Tag Archives: Boswellia Tree

Essential Oils in the Bible

Essential Oils in the Bible, , , , , ,

“And when any will offer a meat offering unto the Lord, his offering shall be of fine flour; and he shall pour oil upon it, and put frankincense thereon.”
— Leviticus 2:1

In this passage, frankincense was added to the grain offering, setting it apart as a memorial before God. Its fragrance, when burned, made the simple elements of flour and oil into something sacred, lifted from the ordinary into an act of holy devotion. Unlike animal sacrifices, which were dramatic and costly, the grain offering—with its measure of frankincense—showed that even daily bread could become worship when offered with a pure heart.

Historically, frankincense was a highly sought-after resin, harvested from the Boswellia tree and carried along ancient caravan routes into Israel. It was not just a commodity but a marker of sacred use, always connected with prayer, offerings, and the presence of God. While it served practical purposes in trade and medicine, its role in worship gave it lasting spiritual meaning. Today, frankincense essential oil continues this legacy, supporting prayer and reflection, reminding us of how God transforms the ordinary into the holy.

Essential Oils in the Bible

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“And thou shalt put pure frankincense upon each row, that it may be on the bread for a memorial, even an offering made by fire unto the Lord.”
— Leviticus 24:7

Frankincense held a sacred role in Israel’s worship, not merely for its fragrance but for what it represented. The instruction to place pure frankincense on the bread of the Presence was deeply symbolic—its aroma rising like prayer, connecting worshippers to God. The scent of burning resin was more than pleasant; it was an offering of devotion and remembrance, a way of setting apart holy things as belonging to the Lord.

Historically, frankincense was harvested from the Boswellia tree and considered among the most precious resins of the ancient world. It was imported across desert trade routes and often reserved for temples and royal courts. In biblical times, its costliness highlighted the value of devotion and reverence. Today, frankincense essential oil is still treasured for its calming and centering qualities, reminding us of how its sacred use in the Bible linked daily life with worship and reverence before God.