Exodus 30:37

And [as for] the perfume which thou shalt make, ye shall not make to yourselves according to the composition thereof: it shall be unto thee holy for the LORD.

And as for the perfume {H7004} which thou shalt make {H6213}, ye shall not make {H6213} to yourselves according to the composition {H4971} thereof: it shall be unto thee holy {H6944} for the LORD {H3068}.

You are not to make for your own use any incense like it, with the same composition of ingredients - you are to treat it as holy, for ADONAI.

You are never to use this formula to make incense for yourselves; you shall regard it as holy to the LORD.

And the incense which thou shalt make, according to the composition thereof ye shall not make for yourselves: it shall be unto thee holy for Jehovah.

Commentary

Exodus 30:37 (KJV): "And [as for] the perfume which thou shalt make, ye shall not make to yourselves according to the composition thereof: it shall be unto thee holy for the LORD."

Context

This verse concludes a passage in Exodus Chapter 30 where God gives Moses specific instructions for constructing the Tabernacle and its furnishings, including the altar of incense (Exodus 30:1-6). Following the instructions for the altar itself, God details the precise ingredients and method for creating the holy incense or perfume that was to be burned on this altar morning and evening (Exodus 30:34-36). Verse 37, along with the subsequent verse, lays down a strict prohibition regarding this specific blend.

Commentary/Meaning

God specifies that the unique blend of perfume created for the Tabernacle's altar of incense is exclusively for His use. The command "ye shall not make to yourselves according to the composition thereof" is a clear prohibition against replicating this specific formula for personal enjoyment, use in common rituals, or any purpose other than that prescribed for the Tabernacle worship. It was not to be treated as a common commodity or luxury item. The reason is explicitly stated: "it shall be unto thee holy for the LORD." It was set apart, consecrated, and dedicated solely to God, emphasizing His unique claim over all things related to His worship and presence.

Key Themes

  • Holiness: The perfume is designated as holy, meaning it is set apart and consecrated for God's exclusive use.
  • Exclusivity: The specific composition is reserved solely for the LORD and His worship.
  • Separation: There is a clear distinction between things set apart for God and things for common human use.
  • Prohibition of Imitation: Humans were forbidden from replicating God's sacred formula for their own purposes.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "perfume" or "incense" here is qetoret (ืงึฐื˜ึนืจึถืช), which refers specifically to the fragrant smoke produced by burning spices, often in a religious context. The word "holy" is qodesh (ืงึนื“ึถืฉื), signifying separation, sacredness, and dedication to God. The phrase "unto thee holy for the LORD" strongly emphasizes its consecrated status, not just *as* holy, but *for* the LORD specifically.

Related Scriptures

The immediate context reinforces this command, as the very next verse warns of the consequence for making it for personal use: Exodus 30:38 states that anyone who makes it for their own use shall be cut off from their people. The concept of things being set apart and holy for the LORD is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament Law, seen in instructions regarding the Sabbath (Exodus 20:8), the priests, the Tabernacle articles, and even the people of Israel themselves (Leviticus 20:26).

Reflection & Application

While believers are not under the ceremonial law of the Old Testament, the principle of setting things apart for God remains relevant. This verse reminds us that certain aspects of our lives, our worship, and our service should be uniquely dedicated to the LORD and not replicated for selfish gain or common use. Our spiritual gifts, our time, and our resources can be consecrated to God's purposes. It highlights the sacredness of true worship and encourages us to approach God with reverence, recognizing that He is distinct and worthy of unique devotion that is not mixed with worldly motives or personal ambition. We are called to be a "holy priesthood" (1 Peter 2:9), offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God.

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Cross-References

  • Leviticus 2:3 (2 votes)

    And the remnant of the meat offering [shall be] Aaron's and his sons': [it is] a thing most holy of the offerings of the LORD made by fire.

  • Exodus 30:32 (2 votes)

    Upon man's flesh shall it not be poured, neither shall ye make [any other] like it, after the composition of it: it [is] holy, [and] it shall be holy unto you.

  • 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.

  • Exodus 29:37 (2 votes)

    Seven days thou shalt make an atonement for the altar, and sanctify it; and it shall be an altar most holy: whatsoever toucheth the altar shall be holy.