Sweet cane, also known as calamus, is a fragrant plant mentioned in the Bible, primarily in the context of trade and religious offerings. It is noted for its aromatic properties and was a valuable commodity in ancient commerce. The sweet cane is often associated with the production of perfumes and incense, playing a significant role in the religious and cultural practices of the time.

Biblical References:

1. Exodus 30:23 : "Take the finest spices: 500 shekels of liquid myrrh, half as much (250 shekels) of fragrant cinnamon, 250 shekels of fragrant cane." In this passage, sweet cane is listed as one of the ingredients for the sacred anointing oil, highlighting its importance in the worship practices of the Israelites. The inclusion of sweet cane in the anointing oil underscores its value and the role it played in consecrating the tabernacle and the priests.

2. Isaiah 43:24 : "You have bought Me no sweet cane with your silver, nor have you satisfied Me with the fat of your sacrifices. But you have burdened Me with your sins; you have wearied Me with your iniquities." Here, the prophet Isaiah uses sweet cane as a symbol of the people's neglect in their offerings to God. The absence of sweet cane in their sacrifices is indicative of a deeper spiritual neglect and disobedience.

3. Jeremiah 6:20 : "What use to Me is frankincense from Sheba or sweet cane from a distant land? Your burnt offerings are not acceptable; your sacrifices do not please Me." In this verse, the Lord expresses His displeasure with the people's offerings, despite their use of valuable and exotic items like sweet cane. This highlights the futility of external rituals without genuine devotion and obedience.

Historical and Cultural Context:

Sweet cane was likely imported from distant lands, such as India or Arabia, making it a luxury item in the ancient Near East. Its inclusion in trade routes and its mention alongside other valuable commodities like frankincense and myrrh indicate its high demand and worth. The trade of sweet cane would have involved merchants and traders who transported this precious commodity across long distances, contributing to the economic and cultural exchanges of the time.

Religious Significance:

In the religious context, sweet cane was not only a component of the anointing oil but also used in incense offerings, which were integral to the worship practices in the tabernacle and later in the temple. The fragrant aroma of sweet cane symbolized the pleasing nature of a sincere offering to God. Its use in sacred rituals underscores the importance of purity and holiness in worship, as well as the need for offerings to be made with a genuine heart.

Symbolism:

The sweet cane serves as a metaphor for the quality and sincerity of worship. Its presence or absence in offerings is used by the prophets to critique the spiritual state of the people. The emphasis on sweet cane in the scriptures serves as a reminder of the need for true devotion and the futility of empty rituals. The fragrant nature of sweet cane symbolizes the desired relationship between God and His people, one that is pleasing and acceptable in His sight.Jeremiah 6:20
To what purpose comes there to me incense from Sheba, and the sweet cane from a far country? your burnt offerings are not acceptable, nor your sacrifices sweet to me.
Nave's Topical Index

Ancient Chaldaea
... by Ross and Lynch in two articles in the ... gaunt sows making their way through the
cane-brakes, followed by ... vessels, and I placed there some sweet-smelling rushes ...
/.../chapter iancient chaldaea.htm

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