Im going to bring you a list of herbs which are specifically mentioned in scripture. I grow a lot my incense herbs myself. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. However, the Bible does not give any specific instructions on which herbs to burn or how to burn them. For example, foxglove is a beautiful and witchy plant, but its toxic. As Moses told Aaron, Take your incense censer and place it on top of the altar, and then set it on fire. 6 Female Celebrities Who Openly Follow Christ, Steven Furtick's Elevation Church Leaves the SBC, Moms, You Have Permission to Invest in Yourselves, A Prayer to Watch How We Live - Your Daily Prayer - July 5, 5 Signs Your Church Might Be Heading toward Progressive Christianity. It has been used for generations. Everything we do should be for the benefit and not the detriment of others, and ultimately for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:23-33). Is Burning Sage in the Bible? - Learn Religions First, the Bible expressly forbids any practice associated with witchcraft, spell casting, andcalling forth spirits of the dead: Thus, any form of smudging or sage burning tied to pagan rituals, auras, evil spirits, and negative energies, goes against biblical teaching. This explains its colorful bloom, and its prickly exterior. The resin used to make scents is known as fumile, and it is still a popular ingredient. The device can be used to light or burn it directly on a charcoal tablet. And only the priests could offer the incense. Copyright 2023. Interestingly, it is brought up most often in relation to the process of being cleansed. Fairchild, Mary. A few ceremonies on record reached the point of actually beating the demon out, but most simply involved verbal coercion. This also explains why its mentioned so many times. Drink more wine for your stomach and frequent illnesses than just water, 1 Timothy 5:23 ESV. Many Christians still use incense to honor God today. Though we have the freedom to do whatever we please, it doesnt mean that we should. You may need to run the herb under water or let it sit for a few minutes until theres no smoke. Your email address will not be published. The smoke is supposed to attract good energy and drive out bad energy or evil spirits. The materials described in Exodus 30:34 are still in use today. Mary Fairchild is a full-time Christian minister, writer, and editor of two Christian anthologies, including "Stories of Calvary.". Ruck believes that Jesus may have anointed those he healed with cannabis oil, which is referred to in Aramaic as kaneh-bosem (Exodus 30:22-36). Salem Media Group. The Bible teaches us that we should strive to live a spiritual and healthy life as well as to take care of our bodies. "What Does the Bible Say About Burning Sage?" Well, it is clear that the Bible approves of burning herbs for religious purposes. cassia .hin . As you exercise your freedom to do this, let us recall Pauls words, Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak (1 Corinthians 8:9). 3 Incredible Things You Can Do to Reflect Christ in Dark Times. We may earn an affiliate commission if you buy from one of our product links, at no extra cost to you. Just because something is not wrongdoesnt mean it is good. A note of cautiondont burn anything poisonous. Sefer ha-Gilgulim (by Hayyim Vital, 16th-17th centuries) instructs the patient to recite Psalms 20, 90, and Ana Bkoah, an acrostic prayer made from a name of God. A Christian does not have to use smudging or the burning of sage to attain enlightenment and spiritual cleansing. Witchcraft, pagan rituals, and sorcery are called an abomination and detestable by God in the Bible (Deuteronomy 10:9-13). Usually, the embers will stay lit for a while, as you can see in the photo below. Its color ranges from gray-green to whitish-green. Thus, the smoke from the burning sage rids the negative energy. Sage in the Bible: Should Christians Practice Smudging? In addition, it was burned to show Gods respect. The Bible promises that through Jesus Christ, we can boldly approach Gods throne of grace in prayer and find help for whatever we need (Hebrews 4:16). Herbs, spices, and incense are mentioned frequently in the Bible, from Jesus parable of the mustard seed (Matthew 13:31-32) to the hyssop used to sprinkle blood on the doorframes of Hebrew homes to protect them during the tenth plague (Exodus 12). Christians have freedom in Christ to burn sage or not to burn sage, but believers are also called to exercise our freedom to serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13). The Healing Powers of Propolis and Echinacea. Smudging may even be used on objects to purge them of the past. Change out the sand whenever it gets too dusty. There are more of these fantastic Jewish creatures than you might think. In scripture, it was used to make an anointing oil. Its not a new idea to venerate ancestral spirits, despite the fact that theyve been around for a long time. The ketoret (incense) offering was perhaps the most prestigious service in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and in the Holy Temple.The ketoret consisted of a special blend of herbs and balms whose precise ingredients and manner