In the tabernacle system, oil is used for light on the golden menorah .  The priest receives aromatic oil that spread fragrance.  Cakes and breads baked or spread with oil become a sweet savor, soothing the heated nose of Yahweh.

In both cases, oil bestows radiant power.  In the Bible, Christs - anointed ones - create a field of radiance around them, a field of light or the aroma of a good name.

Articles by Peter J. Leithart

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