05. Cinnamon, Calamus and Cassia

Cinnamon, Calamus and Cassia

These ingredients of the Precious Ointment are not as often mentioned in Scripture, as is the myrrh. All are mentioned in Exodus 30:23 as ingredients of the holy anointing oil. All are from the plant or bark of the plant that is dried and pulverized. This is a painful process and completely changes the appearance and usefulness of the material.

Cinnamon is the second ingredient in the holy anointing oil. It is also mentioned in the negative way referred to with myrrh (see above in Proverbs 7:17); and as one of the products, along with calamus, of the Bride’s garden in Song of Solomon 4:14. The one reference in the New Testament is in Revelation 18:11-13 where it is one of the items of merchandise that no one will buy after the judgment of Babylon.

Calamus is the third ingredient of the holy anointing oil. It is mentioned in Ezekiel 27:19 as a product in the market before Tyre’s beauty was removed.

Cassia is the fourth ingredient specified in the precious ointment, and it is mentioned along with myrrh in Psalms 45:8 as one of the fragrances of the King’s garments. See comments above under myrrh.