I recently read a social media post challenging the use of crystals and oils among believers in the Torah or Bible. Newsflash: Those texts are rife with oils and crystals.

The Hebrew word tsohar in Genesis 6:16 is translated window referring to Noah’s Ark, but rabbis suggest a better translation would be a luminous stone or crystal used to illuminate the vessel.

Moses placed twelve semi-precious stones in his breastplate and affixed to it two additional crystals called the Urim and Thummim—Hebrew words for light and perfection (Exodus 28). The breastplate was used in sacred rites for generations. Eventually, all those who enter into Glory will receive a white stone or crystal with their sacred new name written on it (Rev. 2:17).

The Lord told Moses to mix myrrh, cinnamon, calamus, and cassia with olive oil to make “a sacred anointing oil” with which to anoint the tabernacle and its articles and the priests who ministered therein (Exodus 30). The Hebrew word for oil comes from shawman meaning to shine.

Oil represents a sanctification and an endowment of divine light. God anointed Jesus Christ with the Holy Spirit (Acts 10:38). John told followers they had the same anointing enabling them to know all things (1 John 2).

The word Christ comes from the Greek χριστός (chrīstós), meaning ‘anointed one.’ The Hebrew word מָשִׁיחַ (Mašíaḥ, messiah) means ‘one who is anointed.’

We recently celebrated Diwali, a festival of lights celebrated by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists. We now celebrate Hanukkah, a Jewish commemoration of the miracle of oil and light in the temple. Soon we’ll celebrate the birth of Christ, him whom Christians call the Light of the World. And we’ll celebrate the seven foundational principles of Kwanzaa by lighting seven candles. The universe celebrates with us as the winter solstice marks the coming of greater light into our lives.

Anciently, oils and crystals were symbols and instruments of light and perfection intended to unite us and bring us nearer to the Divine. Today, if we’re willing, they are the same.