Cummin in Biblical Times
Cummin, also known as cumin, was a valuable spice cultivated in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions during biblical times. This small seed, with its warm and distinctive flavor, appears in Scripture as a crop worthy of the tithe—God's commanded offering. In Isaiah 28:25-27, the prophet describes the farmer's work: "Does he not plant cummin and scatter caraway? Does he not plant wheat in its place, barley in its plot, and spelt in its field? His God instructs him and teaches him the right way." This passage reveals that cummin was grown deliberately and skillfully by ancient farmers who understood agricultural principles. The spice held both practical and economic value in ancient Jewish society, making it a legitimate item of commerce and religious obligation.
Archaeological evidence confirms that cumin was widely used throughout the ancient Near East for flavoring food and for medicinal purposes. Jewish culture particularly valued it as a seasoning, and its presence in the tithe lists of Scripture demonstrates its significance in the daily life and economy of Israel. The fact that God's law specifically addressed the tithing of such herbs shows His attention to every detail of His people's lives and work.
Cummin as a Symbol of Faithfulness
In Matthew 23:23, Jesus addresses the religious leaders of His time: "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cummin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness." Here, our Lord acknowledges that tithing cummin was technically obedient to the law. Yet His rebuke reveals a crucial spiritual principle: meticulous attention to minor details must never replace genuine devotion to God's greater purposes.
This passage teaches us that God values both our attention to small obediences and our pursuit of greater spiritual realities. The Pharisees had perfected the external act of tithing herbs while allowing their hearts to grow cold toward justice and mercy. Jesus calls us to a faith that encompasses both the small and the great—faithful in little things, yet never losing sight of God's supreme concerns for truth, compassion, and integrity.
Application for Today
As Canadian believers, cummin reminds us that God notices and cares about our daily faithfulness. Whether we're managing our finances, fulfilling our work responsibilities, or serving in our churches, these "small" matters matter to God. We honor Him not only through grand gestures but through consistent, careful obedience in everyday tasks. Yet like the lesson Jesus taught the Pharisees, we must ensure that our attention to detail never becomes a substitute for genuine love, mercy, and justice toward others.
Let cummin serve as your small reminder: be faithful in the little things, cultivate a generous heart, and never lose sight of what truly matters to God—a life lived in authentic love and righteous service to Him and your neighbor.
"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cummin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness." — Matthew 23:23