An "arshin" is a unit of measurement historically used in various regions, particularly in the Middle East and Russia, to quantify length or height. The term is derived from the Persian word "arshan," which means "cubit" or "forearm."
In its traditional form, an arshin is equivalent to the length from the elbow to the tip of the outstretched fingers of an average person. However, due to regional variations and subsequent modernization in measurement systems, the exact length of an arshin can differ.
In some countries, such as Iran and Turkey, an arshin is approximately equal to 0.727 meters or 2.38 feet. Similarly, in Russia, it is defined as 71.12 centimeters or 2.33 feet. These lengths can slightly vary depending on the specific context or historical period.
Arshins were commonly used to measure textiles, such as fabric, carpets, or clothing, as well as land or architectural features. For instance, when purchasing or selling fabric, the quantity would often be measured in arshins. In construction, arshins were used to indicate the height of buildings or the length of walls.
Although arshins may now be considered outdated in many parts of the world due to the adoption of metric and imperial systems, they hold historical and cultural significance, particularly within the regions where they were traditionally employed.
