Pronunciation: [ˌaləbˈastɹəm] (IPA) 
Alabastrum is a Latin-origin word used to refer to a small jar or container, typically made of alabaster. The word is pronounced /əˈlæbəstrəm/ and is spelled with the letters a-l-a-b-a-s-t-r-u-m. The phonetic transcription IPA represents the sounds of each syllable in the word, with the accent placed on the second syllable. The word has been in use since ancient times and is still commonly used in archaeology and art history.
Alabastrum is a noun with multiple meanings, rooted in ancient civilizations and the world of art. Firstly, it refers to a small container or jar made from alabaster, a fine-grained stone. Alabaster is a mineral or rock composed of hydrated calcium sulfate, often used in ancient times for carving sculptures, ornamental objects, and containers. The alabastrum was typically designed to hold ointments, perfumes, or oils, and ranged in size from a few inches to a foot in height. It was widely used during the Ancient Egyptian and Greek periods, and later adopted by the Romans.
In a broader context, alabastrum can also describe any small vessel or flask made from different materials, such as glass or porcelain, that resembles the original alabaster containers. These vessels are often used for the storage or display of valuable liquids, although they may lack the distinctive appearance of genuine alabaster.
Additionally, alabastrum carries a symbolic meaning in religious contexts. In Christian traditions, it refers to a particular type of anointing jar or vial, traditionally used to hold precious oils for sacred ceremonies, such as consecration or baptism. The term is frequently mentioned in biblical texts, signifying a vessel of spiritual significance.
Overall, alabastrum encompasses the concept of a small container made of alabaster or a similar material, historically used for various purposes, predominantly in ancient civilizations and art, and also holds religious symbolism in Christian traditions.
The word "alabastrum" originated from the Latin language. The Latin term "alabastrum" was itself derived from the Greek word "alabastros". In ancient Greek, "alabastros" referred to a vessel or jar made from alabaster, a fine-grained, translucent white stone that was often used for making containers to hold perfumes or ointments. The term was later adopted into Latin as "alabastrum" with the same meaning. Over time, the word "alabastrum" came to be used metaphorically to represent a vessel or container in a broader sense, symbolizing something that holds or contains beauty, purity, or preciousness.
