In biblical times, the term "compounders" is not explicitly mentioned in the Scriptures. However, the concept of compounding, particularly in the context of creating sacred anointing oils and incense, is well-documented in the Bible. The role of those who compounded these sacred substances was significant in the religious and ceremonial life of ancient Israel.

Biblical Context

The art of compounding sacred anointing oil and incense is first introduced in the Book of Exodus. God provided Moses with specific instructions for creating these holy substances, which were to be used exclusively for worship and consecration purposes.

Anointing Oil

In Exodus 30:22-25 , the LORD commands 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 anointing oil was used to consecrate the Tabernacle, the Ark of the Covenant, the table and all its utensils, the lampstand and its accessories, the altar of incense, the altar of burnt offering and all its utensils, and the basin with its stand (Exodus 30:26-29). It was also used to anoint Aaron and his sons, consecrating them as priests (Exodus 30:30).

Incense

Similarly, the LORD provided a formula for the sacred incense in Exodus 30:34-35 : "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."

This incense was to be placed in front of the Ark of the Testimony in the Tent of Meeting, where God would meet with Moses (Exodus 30:36). The incense was considered most holy, and the Israelites were forbidden from making any incense for personal use that matched its composition (Exodus 30:37-38).

Role and Significance

The individuals responsible for compounding these sacred substances were likely skilled perfumers or apothecaries, trained in the art of blending spices and oils. Their work was crucial in maintaining the sanctity and purity of the worship practices in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple.

The precise instructions and the prohibition against replicating these formulas for personal use underscore the holiness and set-apart nature of these compounds. They symbolized the purity, holiness, and divine presence of God among His people.

Spiritual Implications

The act of compounding these sacred substances can be seen as a reflection of the spiritual preparation required for approaching God. Just as the anointing oil and incense were carefully prepared and set apart, so too were the people of Israel called to be holy and consecrated to the LORD.

In the New Testament, the concept of anointing takes on a spiritual dimension, with believers being anointed by the Holy Spirit (1 John 2:20). This anointing signifies the believer's consecration and empowerment for service in God's kingdom, echoing the Old Testament practice of setting apart individuals and objects for divine purposes.

With whom we are to Associate.
... And the staff of servants is separated into many divisions; some labour for their
gluttony, carvers and seasoners, and the compounders and makers of sweetmeats ...
/.../clement/the instructor paedagogus/chapter iv with whom we are.htm

On the Use of Ointments and Crowns.
... bestowed on this, appear to me to be rightly so averse to perfumes on account of
their rendering manhood effeminate, as to banish their compounders and vendors ...
/.../clement/the instructor paedagogus/chapter viii on the use of.htm

A Refutation on the Ground of the Constitution of the Universe.
... Wherefore let these notable anatomizers of atoms, [671] these dividers of the
indivisible, these compounders of the uncompoundable, these adepts in the ...
/.../dionysius/the works of dionysius/iii a refutation on the.htm

Compounders (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Compounders (1 Occurrence). Nehemiah 3:8 By his hand
hath Uzziel son of Harhaiah of the refiners strengthened ...
/c/compounders.htm - 6k

Refiners (2 Occurrences)
... 3:8 By his hand hath Uzziel son of Harhaiah of the refiners strengthened; and by
his hand hath Hananiah son of 'one of' the compounders strengthened; and they ...
/r/refiners.htm - 7k

Compounder (3 Occurrences)

/c/compounder.htm - 7k

Compoundeth (1 Occurrence)

/c/compoundeth.htm - 6k

Strengthened (113 Occurrences)
... 3:8 By his hand hath Uzziel son of Harhaiah of the refiners strengthened; and by
his hand hath Hananiah son of 'one of' the compounders strengthened; and they ...
/s/strengthened.htm - 37k

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