Anointing Oil

The anointing oil holds significant importance in the biblical narrative, serving as a symbol of consecration, sanctification, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. The instructions for its preparation and use are detailed in the Old Testament, particularly in the book of Exodus.

Composition and Preparation
The formula for the sacred anointing oil is provided in Exodus 30:22-25 : "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Take the finest spices: 500 shekels of liquid myrrh, half as much (250 shekels) of fragrant cinnamon, 250 shekels of fragrant cane, 500 shekels of cassia—all according to the sanctuary shekel—and a hin of olive oil. Prepare from these a holy anointing oil, a fragrant blend, the work of a perfumer; it will be a sacred anointing oil.'"

This precise mixture was to be used exclusively for sacred purposes, emphasizing its holiness and the seriousness of its misuse. The oil was not to be replicated for personal use, as stated in Exodus 30:32-33 : "It must not be poured on the bodies of ordinary men, and you must not make anything with this same formula. It is holy, and it must be holy to you. Anyone who mixes perfume like it or puts it on an outsider shall be cut off from his people."

Purpose and Use
The anointing oil was used to consecrate the tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests, setting them apart for divine service (Exodus 30:26-30). The act of anointing signified the impartation of God's Spirit and blessing, marking individuals and objects as dedicated to God's purposes. In the Old Testament, kings, priests, and prophets were anointed, symbolizing their divine appointment and empowerment for their roles (1 Samuel 16:13).

Symbolism
The anointing oil represents the Holy Spirit's presence and work in the lives of believers. In the New Testament, the concept of anointing extends to all Christians, who are anointed by the Holy Spirit (1 John 2:20). This anointing empowers believers for service and signifies their status as God's chosen people.

Incense

Composition and Preparation
The sacred incense, like the anointing oil, was crafted according to a specific formula given by God. Exodus 30:34-35 states: "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Take fragrant spices—gum resin, onycha, galbanum, and pure frankincense, in equal measures—and make a fragrant blend of incense, the work of a perfumer, seasoned with salt, pure and holy.'"

This incense was to be burned on the altar of incense within the tabernacle, creating a pleasing aroma that symbolized the prayers of the people ascending to God.

Purpose and Use
The incense was an integral part of the worship and sacrificial system in the tabernacle and later in the temple. It was burned twice daily by the priests, in the morning and at twilight, as a perpetual offering before the LORD (Exodus 30:7-8). The smoke of the incense represented the prayers and intercessions of the people, rising to God as a fragrant offering.

Symbolism
Incense in the Bible symbolizes prayer, worship, and the presence of God. Psalm 141:2 reflects this symbolism: "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering." In the New Testament, the imagery of incense continues, as seen in Revelation 8:3-4 , where the prayers of the saints are depicted as incense before the throne of God.

Prohibitions and Warnings
Similar to the anointing oil, the incense was not to be used for personal enjoyment or replicated for common use. Exodus 30:37-38 warns: "You are not to make any incense with this formula for yourselves; you shall regard it as holy to the LORD. Anyone who makes something like it to enjoy its fragrance shall be cut off from his people."

The anointing oil and incense, with their specific compositions and sacred purposes, underscore the holiness and reverence due to God in worship. They serve as tangible reminders of the divine presence and the sanctity of those set apart for God's service.