King James Version

What Does Exodus 30:35 Mean?

“And thou shalt make it a perfume, a confection after the art of the apothecary, tempered together, pure and holy: tempered: Heb. salted”

Context

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

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:

And thou shalt make it a perfume, a confection after the art of the apothecary, tempered together, pure and holy: tempered: Heb. salted

And thou shalt beat some of it very small, and put of it before the testimony in the tabernacle of the congregation, where I will meet with thee: it shall be unto you most holy.

And as for the perfume which thou shalt make, ye shall not make to yourselves according to the composition thereof: it shall be unto thee holy for the LORD.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(35) **A confection after the art of the apothecary.**—See Note on Exodus 30:25. Bezaleel’s art was called in, both for the composition of the holy oil and of the holy incense (Exodus 37:29). **Tempered together.**—So the LXX., the Vulg., and the Targums of Onkelos and Jonathan. But most moderns render “salted,” or “mixed with salt.” (See Buxtorf, Gesenius, Lee, Rosenmüller, De Wette, Kalisch, Keil, &c.). The word used is capable of either meaning.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 30:35 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.