Meaning
A small container, usually used for holding a liquid such as oil, perfume, or another valuable substance.
Biblical Usage
Scripture uses vial for a small vessel containing oil. Samuel uses a vial of oil when he anoints Saul, and later Scripture describes anointing with oil from a horn or other vessels.
The Bible also uses the term in the New Testament for small vessels containing God’s judgments in the book of Revelation. The exact form of the container can therefore vary according to the passage.
Key References
- 1 Samuel 10:1 — Samuel pours oil from a vial upon Saul’s head.
- 2 Kings 9:1 — Elisha sends a young prophet with a box or vessel of oil.
- 2 Kings 9:3 — The oil is poured upon Jehu’s head.
- Psalm 23:5 — Oil is associated with anointing and abundance.
- Mark 14:3 — A woman brings an alabaster box of ointment.
- Revelation 5:8 — Golden vials are associated with the prayers of saints.
- Revelation 15:7 — Seven golden vials are given to the seven angels.
- Revelation 16:1 — The seven angels are commanded to pour out the vials.
Related Terms
- Bottle
- Cruse
- Oil
- Anoint
- Vessel