Dear Dr Kathy
Two years ago I had a one word dream. The word would run through my head over and over and the more I tried to ignore it the louder it got. Finally it was spelled out letter by letter with the feeling of someone hitting me in the back of the head with each letter. The word was a-p-o-t-h-e-c-a-r-y.
I have been asking God to show me what I need to do with my life from here on an this dream has been coming back to me. Hope you can help me with this. I now apothecary has many different aspects and meanings so I’m not sure which way I should go.
Thanks for any help you can give…
Jackie B
Dear Jackie,
“Apothecary” is a historical name for a medical professional who formulates and dispenses materials & medical supplies to physicians, surgeons and patients — a role now served by a pharmacist (or a chemist). Some Apothecary’s were caregivers who used “natural remedies” such as herbs and oils to care for the sick.
In addition to pharmacy responsibilities, the apothecary offered general medical advice and a range of services that are now performed solely by other specialist practitioners, such as surgery and midwifery.
Apothecaries often operated through a retail shop which, in addition to ingredients for medicines, sold tobacco and patent medicines.
In its investigation of herbal and chemical ingredients, the work of the apothecary may be regarded as a precursor of the modern sciences of chemistry and pharmacology, prior to the formulation of the scientific method.
It appears you are called to be a healer and/or a care giver, in the medical field of sorts. Pharmacology, vitamins, herbs, natural healing ointments etc. Possibly, you may come up with your own line of products.
The Bible first mentions the word apothecary in the Book of Exodus ( In The Torah and old Testament) in which Moses was given instructions by God for the preparation of the Holy Anointing Oil that was to be used for consecrating the Tabernacle.
“And thou shalt make it an oil of holy ointment, an ointment compound after the art of the apothecary: it shall be an holy anointing oil.” —Exodus 30:25
Another reference was made by King Solomon as cited in the Scriptures:
“Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savor, so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honor.” /em> — Ecclesiastes 10: 1
Interesting and unusual word used in our language today, yet used very specific for you. I can only assume my interpretation will have a greater meaning by you as to which area of medicine you choose.
Hopes this helps.
Dr Kathy