How Big Is a Cubit in the Bible?

Feb 20,2025 00:00

How Big Is a Cubit in the Bible?

A cubit, a common unit of measurement in the Bible, is approximately 18 to 21 inches (45 to 53 centimeters) based on the length of a person’s forearm from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. The exact size varied depending on the region and cultural standards of the time.

Biblical Context of the Cubit

  • Construction Measurements: The cubit was used in the construction of Noah’s Ark (Genesis 6:15) and the Tabernacle (Exodus 26:1-30), providing standardized measurements for these sacred projects.
  • Variation in Length: Scholars distinguish between the "common cubit" (~18 inches) and the "royal cubit" (~21 inches), the latter being slightly longer and often used in Egyptian and Mesopotamian contexts.
  • Symbol of Precision: The use of cubits in biblical descriptions reflects the precision and care in God’s instructions for sacred structures.

Conclusion

A cubit in the Bible measures approximately 18 to 21 inches, symbolizing careful adherence to divine instructions in biblical architecture and design.

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