Topical Encyclopedia In the ancient biblical context, the shekel was a standard unit of weight and currency. It was commonly used to measure various commodities, including precious metals, grains, and other goods. One of the more unique uses of the shekel was to weigh hair, as recorded in the biblical narrative.Biblical Reference: The most notable instance of hair being weighed using shekels is found in the account of Absalom, the son of King David. In 2 Samuel 14:26, the Berean Standard Bible states: "And when he cut the hair of his head—he shaved it every year because it grew so heavy for him—the weight of the hair from his head was two hundred shekels by the royal standard." Context and Significance: Absalom's hair is described as being exceptionally heavy, necessitating an annual cutting. The weight of his hair, measured at two hundred shekels, underscores the extraordinary nature of his appearance and perhaps his vanity. In the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, hair could symbolize strength, beauty, and virility. Absalom's hair, therefore, was not only a personal attribute but also a symbol of his charisma and potential for leadership. The use of the shekel as a unit of weight in this context highlights the precision and standardization in ancient Israelite society. The "royal standard" mentioned in the text suggests a specific and recognized measure, indicating the importance of consistency in trade and daily life. Cultural and Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the narrative of Absalom's hair serves as a cautionary tale about pride and rebellion. Absalom's physical attributes, including his hair, are linked to his eventual downfall. His rebellion against his father, King David, and his tragic end are foreshadowed by the emphasis on his outward appearance, which contrasts with the biblical ideal of inner righteousness and humility. The shekel's role in weighing Absalom's hair also reflects the broader biblical theme of measurement and judgment. Just as Absalom's hair was weighed, so too are individuals weighed by God in terms of their character and actions. This serves as a reminder of the divine standard by which all are ultimately assessed. In summary, the use of the shekel to weigh hair in the biblical narrative of Absalom provides insight into the cultural practices of ancient Israel and serves as a symbolic element within the larger theological message of the Scriptures. Nave's Topical Index 2 Samuel 14:26And when he polled his head, (for it was at every year's end that he polled it: because the hair was heavy on him, therefore he polled it:) he weighed the hair of his head at two hundred shekels after the king's weight. Nave's Topical Index Library Chaldaean Civilization The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Resources Why was the redemption price for men and women different in Leviticus 27:3 8? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the purpose of a dowry (Genesis 31:15)? | GotQuestions.org Who were the money changers in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Shekel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Shekel of Different Standards of the King's Weight Shekel of Different Standards of the Sanctuary Shekel used to Weigh: Cinnamon Shekel: A Weight, Equal to Twenty Gerahs Shekel: Fractions of, Used in Currency Shekel: Sanctuary Revenues Paid In Related Terms Meat-offering (111 Occurrences) Meal-offering (120 Occurrences) |
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