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What the Bible Says About Spices

Overview

The Bible addresses spices across 15 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in Genesis, Exodus and 1 Kings. Closely related themes include Myrrh, Precious Stones, Women and Joseph. Figures whose stories touch this theme include Solomon, Jesus, Hezekiah and David.

Key Bible verses about spices

Old Testament

People in the Bible and spices

Biblical figures whose stories intersect with this theme.

In the Bible dictionary

Studying spices for yourself

  • Begin with Genesis 37:25, then read the passages below in canonical order.
  • Compare how Genesis, Exodus and 1 Kings each treat the theme.
  • Consider the lives of Solomon, Jesus and Hezekiah and how their stories intersect with it.
  • Widen the study to related themes: Myrrh, Precious Stones, Women and Joseph.

Frequently asked questions

What does the Bible say about spices?

The Bible addresses spices across 15 verses, drawn from both the Old and New Testaments. These passages cluster most in Genesis, Exodus and 1 Kings. Closely related themes include Myrrh, Precious Stones, Women and Joseph. Figures whose stories touch this theme include Solomon, Jesus, Hezekiah and David.

How many Bible verses are about spices?

The Bible references spices in 15 verses (King James Version).

Where does the Bible first mention spices?

In canonical order, the first of these passages is Genesis 37:25: “And they sat down to eat bread: and they lifted up their eyes and looked, and, behold, a company of Ishmeelites came from Gilead with their camels bearing spicery and balm and myrrh, going to carry it down to Egypt.”

Which people in the Bible are associated with spices?

Solomon, Jesus, Hezekiah, David and Mary Magdalene.

Preach & teach

Outline a sermon or build a study series on spices.

Preach a series on Spices