Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the significance of the anointing oil and incense mentioned in Exodus 31:11?
A: The anointing oil (shemen hamishchah) and incense (ketoret) were essential for sanctifying the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and its vessels, as well as for the service of the Kohanim (priests). Rashi explains that these items were made according to a precise divine formula and were used exclusively for holy purposes, symbolizing the sanctity and purity required in serving Hashem.
Q: Why does the verse emphasize 'according to all that I have commanded thee'?
A: The Torah stresses this phrase to teach that every detail of the anointing oil and incense had to be made exactly as commanded, without deviation. The Rambam (Hilchos Klei HaMikdash 1:3) notes that altering the recipe or using these items for personal benefit was strictly forbidden, highlighting the importance of following divine commandments precisely.
Q: How does the concept of the anointing oil apply to us today?
A: Although we no longer have the anointing oil or the Mishkan, the principle of kedushah (holiness) remains relevant. The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 36:1) teaches that every Jew has the potential to sanctify themselves through mitzvos and Torah study, just as the oil sanctified the vessels. Today, we strive to infuse our actions with holiness in our daily lives.
Q: What was the purpose of the ketoret (incense) in the Mishkan?
A: The ketoret, offered twice daily on the golden altar, served to atone for sins and create a pleasing aroma before Hashem (Talmud Yoma 44a). The Talmud also states (Kerisos 6b) that it had the power to ward off plagues, showing its spiritual significance in maintaining the connection between Bnei Yisrael and Hashem.
Q: Can we make or use the anointing oil today?
A: No. The original anointing oil was made only once by Moshe Rabbeinu (Talmud Horayos 11b), and its exact recipe and use were limited to the Mishkan and Temple service. The Rambam (Hilchos Klei HaMikdash 1:10) rules that replicating it today is forbidden, as its sanctity was tied to the divine service of that era.
The Anointing Oil and Incense in the Holy Place
The verse (Exodus 31:11) emphasizes the preparation of the shemen hamishchah (anointing oil) and ketoret hasamim (incense of spices) for the sanctification of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and its vessels. Rashi explains that this instruction is a reiteration of the earlier commandments regarding these sacred items, underscoring their importance in the divine service.
The Significance of the Anointing Oil
According to Rambam (Hilchot Klei HaMikdash 1:3), the anointing oil was used to consecrate the Kohanim (priests), the Mishkan, and its vessels, imbuing them with holiness for divine service. The Talmud (Keritot 5a) teaches that the oil was prepared with precise measurements of specific spices, as detailed in Exodus 30:22-25, and its unique composition was never to be replicated for personal use (Exodus 30:32-33).
The Sacred Incense
The ketoret (incense) was a central component of the daily service in the Mishkan and later in the Beit HaMikdash. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 43:7) highlights its spiritual significance, noting that the incense atoned for sins and symbolized the unity of Israel. The Talmud (Yoma 44a) elaborates that the ketoret was offered twice daily and required meticulous preparation with eleven specific spices, as listed in Exodus 30:34-38.
Divine Precision in Commandments
The phrase "כְּכֹל אֲשֶׁר־צִוִּיתִךָ" ("according to all that I have commanded you") underscores the necessity of exact adherence to Hashem's instructions. The Sforno comments that this repetition serves as a reminder that even minor deviations in the preparation or use of these sacred items would invalidate their sanctity. The Mishnah (Menachot 3:7) further emphasizes that the ketoret had to be ground finely and mixed thoroughly, reflecting the precision required in divine service.