Exodus 30:31
And thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel, saying, This shall be an holy anointing oil unto me throughout your generations.
Original Language Analysis
בְּנֵ֥י
unto the children
H1121
בְּנֵ֥י
unto the children
Strong's:
H1121
Word #:
2 of 12
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל
of Israel
H3478
יִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל
of Israel
Strong's:
H3478
Word #:
3 of 12
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
תְּדַבֵּ֣ר
And thou shalt speak
H1696
תְּדַבֵּ֣ר
And thou shalt speak
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
4 of 12
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
שֶׁ֠מֶן
oil
H8081
שֶׁ֠מֶן
oil
Strong's:
H8081
Word #:
6 of 12
grease, especially liquid (as from the olive, often perfumed); figuratively, richness
מִשְׁחַת
anointing
H4888
מִשְׁחַת
anointing
Strong's:
H4888
Word #:
7 of 12
unction (the act); by implication, a consecratory gift
קֹ֨דֶשׁ
This shall be an holy
H6944
קֹ֨דֶשׁ
This shall be an holy
Strong's:
H6944
Word #:
8 of 12
a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity
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.