The Science in the Bible

Entry 6 · Section 1: Measure

Lunar Months, Solar Years

A new crescent begins the month while planting, harvest, and festivals remain tied to the solar seasons.

Scripture: Gen 1:14; Ex 12:2; 1 Kgs 6:37–38

AstronomyMetrology

Twelve synodic months set against one tropical year, drawn to scale, with the 10.875-day gap shown as the remainder. Both figures are means; individual lunations vary.
Twelve synodic months set against one tropical year, drawn to scale, with the 10.875-day gap shown as the remainder. Both figures are means; individual lunations vary.

The question

How far does a 12-month lunar year fall behind the solar year, and how can the calendar remain seasonal?

Why it matters

Intercalation preserves real lunar months while preventing seasonal festivals from drifting through the year.

Suggest a correction or new direction
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