Cedar wood is frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing strength, durability, and beauty. The cedar tree, particularly the famed cedars of Lebanon, was highly prized in the ancient Near East for its aromatic wood, resistance to decay, and majestic stature. In biblical times, cedar wood was used extensively in construction and religious rituals.

One of the most notable uses of cedar wood in the Bible is in the construction of Solomon's Temple. In 1 Kings 6:9-10 , it is recorded: "So he built the temple and finished it, and he covered the temple with beams and boards of cedar. He built chambers all around the temple, each five cubits high and attached to the temple with beams of cedar." The use of cedar in the temple underscored its importance and the desire for a lasting, beautiful place of worship.

Cedar wood also appears in purification rituals. In Leviticus 14:4 , it is prescribed for the cleansing of a leper: "the priest shall order that two live clean birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop be brought for the one to be cleansed." This ritual use highlights cedar's symbolic association with purification and sanctity.

Scarlet Yarn

Scarlet yarn, a vivid red thread, holds significant symbolic meaning in the Bible, often representing sin, sacrifice, and redemption. The color scarlet is associated with both the stain of sin and the cleansing power of sacrificial blood.

In the construction of the Tabernacle, scarlet yarn was used as part of the intricate design of the priestly garments and the Tabernacle itself. Exodus 28:5-6 describes the materials for the ephod: "They are to use gold, along with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen. They are to make the ephod of finely spun linen, embroidered with gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn."

Scarlet yarn also appears in the purification rituals described in Leviticus 14:4 , where it is used alongside cedar wood and hyssop. The scarlet thread's presence in these rituals underscores its role in symbolizing the transition from impurity to purity, from sin to redemption.

Hyssop

Hyssop is a small, bushy plant with aromatic leaves, used in the Bible for its cleansing properties. It is often associated with purification and sacrifice, playing a significant role in various biblical rituals.

In the Passover narrative, hyssop is used to apply the blood of the sacrificial lamb to the doorposts of the Israelites' homes. Exodus 12:22 instructs: "Take a cluster of hyssop, dip it in the blood in the basin, and apply some of the blood to the top and sides of the doorframe." This act of faith and obedience marked the homes of the Israelites for protection from the plague of the firstborn.

Hyssop is also mentioned in the purification rites for leprosy and contact with a dead body. In Leviticus 14:4 , it is part of the cleansing ritual for a leper, used alongside cedar wood and scarlet yarn. The use of hyssop in these contexts emphasizes its symbolic role in cleansing and renewal.

In the New Testament, hyssop appears at the crucifixion of Jesus. John 19:29 recounts: "A jar of sour wine was sitting there. So they soaked a sponge in the wine, put it on a stalk of hyssop, and lifted it to His mouth." This act, occurring during the crucifixion, ties back to the themes of sacrifice and purification, echoing the Passover and the sacrificial system of the Old Testament.