ephah

An ephah is an ancient Hebrew unit of dry measure. It was commonly used in the Levant during biblical times and is mentioned numerous times in the Old Testament. The ephah was equivalent to the bath, which was a unit of liquid measure, suggesting a standardized system of volume. Its exact historical capacity has been a subject of scholarly debate, with estimates varying. However, it is generally understood to have been a significant unit, often used for grain and other commodities. The Bible references the ephah in contexts related to agricultural produce, trade, and the distribution of goods. For example, it appears in laws concerning offerings and tithes. The size of an ephah could vary depending on the specific period and region, making precise modern equivalences challenging. Archaeological findings and textual analysis have provided insights into its potential size, often placing it around 22 to 40 liters. The ephah's usage highlights the economic and agricultural practices of ancient Israel.