In the Bible, the term “furlong” appears as a unit of measurement, but what exactly does it represent? A furlong, in its simplest definition, is an archaic unit of distance equivalent to 1/8th of a mile. However, the biblical context gives it a unique dimension. The Greek unit ‘stadion,’ approximately 606 feet, was translated into the English term ‘furlong,’ which is about 660 feet. This measurement was significant in ancient times, particularly in the context of the Bible.
The Biblical Context of a Furlong
In biblical times, distances were often measured in stadia (plural of stadion), a Greek measure that translates to the English furlong. This measurement is mentioned in various passages, such as Luke 24:13, John 6:19, and Revelation 14:20. For instance, in Revelation 21:16, the New Jerusalem is described as being 12,000 furlongs in length and breadth, a symbolic representation of a perfect and vast city.
The Modern Interpretation of a Furlong
Today, a furlong is understood as 660 feet or about 201 meters. This conversion helps us appreciate the distances mentioned in the Bible with a modern perspective. For example, when Jesus walked with two disciples to Emmaus, mentioned in Luke 24:13, they traveled about seven or eight furlongs, which translates to roughly a mile or a little more.
The Symbolism and Real-Life Application
The use of furlongs in the Bible goes beyond mere measurement; it often carries symbolic meaning. The measurement of the New Jerusalem, for instance, symbolizes the grandeur and perfection of God’s kingdom. In our daily lives, understanding these measurements can deepen our appreciation of the Bible’s historical context and its teachings.
Incorporating Furlongs into Modern Understanding
To bridge the gap between ancient and modern measurements, it’s helpful to visualize a furlong in terms we can relate to. For instance, imagine walking around a standard track field, which is approximately a quarter of a mile; a furlong would be half of that distance. This visualization helps us connect with biblical narratives on a more personal level.
Related Questions and Answers from “How Long is a Furlong in the Bible?”
- What is the significance of a furlong in biblical measurements?
- In the Bible, a furlong is used as a unit of distance, equivalent to 1/8th of a mile or about 660 feet. It’s significant as it helps in understanding the scale and distances mentioned in biblical narratives, such as the size of the New Jerusalem in Revelation.
- How does the biblical furlong compare to modern measurements?
- A biblical furlong, translated from the Greek unit ‘stadion’, is approximately 606 feet, while the English furlong is about 660 feet. This slight difference is crucial for accurately interpreting distances mentioned in the Bible with a modern perspective.
- Are furlongs still used in measurements today?
- Furlongs are largely considered archaic in modern measurements. They are rarely used today, except in specific contexts like horse racing. In biblical studies, understanding furlongs is essential for historical accuracy and context.
Conclusion: The Relevance of Furlongs Today
Understanding the measurement of a furlong in the Bible enriches our comprehension of biblical texts. It allows us to visualize the distances traveled by biblical figures, adding depth to our study and appreciation of the Scripture. As we delve into these ancient texts, we gain not only knowledge but also a greater connection to the world of the Bible.
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