“Take thou also unto thee principal spices, of pure myrrh five hundred shekels, and of sweet cinnamon half so much, even two hundred and fifty shekels, and of sweet calamus two hundred and fifty shekels.”
Context:In Exodus 30, God instructs Moses on how to create the altar of incense and the anointing oil for the tabernacle. These were essential elements in the worship and service of God in the Old Testament.
Use of Precise Measurements:The verse begins with specific instructions on the quantities of various spices needed to create the anointing oil. God does not leave room for ambiguity or approximation. This attention to detail reminds us of God’s desire for excellence and precision in matters related to worship and service. In our own lives, we should strive to give God our best and not be content with mediocrity in our devotion and obedience.
Symbolism of the Ingredients:
- Pure Myrrh:Myrrh was a fragrant resin often associated with death and burial. In this context, it points to the sacrificial aspect of anointing, reminding us of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on the cross for the redemption of mankind. It also represents consecration and setting apart for a special purpose.
- Sweet Cinnamon:Cinnamon is a spice known for its pleasant aroma and flavour. In the anointing oil, it symbolizes the sweetness and joy that comes from being set apart for God’s service. Serving the Lord may have its challenges, but there is also a deep sense of fulfilment and joy in living a life dedicated to Him.
- Sweet Calamus:Calamus is another fragrant plant that adds to the aroma of the anointing oil. Its inclusion may represent the attractiveness and beauty of a life that is consecrated to God, drawing others to Him through our example.
Anointing and Consecration:The anointing oil was used to consecrate and set apart the tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests for holy service. This act of anointing represented God’s empowerment, blessing, and approval on those chosen for His specific tasks. As believers in Christ today, we are also called to be a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). Just as the priests were anointed for their duties, we are anointed by the Holy Spirit to carry out God’s work in the world. This anointing enables and equips us to serve effectively in various roles and ministries.
Unity in Diversity:The anointing oil was composed of several different spices, each contributing to its unique aroma and properties. Similarly, in the body of Christ, we are diverse in our gifts, talents, and backgrounds. However, when we come together and allow the Holy Spirit to work through us, we create a beautiful fragrance and display the manifold wisdom of God (Ephesians 3:10).
Holiness and Purity:The ingredients used in the anointing oil were of the finest quality and were required to be pure. This emphasis on purity points to the holiness of God and His desire for His people to be consecrated and set apart from the world. As believers, we are called to live holy and righteous lives, continually seeking to be purified by the blood of Christ and led by the Spirit.
Application:
- Offering Our Best to God:Just as the anointing oil required the best ingredients and precise measurements, we should offer our best to God in worship, service, and daily living. We are called to be living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1).
- Recognising Our Anointing:As believers, we are anointed by the Holy Spirit to fulfil God’s purposes in our lives. We should seek the Spirit’s guidance and empowerment to carry out our various callings and ministries faithfully.
- Unity in the Body of Christ:Embracing our diversity, we should work together in harmony, allowing the Holy Spirit to bring forth a beautiful fragrance through our collective efforts.
- Living in Holiness:Just as the anointing oil ingredients had to be pure, we should pursue holiness and strive to live a life that is consecrated and set apart for God’s purposes.
In summary, Exodus 30:23 reminds us of the significance of anointing and consecration in the worship and service of God. It teaches us about the importance of offering our best to God, recognising our anointing by the Holy Spirit, embracing unity in the body of Christ, and living lives of holiness and dedication to our Creator.
