Exodus 37:29

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

And he made {H6213} the holy {H6944} anointing {H4888} oil {H8081}, and the pure {H2889} incense {H7004} of sweet spices {H5561}, according to the work {H4639} of the apothecary {H7543}.

He made the holy anointing oil and the pure incense of aromatic plant substances as would an expert perfume-maker.

He also made the sacred anointing oil and the pure, fragrant incense, the work of a perfumer.

And he made the holy anointing oil, and the pure incense of sweet spices, after the art of the perfumer.

Commentary

Context

Exodus 37:29 is part of the extensive narrative detailing the construction of the Tabernacle and its sacred furnishings. Following God's precise instructions given to Moses on Mount Sinai, Bezalel, filled with the Spirit of God for wisdom and understanding (as described in Exodus 35:30-35), is diligently crafting each element. This verse specifically highlights the creation of two vital components for Israel's worship: the holy anointing oil and the pure incense.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Prescription and Obedience: The creation of these sacred substances was not left to human discretion but followed strict divine formulas. The phrase "according to the work of the apothecary" emphasizes that Bezalel meticulously adhered to the precise specifications God had given for the holy anointing oil in Exodus 30:22-33 and the pure incense in Exodus 30:34-38. This underscores the importance of obedience in worship.
  • Holiness and Consecration: Both the anointing oil and the incense were designated as "holy" and "pure," set apart exclusively for God's service. The anointing oil was used to consecrate the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests, symbolizing their sanctification for divine use. The incense, burned daily on the altar of incense, symbolized the prayers of the saints ascending to God (Psalm 141:2, Revelation 8:3).
  • Skillful Craftsmanship for God: The term "apothecary" (Hebrew: roqeah) refers to a perfumer, a skilled compounder of spices and oils. This highlights that God desires excellence and precision in all aspects of worship and service, utilizing human skill and artistry for His glory.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "apothecary" (roqeah) denotes a skilled compounder of perfumes, ointments, or spices. It implies not just mixing, but a precise, expert knowledge of ingredients and proportions to achieve the desired sacred product. This was not a casual blend but a professional, divinely-guided formulation, making the substances unique and irreplaceable for their sacred purpose.

Practical Application

This verse reminds believers today of several principles:

  • Purity in Worship: Just as the oil and incense were pure and holy, our worship and service to God should be offered with pure motives and hearts.
  • Consecration: Believers are called to be set apart for God's purposes, consecrated by His Spirit. This spiritual anointing enables us to live lives that are pleasing to Him, much like the physical anointing of the Tabernacle and priests.
  • Using Gifts for God's Glory: God equips His people with diverse talents and skills, just as He did Bezalel. Whether it's in artistry, teaching, leadership, or service, we are to use our gifts with excellence, "according to the work of the apothecary," for God's kingdom and glory (1 Peter 4:10-11).
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Isaiah 61:3

    To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.

  • Hebrews 5:7

    Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared;

  • Psalms 14:1

    ¶ To the chief Musician, [A Psalm] of David. The fool hath said in his heart, [There is] no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, [there is] none that doeth good.

  • Psalms 14:2

    The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, [and] seek God.

  • John 3:34

    For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure [unto him].

  • Ecclesiastes 10:1

    ¶ Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savour: [so doth] a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom [and] honour.

  • Isaiah 11:2

    And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;
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