Bible Dictionary
Fathom
A fathom is a measure of length equal to about six feet, traditionally understood as the distance between the outstretched hands. It is mentioned in Acts in measuring the depth of water.
Definition
A fathom is a measure of length equal to the distance between the extremities of fully outstretched arms. It was regarded as four cubits, or about six feet.
Biblical Usage
Fathoms are used in Acts 27:28 to measure the depth of the sea during Paul’s voyage.
Historical Background
The term is connected with an Old English word meaning “bosom” or outstretched arms. The Greek measure is orguia, from a verb meaning “I stretch.”
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
(Old A.S. faethm, “bosom,” or the outstretched arms), a span of six feet (Acts 27:28). Gr. orguia (from orego, “I stretch”), the distance between the extremities of both arms fully stretched out.
Smith's Bible Dictionary
[Weights And Measures AND Measures]
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>fath'-um (~orguia): The literal meaning is the length of the outstretched arms, and it was regarded as equal to 4 cubits, or about 6 feet. (Ac 27:28).</p><p>See WEIGHTS AND MEASURES.</p>