1 Chronicles 9:30

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

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

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

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

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

Commentary

1 Chronicles 9:30 provides a concise but significant detail about the specific duties performed by certain members of the priestly lineage in Jerusalem.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in 1 Chronicles (chapters 9-10) that meticulously lists the inhabitants of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile and outlines the various roles and responsibilities of those serving in the rebuilt temple. Following genealogies of priests, Levites, and gatekeepers, the text transitions to detailing their practical service. Verse 29 mentions other Levites being in charge of the vessels of the sanctuary and various provisions. Verse 30 specifically hones in on the specialized task of "some of the sons of the priests" – highlighting their unique and vital role in the temple's operation.

Key Themes

  • Dedicated Service: The verse underscores the highly specialized and dedicated nature of priestly service. Not just any Levite, but specific "sons of the priests" were entrusted with this sacred duty.
  • Holiness and Consecration: The "ointment of the spices" refers to the holy anointing oil, which was essential for consecrating the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests themselves for sacred use. Its preparation was a holy act, emphasizing the importance of consecration and setting apart for divine service.
  • Adherence to Divine Command: The composition and use of this anointing oil were not arbitrary but were strictly prescribed by God in the Law, as detailed in Exodus 30. This verse illustrates the continued obedience to these ancient, foundational commands even after the return from exile.
  • Order and Structure in Worship: The meticulous record-keeping of duties throughout 1 Chronicles 9 reflects God's desire for order, precision, and proper administration in His worship and the functioning of His sanctuary.

Linguistic Insights

The term "ointment" (Hebrew: mishchah) specifically denotes the sacred anointing oil, distinguishing it from common ointments. The "spices" (Hebrew: bosem) refer to the aromatic components (myrrh, cinnamon, calamus, cassia) that made up this unique and holy blend. The precision in mentioning its making underscores the sacredness and the detailed instructions associated with this particular oil, which was not to be replicated for secular use (Exodus 30:32-33).

Practical Application

While we no longer prepare physical anointing oil for temple rituals, this verse offers timeless principles:

  • Excellence in Service: God calls us to serve Him with diligence and according to His revealed will, whether in spiritual gifts, church roles, or daily life.
  • Understanding Our Role: Just as certain priests had specific duties, believers today are called to understand and fulfill their unique roles within the body of Christ, contributing to the overall health and function of the church (1 Corinthians 12).
  • The Importance of Consecration: Spiritually, believers are called to live consecrated lives, set apart for God's purposes, empowered by the indwelling Holy Spirit, who is our "anointing" (1 John 2:27).
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Cross-References

  • Exodus 30:23 (3 votes)

    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 (3 votes)

    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 (2 votes)

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

  • Exodus 30:38 (2 votes)

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

  • Exodus 37:29 (2 votes)

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

  • Exodus 30:33 (2 votes)

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