Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, stones were commonly used as weights in trade and commerce, serving as a standard for measuring goods. These stones, often referred to as "weights" or "balances," played a crucial role in ensuring fair transactions and maintaining justice in economic dealings. The use of stones for weighing is mentioned throughout the Bible, highlighting their importance in ancient society.The Hebrew word for stone, "אֶבֶן" (eben), is frequently associated with weights. In the ancient Near East, stones of varying sizes and materials were used to balance scales, ensuring that the measures were accurate and consistent. These stones were typically marked or standardized to represent specific units of weight, such as the shekel, mina, or talent. The Bible emphasizes the moral and ethical implications of using honest weights and measures. In Leviticus 19:35-36, the Lord commands, "You must not use dishonest measures of length, weight, or volume. You shall maintain honest scales and weights, an honest ephah and an honest hin. I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt." This directive underscores the importance of integrity and fairness in economic practices, reflecting God's character and His desire for justice among His people. Proverbs 11:1 further reinforces this principle: "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight." This verse highlights the divine disapproval of deceitful practices and the value placed on honesty. The use of accurate stones for weighing is not merely a matter of economic fairness but also a reflection of one's relationship with God and adherence to His commandments. In the prophetic literature, the misuse of weights and measures is often cited as a symbol of societal corruption and moral decay. For instance, Micah 6:11 poses the rhetorical question, "Can I excuse dishonest scales or bags of false weights?" This question serves as a condemnation of the injustices prevalent in the prophet's time, calling the people to repentance and a return to righteous living. The New Testament also alludes to the concept of fair measurement, though not explicitly mentioning stones. In Luke 6:38, Jesus teaches, "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you." This passage, while primarily addressing generosity, echoes the principle of fairness and reciprocity inherent in the use of honest weights. In summary, stones used for weighing in biblical times were more than mere tools for commerce; they were symbols of justice, integrity, and obedience to God's law. The consistent biblical call for honest measures serves as a timeless reminder of the ethical standards expected of God's people, urging them to reflect His righteousness in all aspects of life. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 19:36Just balances, just weights, a just ephah, and a just hin, shall you have: I am the LORD your God, which brought you out of the land of Egypt. Nave's Topical Index Library Epistle Liv. To Cornelius, Concerning Fortunatus and Felicissimus ... The Christian's Peace and the Christian's Consistency The Political Constitution of Egypt Against Jovinianus. the Legendary History of Egypt Resources What does the Bible say about stoning? | GotQuestions.orgIs there any spiritual significance to birthstones? | GotQuestions.org What was the purpose of Stonehenge? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Stones of Christ, "A Tested Stone" "A Precious Stone" "A Sure Foundation, " Stones of Christ, the Water of Life Stones of Christ's Rejection, the Rejected Conerstone Stones of Temptation, "Stone of Stumbling" Stones of the Impenitent Heart Stones of the Witness of the Spirit, the White Stone Stones used for Closing Graves Stones used for Weighing (Margin) Stones used in Building Altars Stones: Commandments Engraved Upon Stones: Great, As Landmarks (Some Hebrew Mss Have "Abel") Stones: Great, in Solomon's Temple Stones: Hewers (Stone-Cutters) of Stones: Magnificent, in Herod the Great's Temple Stones: Precious in the Breastplate and Ephod Stones: Precious in the Crowns of Kings Stones: Precious: Exported from Sheba Stones: Precious: Partial Catalogue of Stones: Precious: Seen in the Foundation of the New Jerusalem in John's Apocalyptic Vision Stones: Precious: Voluntary offerings of, by the Israelites for the Breastplate and Ephod Stones: Prepared in the Quarries Stones: Symbolical of the Kingdom of Christ Stones: The Law of Moses Written Upon Stones: Thrown Upon Accursed Ground Related Terms |
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