Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the term "circumference" is not directly mentioned; however, it is related to the concept of measurement and geometry, which appear in various passages. The most notable reference to a circular measurement is found in the description of Solomon's Temple, specifically the construction of the bronze basin, also known as the "Sea."Biblical Reference: 1. 1 Kings 7:23 : "He made the Sea of cast metal, circular in shape, measuring ten cubits from rim to rim and five cubits high. It took a line of thirty cubits to measure around it." This passage describes the dimensions of the Sea, a large basin used for ceremonial washing in the Temple. The measurement given, "a line of thirty cubits to measure around it," implies a circumference, which is the distance around a circular object. The description of the Sea's dimensions has been a topic of discussion among scholars, particularly regarding the mathematical relationship between the diameter and circumference, known as pi (π). The biblical text provides a simplified approximation, which was common in ancient times. Historical and Cultural Context: In ancient Israel, as in other ancient cultures, precise mathematical calculations were not as developed as they are today. The use of whole numbers and approximations was typical in architectural and construction practices. The description of the Sea's dimensions reflects this practical approach to measurement. The Sea itself was an important fixture in the Temple, symbolizing purity and the cleansing necessary for the priests to perform their duties. Its construction from cast metal and its impressive size underscore the grandeur and significance of Solomon's Temple as a place of worship and divine presence. Theological Implications: The use of circular measurements in the construction of the Temple's furnishings can be seen as a reflection of the order and harmony inherent in God's creation. The circle, with its endless line, can symbolize eternity and perfection, attributes often associated with the divine nature of God. While the Bible does not delve into mathematical theories, the inclusion of such measurements highlights the integration of practical craftsmanship and divine instruction in the building of sacred spaces. The Temple, as a dwelling place for God's presence, was constructed with both spiritual and physical precision, demonstrating the importance of both aspects in the worship of God. Related Concepts: · Geometry in the Bible: Other instances of geometric and architectural descriptions can be found in the construction of Noah's Ark (Genesis 6:14-16) and the dimensions of the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:15-17). · Symbolism of the Circle: In biblical symbolism, the circle can represent completeness, unity, and the infinite nature of God, as seen in various theological interpretations. The concept of circumference, while not explicitly named, plays a role in understanding the biblical text's approach to measurement and the symbolic significance of circular forms in the context of worship and divine order. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) The boundary that goes encompasses a circular figure; a periphery.2. (n.) A circle; anything circular. 3. (n.) The external surface of a sphere, or of any orbicular body. 4. (v. t.) To include in a circular space; to bound. Greek 4042. perioche -- circumference, a portion circumscribed ... circumference, a portion circumscribed. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: perioche Phonetic Spelling: (per-ee-okh-ay') Short Definition: a passage ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4042.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 5437. sabab -- to turn about, go around, surround... around (2), brought about (1), change (1), changed (5), circle around (2), circled (2), circled around (1), circling (1), circuit (1), circumference* (3), come ... /hebrew/5437.htm - 7k 6961a. qaveh -- a line 5439. sabib -- circuit, round about 2339. chut -- thread, cord, line 6957b. qav -- a line Library The Doctrine of Mathematicians not Wholly to be Despised, when ... Explanation of Ungenerate,' and a Study' of Eternity. That Upon the Conquest and Slaughter of vitellius Vespasian ... The Third Day He Rose Again from the Dead. The Glory of Christ's ... The City of the "Elegant Gate"[*] The Girdle of the City. Nehemiah 3 A Description of the Roman Armies and Roman Camps and of Other ... But Since the Human Being is a Twofold Creature... Explanatory Notes to the American Edition "All Thing that is Done, it is Well Done: for Our Lord God Doeth ... Thesaurus Circumference (4 Occurrences)... orbicular body. 4. (vt) To include in a circular space; to bound. Multi-Version Concordance Circumference (4 Occurrences). 1 Kings ... /c/circumference.htm - 7k Girdle (44 Occurrences) Round (664 Occurrences) Circle (32 Occurrences) Achmetha (1 Occurrence) Zion (169 Occurrences) Circuit (27 Occurrences) Jachin (8 Occurrences) Function (4 Occurrences) Fillets (11 Occurrences) Resources Was Jonah truly swallowed by a whale? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the significance of the bronze laver? | GotQuestions.org What are Jachin and Boaz? | GotQuestions.org Circumference: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Circumference (4 Occurrences)1 Kings 7:15 1 Chronicles 11:8 Jeremiah 52:21 Ezekiel 48:35 Subtopics Related Terms |