Topical Encyclopedia
The term "Ephah" in the Bible primarily refers to a unit of measurement used for dry goods, particularly grain. It is an essential component in understanding the agricultural and economic practices of ancient Israel, as well as the symbolic meanings that arise from its use in Scripture.
Definition and MeasurementThe ephah is a Hebrew unit of dry measure, approximately equivalent to 22 liters or about 0.6 bushels. It is one-tenth of a homer, another biblical unit of measurement. The ephah is frequently mentioned alongside the bath, a liquid measure, indicating its importance in trade and daily life (
Ezekiel 45:11).
Biblical References1.
Levitical Law and Offerings: The ephah is often mentioned in the context of offerings and sacrifices. For instance, in
Leviticus 5:11, it is specified as the amount of fine flour to be offered by someone who cannot afford two turtledoves or two young pigeons for a sin offering: "But if he cannot afford two turtledoves or two young pigeons, he may bring as his offering for his sin 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."
2.
Prophetic Symbolism: The ephah also appears in prophetic literature, where it takes on symbolic meanings. In
Zechariah 5:6-11, the prophet sees a vision of a woman sitting inside an ephah basket, which represents wickedness. The ephah, covered with a lead weight, is carried away to the land of Shinar, symbolizing the removal of sin and iniquity from the land of Israel.
3.
Economic Justice: The ephah is used in the context of economic justice and fairness. In
Micah 6:10-11, God condemns the use of dishonest measures: "Am I still to forget, O wicked house, your ill-gotten treasures and the short ephah, which is accursed? Shall I acquit a man with dishonest scales and with a bag of false weights?" Here, the ephah represents integrity in commerce and the moral obligation to maintain honest dealings.
4.
Provision and Sustenance: The ephah is also a measure of provision and sustenance. In the account of Ruth, Boaz gives Ruth an ephah of barley as a sign of his generosity and provision (
Ruth 2:17). This act not only meets Ruth's immediate needs but also foreshadows the greater provision and redemption that Boaz will offer as her kinsman-redeemer.
Theological ImplicationsThe use of the ephah in Scripture underscores the importance of justice, integrity, and provision in the life of God's people. It serves as a reminder of God's standards for fairness and righteousness, as well as His provision for those who are faithful. The ephah, as a symbol, points to the broader biblical themes of justice, mercy, and divine provision, reflecting God's character and His expectations for His covenant community.
Nave's Topical Index
Zechariah 5:6-11And I said, What is it? And he said, This is an ephah that goes forth. He said moreover, This is their resemblance through all the earth.
Nave's Topical Index
Resources
What are some of the symbols of the Holy Spirit in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgHow can I recognize and understand biblical symbolism? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is apocalyptic literature so strange? | GotQuestions.orgSymbols: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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