Hyssop was a plant used throughout Scripture for ritual purification and sprinkling. The exact botanical identification is debated (possibly marjoram or Syrian oregano rather than modern hyssop), but it had bushy branches suitable for sprinkling liquids. In John's Gospel, a sponge soaked with sour wine is put on hyssop and lifted to Jesus on the cross. Hebrews mentions Moses using hyssop to sprinkle blood during the covenant ceremony. Both recall Passover and purification rituals.