In biblical times, precise measurements were essential for trade, religious rituals, and daily life. Among these measurements, the "bath" and "ephah" were significant units used for liquids and solids, respectively. Understanding these measures provides insight into the daily life and religious practices of ancient Israel.

Bath

The "bath" was a unit of measurement used primarily for liquids. It is mentioned in various contexts within the Old Testament, often in relation to offerings and trade. The bath is equivalent to approximately 22 liters or about 5.8 gallons. This measurement is referenced in several passages, including 1 Kings 7:26, which describes the dimensions of the "Sea" in Solomon's temple: "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."

The bath was also used in the context of trade and commerce. Ezekiel 45:14 provides a glimpse into its use in economic transactions: "The prescribed portion of oil, measured by the bath, is a tenth of a bath from each cor (which is ten baths or one homer, for ten baths are equivalent to a homer)."

Ephah

The "ephah" was a dry measure used for grains and other solids. It is roughly equivalent to 22 liters or about 0.63 bushels. The ephah is frequently mentioned in the context of offerings and tithes. For instance, in Leviticus 19:36, the Lord commands, "You must maintain honest scales and weights, an honest ephah and an honest hin. I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt."

The ephah was also a standard measure in the preparation of offerings. In the sacrificial system, specific quantities of flour were required, as seen in Numbers 28:5: "along with a tenth of an ephah of fine flour mixed with a quarter hin of oil from pressed olives."

Cultural and Religious Significance

Both the bath and the ephah were integral to the religious and economic life of ancient Israel. They ensured fairness and consistency in trade and were essential in the observance of religious laws and rituals. The use of these measures underscored the importance of precision and honesty, as emphasized in the biblical mandate for just weights and measures.

The bath and ephah also highlight the interconnectedness of daily life and worship in ancient Israel. By adhering to these standards, the Israelites demonstrated their obedience to God's commandments and their commitment to a just and orderly society.Isaiah 5:10
Yes, ten acres of vineyard shall yield one bath, and the seed of an homer shall yield an ephah.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Ezekiel 45:11
The ephah and the bath shall be of one measure, that the bath may contain the tenth part of an homer, and the ephah the tenth part of an homer: the measure thereof shall be after the homer.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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