, used by various cultures and civilizations. The consistency of the shekel as a measure reflects the importance of standardized weights in maintaining fair trade and economic stability.

In the biblical narrative, the shekel also serves as a symbol of justice and integrity. Deuteronomy 25:15 emphasizes the need for honest weights and measures: "You must maintain accurate and honest weights and measures, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you." The shekel, as a standard of measurement, underscores the biblical principle of fairness in economic dealings.

Theological Implications

Theologically, the shekel represents more than just a unit of weight or currency. It embodies the principles of justice, fairness, and communal responsibility. The requirement for each Israelite to contribute a half shekel for the maintenance of the tabernacle (Exodus 30:13) illustrates the collective responsibility of the community in supporting the worship and service of God.

Moreover, the shekel's role in the atonement money signifies the concept of redemption and the cost associated with sin. The half-shekel offering served as a tangible reminder of the Israelites' need for atonement and their dependence on God's grace and provision.

In summary, the shekel, as a weight equal to twenty gerahs, is a multifaceted element within the biblical text. It functions as a standard of measurement, a medium of exchange, and a symbol of theological truths, reflecting the intricate relationship between faith, community, and daily life in ancient Israel.

Nave's Topical Index

Exodus 30:13
This they shall give, every one that passes among them that are numbered, half a shekel after the shekel of the sanctuary: (a shekel is twenty gerahs:) an half shekel shall be the offering of the LORD.
Nave's Topical Index

Numbers 3:47
You shall even take five shekels apiece by the poll, after the shekel of the sanctuary shall you take them: (the shekel is twenty gerahs:)
Nave's Topical Index

Ezekiel 45:12
And the shekel shall be twenty gerahs: twenty shekels, five and twenty shekels, fifteen shekels, shall be your maneh.
Nave's Topical Index