Inquiry:
In 1 Kings 7:23, the Bible talks about building a circular structure (bronze sea). The diameter from rim to rim is noted as 10 cubits, so with our knowledge of Pi today, the circumference should be 31.416 cubits (10xPi). However, the text says the circumference is 30 cubits. Is there a contradiction?
Response:
The questioner is correct, 31.416 cubits would be a more precise statement of the circumference than 30 cubits. However, a few things ought to be noted.
We often speak in general terms of things that could be spoken of in specific terms. For instance, if I asked my wife how much she spent on groceries this past week, she might say $60.00. Perhaps a few days later, while balancing our checkbook, I note that she actually spent $61.08 on groceries. Did she lie? Is there a contradiction? No, she simply spoke in general terms. Likewise, when the Bible writer says the circumference of the vessel was 30 cubits, it is easily seen as a general reference to the circumference.
Realize that a cubit was not an absolute measurement. A cubit is the distance from the elbow to the tip of the finger. It measured roughly 18 inches, however, this would depend on who’s forearm we are using. This being the case, perhaps the 30 cubits (circumference) is the exact figure and the 10 cubits (rim to rim) is an estimate. With such a rough measurement, it would make sense to speak in rounded numbers.
There is no contradiction.
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