of preparation were commanded by Gd to Moses.. Only some churches practice it, but some people burn sage for various benefits. And if we do perform pagan rituals, we disobey Gods command to stay away from them (Deuteronomy 10:9-13). Solomon offered up burnt offerings and peace offerings on the altar he built three times per year. Today, the use of incense remains in Eastern Orthodox churches, Roman Catholic, and some Lutheran churches. Doing so is considered an abomination according to the Lord in the bible, as it says in P salm 89:11: "The heavens are thine, the earth also is thine: as for the world and the fulness thereof, thou hast founded them.". From the rise of the sun to its setting, my name will be of great value to nations. In the Bible, burning incense began when God instructed Moses to prepare a specific blend of spices and herbs and to burn them as a holy and perpetual incense offering to the Lord ( Exodus 30:8-9 , 34-38 ). However, it is permissible for Christians to use the plant God created to enjoy its scent. Ahab told Naboth, Ill let you use our vineyard for a vegetable garden.. Dill is the last herb well discuss that was shared in the Bible. Does Bigelow Lemon and Echinacea Tea Have Caffeine? In this video, Im using an incense bowl to burn a few lavender sprigs, which I separated from a bundle. By the late Middle Ages, whole texts dedicated to demons started to appear. Once we focus on Jesus Christ, everything we need is already taken care of. Bible Verses About Burning Incense Jeremiah 44:8 ESV / 430 helpful votes is a great book. Smudging with sage is accomplished by acquiring a sage bundle or smudge stick. Revisiting the medicinal plants of the Bible and the Holy Land Medicinal plants of the Biblerevisited | Journal of Ethnobiology and Reports of exorcisms continue to come out of traditional communities both in the United States and Israel, though there has been a marked decline in the number over the past century. Others still are in favor of some aspects of smudging, but not others. Some of these purposes are occult in nature, while others are for supposed healing properties. Burning sage may not have any occult ties for you. Burning sage is also a good form of aromatherapy. New Age Movement followers use smudging to purge unwanted auras from their homes or themselves. Is sage Christian? An extended story in Leviticus Rabbah 24:3 tells of the exorcism of a well of water involving iron implements and shouted formulae. You can use those plants to get in touch with them. Did Jesus use sage during His time here on Earth? My Jewish Learning is a not-for-profit and relies on your help. In fact, there are over 600 varieties of mint. There are different reasons why people burn sage, but the most common motive is purification. On the other hand, there is nothing inherently bad about burning a nice-smelling plant. This herb is a typical ingredient in taco seasoning and can be used to make curry as well. Today, smudging has become popular in the mainstream as well. The purpose of burning sage is to cleanse a space of negative energy. The most famous reference is probably when Moses was instructed by God to burn sweet incense in the Tabernacle. Through our faith and prayers, God heals us from sickness and forgives us of our shortcomings (James 5:15). The Bible also teaches us that the world isnt ruled by capricious energies, but rather by our Father God, in whom we can trust (Psalm 89:11). The only way to draw closer to God and enter His presence is through Christ Jesus. Its, perhaps, most famously used when making dill pickles or as a flavorful addition to ranch dressing. BURN; BURNING. Stay with the incense until it goes out naturally. But is this practice acceptable for Christians? In Isaiah 3:1-26, a helpful vote was recorded. The Bible does not mention sage, but other herbs and spices were used for food, incense, perfume, and even worship. Why Should Teolology Matter to Christians? (See also Burning Sage in the Bible KJV). As a result, despite the potential hazards associated with venerating ancestors, there are some advantages to doing so. What is the meaning of the bitter herbs in the Bible (see Exodus 12:8 Many of us probably have milk thistle hanging around our home and dont realize its a helpful herb instead of a spiky nuisance. When you are completely finished, be sure that youdont throw out the herb or the ashes until the plant matter is completely extinguished. While we are not instructed to use herbs in worship as the Israelites were, we can certainly learn from their example that God is pleased when we take the time to notice and appreciate the natural world around us. The DSS Psalms collection in particular (11Q5) has four songs for the charming of demons with music. People who fell under the influence of false prophets and mediums were thought to also require the exorcism of possessing evil spirits (the false prophets and mediums themselves were subject to death, a sure cure for most possessions; see Zechariah 13). The Bible, Hebrew Bible 16:12-13. What is sage, and why is it used to cleanse and purify negative energies? Burning sage is not inherently bad. Uzziah was angry in the end. According to