Meaning
Hyssop is a plant mentioned in Scripture in connection with the Passover, ceremonial purification, and other uses. The Bible does not identify the exact modern botanical species in every passage where the word appears.
Biblical Usage
In Exodus 12:22, the LORD commanded the children of Israel to take a bunch of hyssop, dip it in the blood in a basin, and strike the lintel and the two side posts of their houses with the blood before the LORD passed through Egypt.
Leviticus 14:4, 6, 49, 51, and 52 mentions hyssop in the instructions concerning the ceremonial cleansing of a person healed of leprosy and a house affected by the plague. Numbers 19:6 and 18 includes hyssop in the ordinances concerning the red heifer and the purification of the unclean.
In 1 Kings 4:33, Solomon’s knowledge of plants is described as extending from the cedar tree in Lebanon to the hyssop that springs out of the wall. In Psalm 51:7, David says, “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean,” in his prayer for cleansing.
John 19:29 mentions hyssop during the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Hebrews 9:19 refers to hyssop in the account of Moses sprinkling the book and the people with blood and water.
Key References
- Exodus 12:22
- Leviticus 14:4, 6, 49, 51-52
- Numbers 19:6, 18
- 1 Kings 4:33
- Psalm 51:7
- John 19:29
- Hebrews 9:19
Related Terms
- Passover
- Passover Lamb
- Lintel
- Doorposts
- Blood
- Purification