King James Version

What Does Exodus 30:32 Mean?

Exodus 30:32 in the King James Version says “Upon man's flesh shall it not be poured, neither shall ye make any other like it, after the composition of it: it is hol...” — study this verse from Exodus chapter 30 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Upon man's flesh shall it not be poured, neither shall ye make any other like it, after the composition of it: it is holy, and it shall be holy unto you.”

Exodus 30:32 · KJV

Context

30

And thou shalt anoint Aaron and his sons, and consecrate them, that they may minister unto me in the priest's office.

31

And thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel, saying, This shall be an holy anointing oil unto me throughout your generations.

32

Upon man's flesh shall it not be poured, neither shall ye make any other like it, after the composition of it: it is holy, and it shall be holy unto you.

33

Whosoever compoundeth any like it, or whosoever putteth any of it upon a stranger, shall even be cut off from his people.

34

And the LORD said unto Moses, Take unto thee sweet spices, stacte, and onycha, and galbanum; these sweet spices with pure frankincense: of each shall there be a like weight:

Read Exodus 30 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The sacred anointing oil—myrrh, cinnamon, calamus, cassia in olive oil—represents the Holy Spirit's multifaceted work. Each spice contributes unique fragrance, together creating complete anointing. The oil's holiness (never for common use) emphasizes that the Spirit is sacred, not to be counterfeited or treated casually. Christ was anointed with this spiritual reality, receiving the Spirit without measure (John 3:34). Believers receive the same Spirit, though in measure.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The specific spice formula was divinely prescribed and forbidden for common use—counterfeit anointing oil incurred severe penalty. This protected the sacred symbolism and prevented profaning what represented God's Spirit.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does each spice's unique contribution illustrate the Holy Spirit's multifaceted work?
  2. What does the oil's sacred exclusivity teach about treating the Holy Spirit with reverence?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 14 words
עַל1 of 14
H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

בְּשַׂ֤ר2 of 14

“flesh”

H1320

flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man

אָדָם֙3 of 14

“Upon man's”

H120

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

לֹ֣א4 of 14
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יִיסָ֔ךְ5 of 14

“shall it not be poured”

H3251

to pour (intransitive)

וּבְמַ֨תְכֻּנְתּ֔וֹ6 of 14

“any other like it after the composition”

H4971

proportion (in size, number or ingredients)

לֹ֥א7 of 14
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תַֽעֲשׂ֖וּ8 of 14

“neither shall ye make”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

כָּמֹ֑הוּ9 of 14
H3644

as, thus, so

קֹ֖דֶשׁ10 of 14

“and it shall be holy”

H6944

a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity

ה֔וּא11 of 14
H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

קֹ֖דֶשׁ12 of 14

“and it shall be holy”

H6944

a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity

יִֽהְיֶ֥ה13 of 14
H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

לָכֶֽם׃14 of 14
H0

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Exodus 30:32 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Exodus 30:32 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Exodus 30:25Matthew 7:6Exodus 30:37-38Leviticus 21:10

Test Your Knowledge

Exodus 30 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterExodus Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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