Bible Strands
Exodus 30:31
And you are to tell the Israelites, ‘This will be My sacred anointing oil for the generations to come.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — God instructs Moses to address the Israelites regarding the newly formulated sacred anointing oil. This directive follows immediately after the command to consecrate Aaron and his sons as priests.
The words — The text emphasizes שֶׁמֶן מִשְׁחַת קֹדֶשׁ (shemen mishchat kodesh), literally "oil of anointing of holiness." This phrase marks the substance as permanently set apart for sacred use.
The thread — The oil's preparation is recorded in Exodus 37:29, its application on Aaron appears in Leviticus 8:12, and its exclusive priestly designation is reiterated in Leviticus 21:10.
Why it lands — The verse commands the Israelites to recognize the oil as divinely designated for holy purposes across generations. It requires strict obedience to its sacred status by prohibiting unauthorized replication or ordinary use.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
And thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel, saying, This shall be an holy anointing oil unto me throughout your generations.
Cross-references
- Exodus 37:29 He also made the sacred anointing oil and the pure, fragrant incense, the work of a perfumer.
- Leviticus 8:12 He also poured some of the anointing oil on Aaron’s head and anointed him to consecrate him.
- Leviticus 21:10 The priest who is highest among his brothers, who has had the anointing oil poured on his head and has been ordained to wear the priestly garments, must not let his hair hang loose or tear his garments.
- Psalms 89:20 I have found My servant David; with My sacred oil I have anointed him.