- - , Algemeen, , Since the herb we know as hyssop (hyssopus officinalis) is not common in the Holy Land, most Biblical scholars believe that the "hyssop" mentioned in Scripture is an entirely different
plant. Two of the most popular alternatives seem to be a variety of oregano called origanum maru (AKA Syrian Oregano) or the caper bush (capparis spinosa).
At any rate, the Scriptural "hyssop" was most commonly used in symbolical cleansing ceremonies. The Israelites applied the sacrificial lamb's blood to door lintels with its branches during Passover. They also used the plant (sometimes along with cedar, scarlet wool, and/or the sacrificial blood of animals) to symbolically cleanse healed lepers, repentant sinners, and holy buildings such as the tabernacle.
It is, perhaps, significant that it was also a hyssop branch with which someone presented a vinegar-soaked sponge to Christ at his crucifixion. Significant, since Christ was considered the ultimate--and final--sacrificial Lamb.