What exactly is a cubit? In the bible, a cubit is an ancient long unit of linear measure. In the Hebrew language, the word cubit is derived from the root word “ Qobal” meaning “log”. This represents just how primitive the ancient measurement system of the Bible was.
The actual size of the cubit is a bit of a mystery. Estimates of the cubit size vary from place to place in the bible, with some places citing a “royal cubit” as long as 21 inches and other places citing it as as short as 17.5 inches. The use of a royal cubit meant that it was a longer unit used in royal buildings of the time. For everyday use, a smaller cubit was used—from around 17.5 inches.
We may never know exactly how big a cubit was in the bible, but we can make educated guesses. Many experts believe that a cubit was around 18 inches in length, and some even believe it to be as small as 17 inches.
The use of cubits in the bible can be found throughout the Old Testament. Its first use is found in Genesis 6:15, where Noah is instructed to build an ark. It is then used throughout the remainder of the bible to measure the size of Solomon’s temple, the height of towers, and the circumference of Jericho.
In the bible, cubits are mainly used for measuring distance and size. For example, in Ezekiel Forty-one, cubits are used to measure the length and width of Solomon’s temple. It is also used to determine the dimensions of other structures. In Numbers 35, the dimensions of cities are given in cubits, and in Joshua 3:4, cubits are used to measure the length of the Jordan River.
In the bible, a cubit is also used as a form of currency. In Ezekiel 45:12, cubits are used as payment for land. They are also used in exchange for items such as livestock and food.
Overall, the size of a cubit remains a bit of a mystery, but it is safe to say that it was around 18 inches. It is also safe to say that it was an important unit of measurement and a form of currency in the bible.
Symbolism and Rituals
In addition to being a means of measurement and currency, cubits are also heavily symbolic in the Bible. A cubit is used by Jacob and Joseph in their dreams to represent God’s promise of eternal safety and protection. In Exodus 19, the distance between God and Israel is measured in cubits. The Ark of the Covenant is also measured in cubits.
Cubits may also have been involved in various rituals, such as circumcisions. In the bible, circumcision is described as the “cutting of the flesh of the prepuce, which was to be done with a stone knife at a distance of a cubit from the man’s body.” This suggests that a cubit was used for something other than just a measurement.
Finally, a cubit may have been used for spiritual reasons. According to the Jewish historian Flavius Josephus, God told Noah to build the Ark using cubits to represent “the symbolic idea of the number seven, which according to the Hebrews is composed of six parts, and a seventh upon which the fabric of the ark was to rest.”
Significance of a Cubit in the Bible
The cubit is a significant tool in the Bible, representing many things. It is used for practical reasons such as measurement and currency but is also symbolic, representing God’s covenant and protection. The exact size of the cubit remains a mystery, but it is believed to have been around 18 inches in length.
Meaning of a Cubit in the Bible
The cubit is more than just a measurement in the Bible. It is a reminder of God’s promises, protection, and covenant with mankind. The cubit is symbolic of the hope and faith God has placed in mankind and can serve as a reminder of this hope.
Conversions of Cubits to Modern Measurements
Today, the cubit is rarely used. But it is still important to know how to convert cubits to more commonly used measurements. Generally, 18 inches is used for this conversion. For example, if a wall is 10 cubits long, the wall would be approximately 180 inches or 15 feet long.
For distances, an easy way to convert cubits to feet is to multiply the number of cubits by three. For example, a distance of 30 cubits would be 90 feet long. In addition to feet, another common modern measurement is meters. For this conversion, simply multiply the number of cubits by 0.45. For example, 20 cubits would be approximately nine meters long.
Relevance of the Cubit in the Bible
Although cubits are not as commonly used today and many don’t even know what a cubit is, the cubit still remains an important symbol in the Bible. It is a reminder of God’s promises and protection and a symbol of faith. It also provides an insight into the ancient measurement system of the Bible.
Applications of the Cubit in Modern Life
Although the exact size of the cubit may never be known and cubits are rarely used in modern life, the concept of a cubit is still relevant. It is an interesting unit of measurement and a great way to get in touch with our past. It is also a great tool for teaching children about the ancient measurements used in the Bible.
In addition to teaching children, cubits are also used in art and architecture. Designers who wish to incorporate a more classic feel in their design work may choose to use the cubit as their measurement system. This may be seen in furniture, artwork, or architectural details that have been designed with a classic look.
Finally, the cubit is also used in interior design projects. This is especially true of projects that require a timeless feel. Designers may choose to use cubits instead of inches or centimeters for accuracy and for the classic aesthetic.
