Bible Overview
Weights, Measures & Money
Approximate modern equivalents. Cubit values vary by tradition — common (c. 17.5 in / 44.5 cm) and royal (c. 20.5 in / 52 cm).
| Unit | Kind | Modern Approx. |
|---|---|---|
| Handbreadth | Length | c. 3 in / 7.5 cm |
| Span | Length | c. 9 in / 22.5 cm |
| Cubit (common) | Length | c. 17.5 in / 44.5 cm |
| Cubit (royal) | Length | c. 20.5 in / 52 cm |
| Reed | Length | 6 cubits — c. 10.5 ft / 3.2 m |
| Omer | Dry | c. 2.2 L |
| Ephah | Dry | 10 omers — c. 22 L |
| Hin | Liquid | c. 3.7 L |
| Bath | Liquid | c. 22 L |
| Shekel | Weight | c. 11.4 g of silver |
| Mina | Weight | 50 shekels — c. 570 g |
| Talent | Weight | 60 minas — c. 34 kg |
| Denarius | Coin | A day's wage for a labourer |