In the ancient biblical context, the computation of time by months was a significant aspect of the patriarchal era. The patriarchs, including figures such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, lived in a time when the lunar calendar was predominantly used to mark the passage of time. This method of timekeeping is evident throughout the Old Testament, where months are often referenced in relation to significant events and religious observances.

Lunar Calendar System

The patriarchs utilized a lunar calendar, which is based on the cycles of the moon. This calendar typically consisted of 12 months, each beginning with the new moon. The months were approximately 29 to 30 days long, resulting in a year that was about 354 days. This lunar system required periodic adjustments to align with the solar year, a practice that was later formalized in the Hebrew calendar.

Biblical References

The use of months as a timekeeping method is evident in several passages throughout the Bible. For instance, in Genesis 7:11 , the timing of the flood is described: "In the six hundredth year of Noah’s life, on the seventeenth day of the second month—on that day all the springs of the great deep burst forth, and the floodgates of the heavens were opened." This passage highlights the use of months to mark significant events in the lives of the patriarchs.

Similarly, in Genesis 8:4 , the receding of the floodwaters is noted: "On the seventeenth day of the seventh month, the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat." Here, the specific mention of the month underscores the importance of lunar months in recording historical events.

Religious Observances

The computation of time by months was also crucial for religious observances and festivals. Although the formalization of the Hebrew calendar and its festivals occurred later, the patriarchs' use of months laid the groundwork for these practices. The timing of the Passover, for example, is tied to the first month of the Hebrew calendar, as seen in Exodus 12:2 : "This month is to be the beginning of months for you; it is the first month of your year."

Cultural and Agricultural Significance

In addition to religious observances, the computation of time by months had cultural and agricultural significance. The patriarchs, who were primarily agrarian, relied on the lunar calendar to determine the timing of planting and harvest seasons. This cyclical understanding of time was deeply intertwined with their daily lives and survival.

Conclusion

The patriarchs' use of months to compute time reflects a sophisticated understanding of the lunar cycles and their application to both religious and practical aspects of life. This method of timekeeping is a testament to the enduring legacy of the patriarchs and their influence on subsequent generations in biblical history.Genesis 29:14
And Laban said to him, Surely you are my bone and my flesh. And he stayed with him the space of a month.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Inspiration of Scripture. --Gospel Difficulties. --The Word of God ...
... considerable notoriety within the last few months) that "for ... of Ephesus, the hours
were not computed after the ... and that the lives of the Patriarchs cannot be ...
/.../inspiration and interpretation/sermon iii inspiration of scripture gospel.htm

Support GotQuestions.org | GotQuestions.org

When and how was Judah conquered by the Babylonians? | GotQuestions.org

Is Barack Obama the antichrist? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus