Topical Bible: Measures: Distances Measured by Rods and Lines

◄ Measures: Distances Measured by Rods and Lines ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, the measurement of distances was a practical necessity for various activities, including construction, land division, and travel. The Bible references several methods and units of measurement, with rods and lines being among the most notable.

Rods:

The rod, also known as a staff or measuring rod, was a common tool for measuring length and distance. It is often mentioned in the context of land measurement and construction. The rod was typically a straight piece of wood, standardized in length, used to ensure accuracy in measurement.

In Ezekiel 40:3-5 , the prophet describes a vision of a man with a measuring rod: "He brought me there, and I saw a man whose appearance was like bronze, with a linen cord and a measuring rod in his hand. He was standing in the gateway. And the man said to me, 'Son of man, look with your eyes, hear with your ears, and pay attention to everything I show you, for that is why you have been brought here. Report everything you see to the house of Israel.' Now there was a wall surrounding the temple area. The measuring rod in the man’s hand was six long cubits, each of which was a cubit and a handbreadth. So he measured the thickness of the wall, and it was one rod, and its height was one rod."

This passage highlights the use of the rod in the precise measurement of sacred spaces, emphasizing the importance of accuracy and divine order in the construction of the temple.

Lines:

Lines, often made of flax or other durable materials, were used for measuring longer distances and for marking boundaries. The use of a line is frequently associated with surveying land and ensuring equitable distribution.

In 2 Samuel 8:2 , we read about the use of a line in a military context: "David also defeated the Moabites and made them lie down on the ground. Then he measured them off with a line. He measured two lengths of them to be put to death, and one full length to be kept alive. So the Moabites became subject to David and brought him tribute."

This passage illustrates the use of a line for measurement in a context of judgment and subjugation, reflecting the broader application of measurement tools in governance and control.

Symbolic Use:

Beyond their practical applications, rods and lines also carry symbolic meanings in Scripture. They often represent authority, judgment, and divine standards. In Revelation 11:1 , John is given a measuring rod: "Then I was given a measuring rod like a staff and was told, 'Go and measure the temple of God and the altar, and count the number of worshipers there.'"

Here, the measuring rod symbolizes divine authority and the standard by which God assesses His people and their worship.

Cultural Context:

The use of rods and lines for measurement reflects the broader ancient Near Eastern practices, where standardized units were essential for trade, construction, and legal transactions. These tools ensured fairness and consistency, aligning with the biblical emphasis on justice and righteousness.

In summary, rods and lines were essential tools in biblical times, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. They facilitated accurate measurement and division, while also representing divine authority and judgment. The biblical references to these tools underscore their importance in maintaining order and justice in accordance with God's standards.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Samuel 8:2
And he smote Moab, and measured them with a line, casting them down to the ground; even with two lines measured he to put to death, and with one full line to keep alive. And so the Moabites became David's servants, and brought gifts.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Jeremiah 31:39
And the measuring line shall yet go forth over against it on the hill Gareb, and shall compass about to Goath.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ezekiel 40:3
And he brought me thither, and, behold, there was a man, whose appearance was like the appearance of brass, with a line of flax in his hand, and a measuring reed; and he stood in the gate.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Revelation 21:16
And the city lies foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal.
Torrey's Topical Textbook