Speaking of Spikenard…
As we approach the season of Passover, a time of reflection, celebration and deep gratitude to God for sending His Son Jesus to earth for the salvation of mankind, reconciliation with God and restoration of all that was lost from the fall of man in the garden of Eden, let’s take a look at another significant oil that had its significance during the events leading to Jesus’ death by crucifixion.
In Mark 14:3-9, Jesus was at the house of Simon the leper and whilst he was at the table, a woman came with an alabaster flask of very costly oil- Spikenard. She broke the flask and anointed Jesus’ head. Some of those present were upset by the act especially as it was very expensive oil. Jesus honoured the woman by affirming what she had done to anoint his body for burial. He mentioned that by this act of acknowledging Jesus, unsparingly communicating value and honour, she would be remembered for her amazing deed wherever the gospel is preached in the whole world. What an honour!
In John12:3, it was recorded that a woman called, Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil.
The significance of the fragrance and high cost of the essential oil lavished on Jesus are pointers to the heavy price Jesus paid for sin on our behalf – He paid with His very life. It was not easy, but it was worth it and this goes to demonstrate how precious and valuable we are to God because He sent His Son (Himself) to rescue us, bring us eternal hope and good news of abundant life in God.
Spikenard oil essentially helps to represent what Jesus can do in a life that is surrendered and yielded to Him. See John 14:27 where Jesus says:
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
Spikenard oil is produced from the roots of a plant called Nardostachys jatamansi which grows in the Himalayas in India. The unique essential oil is rich with an earthy scent, woody and calming to the senses.
In Songs of Solomon 1:14, it says
While the king is at his table, my spikenard sends forth its fragrance
The above verse speaks of the lavish spread of the Bride’s (the Church) Spikenard’s fragrance in the presence of her Bridegroom (Jesus)
Also, in 4:14, Spikenard is also mentioned with other spices, including the finest of spices: Spikenard and saffron, Calamus and cinnamon, With all trees of frankincense, Myrrh and aloes, With all the chief spices
A Fragrant Reminder…
The Passover season is a time to reflect on the selfless love demonstrated by Jesus Christ who willingly gave up His life for you and me, following events leading to his intense prayer in the garden of Gethsemane and then his arrest, trial, crucifixion, death, burial, resurrection and ascension, to bring us back to the garden of sweet, fragrant love and intimacy with God once again.
Uses:
Spikenard oil has some very significant uses in our everyday lives. For one, it is known for the support it brings to uplift emotions and calm the senses during times of sadness and grief, provides relief from anxiety and helps during periods of stress and insomnia. It is used in aromatherapy, massage therapy for mind and body relaxation.
We invite you to journey with us in the coming blogs as we continue to explore some unique essential oils, including some of the 5 ingredients that make up the holy anointing oil, with their origin, significance and meaning, bringing life and wellness to your hearts and your homes!