Psalm 104:14, God provides us with herbs for the service of man. Hopefully, if you read this article, you will be able to incorporate some of these Biblical herbs into your daily routine. All other mixtures of spices used for any other purpose than the worship of God in the tabernacle were expressly forbidden by the Lord. Sage is of the genus Salvia, part of the Lamiaceae family that includes mint. Though studies are inconclusive on the effectiveness of burning sage, it is known to have antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, as well as drive away insects. According to Leviticus 16:12, it is against the law. And Aaron shall burn thereon sweet incense every morning: when he dresseth the lamps, he shall burn incense upon it. Many possessing spirits are evidently quite forthcoming and loquacious. 11 Herbs You Can Find in the Bible by Jennifer Poindexter Have you ever pondered the history in your herb garden? Most of the plants in the Bible are only mentioned in passing, with reference to medicinal use occurring even less. Because the scent is fairly strong, it's often used in conjunction with other herbs or resins, like frankincense or sandalwood.Associated with purification and cleansing, you can use myrrh in a number of different ritual and magical contexts. You can mix and match the herbs with any type of charcoal you want. The sacred incense prescribed for use in the wilderness Tabernacle was made of costly materials that the congregation contributed (Exodus 25:1, 2, 6; 35:4, 5, 8, 27-29).The Book of Exodus describes the recipe: . All Rights Reserved, Embark on a Jewish Journey of Transformation, Monsters, Demons, and Other Mythical Creatures in Jewish Lore. The end is lit into a slow smolder, releasing thick smoke. If you need a flavorful dish, cumin is a good place to start. However, some still perceive smudging as beneficial for ridding themselves of both. In the Bible, burning incense began when God instructedMosesto prepare a specific blend of spices and herbs and to burn them as a holy and perpetual incense offering to the Lord (Exodus 30:8-9,34-38). Is it even biblical? What religion uses sage? One resource we can use, to learn a little more about our plants, is the Bible. Topical Bible: Burning Traditionally, this was thought to be the herb . Aside from sage, smudging also incorporates lavender, rosemary, cedar, rose, and thyme; herbs emit pleasant scents that help with meditation. In the Old Testament, Moses was instructed by God to use certain herbs and spices in the preparation of the holy anointing oil and incense. Other notable references include when the Israelites were instructed to burn frankincense and myrrh during their celebrations, and when the prophet Elijah called down fire from heaven to burn up the offering on the altar. Proverbs 15:17 - Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith. People can be "smudged," too. It can also be left to smolder in a bowl or burner. Bible verses related to Burning Incense from the King James Version (KJV) by Relevance. Exodus 33:10 ESV has three helpful votes. cinnamon . Therefore, it wouldnt come as a surprise that Solomon used this herb to describe his bride in Song of Solomon 4:14-15. The indigenous people strongly believed that the potency of sage varies at different times of the year. Native Americans and other indigenous people have burned sage for centuries as a spiritual ritual to cleanse a person or space. Cedar protects one from disease and is a natural medicine. What Does the Bible Say About Herbs? The abalone shell represents water; the unlit sage represents the earth; the smoke from the lit sage represents air, and the burning sage, represents fire. Aloe Vera in Mouthwash: Does it Reduce Plaque? They would be educated for three years before being voted before the king. Serenity Jar Spell: For Separation From Worries, The Incense Bowl: The Easiest Way to Burn Herbs. If a fellow believer comes from a background in paganism and struggles with the idea of burning sage, we are better off refraining for his or her sake. Acts 1:8 and 2 Thessalonians 3:3 also tell us that God has blessed us with power through the Holy Spirit. Native American smudging ceremonies might be performed before or after a significant event, before meditation, or to ward off illness. Jewish Exorcism | My Jewish Learning Shimon bar Yohai exorcises a demon that assists him in getting the cooperation of Caesar in lifting an oppressive decree against the Jews. If it is for the enjoyment of the scent, then there is nothing wrong with burning sage. It is a ritual herb used in many religions. You can burn the herb again when it no longer smokes if youd like. We dont need sage to increase the power of our prayers. This practice has been carried to the present by the New Age Movement. Exodus 30:34 instructs Moses to take fragrant spices such as gum resin, onycha and galbanum, as well as pure frankincense in equal quantities to make incense. If you eat much Mexican cuisine, youre probably familiar with this flavor. Even something as common as dandelion leaves can produce an interesting herbal aroma. The lamps he dresses in the morning will burn in the morning. Its my favorite