In biblical contexts, the term "compounder" is not explicitly mentioned in the Scriptures. However, the concept of compounding, particularly in relation to the preparation of sacred anointing oils and incense, is evident in the Old Testament. The role of a compounder would be akin to that of a skilled artisan or apothecary responsible for creating these holy mixtures according to divine instructions.

Biblical Context

The art of compounding sacred substances is primarily associated with the instructions given to Moses for the construction and service of the Tabernacle. In Exodus 30, God provides specific recipes for the anointing oil and incense, emphasizing the importance of precise adherence to His commands.

Anointing Oil

The anointing oil was a sacred mixture used to consecrate the Tabernacle, its furnishings, and the priests. Exodus 30:22-25 states: "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Take the finest spices: 500 shekels of liquid myrrh, half as much (that is, 250 shekels) of fragrant cinnamon, 250 shekels of fragrant cane, 500 shekels of cassia—all according to the sanctuary shekel—and a hin of olive oil. Prepare from these a holy anointing oil, a fragrant blend, the work of a perfumer; it will be a holy anointing oil.'"

The role of the compounder here would be to act as the perfumer, ensuring that the blend was made precisely as instructed, maintaining its sanctity and purpose.

Incense

Similarly, the incense used in the Tabernacle was to be compounded with exactness. Exodus 30:34-35 records: "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Take fragrant spices—gum resin, onycha, galbanum, and pure frankincense in equal measures—and make a fragrant blend of incense, the work of a perfumer, seasoned with salt, pure and holy.'"

The compounder, in this case, would be responsible for creating this incense, ensuring it was pure and holy, suitable for offering before the Lord.

Symbolism and Significance

The act of compounding these sacred substances was not merely a technical task but held deep spiritual significance. The anointing oil symbolized the presence and blessing of God, setting apart people and objects for His service. The incense represented the prayers of the people ascending to God, as seen in Psalm 141:2 : "May my prayer be set before You like incense, my uplifted hands like the evening offering."

Skills and Qualifications

A compounder in biblical times would require a deep understanding of the properties and significance of each ingredient. The role demanded precision, reverence, and a heart aligned with God's purposes. The compounder’s work was an act of worship, contributing to the sanctity and function of the Tabernacle and later the Temple.

Historical and Cultural Context

In ancient Israel, the role of compounding sacred substances was likely a specialized skill passed down through generations. The Levites, who were responsible for the care and service of the Tabernacle, may have included individuals skilled in this art. The importance of maintaining the purity and sanctity of these compounds underscores the broader biblical theme of holiness and obedience to God's commands.

While the specific title of "compounder" is not used in the Bible, the function and significance of this role are woven into the fabric of Israel's worship and service to God, highlighting the importance of skilled craftsmanship in the sacred rituals of the faith.1. (n.) One who, or that which, compounds or mixes; as, a compounder of medicines.

2. (n.) One who attempts to bring persons or parties to terms of agreement, or to accomplish, ends by compromises.

3. (n.) One who compounds a debt, obligation, or crime.

4. (n.) One at a university who pays extraordinary fees for the degree he is to take.

5. (n.) A Jacobite who favored the restoration of James II, on condition of a general amnesty and of guarantees for the security of the civil and ecclesiastical constitution of the realm.

Whether There Can be Strife or Discord among the Angels?
... But if one side is in the right the other side is in the wrong. It will follow
therefore, that a good angel is a compounder of wrong; which is unseemly. ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/aquinas/summa theologica/whether there can be strife.htm

Petilianus Said: "But He Thus Praises the Ointment of Concord ...
... Let us put on one side also poisons, since no one is openly a compounder or giver
of poisons. I put aside also heresies, since you will have it so. ...
/.../chapter 105 238 petilianus.htm

On the Use of Ointments and Crowns.
... for his usefulness," says the Scripture, "for the Most High made him; and the art
of healing is of the Lord." Then he adds, "And the compounder of unguents ...
/.../clement/the instructor paedagogus/chapter viii on the use of.htm

Compounder (3 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (n.) One who, or that which, compounds or mixes;
as, a compounder of medicines. ...Compounder (3 Occurrences). ...
/c/compounder.htm - 7k

Mixture (16 Occurrences)
... Exodus 30:25 and thou hast made it a holy anointing oil, a compound mixture,
work of a compounder; it is a holy anointing oil. (YLT NAS). ...
/m/mixture.htm - 12k

Compounded (2 Occurrences)

/c/compounded.htm - 7k

Compounders (1 Occurrence)

/c/compounders.htm - 6k

Compound (3 Occurrences)
... (Root in WEB KJV JPS ASV WBS YLT). Exodus 30:35 and thou hast made it a perfume,
a compound, work of a compounder, salted, pure, holy; (YLT). ...
/c/compound.htm - 9k

Spice-perfume (5 Occurrences)
... Spice-perfume (5 Occurrences). Exodus 37:29 and he maketh the holy anointing
oil, and the pure spice-perfume -- work of a compounder. (YLT). ...
/s/spice-perfume.htm - 8k

Maketh (399 Occurrences)
... gold; (YLT). Exodus 37:29 and he maketh the holy anointing oil, and the
pure spice-perfume -- work of a compounder. (YLT). Exodus ...
/m/maketh.htm - 34k

Compounder: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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