In biblical times, oil was part of everyday life. Olive oil was used for food, skin care, healing, hospitality, and honoring guests. When Psalm 23 says, “thou anointest my head with oil,” it describes a familiar act of refreshment and care. To be anointed meant you were welcomed, valued, and restored, even while challenges were still present.

Essential oils fit naturally into this setting. Aromatic plants such as frankincense, myrrh, and spikenard were infused into oils and used for comfort, cleansing, and spiritual devotion. When David wrote these words, he was drawing from practices people understood well, linking physical care with peace, provision, and a sense of abundance so full that, as he said, the cup truly ran over.