“SPIKENARD” is an amber-colored aromatic oil that depicts love, worship, peace, and mental well-being. Its scientific name is Nardostachys jatamansi . Being traditionally used at religious ceremonies or even in medicine, this plant serves a unique purpose. (Spikenard in the Bible)’s oil derived from its roots can change the atmosphere in seconds to a relaxing woody , earthy and spicy scent.
What is spikenard in the bible?
In biblical times it was very rare cultivated from a plant that grows on the great Himalayan mountains around India and Nepal.
Spikenard in the bible is mentioned in three testaments-
As per thespikenard in the bible, it is a substance of great worth known for depicting honor, respect, and worship.
Act of Worship
- According to the New Testament in John 12:1-3 containing the important reference of spikenard in the bible, this substance created a new sense of devotion.
- Mary of Bethany anointed Jesus with a pound of expensive ointment derived from it.
- Everyone including her family was astonished that what might be her only inheritance or dowry, she used it to anoint Jesus.
- This pure incident signifies a pure act of worship that a woman used her greatest possession to anoint Jesus for the preparation of burial.
Expensive
- When Mary anointed Jesus Judas exclaimed it as a waste as the oil could have been sold in huge amounts or could have been given to the poor.
Love & Beauty
- In song 1:12 a bride said that the king who was sitting far away could smell the fragrance of the nard she had used. It depicted the perfume as a symbol of seduction and love.
- It has a reference in the Song of Solomon showing it in relation to love and beauty.
- It is considered as an item of affluence, utility in religious practices, and spirituality.
- The scent in this poetic book only adds to its visual zest of sensuality and romance.
- It does represent lust and fiery love.
Ritualistic Significance:
- A Sacred Service
- Used for preparation of important events as mentioned in the bible – for burial
Growing conditions
- Spikenard (Nardostachys jatamansi) is a plant that grows in the higher regions of the Himalayas between China, India, and Nepal.
- This scented root comes from a flowering plant in the Valerian family and its aromatic roots are harvested for centuries for an essential oil.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs):-
Q1 How was spikenard oil in the bible ?
Ans. It was used as a perfume, medicinal remedy, anointing oil Expensive and authentic
Q2 What was the cultural significance of spikenard in the bible?
Ans. it was a symbol of honor and wealth as it was too rare. It held great value at cultural events or religious ceremonies.
Q3 How was it traded?
Ans. Spikenard oil was cultivated and traded in ancient times, which opened the door for this oil to hit controlled markets such as the Middle East. It was so exotic and difficult to extract, the oil became a luxury item due to its rarity
Q4 Why was the spikenard in the bible so expensive in ancient times.?
Ans. It was so due to its complex nature of getting extracted, less availability made it expensive.
Q7: Is oil prevalent in recent time and used now?
Ans. Yes, it is used for aroamtherpay , medicine and perfume but still an expensive oil.
