from גָּרַר (as in גֵּרָה); properly, (like גַּרְגַּר) a kernel (round as if scraped), i.e.; a gerah or small weight (and coin); gerah.
Transliteration:gêrâh
Pronunciation:gay-raw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term גֵּרָה (*gêrâh*), Strong's number `{{H1626}}`, is derived from the root גָּרַר (*gārar*), `{{H1641}}`, which conveys the idea of "scraping" or "dragging." This etymological root suggests a connection to something small, perhaps a "kernel" or something "scraped off" or "ground down," implying a minute or fractional quantity. In its primary biblical usage, however, *gêrâh* refers specifically to a small unit of weight and, by extension, a corresponding coin. It is consistently defined as one-twentieth (1/20th) of a shekel. This precise definition establishes *gêrâh* not merely as an abstract concept of smallness, but as a standardized, quantifiable measure within the ancient Israelite system of weights and currency.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *gêrâh* appears four times in the Hebrew Bible, exclusively within the Pentateuch, and always in contexts related to precise measurements for cultic or legal purposes.
1. **[[Exodus 30:13]]**: This passage specifies the half-shekel temple tax required of every Israelite male twenty years old or more. It clarifies that "a shekel is twenty gerahs," thereby establishing the exact value of the *gêrâh* in relation to the shekel. The precision here underscores the non-negotiable nature of the offering required for atonement and the upkeep of the tabernacle.
2. **[[Leviticus 27:25]]**: Here, the *gêrâh* is mentioned in the context of valuing things dedicated to the Lord, particularly land or persons. "All your valuations shall be according to the shekel of the sanctuary: twenty gerahs to the shekel." This reinforces the standard, unvarying nature of the "shekel of the sanctuary," emphasizing the divine demand for accuracy and integrity in all transactions involving sacred vows or dedications.
3. **[[Numbers 3:47]]**: This verse deals with the redemption money for the firstborn males of Israel who exceeded the number of Levites. A fixed redemption price of "five shekels a head; according to the shekel of the sanctuary you shall count them (the shekel is twenty gerahs)" is stipulated. This again highlights the *gêrâh* as the fundamental fractional unit for precise calculation in matters of sacred obligation and redemption.
4. **[[Numbers 18:16]]**: Similar to the previous occurrence, this passage reiterates the redemption price for the firstborn, specifying "five shekels of silver, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, which is twenty gerahs." The consistent repetition across these texts underscores the critical importance of exactitude in the Israelites' dealings with God and with one another, particularly in matters of sacred economy.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic and conceptual relation to *gêrâh* is its root, גָּרַר (*gārar*, `{{H1641}}`), which describes the action of scraping or dragging. This etymological link supports the idea of *gêrâh* as a small, perhaps "scraped-off" or minute portion.
Conceptually, *gêrâh* is inextricably linked to the larger system of ancient Israelite weights and measures, particularly the:
* **Shekel (שֶׁקֶל, *sheqel*, `{{H8255}}`)**: The shekel was the primary unit of weight and currency, with the *gêrâh* serving as its smallest specified subdivision (1/20th). Understanding the *gêrâh* requires an understanding of the shekel as the standard.
* **Talent (כִּכָּר, *kikkār*, `{{H3701}}`)**: While not directly a subdivision of the *gêrâh*, the talent was the largest unit of weight, often equivalent to 3,000 shekels. The existence of such a wide range of units, from the minute *gêrâh* to the massive talent, speaks to a sophisticated and standardized system of commerce.
The concept of "just weights and measures" is a pervasive biblical theme ([[Deuteronomy 25:13-16]], [[Proverbs 11:1]], [[Proverbs 20:10]]). The *gêrâh*, as the smallest defined unit, implicitly serves as a foundational element in this ethical framework, emphasizing that even the smallest fraction must be honest and accurate.
### Theological Significance
The recurring mention of the *gêrâh* in the context of cultic regulations and redemption money carries significant theological weight.
Firstly, it highlights God's demand for **precision and integrity** in all matters, especially those pertaining to the sanctuary and covenant obligations. The explicit definition of the shekel as "twenty gerahs" leaves no ambiguity; every transaction, every offering, and every redemption must be exact. This reflects a divine character that values order, truth, and honesty, leaving no room for arbitrary valuations or fraudulent dealings.
Secondly, the *gêrâh* underscores the principle of **divine meticulousness**. God does not merely provide general guidelines; He specifies the smallest units, demonstrating His concern for every detail of Israel's worship and communal life. This attention to minute measurements underscores the sanctity of the tabernacle and the seriousness of obligations owed to the Lord.
Finally, the use of *gêrâh* in redemption contexts ([[Numbers 3:47]], [[Numbers 18:16]]) reveals that even the smallest fraction of value is important in God's economy of salvation and covenant. It speaks to the specific and non-negotiable value placed on human life and the precise requirements for atonement or redemption, emphasizing that God's grace and justice operate with perfect calibration.
### Summary
The term *gêrâh* (`{{H1626}}`) denotes a small, precise unit of weight, specifically one-twentieth of a shekel. Though its etymological root suggests a "kernel" or "scraped-off" portion, its biblical usage is strictly as a standardized measure within the Israelite system of weights and currency. Occurring exclusively in the Pentateuch, *gêrâh* is consistently found in contexts of temple offerings, valuations, and redemption money, emphasizing the divine demand for exactitude in all sacred transactions. Theologically, *gêrâh* serves as a powerful symbol of God's unwavering insistence on precision, integrity, and justice, even in the smallest of details, reflecting His holy character and the meticulous nature of His covenant demands.
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