Topical Bible: Press-measures

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Topical Encyclopedia

Press-measures, also referred to in some translations as "bath" or "ephah," are units of measurement used in biblical times, particularly in the context of agricultural produce and trade. These measures are mentioned in various passages of the Bible, providing insight into the economic and daily life of ancient Israel.

Biblical References:

1. Ezekiel 45:11 · "The ephah and the bath shall be the same size: the bath containing a tenth of a homer, and the ephah a tenth of a homer; their standard shall be the homer." This verse highlights the standardization of measurements in ancient Israel, ensuring fairness and consistency in trade and offerings.

2. 1 Kings 7:26 · "It was a handbreadth thick, and its rim was fashioned like the brim of a cup, like a lily blossom. It could hold two thousand baths." This passage describes the large basin, or "Sea," in Solomon's temple, emphasizing the capacity of the bath as a liquid measure.

3. Isaiah 5:10 · "For ten acres of vineyard will yield but a bath of wine, and a homer of seed only an ephah of grain." Here, the prophet Isaiah uses press-measures to illustrate the futility and scarcity resulting from divine judgment, where the expected yield is drastically reduced.

Cultural and Historical Context:

Press-measures were integral to the agrarian society of ancient Israel, where agriculture was the backbone of the economy. The ephah was primarily used for dry goods, such as grain, while the bath was used for liquids, such as oil and wine. These measures were essential for trade, offerings, and daily sustenance.

The standardization of these measures, as seen in Ezekiel 45:11, reflects the importance of justice and equity in economic transactions, a principle deeply rooted in the Mosaic Law. Accurate measures were a matter of righteousness, as underscored in Leviticus 19:35-36: "You must not use dishonest measures of length, weight, or volume. You shall maintain just balances, just weights, a just ephah, and a just hin."

Theological Significance:

The use of press-measures in the Bible often carries a deeper theological message. For instance, in Isaiah 5:10, the disproportionate yield serves as a metaphor for the spiritual barrenness of Israel due to their disobedience. The imagery of press-measures in prophetic literature often underscores themes of judgment, justice, and divine provision.

In the New Testament, while specific references to press-measures are less frequent, the principles of fairness and integrity in trade continue to resonate. Jesus' teachings on honesty and justice in dealings (e.g., Luke 6:38) echo the Old Testament emphasis on righteous measures.

Overall, press-measures in the Bible are more than mere units of measurement; they are symbols of the broader divine order, reflecting God's concern for justice, equity, and faithfulness in the lives of His people.

Concordance

Press-measures (1 Occurrence)

Haggai 2:16
Through all that time, when one came to a heap of twenty measures , there were but ten; when one came to the winevat to draw out fifty vessels , there were but twenty.
(See JPS DBY)

Thesaurus

Press-measures (1 Occurrence)
Press-measures. Pressing, Press-measures. Pressure . Multi-Version
Concordance Press-measures (1 Occurrence). Haggai ...
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