Bible Dictionary
OIL, ANOINTING
The anointing oil was a holy mixture prescribed by God for consecrating the tabernacle, its furnishings, the altar, and the priests. It was reserved for sacred use and represented dedication to the Lord.
Definition
Anointing oil was the holy oil prescribed for consecrating the tabernacle, its furniture and vessels, the altar, the laver, and the priest. Through this use, the persons and objects were set apart as most holy to Yahweh.
Biblical Usage
The oil was to remain a holy anointing oil to Yahweh throughout generations. Scripture also uses the oil on Aaron’s head figuratively in a song about unity and blessing.
Historical Background
Its composition is described in Exodus 30. Responsibility for its care was later entrusted to Eleazar, and in later times it appears to have been prepared by the sons of the priests.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>(shemen hamishchah): This holy oil, the composition of which is described in Ex 30:22-33, was designed for use in the anointing of the tabernacle, its furniture and vessels, the altar and laver, and the priest, that being thus consecrated, they might be "most holy." It was to be "a holy anointing oil" unto Yahweh throughout all generations (30:31). On its uses, compare Ex 37:29; Le 8:12; 10:7; 21:10. The care of this holy oil was subsequently entrusted to Eleazar (Nu 4:16); in later times it seems to have been prepared by the sons of the priests (1Ch 9:30). There is a figurative allusion to the oil on Aaron's head in Ps 133:2.</p><p>See OIL; ANOINTING.</p><p>James Orr</p>