Intercalary month

bar_scribes.jpg

Since the Jewish calendar was based on the lunar month (29.5 days) the lunar year (354.25 days) fell short of the solar year (365.25 days). Therefore an intercalary month was inserted every two or three years to make adjustments for the lunar calendar’s shortage of days. Although not directly stated this concept is implied in Num 9:11; 2 Chron 30:2-3, and 1 Kings 12:32-33.

The Sacred Year of Israel
Return to Bible History Online

© 2004 Bible History Online