### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **çᵉʼâh**, represented by `{{H5429}}`, is a specific term for a **measure**. It appears **9 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from an unused root meaning to define, it functions as a determinative measure, primarily for grain.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H5429}}` is used as a standard unit for measuring essential provisions. When Abraham shows hospitality to his guests, he instructs Sarah to "Make ready quickly three **measures** of fine meal" [[Genesis 18:6]]. Similarly, Abigail prepares a gift for David that includes "five **measures** of parched corn" [[1 Samuel 25:18]]. The term is central to Elisha's prophecy during the siege of Samaria, where he foretells that "a **measure** of fine flour" and "two **measures** of barley" would soon be sold for a single shekel, a promise that is later fulfilled ([[2 Kings 7:1]], [[2 Kings 7:16]]). It is also used to describe capacity, as when Elijah made a trench around the altar that was "as great as would contain two **measures** of seed" [[1 Kings 18:32]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context in which this measurement is used:
* `{{H5560}}` **çôleth** (fine flour): This is one of the primary commodities measured by the **çᵉʼâh**, particularly in Elisha's prophecy regarding the market in Samaria [[2 Kings 7:1]]. It is also a key ingredient in offerings [[Leviticus 2:1]].
* `{{H7058}}` **qemach** (flour, meal): Abraham instructs Sarah to use three measures of fine **meal** to make cakes for his visitors [[Genesis 18:6]]. This word denotes a basic food staple [[1 Kings 17:12]].
* `{{H8184}}` **sᵉʻôrâh** (barley): This grain is frequently mentioned alongside fine flour as being measured by the **çᵉʼâh**. Elisha's prophecy specifically includes a price for "two measures of **barley**" [[2 Kings 7:18]].
* `{{H2233}}` **zeraʻ** (seed): The capacity of the trench Elijah built was described by the amount of **seed** it could hold, linking the measure to agriculture and worship [[1 Kings 18:32]]. Figuratively, this word can refer to posterity [[Genesis 3:15]].
* `{{H8255}}` **sheqel** (shekel): This commercial standard is used to set the value of goods measured by the **çᵉʼâh**. The miraculous drop in prices in Samaria was pegged to one **shekel** per measure [[2 Kings 7:1]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{H5429}}` is tied to its narrative function in key moments of divine action and human interaction.
* **Divine Provision:** The word appears in contexts of God's miraculous provision. Its use in 2 Kings 7 marks the dramatic end of a devastating famine, where God restores abundance to His people ([[2 Kings 7:1]], [[2 Kings 7:16]]).
* **Hospitality:** The term is used to quantify acts of generous hospitality, such as Abraham's provision for his guests [[Genesis 18:6]] and Abigail's peace-making gift to David's men [[1 Samuel 25:18]].
* **Prophetic Fulfillment:** The precise measurement in Elisha's prophecy—"a **measure** of fine flour for a shekel"—and its exact fulfillment underscore the reliability of God's word ([[2 Kings 7:16]], [[2 Kings 7:18]]).
* **Sacred Acts:** By quantifying the size of the trench around Elijah's altar, the **çᵉʼâh** is brought into a context of worship and a pivotal confrontation between the Lord and pagan deities [[1 Kings 18:32]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5429}}` **çᵉʼâh** is more than a simple unit of volume. While it serves a practical purpose for measuring staples like flour and grain, it is embedded in significant biblical events. Its presence in stories of miraculous provision, prophetic fulfillment, and sacred worship demonstrates how even a common measure can carry profound weight, illustrating God's intervention in the daily lives of His people.
TRV