11 Biblical Weight Units Explained — Exodus 30

In biblical times, various units of weight were used for commerce and religious offerings. From the shekel and talent of the Old Testament to the drachma and mina of the New Testament, these eleven units of weight reflect the economic systems and faith traditions of the era. Understanding the specific units of measurement mentioned in Scripture enriches our grasp of the Word’s meaning.

11 Biblical Weight Units Explained — Exodus 30

The most commonly used tool for measuring weight was the stone weight, or “balance stone.” Merchants carried these in pouches and used them to weigh grain and other goods. However, some dishonest merchants would use different weights for buying and selling, disrupting fair trade — a practice that was repeatedly warned against. The following introduces the units of weight used in Israel.

The basic unit of weight in the Old Testament was the shekel, with additional units including the half-shekel, gerah, talent, beka, and mina. In the New Testament period, units such as the drachma, litra, mina, and talent were in use.

Originally published in Korean at bible2u.com