The Hebrew word qiddâh, represented by H6916, refers to cassia or cassia bark, which the base definition describes as coming in shrivelled rolls. It is a rare term, appearing only 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible.
In its biblical usage, H6916 is featured in two distinct contexts. In Exodus, five hundred shekels of cassia are mandated as a key ingredient for the holy anointing oil, used for the sanctuary Exodus 30:24. Later, in Ezekiel's prophecy against Tyre, cassia is listed as a valuable commodity in the city's market, traded alongside bright iron and calamus Ezekiel 27:19.
Several related words appear in the same context as qiddâh, providing a fuller picture of its use:
- H8081 shemen (oil): Defined as grease, especially liquid like olive oil, and often perfumed. It is the olive oil that serves as the base for the holy anointing mixture containing cassia Exodus 30:24.
- H7070 qâneh (calamus): Meaning a reed, cane, or stalk, this term refers to another aromatic plant. It is listed as a trade item alongside cassia in the markets of Tyre Ezekiel 27:19.
The significance of H6916 is drawn from its two specific applications:
- Sacred Consecration: As a component of the holy anointing oil specified in Exodus, cassia was set apart for a sacred purpose. Its inclusion marks it as an element used in the consecration of holy things and persons within the sanctuary Exodus 30:24.
- Economic Value: In Ezekiel's account of Tyre's commerce, cassia is presented as a valuable commodity. This highlights its role in ancient international trade and its status as a desirable luxury good Ezekiel 27:19.
In summary, H6916 qiddâh is a specific term for cassia. Though it appears only twice, its uses are significant. It is presented both as an essential ingredient in the sacred anointing oil for the sanctuary and as a prized commodity in the world of international commerce. The word thus represents an item of both high spiritual and economic value in the biblical world.
TRV