Lily of the Valley Ein Gedi Anointing Oil

Anointing oil has played a meaningful role in worship for thousands of years. In the Bible, anointing with oil signified that a person or object was consecrated – set apart for a holy purpose. It was also used for healing, both physical and spiritual, and in more recent times, as a way to deepen one’s connection to God through prayer.

Recognizing the power of this tradition, My Jerusalem Store offers a carefully curated collection of premium anointing oils from the Holy Land. Made with high-quality, biblically inspired ingredients, each oil is crafted to support your spiritual journey. Whether for prayer, healing, or blessing, our oils are a faithful and authentic reflection of the traditions of the Bible.

What is the origin of anointing oil in the Bible?

The first Scriptural mention of anointing with oil appears in the book of Genesis, when the patriarch Jacob poured oil on a stone pillar as he made a vow to God. In doing so, he consecrated the pillar as a sacred altar and named the place “Beth-El,” meaning “House of God.” From that moment on, the Bible repeatedly affirms the spiritual significance of anointing with oil – for example, when King David was anointed by the prophet Samuel to become Israel’s future king, chosen by God. This powerful act symbolized divine selection, blessing, and empowerment. Throughout Scripture, anointing with oil remains a sacred practice, deeply rooted in worship and consecration. Even today, believers use Anointing Oil to deepen their spiritual connection, seeking God’s presence, favor, and guidance, just as in biblical times.

Can anointing oil still be made today without breaking biblical commandments?

Although Scripture commands that the original Holy Anointing Oil made by Moses must not be replicated exactly, all of our Anointing Oils have been carefully crafted in full respect of that instruction. While many of our blends draw inspiration from the ingredients and proportions described in the Bible, they are not identical to the sacred formula and are entirely permissible for spiritual use. Each Anointing Oil we offer carries its own unique meaning and is created to enrich prayer, worship, and personal devotion in a way that honors biblical tradition.

What are the meanings of different anointing oils?

Anointing oils come in a wide variety of scents, each with its own spiritual meaning and ideal use. To help guide your choice, we’ve provided a simple overview of anointing oil scents from the Holy Land – perfect for anyone looking to enrich their worship through the practice of anointment.

Myrrh

Derived from a genus of small, thorny trees known as Commiphora myrrha, myrrh is a prominent biblical scent. It was highly prized in ancient times for its aromatic fragrance, often described as sharp, pleasant, and slightly bitter. A primary component of Shemen HaMishchah – the Holy Oil made by Moses – it was also used to prepare the future Persian Queen Esther, who bathed in oil of myrrh and perfumed lotions for several months before being presented to the king. A gift of myrrh and frankincense was also brought to the Messiah at His birth, signifying the value of this precious fragrance. Spiritually, myrrh is associated with purification and preparing oneself for the King, making it ideal for use before prayer.

Spikenard

Prized for its sweet and earthy scent, spikenard was a rare and costly oil derived from a flowering plant in the honeysuckle family, known as Nardostachys jatamansi. It was used in the making of Ketoret, the sacred incense of the Temple Altar, and also by Mary of Bethany to anoint the head and feet of Jesus. This faithful act of devotion – combined with the intimate gesture of Mary using her hair to wipe His feet – is why spikenard is associated with intimacy and uninhibited worship. Spikenard anointing oil is a meaningful choice for those who wish to express deep personal dedication to the Lord.

Cassia

Similar in appearance and character to its close cousin, cinnamon, cassia was one of the principal spices infused into the Holy Oil used to consecrate priests, kings, and their garments. Its sweet and spicy fragrance was considered so majestic that Scripture foretells the coming King Messiah will wear robes saturated with the scent of cassia. Spiritually, cassia represents humble devotion and consecration in service to the Lord. For this reason, cassia anointing oil is a fitting choice for anyone who wishes to declare their dedication to God.

Frankincense

A key ingredient in the making of Ketoret, frankincense is considered by many to be a “pure incense.” This earthy, woody, and slightly spicy-scented resin comes from a genus of trees in the Boswellia family, and its fragrance is often described as sweet and comforting. In the Scriptures, frankincense was one of the three gifts brought to the Messiah, and as such, it is deeply associated with Him and His role as our intercessor. Spiritually, frankincense represents purification and is regarded as one of the most powerful fragrances to use when praying for deliverance.

Cedar of Lebanon

Majestic, tall, and resilient, the aromatic wood of this ancient Middle Eastern tree was once used to build the palaces of King David, King Solomon, and the First Holy Temple. Considered the “king” of all biblical trees, its fragrant wood – along with hyssop – was used in the ritual cleansing of homes, including those of recovered lepers. Because of its strength and durability, cedar is spiritually associated with restoration, permanence, wholeness, and enduring faith.

Hyssop

Associated with purification and empowerment, hyssop is a low-growing, bushy herb whose fragrant flowers and branches played a significant role in ancient ritual practices. Described as a “holy herb,” hyssop was the plant God commanded the Israelites to use as a paintbrush when marking their doorposts, so the Angel of Death would pass over them – as commemorated in the Festival of Passover. It was also used in the ritual cleansing of people and homes. Because of its potency for spiritual cleansing, as well as its fresh and clean-smelling scent, hyssop anointing oil remains a favorite among worshipers seeking to spiritually purge themselves and feel cleansed and invigorated in their faith.

Pomegranate

One of the Seven Species of Israel, the pomegranate has long been a powerful symbol of righteousness, abundance, blessing, and divine favor. The Bible describes how ornamental motifs of this crowned, ruby-red fruit adorned the garments of the High Priest and the Temple itself – a clear sign of its biblical importance. While it’s unclear whether pomegranates were used in ancient anointing oils, their rich symbolism continues to inspire those seeking to bring righteousness, abundance, and divine grace into their lives.

Rose of Sharon

Although not an actual rose, but rather a type of hibiscus, the Scriptures describe the Rose of Sharon as being a beautiful and glorious blossom with a scent that is light, floral, but not too sweet or overpowering. It is the flower used to portray the splendor of the Bride of the Messiah, who shines with heavenly beauty, gentleness and honor. Anointing oils made with this scent are most popular with brides preparing for marriage.