1 Chronicles 9:30

KJV

And [some] of the sons of the priests made the ointment of the spices.

KJV (with Strong's)

And some of the sons {H1121} of the priests {H3548} made {H7543} the ointment {H4842} of the spices {H1314}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Some of the sons of the cohanim mixed together the ingredients for the perfumes.

Berean Standard Bible

And some of the sons of the priests mixed the spices.

American Standard Version

And some of the sons of the priests prepared the confection of the spices.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Chronicles 9:30 provides a concise yet profoundly significant glimpse into the specialized and sacred duties of a particular group of priestly descendants in post-exilic Jerusalem. It meticulously highlights their unique responsibility in preparing the holy anointing oil, an essential component for the consecration of the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests themselves, thereby underscoring the meticulous order, divine appointment, and profound holiness demanded in the restored worship of God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is intricately woven into a detailed genealogical and administrative section of 1 Chronicles, specifically chapters 9-10, which meticulously documents the inhabitants of Jerusalem following the Babylonian exile. After extensive genealogies of Israel, Judah, Levi, and Benjamin in the preceding chapters (1 Chronicles 1-8), chapter 9 shifts focus to those who resettled in Jerusalem and, crucially, those who resumed service in the rebuilt temple. The Chronicler, known for his emphasis on proper worship, legitimate priesthood, and Davidic lineage, meticulously lists the gatekeepers, singers, and various temple servants. Verse 29 broadly mentions Levites responsible for sanctuary vessels and provisions, setting the stage for the highly specific and sacred task assigned to "some of the sons of the priests" in verse 30. This progression from general duties to highly specialized ones illustrates the precise division of labor and the specialized nature of temple service, reinforcing the Chronicler's overarching theme of God's meticulous order in worship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for 1 Chronicles 9:30 is the post-exilic period, likely during the time of Nehemiah or Ezra, when the returned exiles were fervently striving to re-establish their national and religious identity in Jerusalem. This era was characterized by a deep desire to adhere strictly to the Mosaic Law, which had been neglected before the exile. The temple, though rebuilt, lacked the grandeur of Solomon's edifice, yet its functions were paramount to the community's spiritual life and their identity as God's covenant people. The preparation of the holy anointing oil was not a casual task but a highly regulated ritual, prescribed in intricate detail in [Exodus 30](/exodus/30 "Exodus 30 - The Holy Anointing Oil and Incense"). The very act of making this oil by specific priests demonstrates the community's profound commitment to restoring and maintaining the purity, order, and sanctity of divine worship as commanded by God, reflecting a cultural emphasis on faithful adherence to ancient, sacred traditions. This adherence was vital for their spiritual restoration and communal identity.
* **Key Themes:** 1 Chronicles 9:30 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Chronicles. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Order and Administration**, showcasing God's desire for meticulous organization and precise execution in His worship, with every role carefully defined and fulfilled. This is evident in the detailed lists of temple personnel and their specific duties, as seen in the broader context of [1 Chronicles 9](/1_chronicles/9 "1 Chronicles 9 - Residents of Jerusalem and Temple Servants"). Secondly, it highlights **Holiness and Consecration**, as the "ointment of the spices" (the holy anointing oil) was central to setting apart persons and objects for sacred use, emphasizing the sanctity of God's presence and the purity required for His service, as seen in the anointing of Aaron and his sons in [Leviticus 8](/leviticus/8 "Leviticus 8 - Consecration of Aaron and His Sons"). Thirdly, the verse exemplifies **Faithful Obedience to Mosaic Law**, demonstrating the post-exilic community's commitment to re-implementing ancient divine commands concerning temple rituals, particularly those detailed in [Exodus 30](/exodus/30 "Exodus 30 - The Holy Anointing Oil and Incense"). Finally, it reinforces the theme of **Specialized Service**, illustrating that within the broader Levitical and priestly roles, there were specific, hereditary duties entrusted only to certain individuals, emphasizing the unique calling and responsibility of the priestly lineage to maintain the integrity of sacred practices.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **sons (Hebrew, _bên_):** This term (H1121) refers to descendants, emphasizing the hereditary nature of the priestly office and its associated duties. In this context, "sons of the priests" specifically denotes those born into the Aaronic lineage, who were divinely appointed to serve in the sanctuary. Their identity as "sons" underscores the continuity of the covenant and the transmission of sacred responsibilities across generations, ensuring that only those legitimately qualified performed these holy tasks.
* **ointment (Hebrew, _mirqachath_):** This word (H4842) refers to an aromatic unguent, specifically the holy anointing oil. Derived from a root meaning "to perfume" or "to compound," it signifies a substance prepared with skill and precision, often by an "apothecary." In the biblical context, _mirqachath_ is distinct from common oils, being a specially compounded, sacred substance used exclusively for consecration, as detailed in [Exodus 30:25](/exodus/30-25 "Exodus 30:25 - Composition of the Holy Anointing Oil").
* **spices (Hebrew, _besem_):** This term (H1314) denotes fragrance or spicery, referring to the aromatic ingredients used in the holy ointment. The specific spices (myrrh, cinnamon, calamus, cassia) were not merely for pleasant aroma but were divinely prescribed components that contributed to the oil's unique, sacred identity. Their inclusion underscores the preciousness, distinctiveness, and divine origin of the anointing oil, intended to set apart what is holy and to signify God's presence and blessing.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And [some] of the sons of the priests":** This clause precisely identifies the group responsible for this sacred task. The KJV's bracketed "some" accurately reflects the Hebrew context, implying that this was a specialized role even within the broader priesthood. It underscores the importance of proper lineage and divine appointment for handling sacred materials and performing sacred rites, emphasizing the exclusive nature of this priestly duty, reserved for those consecrated to God's service.
* **"made the ointment of the spices":** This phrase details the specific, highly significant duty. The verb "made" (רָקַח, _raqach_, H7543) implies a careful, skilled preparation, a compounding or blending of ingredients according to a precise, divinely revealed formula. The "ointment of the spices" refers to the holy anointing oil, whose composition was given by God to Moses. This act was not merely a mundane chore but a sacred ritual, foundational for the consecration of the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests themselves, thereby enabling them to serve God in holiness and according to His divine standards.

