Topical Encyclopedia Turpentine, a volatile pungent oil distilled from the resin of pine trees, is not directly mentioned in the Bible. However, its properties and uses can be inferred from the broader biblical context of oils, resins, and their applications in ancient times. Turpentine is derived from the resin of coniferous trees, particularly those in the genus Pinus. In biblical times, similar resins and oils were highly valued for their aromatic and medicinal properties.Historical and Cultural Context In the ancient Near East, resins and oils played a significant role in daily life, religious practices, and trade. While turpentine as we know it today may not have been used, the extraction and use of tree resins were common. These substances were often used in the preparation of incense, perfumes, and medicinal compounds. The Bible frequently references the use of aromatic substances, which were integral to worship and anointing rituals. Biblical References to Related Substances While turpentine itself is not mentioned, the Bible does refer to other resins and oils. For example, myrrh and frankincense, both resins, are mentioned numerous times. In Exodus 30:34-35 , God instructs Moses on the preparation of sacred incense: "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Take fragrant spices—gum resin, onycha, and galbanum—and pure frankincense, all in equal measures, and make a fragrant blend of incense, the work of a perfumer, seasoned with salt, pure and holy.'" These instructions highlight the importance of resins in creating sacred aromas for worship. The use of such substances was not only for their fragrance but also for their symbolic representation of prayers ascending to God. Symbolic and Spiritual Significance The use of aromatic oils and resins in the Bible often carries a deeper spiritual significance. They are associated with purity, holiness, and the presence of God. The anointing oil, for instance, was a symbol of consecration and divine blessing. In Psalm 133:2 , the anointing oil is described as "like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe." This imagery underscores the idea of abundance and the sanctifying power of God's presence. While turpentine itself is not part of these biblical rituals, its properties as a resinous oil connect it to the broader biblical theme of using natural substances to honor and worship God. Practical Uses and Symbolism In addition to their spiritual significance, resins and oils had practical uses in ancient times. They were used for medicinal purposes, as preservatives, and in the preparation of various goods. The antiseptic and healing properties of such substances would have been well-known, making them valuable commodities. The symbolic use of oils and resins in the Bible often reflects their practical benefits. Just as these substances were used to heal and preserve, they also symbolized spiritual healing and the preservation of holiness. The anointing with oil, for example, was a physical act that represented spiritual truths. Conclusion While turpentine itself is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, its characteristics and uses can be understood within the broader context of biblical references to resins and oils. These substances were integral to the religious, cultural, and practical life of the ancient Israelites, symbolizing purity, healing, and the presence of God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) A semifluid or fluid oleoresin, primarily the exudation of the terebinth, or turpentine, tree (Pistacia Terebinthus), a native of the Mediterranean region. It is also obtained from many coniferous trees, especially species of pine, larch, and fir.International Standard Bible Encyclopedia TURPENTINE TREEtur'-pen-tin. Library Book 8 Footnotes Prayer Incidents in the Life of Our Lord (Continued) The Leafless Tree Book 2 Footnotes That He Ordered a Church to be Built at Mambre. Some Other Memorable Places of the City. A Few Nights after This, Diamond Woke up Suddenly... How Joseph when He was Become Famous in Egypt, had his Brethren in ... That Vespasian, after He had Taken Gadara Made Preparation for the ... Our Lord in the Garden Thesaurus Turpentine... (n.) A semifluid or fluid oleoresin, primarily the exudation of the terebinth, or turpentine, tree (Pistacia ... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. TURPENTINE TREE. ... /t/turpentine.htm - 6k Terebinth (15 Occurrences) Gin (10 Occurrences) Timnath (9 Occurrences) Turquoise (5 Occurrences) Teil Rosin Myrrh (22 Occurrences) Stuff (49 Occurrences) Turns (80 Occurrences) Resources Turpentine: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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