Omer

The term "omer" is a biblical unit of measure used primarily in the context of ancient Israelite society. It is most notably mentioned in the context of the manna provided by God to the Israelites during their 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. According to Exodus 16:16 , "This is what the LORD has commanded: ‘Each one is to gather as much as he needs. You may take an omer for each person in your tent.’" The omer was a daily portion of manna, signifying God's provision and sustenance for His people.

The omer is also significant in the context of the Feast of Weeks, or Shavuot. Leviticus 23:15-16 instructs, "From the day after the Sabbath, the day you brought the sheaf of the wave offering, you are to count seven full weeks. You shall count fifty days until the day after the seventh Sabbath, and then present an offering of new grain to the LORD." The "sheaf" mentioned here is an omer of barley, marking the beginning of the counting of the Omer, a period of 49 days leading up to the celebration of Shavuot. This period is a time of anticipation and spiritual preparation, reflecting on the journey from the Exodus to the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai.

The omer, as a unit of measure, is approximately one-tenth of an ephah, which is another biblical unit of dry measure. This equivalence is noted in Exodus 16:36 : "Now an omer is a tenth of an ephah."

Ephah

The ephah is a larger unit of dry measure used in ancient Israel, equivalent to about 22 liters or 5.8 gallons. It is frequently mentioned in the context of offerings and trade. The ephah was used to measure grain and other dry commodities, playing a crucial role in the economic and religious life of the Israelites.

In the context of offerings, the ephah is mentioned in Leviticus 5:11 : "But if he cannot afford two turtledoves or two young pigeons, he may bring as his offering for that which he has sinned a tenth of an ephah of fine flour as a sin offering. He must not put olive oil or frankincense on it, because it is a sin offering." This passage highlights the use of the ephah in the sacrificial system, providing a means for even the poorest individuals to participate in the atonement process.

The ephah is also referenced in the context of fair trade and justice. In the prophetic literature, the ephah is used symbolically to address issues of honesty and integrity in commerce. For instance, in Micah 6:10 , the prophet condemns deceitful practices: "Am I still to forget, O wicked house, your ill-gotten treasures and the short ephah, which is accursed?" This highlights the importance of just measures as a reflection of righteousness and obedience to God's law.

The ephah, like the omer, serves as a reminder of God's provision and the call to live justly and righteously in accordance with His commandments. Both units of measure underscore the importance of faithfulness in both worship and daily life, reflecting a holistic approach to serving God.