Topical Encyclopedia
The term "measuring-reed" refers to a tool used in biblical times for measuring distances or dimensions, particularly in the context of architectural or construction projects. It is often mentioned in the prophetic and apocalyptic literature of the Bible, symbolizing divine measurement and judgment.
Biblical References:1.
Ezekiel's Vision of the Temple: The measuring-reed is prominently featured in the book of Ezekiel, where the prophet describes a vision of a new temple. In
Ezekiel 40:3-5 , the prophet encounters a man whose appearance is like bronze, holding a linen cord and a measuring-reed. The man uses the reed to measure the dimensions of the temple, its gates, and its courts. The measuring-reed in this context signifies the precision and orderliness of God's plans for His dwelling place among His people.
2.
The New Jerusalem: In the book of Revelation, the measuring-reed appears again in the vision of the New Jerusalem.
Revelation 11:1 states, "Then I was given a measuring reed like a rod and was told, 'Go and measure the temple of God and the altar, and count the number of worshipers there.'" This act of measuring is symbolic of God's protection and the establishment of His divine order. Later, in
Revelation 21:15-16 , an angel uses a golden measuring-reed to measure the city, its gates, and its walls, emphasizing the perfection and holiness of the New Jerusalem.
Symbolism and Significance:The measuring-reed serves as a symbol of God's authority and the standard by which He judges and establishes His kingdom. It represents the divine precision and meticulous care with which God plans and executes His purposes. The use of the measuring-reed in prophetic visions underscores the idea that God's plans are exact and that His standards are to be adhered to by His people.
Cultural and Historical Context:In ancient times, a measuring-reed was typically a long, straight rod made from a reed plant, known for its uniformity and strength. It was used by builders and surveyors to ensure accuracy in construction. The reed's length could vary, but it was generally around six cubits, with a cubit being approximately 18 inches. This practical tool became a powerful metaphor in biblical literature, illustrating the concept of divine measurement and judgment.
Theological Implications:The measuring-reed highlights the theme of God's sovereignty and the establishment of His kingdom according to His divine standards. It serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning with God's will and the consequences of deviating from His ordained plans. The imagery of measuring in the Bible often conveys the idea of evaluation, accountability, and the fulfillment of God's promises.
In summary, the measuring-reed is a significant biblical symbol that conveys themes of divine order, judgment, and the meticulous nature of God's plans for His people and His creation.
Library
The New Jerusalem.
... And he, who talked with me, had a goldenmeasuring-reed to measure the city,
and its gates, and its wall. And the city lieth square...
Valentine Weigel and Nature Mysticism
... Scripture, according to one's own interpretation, or according to books, or according
to University men; but in the true Church themeasuring-reed is the...
The Seven Trumpets.
... The reoerganization of the church at this epoch, is next symbolized. TheMeasuring
Reed, Temple, &c. "And there was given me ameasuring...
The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... WALLS, GATES, ANGELS, AND THE MANNER OF THEIR STANDING, ARE EXPOUNDED: ALSO HER
LENGTH AND BREADTH, TOGETHER WITH THE GOLDENMEASURING-REED EXPLAINED: AND THE...
Thesaurus
Measuring-reed (6 Occurrences)Measuring-
reed. Measuring-line,
Measuring-
reed. Measuring-rod .
Multi-Version Concordance
Measuring-
reed (6 Occurrences).
...Reeds (27 Occurrences)
... (WEB KJV ASV WBS YLT). Ezekiel 42:16 He measured on the east side with themeasuring
reed five hundred reeds, with themeasuringreed all around....
Measuring (42 Occurrences)
... H. Porter.MEASURINGREED.... Ezekiel 42:16 He measured on the east side with themeasuring
reed five hundred reeds, with themeasuringreed all around....
Reed (41 Occurrences)
...MEASURINGREED.... Ezekiel 42:16 He measured on the east side with themeasuring
reed five hundred reeds, with themeasuringreed all around....
Measured (91 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 40:5 Behold, a wall on the outside of the house all around, and in the man's
hand ameasuringreed six cubits long, of a cubit and a handbreadth each...
Flax-cord (1 Occurrence)
... brought me thither, and behold, there was a man whose appearance was like the
appearance of brass, with a flax-cord in his hand, and ameasuring-reed; and he...
Thickness (12 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 40:5 Behold, a wall on the outside of the house all around, and in the man's
hand ameasuringreed six cubits long, of a cubit and a handbreadth each...
Measuring-rod (1 Occurrence)
Measuring-rod.Measuring-reed, Measuring-rod. Meat . Multi-Version Concordance...
(WEY BBE).Measuring-reed, Measuring-rod. Meat . Reference Bible.
Measureth (24 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 40:5 And lo, a wall on the outside of the house all round about, and in
the hand of the man ameasuring-reed, six cubits by a cubit and a handbreadth...
Measuring-line (4 Occurrences)
Measuring-line. Measuring, Measuring-line.Measuring-reed . Multi-Version
Concordance... (BBE). Measuring, Measuring-line.Measuring-reed . Reference Bible
Resources
What are the modern equivalents of biblical weights and measures? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that “a bruised reed He will not break” in Matthew 12:20? | GotQuestions.orgDid the Israelites in the book of Exodus cross the Red Sea or the Reed Sea? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus
