Topical Bible: Commerce: Articles of Cinnamon

◄ Commerce: Articles of Cinnamon ►

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Cinnamon, a highly valued spice in ancient times, is mentioned in the Bible as a significant article of commerce. Its aromatic qualities and rarity made it a luxury item, often associated with wealth and opulence. The spice is derived from the inner bark of trees belonging to the genus Cinnamomum, native to regions such as Sri Lanka and India. In biblical times, cinnamon was imported to the Near East through extensive trade networks, highlighting its importance in commerce and daily life.

Biblical References

Cinnamon is referenced in several passages of the Bible, illustrating its significance in both religious and economic contexts. In Exodus 30:23, the Lord instructs Moses to use cinnamon as one of the ingredients in the sacred anointing oil: "Take the finest spices: 500 shekels of liquid myrrh, half as much (that is, 250 shekels) of fragrant cinnamon, 250 shekels of fragrant cane." This passage underscores cinnamon's role in religious rituals and its esteemed status among the Israelites.

In Proverbs 7:17, cinnamon is mentioned in the context of seduction and allure: "I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, with aloes, and with cinnamon." Here, cinnamon is associated with luxury and sensuality, reflecting its use in personal adornment and its appeal in intimate settings.

The Book of Revelation also references cinnamon in a commercial context. Revelation 18:13 lists cinnamon among the goods traded by the merchants of Babylon: "cargo of gold, silver, precious stones, and pearls; fine linen, purple, silk, and scarlet cloth; all kinds of citron wood and articles of ivory; all kinds of costly wood, bronze, iron, and marble; and cinnamon, spice, incense, myrrh, and frankincense; wine, olive oil, fine flour and wheat; cattle and sheep; horses and chariots; and slaves—human souls." This passage highlights the extensive trade networks and the wealth associated with the city, with cinnamon being a symbol of the opulence and materialism that characterized Babylon.

Cultural and Economic Significance

In the ancient world, cinnamon was not only a spice but also a symbol of status and wealth. Its rarity and the long distances it traveled to reach the markets of the Near East made it a prized commodity. The spice was used in various applications, including religious ceremonies, embalming, perfumery, and as a flavoring agent in food and drink. Its inclusion in the sacred anointing oil signifies its spiritual importance, while its mention in Proverbs and Revelation points to its broader cultural and economic roles.

The trade of cinnamon and other spices was a driving force in the development of ancient trade routes, such as the Incense Route and the Silk Road. These routes facilitated cultural exchanges and the spread of goods, ideas, and technologies across vast regions. The demand for cinnamon and other luxury items contributed to the prosperity of trading cities and the rise of powerful empires.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the use of cinnamon in the Bible can be seen as a reflection of God's provision and the beauty of His creation. The inclusion of cinnamon in the sacred anointing oil signifies the sanctity and set-apart nature of the items and individuals anointed with it. Furthermore, the mention of cinnamon in Revelation serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly wealth and the ultimate judgment of materialistic societies.

In summary, cinnamon in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol, representing wealth, luxury, and divine sanctity. Its role in commerce underscores the interconnectedness of ancient societies and the enduring allure of this precious spice.

Nave's Topical Index

Revelation 18:13
And cinnamon, and odors, and ointments, and frankincense, and wine, and oil, and fine flour, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Destruction of Babylon.
... brass, and iron, and marble, and cinnamon, and fragrant ... And these articles of traffic
are symbolized by the ... The commerce of this ecclesiastical city, has been ...
/.../bliss/a brief commentary on the apocalypse/the destruction of babylon.htm

The Reaction against Egypt
... and comprehensive term, but the voyages of the Phoenicians and the travels of the
"Royal Messengers," as well as, probably, the maritime commerce of the ...
/.../chapter iithe reaction against egypt.htm