An ephah was an ancient unit of dry volume measurement, roughly equivalent to 22 liters or a bushel. Barley, a cereal grain, was frequently measured using this unit in ancient civilizations, especially in the Near East. This measurement was significant for trade, taxation, and rationing.
Understanding ancient units like the ephah provides valuable context for interpreting historical texts, particularly religious and legal documents. Quantifying goods like barley allows insight into economic systems, agricultural practices, and societal structures of past eras. The ephah’s prevalence highlights the importance of barley as a staple crop and trade commodity in the ancient world.