#### Literary Devices
The Chronicler's inclusion of this specific detail, even within a broader list of duties, employs **Emphasis** and **Detailing**. By meticulously recording such a specialized task, the text underscores the profound importance of every aspect of temple service and the strict adherence to divine commands. This particular detail also serves as a form of **Symbolism**, where the "ointment of the spices" itself symbolizes consecration, divine appointment, and the setting apart of persons and objects for sacred use. The act of its making by "sons of the priests" further highlights the **Hereditary Principle** of the priesthood, a recurring theme in Chronicles that legitimizes the post-exilic priestly order by connecting it directly to its Mosaic origins and divine mandates. The Chronicler's focus on these details reinforces the legitimacy and continuity of proper worship in the restored community.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The specific task of preparing the holy anointing oil, as detailed in 1 Chronicles 9:30, transcends a mere historical record of duties; it is deeply rooted in the theological understanding of holiness, consecration, and the meticulous nature of God's requirements for worship. This seemingly small detail reinforces the grand biblical narrative that God is a God of order, who demands purity and precision in all matters pertaining to His presence and service. The anointing oil, divinely prescribed and carefully prepared, served as a tangible sign of divine election and setting apart, transforming the common into the sacred. It reminds us that access to God and service in His presence are not arbitrary but are governed by His holy standards, which were faithfully upheld by the returned exiles, demonstrating their profound commitment to restoring proper worship and honoring God's commands.

* [Exodus 30:22-33](/exodus/30-22-33 "Exodus 30:22-33 - The Divine Prescription for the Holy Anointing Oil and its Sacred Use")
* [Leviticus 8:10-12](/leviticus/8-10-12 "Leviticus 8:10-12 - Anointing of the Tabernacle and Aaron")
* [Numbers 4:16](/numbers/4-16 "Numbers 4:16 - Eleazar's Responsibility for the Anointing Oil")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the physical preparation of holy anointing oil is no longer a practice for believers today, the principles embedded in 1 Chronicles 9:30 remain profoundly relevant for our spiritual lives. This verse calls us to consider the diligence, precision, and holiness with which we approach our service to God. Just as specific priests were entrusted with a sacred task requiring meticulous adherence to divine instruction, every believer is uniquely gifted and called to contribute to the body of Christ with excellence and intentionality. Our "anointing" today is the indwelling Holy Spirit, who sets us apart for God's purposes and empowers us for service. This spiritual consecration should lead to a life lived in accordance with God's revealed will, marked by purity, dedication, and a deep reverence for His holiness. We are to be faithful stewards of the spiritual gifts and opportunities God has given us, ensuring that our service, whether in the church or in our daily lives, reflects the order and sanctity that God desires, bringing glory to His name.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or service do I need to cultivate greater diligence and precision, reflecting God's desire for order and excellence?**
* **How does the concept of "consecration" (being set apart for God) apply to my daily choices and priorities as a believer, prompting me to live distinctly for Him?**
* **What specific "gifts" or "tasks" has God entrusted to me, and how can I fulfill them with a deeper sense of their sacredness and divine purpose?**
* **How does the indwelling of the Holy Spirit (our spiritual anointing) empower me to live a life of holiness and dedicated service, and how can I yield more fully to His leading?**

