### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gêrâh**, represented by `{{H1626}}`, is a small unit of weight and a coin. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses**. The word's definition as a "kernel (round as if scraped)" suggests a small, granular measure that formed a foundational component of the biblical system of weights.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{H1626}}` is exclusively used to define the value of a larger weight, the **shekel** `{{H8255}}`. In every instance, it is established that **twenty** `{{H6242}}` gerahs make one shekel. This standard is applied specifically to sacred financial matters, such as the "shekel of the **sanctuary** `{{H6944}}`" ([[Exodus 30:13]], [[Leviticus 27:25]], [[Numbers 3:47]], [[Numbers 18:16]]). It was used to calculate the value of the holy **offering** `{{H8641}}` given to the **LORD** `{{H3068}}` [[Exodus 30:13]] and the price for redemptions [[Numbers 18:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are essential for understanding the context of `{{H1626}}`:
* `{{H8255}}` **sheqel** (shekel): As a standard weight and unit of commerce, the shekel's value is consistently defined by the gerah. It was used for estimations related to trespass offerings [[Leviticus 5:15]] and other transactions.
* `{{H6944}}` **qôdesh** (sanctuary): This word denotes a sacred place or thing. The standard of measurement was often tied to the sanctuary, as seen in the phrase "shekel of the **sanctuary**," establishing a divine and unalterable standard for offerings and estimations [[Exodus 30:13]].
* `{{H6242}}` **ʻesrîym** (twenty): This numeral is inseparable from the gerah's identity. The declaration that "twenty **gerahs** `{{H1626}}` shall be the **shekel** `{{H8255}}`" provides a clear and unchanging definition of its value within the sacred economy [[Leviticus 27:25]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H1626}}` lies in the precision it brings to sacred transactions and standards.
* **A Standard for Holy Things:** The gerah is a foundational unit for the "shekel of the **sanctuary** `{{H6944}}`," ensuring that estimations, offerings, and redemption payments were exact and standardized [[Numbers 3:47]].
* **Valuation for Redemption:** It is used to calculate the redemption **money** `{{H3701}}` for the firstborn, setting a specific price of **five** `{{H2568}}` shekels, which in turn are based on the gerah's value [[Numbers 18:16]].
* **System of Weights:** The gerah is the smallest component in a larger system of weights that includes the **shekel** `{{H8255}}` and the **maneh** `{{H4488}}`, demonstrating a structured and orderly approach to measurements in both civil and religious life [[Ezekiel 45:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1626}}` **gêrâh** is more than just an ancient coin or weight; it represents a principle of divine precision. By consistently defining it as one-twentieth of a **shekel** `{{H8255}}`, scripture establishes a clear and immutable standard for transactions related to the **sanctuary** `{{H6944}}`. This small measure underscores the importance of exactness and integrity when dealing with redemptions, offerings, and other holy obligations owed to the **LORD** `{{H3068}}`.
TRV