Frankincense is one of the oldest fragrances and medicines in history. The distinctive aroma of this resin has been valued for thousands of years and used in religious, spiritual and medicinal contexts. The Bible speaks of frankincense in many of its stories, stretching from the time it was given to the baby Jesus to the anointing of kings. But what was frankincense actually used for in the Bible, and why was it so important?
First of all, frankincense was a valuable commodity in ancient times. It was used as a perfume, and was often burned as a symbol of reverence or thanks, thanks to its fragrant aromas. It was also believed to have medicinal properties and was used in ointments, salves and tinctures to treat a variety of ailments. In the Bible, frankincense was mentioned when the baby Jesus was given frankincense and gold as a sign of his holiness and other wise men coming to visit him to give him gifts.
Frankincense was also used in ceremonies such as those of the Jewish Temple, during which the Incense Altar was used to burn frankincense to God. Burning incense was believed to provide a sort of “transformative experience” that changed the atmosphere around it, setting it apart from ordinary space. Incense also acted as a type of incense offering, as it was meant to carry up prayers to the heavens.
In addition to its uses in religious ceremonies, frankincense was also believed to have spiritual properties. It was used to assist in praying and connecting with the divine, as well as to protect the person from the evil eye. The fragrant aroma was often used in ceremonies to drive away bad spirits. In the Bible, frankincense was also associated with healing, being used in anointing oils and incense to aid in the healing of the sick.
Frankincense has also been used in religious rites and as an offering in ceremonies throughout history. In many versions of the Bible, it is included in offerings given to God as a way of showing appreciation and homage for his divine providence. It is also a part of the lavish offering described in the book of Revelation, where storax, spices, and sweet incense are burned as a “smoke of heaven.”
Clearly, frankincense has long been associated with spiritual and religious significance. This is due to the aromatic fragrances it produces, as well as its traditional uses in ceremonies and prayers. It has been used in the Bible as part of spiritual and religious ceremonies, to give thanks and honor God, to anoint those deemed holy, and to provide spiritual protection and healing.
Frankincense and Its Uses Today
Frankincense is still used today in many places around the world. It is burned as an incense or added to rituals, as well as being sold in shops as an essential oil or perfume. The fragrant aroma promotes relaxation, helps to reduce stress, and has even been linked to psychological healing. It is also used in aromatherapy for its spiritual properties, aiding with meditation, calming the nerves, and promoting feelings of spiritual rejuvenation. It is also used in some skin care products thanks to its astringent and toning properties.
This fragrant resin also has medicinal uses. Frankincense oil helps to fight inflammation, can be used to support respiratory and digestive health, and is said to help boost the immune system. It is also used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including those related to the liver and the skin.
Frankincense has been used for centuries to promote spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. It has a long history of use in religious rituals and, as mentioned in the Bible, is believed to help forge a connection between the earthly and the divine. Today, it is still used in many different ways and is said to provide aromatherapeutic and spiritual benefits.
An Ancient and Sacred Resin
Frankincense has a long and rich history. It can be traced back to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. In these cultures it was a highly valued commodity and was used to anoint Pharaohs and other royalty, as well as to pay tribute to their gods. It is also referenced in the Bible, as well as in many other ancient religious writings from around the world.
Today, frankincense is still seen as a sacred and highly prized resin. It is still used in religious contexts in many parts of the world, though its usage has changed slightly over time. It is also still used in other ways, such as in aromatherapy, skin care, and traditional medicine. Its spiritual properties are still highly esteemed in many cultures, and its use as an incense and an anointing resin is still revered today.
How Frankincense is Harvested
Frankincense is derived from the sap of certain species of trees native to the Middle East and North Africa. It is most commonly harvested in Somalia, Ethiopia, and Oman, and is produced by first making incisions into the bark of the trees. The sap, which has been described as “tears”, is then collected by hand. This process is a very labor-intensive one, and the trees must be treated with care in order to ensure future harvests and healthy trees.
The harvested sap is then dried and hardened into small pearls of resin, which can range in color from yellow to a deep brown. The sap is also still harvested in liquid form and can be used medicinally or applied as an anointing resin.
Frankincense is still collected as it has been for many centuries, and the process is highly valued. The resin is still seen as a healing, uplifting, and sacred fragrant substance, and it still plays an important role in many spiritual traditions around the world.
Conclusion
Frankincense has been used throughout history for its unique fragrances, spiritual properties, and medicinal uses. It has been mentioned in the Bible in many stories, including when it was given as a gift to the baby Jesus, when it was burned in the Temple, and when it was used as an anointing resin. Today, its uses have changed slightly, but it is still appreciated for its spiritual and medicinal applications. Moreover, frankincense is still harvested in the same way it has been for thousands of years, with the sap being collected and hardened into resin.
