The shekel is an ancient unit of weight and currency used extensively in the biblical world, particularly in Israel and surrounding regions. The term "shekel" is derived from the Hebrew word "שֶׁקֶל" (sheqel), which means "to weigh." In the Bible, the shekel is frequently mentioned as a standard of weight and monetary value.

Biblical References and Usage:

1. Weight Measurement: The shekel was primarily a unit of weight. In Exodus 30:13 , the shekel is described as a standard weight: "Each one who crosses over to those already counted is to give a half shekel, according to the sanctuary shekel, which weighs twenty gerahs. This half shekel is an offering to the LORD."

2. Currency: The shekel also functioned as a form of currency. In Genesis 23:16 , Abraham uses shekels to purchase the cave of Machpelah: "Abraham agreed to Ephron’s terms and weighed out for him the price he had named in the hearing of the Hittites: four hundred shekels of silver, according to the current commercial standard."

3. Temple Tax: The shekel was used in the context of religious obligations, such as the temple tax. In Matthew 17:24-27 , Jesus instructs Peter to find a coin in a fish's mouth to pay the temple tax, which was half a shekel per person.

4. Offerings and Valuations: The shekel was used in the valuation of offerings and vows. Leviticus 27:3 states, "If the valuation concerns a male from twenty to sixty years of age, then your valuation shall be fifty shekels of silver, according to the sanctuary shekel."

Historical Context:

The shekel was not only a biblical unit but also a common measure in the ancient Near East. It was used by various cultures, including the Babylonians and the Phoenicians. The weight of a shekel varied over time and by region, but it was generally around 11 to 14 grams.

Mina

The mina is another ancient unit of weight and currency mentioned in the Bible. It is less frequently referenced than the shekel but holds significant importance in biblical and historical contexts. The term "mina" is derived from the Hebrew word "מָנֶה" (maneh).

Biblical References and Usage:

1. Weight Measurement: The mina was a larger unit of weight compared to the shekel. In Ezekiel 45:12 , the mina is defined in relation to the shekel: "The shekel will consist of twenty gerahs. Twenty shekels plus twenty-five shekels plus fifteen shekels will equal one mina."

2. Parable of the Minas: In the New Testament, the mina is used in Jesus' parable to illustrate stewardship and accountability. Luke 19:13 recounts, "Calling ten of his servants, he gave them ten minas. ‘Conduct business with this until I return,’ he said."

3. Valuation and Trade: The mina was used in trade and commerce, often representing a substantial amount of wealth. It was a standard for larger transactions and valuations.

Historical Context:

The mina was a widely recognized unit in the ancient Near East, used by civilizations such as the Sumerians, Akkadians, and Babylonians. The weight of a mina varied, but it was typically equivalent to 50 or 60 shekels, depending on the regional standard. The mina's use in biblical times reflects the interconnectedness of Israel with surrounding cultures and economies.

In summary, both the shekel and the mina served as essential units of weight and currency in biblical times, playing crucial roles in religious, economic, and social contexts. Their usage underscores the importance of standardized measures in ancient societies and their influence on biblical narratives and teachings.