(Aramaic) corresponding to בַּת; {a bath or Hebrew measure (as a means of division) of liquids}; bath.
Transliteration:bath
Pronunciation:bath
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term בַּת (transliterated as *bath*, Strong's H1325) is an Aramaic loanword or cognate that designates a specific unit of liquid measure. Its base definition explicitly states it "corresponds to בַּת" (the Hebrew term, often `{{H1324}}`), signifying its role as a standard measure for liquids. Historically, one "bath" is estimated to have been approximately 6 U.S. gallons or about 22 liters. The phrase "as a means of division" within its definition underscores its function as a fixed, quantifiable standard for partitioning and distributing liquid commodities. This unit was integral to the economic and logistical systems of ancient Israel and the wider Near East, enabling consistent trade and accounting of valuable resources like oil and wine.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term בַּת (`{{H1325}}`) appears in several significant biblical passages, primarily within contexts related to the construction and furnishing of the Temple, and in prophetic visions concerning righteous societal standards.
In the accounts of Solomon's Temple, the "bath" measure is used to describe the immense capacity of the "molten sea," a large bronze basin for ritual washing. [[1 Kings 7:26]] states its capacity as "two thousand baths," while [[2 Chronicles 4:5]] records "three thousand baths." This discrepancy is a well-known textual variant, but both verses affirm the "bath" as the standard unit for such a monumental vessel, highlighting the scale of the Temple's provisions and the precision of its construction. Similarly, [[2 Chronicles 2:10]] specifies the provision of "twenty thousand baths of oil" for Hiram's workers, illustrating the practical application of this measure in large-scale logistical operations and international trade.
In the book of Ezekiel, the "bath" takes on a distinct theological and ethical dimension. Within Ezekiel's vision of the restored Temple and its regulations for a just society, the prophet emphasizes the importance of accurate and honest measures. [[Ezekiel 45:10]] commands, "You shall have just balances, a just ephah, and a just bath." This is reiterated in [[Ezekiel 45:11]] and further detailed in [[Ezekiel 45:14]], where the relationship between the "bath" (for liquids) and the "ephah" (`{{H646}}`, for dry goods) is defined, establishing a standardized system for all commerce. Here, the "bath" transcends a mere unit of volume to become a symbol of divine expectation for integrity and fairness in economic dealings.
### Related Words & Concepts
The term בַּת (`{{H1325}}`) is intrinsically linked to other biblical units of measure and broader concepts of order and justice:
* **בַּת (`{{H1324}}`):** This is the Hebrew equivalent, primarily meaning "daughter," but also used for the unit of measure. The Aramaic `{{H1325}}` is explicitly defined as corresponding to this Hebrew measure, indicating a shared standard across linguistic boundaries in the ancient world.
* **אֵיפָה (ephah, `{{H646}}`):** A dry measure, often paired with the "bath" in discussions of just weights and measures (e.g., [[Ezekiel 45:10-11]]). This pairing underscores a comprehensive system of standardization.
* **חֹמֶר (homer, `{{H2563}}`) and כֹּר (cor, `{{H3734}}`):** Larger units of measure; the "bath" is often defined as one-tenth of a homer or cor (e.g., [[Ezekiel 45:14]]). This demonstrates a hierarchical and consistent system of ancient weights and measures.
* **מִשְׁקָל (mishqal, `{{H4948}}`):** The general concept of "weight" or "measure," which encompasses the "bath" and other units, emphasizing the importance of accuracy.
* **צֶדֶק (tzedeq, `{{H6664}}`):** "Righteousness" or "justice." The command for a "just bath" directly connects the physical measure to the ethical standard of divine justice, reflecting God's concern for integrity in all aspects of life.
### Theological Significance
While seemingly mundane, the "bath" unit of measure carries profound theological significance within the biblical narrative:
1. **Divine Order and Precision:** The meticulous use of the "bath" in the construction and provisioning of the Tabernacle and Temple (as seen in Kings and Chronicles) reflects God's character as a God of order and precision. The divine instructions for sacred spaces and rituals were not arbitrary but demanded exact adherence to specified measurements. This underscores that worship and service to God are to be conducted with intentionality, discipline, and conformity to divine standards, not human whim.
2. **Justice and Righteousness in Society:** The prophetic emphasis on a "just bath" in Ezekiel is a powerful theological statement. Dishonest weights and measures are repeatedly condemned in the Law and Prophets (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 25:13-16]], [[Proverbs 11:1]], [[Proverbs 20:10]]) as an abomination to the Lord. The "bath" thus becomes a tangible symbol of God's demand for ethical conduct, fairness, and integrity in all economic and social interactions. It highlights that true worship extends beyond the cultic sphere into daily life, where justice and righteousness are paramount.
3. **God's Abundant Provision:** The large quantities of liquids measured in baths for the Temple (e.g., the molten sea, oil for workers) can also subtly point to God's abundant provision for His people and for the needs of His worship. The resources were not scarce but were given in ample supply, reflecting divine generosity and the richness of the covenant relationship.
### Summary
The term בַּת (`{{H1325}}`) denotes an ancient liquid measure, an Aramaic cognate to the Hebrew unit of the same name. Its primary function was to quantify liquids, estimated at approximately 22 liters. Biblically, its usage falls into two main categories: detailing the immense capacities of sacred vessels and provisions for the Temple (e.g., [[1 Kings 7:26]], [[2 Chronicles 4:5]]), and serving as a foundational element in Ezekiel's call for just and accurate commercial standards (e.g., [[Ezekiel 45:10]]). Theologically, the "bath" underscores God's demand for order and precision in worship, His unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness in human conduct, and His abundant provision for His people. It transforms a simple unit of measure into a symbol of divine character and ethical expectation.
TRV