Exodus 30:29
And thou shalt sanctify them, that they may be most holy: whatsoever toucheth them shall be holy.
Original Language Analysis
יִקְדָּֽשׁ׃
And thou shalt sanctify
H6942
יִקְדָּֽשׁ׃
And thou shalt sanctify
Strong's:
H6942
Word #:
1 of 9
to be (causatively, make, pronounce or observe as) clean (ceremonially or morally)
אֹתָ֔ם
H853
אֹתָ֔ם
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 9
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
וְהָי֖וּ
H1961
וְהָי֖וּ
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
3 of 9
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
6 of 9
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Cross References
Exodus 29:37Seven days thou shalt make an atonement for the altar, and sanctify it; and it shall be an altar most holy: whatsoever toucheth the altar shall be holy.Matthew 23:19Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift?Leviticus 6:18All the males among the children of Aaron shall eat of it. It shall be a statute for ever in your generations concerning the offerings of the LORD made by fire: every one that toucheth them shall be holy.Matthew 23:17Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold?
Historical Context
The specific spice formula was divinely prescribed and forbidden for common use—counterfeit anointing oil incurred severe penalty. This protected the sacred symbolism and prevented profaning what represented God's Spirit.
Questions for Reflection
- How does each spice's unique contribution illustrate the Holy Spirit's multifaceted work?
- What does the oil's sacred exclusivity teach about treating the Holy Spirit with reverence?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The sacred anointing oil—myrrh, cinnamon, calamus, cassia in olive oil—represents the Holy Spirit's multifaceted work. Each spice contributes unique fragrance, together creating complete anointing. The oil's holiness (never for common use) emphasizes that the Spirit is sacred, not to be counterfeited or treated casually. Christ was anointed with this spiritual reality, receiving the Spirit without measure (John 3:34). Believers receive the same Spirit, though in measure.