Definition and Etymology:
The term "Perfumeth" is derived from the Hebrew root word "bāsam," which means to be fragrant or to emit a pleasant aroma. In biblical contexts, it often refers to the act of anointing or applying aromatic substances, such as oils or incense, which were commonly used in religious rituals, personal grooming, and burial practices.

Biblical References:
The concept of perfuming is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Bible, often associated with sacred rituals, personal care, and expressions of honor or mourning. While the specific term "Perfumeth" may not appear in the Berean Standard Bible, the practice is evident in several passages.

1. Religious Rituals:
Perfumes and incense were integral to the worship practices in the Tabernacle and the Temple. In Exodus 30:34-38, God provides Moses with a specific formula for making sacred incense, emphasizing its exclusive use for worship: "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Take fragrant spices—gum resin, onycha, and galbanum—and pure frankincense, all in equal measures...'" . This sacred mixture was to be used solely for worship, highlighting the importance of fragrance in divine service.

2. Anointing and Consecration:
Anointing with oil, often perfumed, was a significant act of consecration for priests, kings, and prophets. In 1 Samuel 16:13, Samuel anoints David with oil, signifying his selection by God: "So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward" . The use of perfumed oil in anointing underscored the sanctity and divine approval of the individual.

3. Personal Grooming and Honor:
Perfumes were also used in personal grooming and as a sign of honor or hospitality. In the New Testament, Mary anoints Jesus' feet with expensive perfume, an act of devotion and honor: "Then Mary took about a pint of expensive perfume, made of pure nard, and she anointed Jesus’ feet and wiped them with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume" (John 12:3). This act not only demonstrated Mary's love and reverence for Jesus but also prefigured His burial.

4. Burial Practices:
Perfumes and spices were used in burial customs to honor the deceased and mitigate the odor of decay. In John 19:39-40, Nicodemus brings a mixture of myrrh and aloes to prepare Jesus' body for burial: "Nicodemus, who had previously come to Jesus at night, also brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. So they took the body of Jesus and wrapped it in linen cloths with the spices, according to the Jewish burial custom" . This practice reflects the respect and care given to the deceased, as well as the belief in the body's sanctity.

Cultural and Theological Significance:
Perfumes in the Bible symbolize purity, holiness, and the divine presence. The use of aromatic substances in worship and anointing signifies the setting apart of people and objects for God's purposes. The fragrant offerings and anointings serve as a reminder of the sweet-smelling aroma of a life dedicated to God, as expressed in 2 Corinthians 2:15: "For we are to God the sweet aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing" .

In summary, the concept of "Perfumeth" in the Bible encompasses a range of practices that highlight the importance of fragrance in religious, social, and personal contexts, serving as a metaphor for divine favor and human devotion.

"This Then is the Message which we have Heard of Him, and Declare ...
... of the grace and goodness of God in Christ, which discovers a way of salvation,
and delivery from sin and wrath, and this perfumeth and refresheth all the ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/sermon xi this then is.htm

Perfumeth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Perfumeth (1 Occurrence). 2 Kings 16:13 and
perfumeth his burnt-offering, and his present, and poureth ...
/p/perfumeth.htm - 6k

Perfume-vessel (1 Occurrence)
Perfume-vessel. Perfumeth, Perfume-vessel. Perfuming . Multi-Version Concordance ...
(BBE). Perfumeth, Perfume-vessel. Perfuming . Reference Bible.
/p/perfume-vessel.htm - 6k

Poureth (28 Occurrences)
... 2 Kings 16:13 and perfumeth his burnt-offering, and his present, and poureth out
his libation, and sprinkleth the blood of the peace-offerings that he hath, on ...
/p/poureth.htm - 14k

Sprinkleth (11 Occurrences)
... 2 Kings 16:13 and perfumeth his burnt-offering, and his present, and poureth out
his libation, and sprinkleth the blood of the peace-offerings that he hath, on ...
/s/sprinkleth.htm - 10k

Libation (29 Occurrences)
... 2 Kings 16:13 and perfumeth his burnt-offering, and his present, and poureth out
his libation, and sprinkleth the blood of the peace-offerings that he hath, on ...
/l/libation.htm - 15k

Perfumes (69 Occurrences)

/p/perfumes.htm - 30k

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