from an unused root meaning apparently to divide; a measure (for liquids); measure.
Transliteration:mᵉsûwrâh
Pronunciation:mes-oo-raw'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term מְשׂוּרָה (mᵉsûwrâh, `{{H4884}}`) derives from an unused root, hinting at a primary meaning related to division or apportionment. This etymological root strongly informs its concrete meaning: a "measure." While the base definition specifies "for liquids," its broader application in biblical texts extends to a general concept of fixed quantity or proportion. The term encapsulates the idea of a defined standard, a precise amount, or a regulated portion. It speaks to order, limitation, and a determined allocation, whether of physical substance or abstract concept. The underlying sense is one of accurate assessment and controlled distribution.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term מְשׂוּרָה (mᵉsûwrâh, `{{H4884}}`) appears infrequently in the Hebrew Bible, but each instance carries significant weight regarding divine or human regulation.
In [[Leviticus 19:35]], the command is given: "You shall do no injustice in judgment, in measurement of length, in weight, or in volume." Here, מְשׂוּרָה is used alongside terms for length (מִדָּה, `{{H4060}}`) and weight (מִשְׁקָל, `{{H4948}}`), emphasizing the necessity of integrity and fairness in all commercial and judicial dealings. The context is ethical and legal, highlighting God's demand for righteousness in everyday transactions. The use of מְשׂוּרָה specifically for "volume" (or "measure" in general) underscores the principle that all forms of measurement must be just and honest, reflecting divine standards of equity.
A second significant occurrence is found in [[1 Chronicles 23:29]], detailing the duties of the Levites: "also for the showbread, for the fine flour for the grain offering, for the unleavened wafers, for what is baked in the pan, for what is fried, and for all measures of quantity and size." Here, מְשׂוּרָה is again used in a broader sense, encompassing "all measures of quantity and size" (לְכָל־מְשׂוּרָה וּמִדָּה). This passage illustrates the meticulous precision required in temple service, from the preparation of sacred offerings to the general administration of the sanctuary. The Levites were responsible for ensuring that all aspects of worship adhered to prescribed standards, reflecting the divine order and holiness expected in God's presence. The pairing with מִדָּה (middah, `{{H4060}}`, meaning "measure" or "dimension") reinforces the comprehensive nature of this responsibility.
These occurrences demonstrate that מְשׂוּרָה is not merely a technical term for a container, but rather embodies the principle of accurate and just measurement, whether in ethical conduct or sacred service.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "measure" is pervasive in the Hebrew Bible, often expressed through various cognate or semantically related terms.
* **מִדָּה (middah, `{{H4060}}`):** This is perhaps the most closely related term, often translated as "measure," "dimension," or "proportion." As seen in [[1 Chronicles 23:29]], it can be used in conjunction with מְשׂוּרָה to denote comprehensive measurement. Middah often refers to linear dimensions or a general standard of measure, whereas מְשׂוּרָה leans towards capacity or volume, though the distinction is not always absolute.
* **מֵימַד (mêmad, `{{H4328}}`):** A less common term, also meaning "measure" or "dimension," particularly in the context of the temple's dimensions, as seen in [[Ezekiel 43:10]].
* **אֵיפָה (ephah, `{{H0374}}`):** A specific dry measure, frequently mentioned in regulations concerning offerings and commercial transactions (e.g., [[Leviticus 19:36]]).
* **בַּת (bath, `{{H1324}}`):** A specific liquid measure (e.g., [[Ezekiel 45:10]]).
* **צֶדֶק (tsedeq, `{{H6664}}`):** "Righteousness" or "justice." The demand for accurate measures (מְשׂוּרָה) is an expression of divine justice and righteousness, as seen in [[Leviticus 19:35]]. This highlights that physical measurements are not merely technical but carry moral and theological weight.
The consistent theme across these terms and concepts is the divine insistence on order, precision, and equity, reflecting God's own character as one who establishes and maintains all things by measure and wisdom.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of מְשׂוּרָה (mᵉsûwrâh, `{{H4884}}`) extends beyond mere technical definitions, touching upon fundamental aspects of God's character and His relationship with humanity.
Firstly, the command for accurate measures in [[Leviticus 19:35]] underscores God's attribute of **justice and holiness**. Dishonest measures are an abomination to the Lord (e.g., [[Proverbs 11:1]], [[Proverbs 20:10]]), because they violate the principles of fairness and truth that flow from His very nature. God is a God of order, not chaos, and this order extends to human interactions, particularly in economic dealings. Integrity in measurement is therefore an act of worship and obedience, reflecting a desire to imitate divine righteousness.
Secondly, the meticulous use of measures in temple service, as seen in [[1 Chronicles 23:29]], points to God's demand for **precision and reverence in worship**. Every aspect of sacred duty, from the preparation of offerings to the dimensions of the sanctuary, was to be conducted according to specific divine standards. This demonstrates that God is not indifferent to how He is approached; He prescribes the means and methods of worship, and these must be followed with exactitude. The "measure" here signifies adherence to divine revelation and the sanctity of the sacred space and rituals.
Finally, the broader concept of "measure" in Scripture often speaks to **divine sovereignty and wisdom**. God created the world with measure and proportion (e.g., [[Job 28:25]], [[Isaiah 40:12]]). He apportions all things according to His will, whether blessings or judgments. While מְשׂוּרָה itself does not directly describe God's creative acts, its presence in legal and liturgical contexts reminds us that the divine order permeates all aspects of existence, requiring humanity to live in conformity with His established standards. It is a reminder that human actions are not arbitrary but are to be weighed against a divine standard.
### Summary
The Hebrew word מְשׂוּרָה (mᵉsûwrâh, `{{H4884}}`) denotes a "measure," primarily for liquids but extended to a general concept of quantity or standard. Its etymological root suggests division or apportionment, emphasizing a defined and precise amount. Biblically, it appears in contexts demanding **ethical integrity** in commercial transactions ([[Leviticus 19:35]]), where honest measures are an expression of justice, and in the **meticulous administration of sacred duties** within the temple ([[1 Chronicles 23:29]]), highlighting the necessity of precision in worship. Related terms like מִדָּה (middah, `{{H4060}}`) reinforce the pervasive biblical emphasis on accurate standards. Theologically, מְשׂוּרָה underscores God's attributes of **justice, holiness, and order**, demanding that humanity reflect these qualities in all dealings and particularly in reverence for divine worship. It serves as a potent reminder that all human endeavors are subject to a divine standard of truth and righteousness.
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