length
How much is a biblical fathom?
A fathom was approximately the reach of two outstretched arms and was used for depth soundings.
Interactive reference
Convert a biblical measurement
Choose a unit and enter an amount to see a modern metric and labeled US customary or Imperial range.
fathom — A fathom was approximately the reach of two outstretched arms and was used for depth soundings.
Ancient body-based fathoms were not guaranteed to equal the later fixed six-foot maritime fathom.
Direct answer
1 fathom ≈ 1.68–1.83 m ≈ 5.51–6.0 ft
Ancient body-based fathoms were not guaranteed to equal the later fixed six-foot maritime fathom.
Biblical ratio: Approximately an adult arm-span.
| Amount | Metric range | US customary / imperial range |
|---|---|---|
| 1 fathom | 1.68–1.83 m | 5.51–6.0 ft |
| 2 fathoms | 3.36–3.66 m | 11.02–12.01 ft |
| 5 fathoms | 8.4–9.15 m | 27.56–30.02 ft |
| 10 fathoms | 16.8–18.3 m | 55.12–60.04 ft |
Primary reference: Encyclopedia of the Bible · Weights and Measures ↗. Used for historical variation, the fathom, and the warning that biblical metrology is not an exact modern system. Accessed October 10, 2026.
Bible passages using this unit
Questions about fathoms
How much is one fathom today?
1.68–1.83 m, or 5.51–6.0 ft, in this site's selected approximate system. Ancient body-based fathoms were not guaranteed to equal the later fixed six-foot maritime fathom.
Is the fathom conversion exact?
No. Biblical weights and measures varied by period, place, and standard. The displayed range is for reading scale and should not be treated as a calibrated surviving object.
Can I turn the result into a modern price or food weight?
Not without additional evidence. Metal price, purchasing power, material purity, grain density, and container packing are separate questions from unit conversion.
Related units
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common cubit
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