way to burn incense. Ashpenaz, his chief eunuch, was ordered to bring some of the people of Israel to the kings palace. Many studies and research have found that compounds in sage help activate specific receptors in the brain that help elevate mood and reduce stress. As I get into the details, I want to make sure that I define a few terms so that we are on the same page. But is this practice. The Book of Revelation also mentions the offering of incense, and describes the incense as being mixed with the prayers of the saints. The Law has been fulfilled ( Matthew 5:17 ). The Chronicles 26:19 ESV has received 548 votes of confidence. Its said to have a flavor similar to that of black licorice. California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. In Revelation 1:1 ESV, you will find a total of 319 helpful votes. How long the herbs burn depends on what kind of herb you use, how dry it is, how effective your wafting skills are, and how much oils it has naturally. Burning sage began with native cultures in many parts of the world, including Native Americans who held smudging ceremonies to ward off evil spirits and illness, and to encourage positive, healing energy. How Do We Know When it Is Time to Give Up? Some grow flax for its seeds. Hopefully, this article will inspire you to grow a historical herb garden in your yard or garden area. In Psalm 141:2, I urge thee to set forth my prayer before her as incense, and to lift up my hands to sacrifice. Patheos has the views of the prevalent religions and spiritualities of the world. Just because we cando something doesnt necessarily mean that we should. Milk thistle is related both to ragweed and a daisy. We do not want to overindulge in food or drink while praying for others, nor do we want to treat others unfairly. ( Matthew 2:11) These two spices were commonly used in burial rituals and would have signified to all that Jesus was destined for the cross. (2) puroo, used twice, once in the sense of inflamed with sexual desire (1Corinthians 7:9), "For it is better to marry than to burn" and in 2Corinthians 11:29 of the heat of the passions, here of grief, or anger, "Who is offended (the American Standard Revised Version "caused to stumble") and I burn not?". After the Lamb lifted the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about a half-hour. Get Your Bible Minute in Your Inbox Every Morning. It shall be most holy to you. Location, Location. I liked them alright, but what I really wanted was a pure experience with a plant. Thus, some claim that burning sage is helpful for those with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issuesas long as the smoke is cleared from the room before the affected person returns. 44 Bible Verses about Weed Matthew 13:40 So just as the tares are gathered up and burned with fire, so shall it be at the end of the age. Its likely this included herbs such as horseradish, parsley, coriander, and horehound. Top 12 Healing Herbs of the Bible 1. Apparently, reports of misadventures are virtually non-existent in Catholic tradition. Thus when sage is used for ceremonial use, extra care is taken to ensure that the best produce is used. And it was so. Exodus 30:9 says: You shall not offer strange incense, burnt sacrifice, or meat offerings; nor shall you pour drink offerings thereon. In Luke 3:10, the entire group of people were praying without the use of incense. (John 19:39) The aloe vera plant has been used for thousands of years. Exorcism is a ritual of power performed in order to drive an evil spirit, whether demonic or ghostly, from a possessed person, location, or object. Required fields are marked *. Dried herbs will quickly burn out if they are left out. Burning sage and herbs was mentioned in the Bible, but the purpose of those times was to worship God and no one else. Its my second book with Llewellyn and the second book in the Elements of Witchcraft Series. Regardless of how you use it, many people love it. The Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread. However, the Bible has numerous verses that tell us to avoid engaging with other mediums and seeking spirits for spiritual reasons. Burning herbs this way ensures youre getting the real thing with no fillers or fragrances. After all, there may be clues to better growing methods or uses for my herbs. Among other uses, myrrh was an ingredient in the anointing oil used in the Temple. The fact that it was excluded from Luke 11:42, in the retelling of the same story, means that dill may not have packed as much emphasis as cumin or mint. Lord Moses told Moses to bring sweet spices, s tacte, and onycha, as well as galbanum. The exorcist then uses the power of the demonic spirits own name to overpower it, by round after round of scripted ritual actions involving threats and rebukes, getting more intense and invasive with each effort. Others, on the other hand, argue that ancestral spirits can provide guidance and protection to ones life. However, the intent behind the burning determines the acceptability of the practice. Some exorcists may invoke the presence of a maggid, or beneficent spirit, to assist them. Herbs and incense are frequently used positively in the Bible.