probably of Egyptian origin; a hin or liquid measure; hin.
Transliteration:hîyn
Pronunciation:heen
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term הִין (hîyn, `{{H1969}}`) refers to a specific unit of liquid measurement. Its etymology suggests a probable origin in ancient Egypt, indicating a standardized measure adopted into Israelite practice. The 'hin' served as a fixed capacity for liquids, primarily wine and oil, used in various contexts within ancient Israelite society. While its precise modern equivalent is debated among scholars, it is generally understood to be approximately 3.6 to 6.5 liters (or about one gallon), making it a substantial, yet manageable, quantity for daily and cultic use. Its semantic range is narrow, strictly denoting this specific volume.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The 'hin' appears frequently throughout the Pentateuch, particularly in the books of Leviticus and Numbers, where it is meticulously prescribed for offerings and sacrifices. Its usage underscores the divine demand for precision and exactitude in worship. For instance, in Numbers, specific quantities of wine and oil, measured in 'hins,' are mandated for various burnt offerings and peace offerings:
* For a lamb, a quarter of a hin of wine and a quarter of a hin of oil are required as a drink offering and grain offering, respectively ([[Numbers 15:5]]).
* For a ram, a third of a hin of wine and a third of a hin of oil are specified ([[Numbers 15:7]]).
* For a bull, half a hin of wine and half a hin of oil are necessary ([[Numbers 15:9]]).
These precise instructions highlight the importance of adhering to God's commands without deviation. Beyond sacrificial contexts, the 'hin' is also mentioned in laws concerning just weights and measures, emphasizing integrity in commercial dealings ([[Leviticus 19:36]]). In the prophetic literature, Ezekiel employs the 'hin' in his vision of the restored Temple, detailing the offerings to be made by the prince ([[Ezekiel 45:24]]). This continued use in eschatological prophecy suggests its enduring significance as a standard of divine order.
### Related Words & Concepts
The 'hin' is one of several standardized units of measure found in the Hebrew Bible, reflecting a structured and ordered society. It belongs to a system that includes other liquid measures like the 'bath' (בַּת, `{{H1324}}`), which was equivalent to six 'hins,' and the 'log' (לֹג, `{{H3849}}`), a smaller unit. In terms of dry measures, it corresponds to units such as the 'ephah' (אֵיפָה, `{{H374}}`) and 'omer' (עֹמֶר, `{{H6016}}`). The overarching concept is that of divine order and justice, where God provides specific guidelines for both sacred worship and ethical commerce. The consistent use of these measures underscores the principle of fairness and the sacredness of resources dedicated to God. The meticulous detail concerning these measurements also points to the comprehensive nature of the Mosaic Law, which governed every aspect of Israelite life, from the grandest temple rituals to the minutiae of daily transactions.
### Theological Significance
The consistent and precise use of the 'hin' carries profound theological weight. It demonstrates God's demand for order, accuracy, and intentionality in worship. The fact that specific quantities of oil and wine were required for offerings signifies that sacrifices were not arbitrary acts but carefully prescribed rituals, each component contributing to the covenant relationship. This precision underscores the holiness of God and the seriousness with which His commands were to be observed. Furthermore, the 'hin' represents the sufficiency of God's provision and the abundance of the land, from which these offerings were drawn. The oil and wine, measured in 'hins,' were not merely commodities but sacred elements, symbolizing anointing, joy, and the life-giving essence of the covenant. The integrity demanded in its use in commercial contexts ([[Leviticus 19:36]]) extends the principle of divine order from the sacred realm to everyday ethical conduct, linking worship with righteous living.
### Summary
The 'hin' (הִין, `{{H1969}}`) is a crucial ancient Israelite liquid measure, likely of Egyptian origin, primarily used for wine and oil. Its frequent appearance in the Pentateuch, particularly concerning sacrificial offerings, highlights God's demand for precise adherence to His commands in worship. The 'hin' is part of a broader system of biblical weights and measures that underscores divine order, justice, and the sacredness of resources dedicated to God. Theologically, its consistent use reveals God's meticulousness, the profound significance of covenantal rituals, and the importance of integrity in all aspects of life.
TRV