Frankincense in the Ancient World

Holy Land Revealed

Frankincense, also known as olibanum, is a resin derived from the Boswellia tree, native to the Arabian Peninsula and northeastern Africa. It has been highly prized for its medicinal and spiritual properties since ancient times and has played a significant role in the cultures and economies of the ancient world.



In ancient Egypt, frankincense was considered a sacred substance and was used in the embalming process to preserve the bodies of the deceased. It was also used in religious rituals and as an offering to the gods. The Egyptians imported large quantities of frankincense from the Arabian Peninsula to make incense, perfumes, and medicine.

Old City Jerusalem Tour
Christian Holy Land Four Day Tour - Market Old City

The Babylonians and Assyrians also valued frankincense for its medicinal properties and used it to treat various ailments, including respiratory, digestive, and skin. They also burned frankincense as incense during religious ceremonies and believed it had the power to ward off evil spirits.

Frankincense was also highly prized in ancient Greece and Rome, where it was used as a perfume, incense, and medicine. It was considered a luxury item and was often traded along the Silk Road, a network of trade routes connecting China, India, and the Mediterranean. The Greeks and Romans believed that frankincense had healing properties and used it to treat various ailments, including headaches, respiratory problems, and inflammation.


Frankincense in the Ancient World
In This Photo: Some frankincense in the Old City Jerusalem

In addition to its medicinal properties, frankincense was valued for its spiritual and religious significance. It was used in the religious ceremonies of various cultures, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The Bible mentions frankincense several times, and it was one of the gifts that the Magi brought to baby Jesus. Frankincense is still used in traditional medicine and produces incense, perfumes, and cosmetics. It is also used in aromatherapy and is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body.

The Nabataean Incense Route
How-to-Visit-Petra-From-Israel-Wadi

In conclusion, it has played an essential role in the cultures and economies of the ancient world. It was valued for its medicinal properties and its spiritual and religious significance. It continues to be a popular substance with many uses and benefits.

arik-about

Hi! My name is Arik, an Israeli native who dedicated his life to sharing my passion for the Holy Land with those interested in knowing more about this incredible piece of land. I’m the Chief Guide at ‘APT Private Tours in Israel’.

Did you know the Hoopoe is Israel's national bird?! For more cool info about Israel, join our ever growing community and get exclusive travel tips, and giveaways!

Simon Peter

RELATED POSTS

Hashomer

Hashomer was a Jewish defense organization in Palestine founded in April 1909. It was disbanded after the founding of the Haganah in 1920.

Yitzhak Rabin Memorial

Yitzhak Rabin Memorial is where the assassination of former P.M. Yitzhak Rabin was carried out in November 1995 by a Jewish assassin.

Sixth Crusade

The Sixth Crusade was a military campaign in the 13th century, specifically from 1228 to 1229. One out three that reached the Holy Land!

The Etzel (The Irgun)

The Etzel, otherwise known as the Irgun, was a Zionist semi-militarized organization that operated between 1931 and 1948 in Mandate Palestine.

Phasael

Phasael was the brother of Herod the Great. Furthermore, Phasael was born during the Hasmonean Kingdom reigns Judea to a Jewish family.

Netzer Acharon: Zippora (Feige) Jacobowitz

This post is about Zippora (Feige) Jacobowitz and her life story that was what we call Netzer Acharon. But what is Last Remnant (Netzer Acharon)? ...

Balfour Declaration

The Balfour Declaration marked a pivotal moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Its ramifications echo to this day!

Via Maris

The Via Maris, (Way of the Sea) was an ancient trade route that ran along the coastal plain of the Israel, connecting Egypt to Mesopotamia

Valley of Tears Battle

The Valley of Tears Battle is a major battle in the 1973 Yom Kippur War. It was one of the heroic battles during the Yom ...

Nebi Yusha Fort

Nebi Yusha Fort is a place that inspires the emotions of pain, for the price paid for independence, worth visiting if you are in the ...

Need help?

Skip to content