Firkin
“A measurer, liquid measure”
Summary
A liquid measure equivalent to the Hebrew bath, approximately nine gallons, mentioned only in connection with the waterpots at the wedding in Cana.
☩The Measurement
A firkin (Greek metretes) was a liquid measure equivalent to the Hebrew bath, containing about 8-9 gallons. The word 'firkin' is derived from the fourth part of a barrel. The measure was the Attic amphora, the standard liquid measure of the Greek world.
☩At the Wedding in Cana
At the wedding in Cana, six stone waterpots for Jewish purification rites each held two or three firkins, making a total capacity of at least 108 gallons. These were filled to the brim, emphasizing the completeness of the provision. The quantity of wine produced—Christ's first miraculous sign—exemplified the illimitable power of the Giver and typified the fullness of grace He brings to earth.
Related Verses1 mention
John· 1 verse
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Firkin," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. III (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Hastings (ed.), "Firkin," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. I (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).