Essential oils are taking the world by storm, as a lot of people are using to improve their mood, their health, and their homes. But did you know that essential oils have a Christian history? Most Christians would recognize two essential oils: frankincense and myrrh. There are lots of different references to various essential oils in the Bible. From sweet-smelling oils and incenses for the Tabernacle to purging oils that cleanse, the Scriptures use essential oils and their properties to illustrate the state of the soul using them.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is mentioned in the recipe God gave Moses for an anointing oil for the priests. It is also included in recipes for incenses. If anyone wanted to imagine the scent of the ancient Tabernacle or Temple, it would be cinnamon. The kings of Israel were anointed with the oil mix containing cinnamon. God used cinnamon to show one who had received his approval to serve Him. Now cinnamon oil is recognized for its comforting and invigorating properties. Not only that, but it is an effective cleaner. For cleansing spaces and giving yourself a mental edge, use cinnamon.
Hyssop
King David, in his repentant Psalm 51, cried, “Purge me with hyssop!” Hyssop is a cleansing oil that represented bitterness leading to repentance in the Old Testament. Reading a list of the body systems that hyssop cleans and helps, it seems like this ancient oil still has plenty of work to do. From metabolism to detoxification, from focus to easing anxiousness, hyssop’s cleansing power is impressive.
Spikenard
Spikenard oil is mentioned multiple times in the Scriptures, but the most familiar and dramatic instance using this essential oil is found in the New Testament. Do you remember the woman who broke an alabaster box, anointed Jesus’ feet, and wiped his feet with her hair? The Book of John tells us that the oil was spikenard. In ancient times, spikenard could be given instead of money as a dowry for a bride. This oil is now recognized for its abilities to relax and support calm. Spikenard is excellent for those days when stress is taking over your world and clouding your vision, for uplifting your mood, promoting relaxation, and healthy skin.
Myrtle
One of the most famous women in the Old Testament was named for this essential oil. She was named Hadassah, which meant myrtle in ancient Hebrew. And, if you know your Bible stories, you immediately recognized the original name of Queen Esther. Myrtle was used for cleaning something that had become impure. Its modern uses reflect that. Myrtle is great for helping the skin.
Hopefully you can take these oils and start incorporating them into your home to uplift, help, and empower your life in the way that the Bible teaches us to.
