Frankincense in the Bible: Sacred Use, Healing, and Prophecy

Introduction

Frankincense is one of the most revered and symbolically rich botanicals mentioned in the Bible. Known for its heavenly fragrance, healing power, and role in ancient rituals, frankincense bridges the physical and the spiritual—from temple offerings to prophetic visions.

“Frankincense trees growing near the Dead Sea at The Balm of Gilead Farm in Kibbutz Almog — part of the revival of biblical incense in the Holy Land.”

Frankincense: Endangered, Sacred, and Returning to Life

Most species of frankincense grow wild in fragile desert ecosystems, especially in the Arabian Peninsula and East Africa. Boswellia sacra — the sacred frankincense of Temple tradition — is now under threat due to overharvesting and habitat loss.

**At Balm of Gilead Farm, we are proud to be the first in the world to establish a sustainable, commercial-scale cultivation of Boswellia trees — right here in Israel.**

Frankincense in Scripture

Frankincense appears throughout the Bible, often as part of holy rituals:

• Exodus 30:34 – God commands Moses to use frankincense in the sacred incense blend.

• Matthew 2:11 – The Magi bring gold, frankincense, and myrrh to honor the newborn Messiah.

Its aroma symbolized purity, prayer rising to heaven, and reverence before God.

Medicinal and Spiritual Uses

In ancient Israel and neighboring cultures, frankincense resin was used to:

• Treat inflammation, wounds, and respiratory conditions.

• Ease emotional distress and elevate the spirit.

• Purify the body and the dwelling before sacred acts

This dual purpose—body and soul—made frankincense a bridge between the physical and divine.

Frankincense in the Temple: More Than Incense

In the Holy Temple, frankincense was not only burned as part of the sacred incense offering (ketoret) but also placed weekly on the Table of Showbread (Lechem Hapanim).

The priestly family in charge of preparing the incense — "Beit Avtinas" — worked in a chamber known as "Lishkat HaLevona" (The Chamber of Frankincense).

This unique placement symbolized spiritual presence, purity, and covenant.

Frankincense and Prophetic Symbolism

Biblical prophets and scholars often connect frankincense with the presence of God and the hope of redemption. Its use in the Temple represents continual prayer (Revelation 8:3-4), while in prophecy, it speaks of purity, offering, and the coming restoration.

The Botanical Diversity of Frankincense

There are over 22 known species of frankincense (Boswellia) in the world.

At Balm of Gilead Farm, we currently cultivate 15 different species, with a special focus on Boswellia sacra – the variety used in the Temple, revered by Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike.

Each species has its own scent profile, resin texture, and healing properties — and together, they form a living archive of sacred biodiversity.

Frankincense Today at The Balm Of Gilead Farm

For centuries, frankincense arrived in Israel via desert caravans from Arabia — from a region once called "the courtyard of death."

But today, "for the first time in history, it’s being grown in the soil of Israel. A sacred tree returns home."

At our farm in Kibbutz Almog, we cultivate frankincense and craft products inspired by this sacred gift. Whether in resin, extract, or infused soaps, our offerings carry the fragrance and legacy of Scripture.

Join our journey to restore the sacred incense of Scripture. Follow our blog for more ancient wisdom from the Holy Land.

Bring the sacred scent of Scripture into your home.

Discover our Frankincense products:

Myrrh and Frankincense oil

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Dried True Frankincense Fruit (Boswellia sacra) For Incense

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Balm Of Gilead and Frankincense Extract Soap - Myrrh and Frankincense

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