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Shekel

The shekel was the primary unit of weight and currency in ancient Israel, used for both commercial transactions and religious offerings. Understanding this monetary system illuminates biblical accounts of value, worship, and divine instruction.

Overview

The shekel served as both a weight measurement and a standard monetary unit throughout ancient Israel's history. It was used in buying, selling, and especially in religious contexts such as temple contributions and redemption payments. The shekel's value and standards were divinely established to ensure fairness in commerce and religious practice.

Key Scriptures

"Everyone who is counted shall give a half shekel according to the shekel of the sanctuary (the shekel is twenty gerahs)" (Exodus 30:13, NASB).

"You shall give thirty shekels of silver to her father" (Deuteronomy 22:29, ESV) — the redemption price for seduction.

"A man said to him, 'I have a quarter shekel of silver'" (1 Samuel 9:8, NIV) — showing common use in daily transactions.

Application

Recognizing biblical currency standards helps us understand the true cost of Old Testament sacrifices and redemptions, deepening our appreciation for Christ's infinitely greater sacrifice on our behalf.

Scripture References 12
Exodus 30:13 Numbers 3:47 Ezekiel 45:12 Amos 8:5 1 Samuel 9:8 Deuteronomy 22:19 Deuteronomy 22:29 Exodus 30:13 1 Samuel 9:8 Nehemiah 10:32 Exodus 30:13 Nehemiah 10:32
Full Topical Reference List 12 total — Nave's Topical Bible

A weight equal to twenty gerahs

Exodus 30:13 Ezekiel 45:12 Numbers 3:47

Corrupted

Amos 8:5

Fees paid in

1 Samuel 9:8

Fines paid in

Deuteronomy 22:19 Deuteronomy 22:29

Fractions of, used in currency

1 Samuel 9:8 Exodus 30:13 Nehemiah 10:32

Sanctuary revenues paid in

Exodus 30:13 Nehemiah 10:32
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