Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, weights and measures were essential for trade, construction, and religious practices. The Bible provides various references to weights, often in the context of commerce and offerings. Metals, particularly precious ones like gold, silver, and bronze, were commonly weighed to determine their value and use.Biblical References to Weights and Metals The use of weights in the Bible is closely tied to the concept of fairness and justice. Proverbs 11:1 states, "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight." This verse underscores the importance of honesty in trade and the divine expectation for just measures. In the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, metals were weighed to ensure precise measurements. Exodus 38:24-25 records, "All the gold that was used for the work, in all the work of the sanctuary, the gold from the wave offering, was 29 talents and 730 shekels, according to the sanctuary shekel. The silver from those of the congregation who were recorded was 100 talents and 1,775 shekels, according to the sanctuary shekel." This meticulous accounting highlights the significance of weights in sacred contexts. Weights and Offerings Weights were also crucial in the context of offerings. In Numbers 7, the leaders of Israel brought offerings for the dedication of the altar, and the weights of the silver and gold items are meticulously recorded. Numbers 7:85-86 notes, "Each silver platter weighed 130 shekels, and each bowl 70 shekels. All the silver of the vessels weighed 2,400 shekels according to the sanctuary shekel. The twelve gold dishes filled with incense weighed 10 shekels each, according to the sanctuary shekel. All the gold of the dishes weighed 120 shekels." Metals as Divine Provision The Bible often portrays metals as a provision from God, used for His purposes. In 1 Chronicles 29:14 , King David acknowledges, "But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? For everything comes from You, and we have given You only what comes from Your hand." This recognition that all resources, including metals, are ultimately given by God, reflects a theological understanding that human stewardship of these materials is a divine responsibility. Weights in Prophetic and Symbolic Contexts Weights and metals also appear in prophetic and symbolic contexts. In Daniel 5:27 , during the interpretation of the writing on the wall, Daniel tells King Belshazzar, "TEKEL means that you have been weighed on the scales and found deficient." Here, the concept of weighing is used metaphorically to convey divine judgment. Ezekiel 4:10 provides another symbolic use of weights: "You are to weigh out twenty shekels of food to eat each day, and you are to eat it at set times." This instruction to the prophet Ezekiel symbolizes the scarcity and rationing during the impending siege of Jerusalem. Conclusion Throughout the Bible, weights and metals serve as instruments of trade, worship, and divine symbolism. They are depicted as resources provided by God, to be used with integrity and reverence. The biblical emphasis on accurate weights reflects a broader divine mandate for justice and righteousness in all human endeavors. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 37:24Of a talent of pure gold made he it, and all the vessels thereof. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Chronicles 28:14 Library How Divine Love Makes Use of all the Passions and Affections of ... Commerce Chaldaean Civilization The First vision "On Earth" A Description of Heart-Purity Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest Resources What are the modern equivalents of biblical weights and measures? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the sanctuary shekel? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about eating disorders (e.g., anorexia, bulimia)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Weights of the Restraints Put on the Elements Weights were Frequently Used in Scales or Balances Weights: (Heavy) of the Exceeding Glory Reserved for Saints Weights: All Metals Were Given By Weights: Generally Regulated by the Standard of the Sanctuary Weights: Provisions Were Sold By, in Times of Scarcity Weights: Sometimes Regulated by the King's Standard Weights: The Jews: Forbidden to Have Unjust Weights: The Jews: Forbidden to Have Various Weights: The Jews: Frequently Used Unjust Weights: Value of Money Estimated According To Related Terms |
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