Topical Encyclopedia The gerah is an ancient unit of weight mentioned in the Bible, primarily used in the context of the Hebrew economy and religious practices. It is the smallest weight unit in the biblical system, and its significance is often highlighted in the context of offerings, tithes, and valuations.Biblical References The gerah is first mentioned in the Book of Exodus, where it is defined in relation to the shekel, another biblical unit of weight. Exodus 30:13 states, "Each one who crosses over to those already counted is to give a half shekel, according to the sanctuary shekel, which weighs twenty gerahs. This half shekel is an offering to the LORD." Here, the gerah is established as one-twentieth of a shekel, providing a clear understanding of its relative weight. In Leviticus 27:25 , the gerah is again referenced in the context of valuations: "Every valuation will be according to the sanctuary shekel, twenty gerahs to the shekel." This passage underscores the gerah's role in the religious and economic life of ancient Israel, particularly in the valuation of vows and offerings. The Book of Numbers also mentions the gerah in Numbers 3:47 , where it is used in the context of redemption money: "You are to collect five shekels for each one, according to the sanctuary shekel of twenty gerahs." Cultural and Historical Context The gerah, as the smallest unit of weight, played a crucial role in the precise measurement of precious metals, such as silver and gold, which were used in trade and religious offerings. The use of the gerah ensured accuracy and fairness in transactions and religious duties, reflecting the importance of integrity and precision in the Hebrew culture. The term "gerah" itself is derived from a Hebrew word meaning "a grain" or "a bean," suggesting that the original weight standard may have been based on the weight of a small seed or grain. This etymology highlights the agrarian context of ancient Israel, where such natural measures were commonly used. Theological Significance The use of the gerah in the Bible emphasizes the importance of exactness and honesty in one's dealings, both with God and with fellow humans. The precise measurement of offerings and tithes, as dictated by the gerah, reflects a broader biblical principle of giving to God what is due and doing so with a sincere heart. Furthermore, the gerah's role in the sanctuary shekel system underscores the concept of holiness and dedication to God. The sanctuary shekel, being the standard for religious offerings, signifies the separation of sacred from the common, and the gerah, as part of this system, contributes to the maintenance of this divine order. In summary, the gerah, though a small unit of weight, carries significant cultural, economic, and theological implications within the biblical narrative. Its presence in Scripture serves as a reminder of the importance of precision, integrity, and devotion in the life of faith. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 30:13This they shall give, every one that passes among them that are numbered, half a shekel after the shekel of the sanctuary: (a shekel is twenty gerahs:) an half shekel shall be the offering of the LORD. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 45:12 Resources What does the Bible say about injustice? | GotQuestions.orgHow do I choose a good Christian counselor/therapist? | GotQuestions.org What is the Ryrie Study Bible? | 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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