What Is This Tool?
This converter transforms values from the bekan, a Biblical Hebrew half-shekel unit of weight, into the shekel, an ancient Near Eastern mass measure mentioned in Biblical texts. It enables users to interpret and analyze historical and archaeological data related to ancient Israelite weights and measures.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the value in bekan units to convert
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Select the original unit as bekan (Biblical Hebrew)
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Choose the target unit as shekel (Biblical Hebrew)
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Click convert to see the equivalent shekel amount
Key Features
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Converts bekan units to shekel accurately based on historical relations
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Simplifies understanding of ancient Biblical Hebrew weight measurements
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Supports study of temple taxes, offerings, and monetary systems
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Browser-based and easy-to-use interface suitable for scholars and students
Examples
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2 Bekan equals 1 Shekel
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4 Bekan equals 2 Shekel
Common Use Cases
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Interpreting the half-shekel temple tax described in Exodus 30:13
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Analyzing silver amounts in Biblical offerings and legal payments
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Conducting numismatic and archaeological studies of ancient Hebrew weights
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Examining weights for ancient Israelite trade, fines, and contracts
Tips & Best Practices
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Always consider historical context when interpreting unit conversions
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Use the tool to correlate textual and archaeological data accurately
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Verify the applicability of conversion values for specific Biblical periods
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Combine unit conversions with scholarly research for comprehensive study
Limitations
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Mass values of bekan and shekel varied by period and region historically
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Fixed numerical conversions may not fully reflect ancient standards
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Understanding requires knowledge of the textual and archaeological context
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the bekan unit?
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The bekan is a Biblical Hebrew unit of weight representing half of a shekel, used in ancient Israelite contexts.
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How is the shekel defined in this conversion?
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The shekel is an ancient Near Eastern mass unit cited in Biblical Hebrew, commonly estimated around 11.3 grams, but values varied across periods.
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Why does the bekan to shekel conversion matter?
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It helps interpret Biblical measurements related to temple taxes, offerings, and ancient monetary practices, aligning textual and archaeological findings.
Key Terminology
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Bekan (Biblical Hebrew)
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A Biblical Hebrew weight unit indicating half a shekel, referenced in ancient Israelite texts.
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Shekel (Biblical Hebrew)
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An ancient unit of mass cited in Biblical texts, used for commerce and ritual, approximately 11.3 grams though varying historically.