Meaning
A unit of weight used in the ancient Near East and also a unit of value or money in biblical times.
Biblical Usage
In Scripture, the shekel functions as a standard measure of weight and as a monetary value. It is used in transactions, offerings, tribute, wages, and the valuation of people and objects.
The Bible refers to the shekel of the sanctuary as a particular standard, and shekels of silver and gold appear in various historical accounts. In Joshua, Achan took two hundred shekels of silver and a wedge of gold weighing fifty shekels.
Key References
- Genesis 23:15-16
- Exodus 30:13-16
- Leviticus 5:15
- Leviticus 27:25
- Joshua 7:21
- 1 Samuel 17:5
- 2 Samuel 24:24
- Ezekiel 45:12
- Matthew 17:24-27
Related Terms
- Money
- Gold
- Silver
- Weight
- Offering