Topical Bible: Calamus: An Ingredient of the Holy Ointment

◄ Calamus: An Ingredient of the Holy Ointment ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Calamus, also known as "sweet cane" or "sweet flag," is a plant mentioned in the Bible as one of the ingredients of the sacred anointing oil. This oil was used for consecrating the Tabernacle, the Ark of the Covenant, and the priests, setting them apart for holy service to the LORD. The reference to calamus is found in the Book of Exodus, where God provides Moses with the specific recipe for the holy anointing oil.

Biblical Reference:

In Exodus 30:22-25 , the LORD instructs Moses: "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 sacred anointing oil."

The "fragrant cane" mentioned in this passage is traditionally identified as calamus. The Hebrew word used is "qaneh," which is often translated as "cane" or "reed." This plant was valued for its aromatic properties and was a significant component of the anointing oil, symbolizing the sweetness and purity required in the service of God.

Historical and Botanical Context:

Calamus is believed to be Acorus calamus, a perennial plant found in marshy areas. It has long, sword-like leaves and a distinctive sweet fragrance. Historically, calamus was used not only for its aromatic qualities but also for medicinal purposes. It was a valuable trade commodity in the ancient Near East, often imported from distant lands, which underscores its significance and the care taken in preparing the holy anointing oil.

Symbolic Significance:

In the context of the holy anointing oil, calamus represents the sweetness and purity that should characterize those set apart for God's service. The use of calamus, along with other precious spices, highlights the sacredness and exclusivity of the anointing oil. It was not to be replicated for common use, as stated in Exodus 30:32-33 : "It must not be poured on the bodies of ordinary men, and you must not make anything with this same formula. It is holy, and it must be holy to you. Anyone who mixes perfume like it or puts it on an outsider shall be cut off from his people."

Theological Implications:

The inclusion of calamus in the holy anointing oil serves as a reminder of the sanctity and dedication required in worship and service to God. It signifies the transformation and consecration of the ordinary into the extraordinary through divine appointment. The anointing oil, with its fragrant blend, symbolizes the presence and blessing of the Holy Spirit, empowering and sanctifying those who are called to serve.

In summary, calamus, as an ingredient of the holy anointing oil, holds deep spiritual significance, representing the purity, sweetness, and sanctity required in the service of the LORD. Its inclusion in the sacred formula underscores the importance of holiness and dedication in the life of believers.

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Exodus 30:23
Take you also to you 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,
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Isaiah 43:24
You have bought me no sweet cane with money, neither have you filled me with the fat of your sacrifices: but you have made me to serve with your sins, you have wearied me with your iniquities.
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