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Log

biblical_measure theological_term standard

A biblical unit of liquid measure, used especially in Old Testament ceremonial instructions for oil.

At a Glance

A log is a small biblical liquid measure mentioned in the Old Testament, particularly in Leviticus 14.

Key Points

Description

The log is a small unit of liquid measure in the Old Testament, most notably in Leviticus 14 where it is used in instructions involving oil in purification rites. As an ancient Hebrew measure, it belongs with biblical weights and measures rather than with theology proper. The term is useful in Bible study because it helps readers understand the concrete details of the law, but it should be read as a measurement term and not as a doctrinal concept.

Biblical Context

The log appears in Old Testament ceremonial contexts, especially in laws concerning cleansing and ritual application of oil. Its presence highlights the practical detail of the Mosaic law.

Historical Context

Ancient Israel used standard measures for liquid and dry commodities in daily life, worship, and commerce. A log was one of the smaller liquid measures in that system.

Jewish and Ancient Context

In Jewish life under the Mosaic law, precise measures were important for sacrifices, offerings, and ceremonial acts. The log belongs to that world of ordered, covenantal practice.

Primary Key Texts

Secondary Key Texts

Original Language Note

The term reflects a Hebrew unit of liquid measure (lōg), preserved in English transliteration as "log."

Theological Significance

The log itself is not a doctrine, but it illustrates the careful, concrete character of God’s instruction in the Law and the importance of obedience in worship.

Philosophical Explanation

Biblical measurement terms show that Scripture speaks in real historical particulars, not abstractions only. A log is simply a named unit within an ordered system of measure.

Interpretive Cautions

Do not confuse this biblical term with the modern English word "log" in unrelated senses. Also avoid over-precision about its modern metric equivalent unless the source and context are carefully verified.

Major Views

There is no major doctrinal debate about the term itself; discussion mainly concerns its exact size and modern equivalent.

Doctrinal Boundaries

This is a measure term, not a theological doctrine. It should not be used to build symbolic or speculative teaching.

Practical Significance

Understanding biblical measures helps readers follow the details of Old Testament passages more accurately and appreciate the concreteness of the Law.

Related Entries

See Also

Data

Machine-readable JSON for Log

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