In the Bible, there are many uses for olives (zeitim) and their oil, from eating to anointing. The importance of olive oil’s role in the Temple in Jerusalem gave olives even more distinction, making the olive tree one of the most vital plants in ancient Israel.
Notable Sources
All Sources
A
Pure Oil for Eternal Light
TANAKH
The commandment to use pure, beaten olive oil for the Tabernacle lamps underscores the necessity for purity and clarity in our spiritual practices. The book of Exodus, the second book of the Torah, details the Israelites' journey from slavery in Egypt to receiving the commandments at Mount Sinai, including the instruction to provide pure olive oil for the Tabernacle lamps.
Trustworthiness in Agricultural Gifts
COMMENTARY
The Mishnah from around 200 CE discusses laws concerning agricultural gifts to the poor, particularly focusing on the trustworthiness of a poor person's claim regarding the source of their oil. This text highlights practical distinctions in the processing of such gifts.
The Cosmetic Use of Olive Oil
TALMUD
Olive oil from underdeveloped olives was historically used by women for cosmetic purposes, such as hair removal and skin care. Rabbi Yehuda, in a baraita, explains the term 'anpikinon' in the Mishna as referring to this specific type of olive oil.
The Symbolism of Olive Oil
MIDRASH
Olive oil is not just a culinary staple but a profound symbol of the spiritual and communal qualities of Israel. The midrashic commentary Shir HaShirim Rabbah draws numerous analogies between the properties of olive oil and the spiritual journey of the Jewish people.
The Mystical Light of Chanukah
KABBALAH
Olive oil, central to the Chanukah miracle, holds deep mystical significance in Kabbalistic teachings. In Sha'arei Orah, Rabbi Joseph Gikatilla explores the connection between olive oil, the Sefirot, and divine understanding (Binah), revealing the esoteric aspects of Chanukah.
The Winds and Their Impact on Olives
TALMUD
The growth and ripening of olives and wheat are influenced by specific agricultural conditions, including the direction of the wind. The Talmudic sages in Tractate Yoma discuss the effects of different winds on agricultural produce, providing insights into ancient agricultural practices.
The Preferred Oil for Lighting
TALMUD
The rabbis debated which oils were permissible for lighting lamps on Shabbat and holidays, with Rebbi Tarphon specifically preferring olive oil. The Jerusalem Talmud records these debates, reflecting the importance of ritual purity and observance in Jewish tradition.
Olives vs. Grapes Debate
COMMENTARY
The debates between Beth Shammai and Beth Hillel reveal the complexities and nuances in Jewish law, particularly regarding the permissibility of giving raw olives and grapes as terumah for their processed forms. The Mishnah, a foundational Jewish text from around 200 CE, records these debates, which are crucial for understanding the development of Halacha (Jewish law).
Purifying Wine and Olive Presses
TALMUD
The process of ensuring the purity of wine and olive presses is crucial for maintaining the sanctity of the produce. The Talmudic tractate Avodah Zara provides detailed methods for purifying winepresses and olive presses that have become impure.
Dividing the Olive Harvest
MISHNAH
The Mishnah offers insight into the division of terumah and tithes, reflecting both the economic and religious practices of ancient Jewish society. This text specifically addresses the allocation of produce and tithes among Israelites, priests, and Levites in the context of renting olive trees for oil production.
Pressing Olives on Chol HaMoed
MISHNAH
The Mishnah addresses the practical and legal considerations of pressing olives during the intermediate days of a Festival, particularly when unforeseen delays or extenuating circumstances occur. This foundational Jewish legal text, dating back to around 200 CE, discusses the balance between religious observance and practical necessities during Chol HaMoed.
The Blessing of Olive Oil in the Promised Land
GUIDES
Olive oil is highlighted as one of the many blessings provided by God in the Promised Land, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. In Deuteronomy 8:7-10, the Torah describes the Promised Land's abundance, a passage often recited during the Birkat Hamazon to express gratitude for sustenance.
Olive Trees Near Jerusalem, By Abraham Neumann. 1925, National Museum in Warsaw, Public Domain
Olive Trees Near Jerusalem, By Abraham Neumann. 1925, National Museum in Warsaw, Public Domain
We use cookies to give you the best experience possible on our site. Click OK to continue using Sefaria. Learn More.OKאנחנו משתמשים ב"עוגיות" כדי לתת למשתמשים את חוויית השימוש הטובה ביותר.קראו עוד בנושאלחצו כאן לאישור