Frankincense is a fragrant resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia, particularly Boswellia sacra. It holds significant importance in biblical texts, both for its ceremonial use and its symbolic meaning. In the Bible, frankincense is often associated with worship, offerings, and divine presence.

Biblical References:

1. Exodus 30:34-36 : "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Take fragrant spices—gum resin, onycha, and galbanum—and pure frankincense, all in equal measures, and make a fragrant blend of incense, the work of a perfumer, seasoned with salt, pure and holy. Grind some of it into fine powder and place it in front of the Testimony in the Tent of Meeting, where I will meet with you. It shall be most holy to you.'"

In this passage, frankincense is a key component of the sacred incense used in the Tabernacle, signifying its role in worship and the holiness of God's presence.

2. Leviticus 2:1-2 : "When anyone presents an offering of grain to the LORD, his offering shall consist of fine flour. He is to pour olive oil on it, put frankincense on it, and bring it to Aaron’s sons the priests. The priest shall then take a handful of fine flour and olive oil, together with all the frankincense, and burn this memorial portion on the altar, an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD."

Here, frankincense is used in grain offerings, symbolizing the dedication and devotion of the worshiper to God.

3. Matthew 2:11 : "On coming to the house, they saw the Child with His mother Mary, and they fell down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh."

The Magi's gift of frankincense to the Christ child underscores its value and its association with divinity and worship.

Symbolism and Use:

Frankincense symbolizes prayer and the presence of God. Its rising smoke during burning is often seen as a representation of prayers ascending to heaven. It was a valuable commodity in ancient times, often used in trade and as a gift for royalty and deities.

Sweet Cane

Sweet cane, also known as calamus, is a fragrant plant mentioned in the Bible as an ingredient in sacred anointing oil and incense. It is believed to be a type of aromatic reed, possibly Acorus calamus, known for its sweet scent.

Biblical References:

1. Exodus 30:23-25 : "Take the finest spices: 500 shekels of liquid myrrh, half as much (250 shekels) of fragrant cinnamon, 250 shekels of fragrant cane, 500 shekels of cassia—all according to the sanctuary shekel—and a hin of olive oil. Prepare from these a holy anointing oil, a fragrant blend, the work of a perfumer; it will be a holy anointing oil."

Sweet cane is listed as a component of the holy anointing oil, used to consecrate the Tabernacle and its furnishings, as well as the priests, signifying its sacred role in worship and dedication.

2. Isaiah 43:24 : "You have bought Me no sweet cane with your silver, nor have you satisfied Me with the fat of your sacrifices. But you have burdened Me with your sins; you have wearied Me with your iniquities."

In this passage, sweet cane is mentioned in the context of offerings, highlighting its value and the expectation of sincere worship from the people of Israel.

Symbolism and Use:

Sweet cane represents the sweetness and purity of worship and devotion. Its inclusion in sacred mixtures underscores the importance of offering the best and most fragrant elements to God. The plant's aromatic properties made it a valuable and sought-after ingredient in ancient times, used in both religious and secular contexts.