Rotten Eggs, Garlic, and Burnt Rubber

“Dead flies putrefy the perfumer’s ointment, and cause it to give off a foul odor; so does a little folly to one respected for wisdom and honor.” [Ecclesiastes 10:1]

What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the word “skunk”? It is probably the strong, foul odor used by these cute little striped black and white polecats to protect them from danger. Most animals and people are smart enough to stay clear of the scent glands used by skunks as a defensive weapon. Someone once described the odor as a mixture of rotten eggs, garlic, and burnt rubber. Because of muscles around these glands, skunks are pretty accurate in their aim at up to 10 feet away. People can easily smell this odor up to a mile away.

Actually, the skunk is reluctant to fire this weapon. It has enough to shoot five or six times, but then needs about 10 days to make another supply. Seeing the black and white stripes (or spots) is enough for most animals and people to stay clear. But if pressed, the skunk will still give warnings by hissing, stamping its feet, and raising its tail high before spraying. The stink is so strong it will even drive a bear away. But there is one predator of the skunk, the great horned owl, which, as you might guess, has a poor sense of smell!

Some states in the U.S. permit people to make pets out of skunks and have their scent glands removed. Most people come across skunks that are searching for food near garbage cans or trying to find cat or dog food in a garage. Because of their poor eyesight, skunks are often hit by cars on the road. Skunks also carry rabies, though it is more common in raccoons. (Almost all rabies cases in people come from dogs and bats.) Perhaps it is because their spray is enough to keep people away.

The Bible talks about the judgment of God against Judah when it turned away from the Lord. Especially condemning the luxury of these self-sufficient people, God lists jewels, clothing, and perfumes used by a haughty and proud people. Isaiah writes that the Lord will take away the perfume boxes. “Instead of a sweet smell there will be a stench” (Isaiah 3:23). A selfish life stinks. When we give our hearts to Jesus and live to bless others, it is a sweet smell to all around us.