### FAQ

**What was the "ointment of the spices" and why was it so important?**

Answer: The "ointment of the spices" refers to the holy anointing oil, whose precise composition was divinely revealed to Moses in [Exodus 30:22-25](/exodus/30-22-25 "Exodus 30:22-25 - Ingredients of the Holy Anointing Oil"). It was a sacred, distinct blend of specific aromatic spices (myrrh, cinnamon, calamus, cassia) and olive oil. Its supreme importance lay in its exclusive use for consecration: it was used to anoint the Tabernacle, its furnishings (like the Ark of the Covenant and the altar), and the priests themselves, setting them apart as holy and dedicated for God's service. It symbolized divine presence, blessing, and the act of being sanctified by God for sacred use, making the common sacred.

**Why were only "sons of the priests" allowed to make this ointment?**

Answer: The task of making the holy anointing oil was restricted to "sons of the priests" due to its extreme sacredness and the explicit divine command for its preparation. According to [Exodus 30:32-33](/exodus/30-32-33 "Exodus 30:32-33 - Prohibition of Common Use for Holy Anointing Oil"), it was explicitly forbidden for anyone else to make it or to use it for common purposes, under penalty of being cut off from the community. This strict restriction underscored the holiness of the oil and the exclusive role of the Aaronic priesthood in mediating sacred rituals and handling holy objects, ensuring that only those divinely appointed and consecrated performed such critical duties, thereby maintaining the purity and integrity of God's worship.

**Does the practice of making and using holy anointing oil have any relevance for Christians today?**

Answer: While Christians do not physically prepare or use the Old Testament holy anointing oil for temple rituals, the theological principles behind it are profoundly relevant. The anointing oil symbolized consecration, divine presence, and empowerment for service. In the New Covenant, believers are spiritually "anointed" by the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit sets us apart for God's purposes, empowers us for ministry, and indwells us, making us temples of God ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Believers as Temples of the Holy Spirit")). This spiritual anointing calls us to live consecrated lives, dedicated to God, and to serve Him with excellence and holiness, recognizing that our bodies are now instruments for His glory and that we are empowered by His Spirit to fulfill His will.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Chronicles 9:30, with its focus on the meticulous preparation of the holy anointing oil by specific priests, finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The Old Testament anointing oil prefigured the true Anointed One, the Messiah (Hebrew for "Anointed One"), Jesus, who was perfectly set apart and consecrated by God for His divine mission. While earthly priests prepared a physical oil, Jesus was anointed not with oil, but with the Holy Spirit without measure ([John 3:34](/john/3-34 "John 3:34 - Jesus Receives the Spirit Without Limit")), fulfilling the prophecy of [Isaiah 61:1](/isaiah/61-1 "Isaiah 61:1 - The Spirit of the Lord on the Anointed One") as He declared in [Luke 4:18-19](/luke/4-18-19 "Luke 4:18-19 - Jesus' Inaugural Sermon in Nazareth"). He is the High Priest who consecrated Himself once for all through His own blood ([Hebrews 9:14](/hebrews/9-14 "Hebrews 9:14 - Christ's Self-Sacrifice to Cleanse Conscience")), and through His perfect sacrifice, He became the source of true spiritual anointing for all believers. Now, through Christ, we are made a "royal priesthood" ([1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - Believers as a Royal Priesthood")), spiritually anointed by the Holy Spirit ([1 John 2:20](/1_john/2-20 "1 John 2:20 - Believers Have an Anointing from the Holy One")) to live lives consecrated to God and to offer spiritual sacrifices of worship and service, reflecting the perfect holiness and order established by our Great High Priest.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 30:23

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],

Exodus 30:25

And thou shalt make it an oil of holy ointment, an ointment compound after the art of the apothecary: it shall be an holy anointing oil.

Exodus 30:35

And thou shalt make it a perfume, a confection after the art of the apothecary, tempered together, pure [and] holy:

Exodus 30:38

Whosoever shall make like unto that, to smell thereto, shall even be cut off from his people.

Exodus 37:29

And he made the holy anointing oil, and the pure incense of sweet spices, according to the work of the apothecary.

Exodus 30:33

Whosoever compoundeth [any] like it, or whosoever putteth [any] of it upon a stranger, shall even be cut off from his people.