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Tuesday, December 13, 2005
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HYSSOP — אזוב
Hyssop, esov in Hebrew, is a wild
aromatic herb similar to oregano, which was thrown into the fire when the red
heifer was offered as a burnt sacrifice during Temple times.
Hyssop is known for its ability to purify the blood, which in Psalm 51:9 had
symbolic, as well as medicinal significance. When Jesus was on the cross he was
offered a sponge soaked in vinegar tied on a hyssop branch (John 19:29).
Nowadays hyssop is marketed as zatar seasoning—a mixture that also
includes sesame seeds, thyme and salt.
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