### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sheqel**, represented by `{{H8255}}`, is derived from the root word `{{H8254}}` meaning to weigh. It functions as a foundational unit of weight and was used as a commercial standard. This term appears **88 times** across **54 unique verses**, illustrating its central role in the economic and religious life of ancient Israel.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, the `{{H8255}}` is used in several key contexts. It served as a standard for commercial transactions, as when Abraham purchased a field by weighing four hundred **shekels** of silver [[Genesis 23:16]]. It was also a measure for legal restitution, with the price for a gored servant set at thirty **shekels** of silver [[Exodus 21:32]]. Furthermore, it was used as a standard for sacred contributions, with frequent references to the "**shekel** of the sanctuary" for offerings and valuations ([[Exodus 30:13]], [[Leviticus 5:15]]). The term applied to various materials, including the weight of gold [[Joshua 7:21]], iron [[1 Samuel 17:7]], and even hair [[2 Samuel 14:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader understanding of weight, value, and commerce:
* `{{H8254}}` **shâqal** (to weigh): As the primitive root of shekel, this verb means to suspend or poise, especially in trade. It is used when Abraham **weighed** silver to Ephron [[Genesis 23:16]] and when Jeremiah **weighed** money for a field [[Jeremiah 32:9]].
* `{{H3701}}` **keçeph** (silver, money): This word is frequently paired with `{{H8255}}`, as silver was a primary medium of exchange. For example, David bought the threshingfloor for fifty shekels of **silver** [[2 Samuel 24:24]].
* `{{H1235}}` **beqaʻ** (bekah, half a shekel): This term refers to a specific fraction of a shekel, representing half its weight and value. It is mentioned as the required offering for the sanctuary from each man [[Exodus 38:26]].
* `{{H3976}}` **môʼzên** (balances): This refers to the pair of scales used to measure weights like the shekel. The prophet Amos rebukes those who cheat by "falsifying the **balances**" [[Amos 8:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8255}}` is tied to concepts of justice, redemption, and divine order.
* **Standard of Justice:** The shekel represented a standard of fairness in commerce. The condemnation of making the **shekel** great and falsifying balances highlights God's concern for just and honest dealings among His people [[Amos 8:5]].
* **Atonement and Redemption:** The mandatory half-**shekel** offering for the sanctuary was required of both the rich and the poor to "make an atonement for your souls" [[Exodus 30:15]]. This established a monetary standard directly linked to the concept of redemption.
* **Sacred Valuation:** In Leviticus, estimations for persons and property dedicated to the Lord were specified in **shekels** of the sanctuary ([[Leviticus 27:3]], [[Leviticus 27:25]]). This illustrates the shekel's role in a system of sacred economy and consecration.
* **The "Shekel of the Sanctuary":** This specific standard, mentioned repeatedly ([[Exodus 38:24]], [[Numbers 3:47]]), indicates a divinely sanctioned weight, set apart from potentially corrupt commercial standards and used for holy purposes, such as funding the tabernacle and its services.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8255}}` **sheqel** is far more than a simple unit of measurement. It is a cornerstone of biblical law and society, defining value in both marketplaces and the sanctuary. It embodies theological principles of equity, atonement, and holy order, demonstrating how a physical standard of weight can carry profound spiritual and ethical significance.
TRV