Biblical Food and Herbs Series Part 1: Aloes

As the valleys are they spread forth, as gardens by the river's side, as the trees of lign aloes which the LORD hath planted, and as cedar trees beside the waters – Numbers 24:6

Part 1 in our Biblical food series may be a bit misleading in that it is not really food. When we see the word “aloe” most think Aloe

Vera, the plant with such a wide range of internal and external uses including digestive aid, natural laxative, healing wounds, soothing sunburns, and boosting the immune system to name a few. But this is not the aloe of the Bible. This was a perfume believed to be made of the Eaglewood or Sandalwood tree. Aromatherapy is not usually considered as nutrition but there is power and purpose in all that God created and this aloe, which is referred to five times in scripture directly, was used in combination with other spices to create an atmosphere of gladness (Psalm 45:8). Twice it was spoken about as a “bedroom” perfume (Prov 7:17, Song of Sol. 4:14) and also was one of the burial spices for the body of Yahshua (Jesus) in John Chapter 19. The sanctification process and power of the Lord is upon the spirit, soul, and body of each believer and without doubt, the fragrances of His creation can be used to minister peace and pleasantness. It also gives a glimpse into another level of His incomparable depth.