LIFE IN FIRST TEMPLE TIMES

The Gentle Caress of Oil

Israelites bathed regularly and rubbed oil, often perfumed, on their bodies, to protect themselves from the hot, dry climate. Aside from strict hygienic requirements, the Torah encouraged people to purify themselves with water, especially after illness.

Objects related to the use of cosmetics. Collection of Israel Antiquities Authority, exhibited at The Israel Museum, Jerusalem and Collection of The Israel Museum, Jerusalem Photo © The Israel Museum, by Dr. Jean-Luc Pilon, Canadian Museum of Civilization