RE: [asa] Pi in Bible's face

David said: Pi is 3-to one significant digit, which is all the text gives.

Yes, a fair point given a general audience with the author giving only
approximate dimensions for either the diameter or circumference or both.

I would have preferred, however, to read in scripture of an "about 3 to 1"
statement considering all the other subsequent details of these magnificent
bowls. On the other hand, the placement of the 600 knops would benefit
greatly if the craftsmen could take advantage of this rather unique
measurement circumstance of reducing the diameter of 10 cubits by the two
hand widths, yielding a ~ 3.14 ratio (assuming the circumference under the
brim were actually 30 cubits). This makes me suspect that the 3 to 1
statement had a nifty meaning, especially for the craftsmen.

Whether a rough value or a unique circumstance for measurements, either
gives reason for none to claim the Bible uses an "exact value of 3 for pi".
I've heard this claim used by those in science who should know or suspect
better. [I'll be curious if they publish my brief and friendly response in
the next Astronomy issue.]

"Coope"

-----Original Message-----
From: asa-owner@lists.calvin.edu [mailto:asa-owner@lists.calvin.edu] On
Behalf Of David Campbell
Sent: Friday, October 10, 2008 2:58 PM
To: ASA
Subject: Re: [asa] Pi in Bible's face

Pi is 3-to one significant digit, which is all the text gives.

-- 
Dr. David Campbell
425 Scientific Collections
University of Alabama
"I think of my happy condition, surrounded by acres of clams"
To unsubscribe, send a message to majordomo@calvin.edu with
"unsubscribe asa" (no quotes) as the body of the message.
To unsubscribe, send a message to majordomo@calvin.edu with
"unsubscribe asa" (no quotes) as the body of the message.