Topical Bible: Oil: Kept in Cruises

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In biblical times, oil was a valuable commodity, often used for anointing, cooking, lighting, and medicinal purposes. The storage of oil in cruises, or small containers, is mentioned in several passages throughout the Scriptures, highlighting its importance in daily life and religious practices.

Old Testament References

One of the most notable references to oil kept in cruises is found in the account of the widow of Zarephath. During a severe famine, the prophet Elijah encounters this widow and asks her for a morsel of bread. She responds that she has only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a cruise. Elijah assures her that the Lord will provide: "For this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'The jar of flour will not be exhausted and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the LORD sends rain on the land'" (1 Kings 17:14). This miraculous provision underscores the divine sustenance provided through the oil kept in the cruise.

Another significant mention is in the account of Elisha and the widow's oil in 2 Kings 4:1-7. A widow, in debt and fearing the loss of her sons to slavery, seeks Elisha's help. He instructs her to gather empty vessels and pour out the little oil she has into them. Miraculously, the oil continues to flow until all the vessels are filled. This event not only demonstrates God's provision but also the practical use of oil stored in cruises for economic survival.

Symbolic and Religious Significance

Oil in the Bible often symbolizes the Holy Spirit, anointing, and consecration. The practice of anointing with oil, as seen in the consecration of priests and kings, involved oil stored in special containers. For instance, the anointing of David by Samuel involved a horn of oil (1 Samuel 16:13), which would have been a type of cruise.

In the religious rituals of the Tabernacle and Temple, oil played a crucial role. The menorah, or lampstand, in the Tabernacle was to be kept burning continually with pure olive oil (Exodus 27:20). This oil, likely stored in cruises, was essential for maintaining the light that symbolized God's presence among His people.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 highlights the importance of having oil in one's lamp. The wise virgins took oil in their vessels along with their lamps, while the foolish did not. The oil in this parable, often interpreted as a symbol of spiritual readiness and the Holy Spirit, underscores the necessity of being prepared for the coming of the Bridegroom, Christ.

Practical Uses

Beyond its symbolic meanings, oil kept in cruises had practical applications in everyday life. It was used for cooking, as seen in the preparation of meals, and for lighting lamps, providing illumination in homes and public spaces. The medicinal use of oil is also noted in the parable of the Good Samaritan, where oil is used to treat wounds (Luke 10:34).

In summary, oil kept in cruises in biblical times was a multifaceted element, essential for both practical daily use and significant religious symbolism. Its presence in Scripture serves as a reminder of God's provision, the anointing of the Holy Spirit, and the call to spiritual readiness.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Kings 17:12
And she said, As the LORD your God lives, I have not a cake, but an handful of meal in a barrel, and a little oil in a cruse: and, behold, I am gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for me and my son, that we may eat it, and die.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest
... were so far conscious of their weakness, that they voluntarily kept aloof from ... consist
of indestructible wells and cisterns, or wine and oil presses hollowed ...
/.../chapter iisyria at the beginning.htm

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... continued labour; the olive trees and vines which had supplied him with oil and
wine ... Ekron and Gath kept watch over the eastern side of the plain at the points ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm