What Is Balm of Gilead in the Bible?
- balmofgileadfarm
- Apr 10
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 13
Introduction
The Balm of Gilead is more than a poetic image—it's a plant with deep biblical roots. Mentioned by prophets and revered for its healing properties, this sacred botanical carries centuries of spiritual and medicinal legacy.
The Balm in Scripture
The phrase appears multiple times in the Bible, most notably:
Genesis 37:25 – “And behold, a company of Ishmaelites came from Gilead with their camels bearing balm…”
Jeremiah 8:22 – “Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there?”
These verses frame the balm as both a physical healing agent and a spiritual symbol of hope and restoration.
What Was the Balm of Gilead, Botanically?
The Balm of Gilead (Commiphora gileadensis) is native to the regions surrounding the Red Sea — including southern Arabia, northeast Africa, and parts of the Sinai Peninsula.
In biblical times, it was highly valued for its healing resin and was cultivated in the land of Israel under royal protection. Its resin was fragrant, healing, and highly valued in trade. The Balm of Gilead was a core component of the Ketoret — the sacred incense burned daily in the Temple.
This was not just a plant—it was a treasure of the ancient world.
Balm of Gilead in the Temple and Anointing Oil
Balm of Gilead (*Commiphora gileadensis*) is recognized as the first and foremost ingredient in the sacred incense (*Ketoret*) used in the Temple in Jerusalem.
From the time of the Second Temple onward, it was also used as the **exclusive base** of the holy anointing oil — applied to kings, prophets, and priests of Israel.
Reviving the Balm Today in the Holy Land
At The Balm Of Gilead Farm in Kibbutz Almog, we are proud to revive and cultivate this biblical botanical along with other sacred plants. Grown near the Dead Sea in the very soil where prophets once walked, our balm is prepared with care, knowledge, and deep respect
for the tradition it represents.
Medicinal Power of the Sacred Plant
In addition to its spiritual significance, Balm of Gilead has long been revered for its powerful healing properties.
It was used in ancient medicine to treat wounds, infections, respiratory problems, skin conditions, and more — and today, modern research is rediscovering its unique pharmacological potential.
Is a Gift More Precious Than Gold?
Some researchers and traditions suggest that Balm of Gilead may have been the true “gold” presented by the Magi — alongside myrrh and frankincense — to the infant Jesus.
Its golden resin, its sacred value, and its price — often exceeding that of gold in the ancient world — make this theory both meaningful and historically plausible.
Experience the Balm Yourself
Reconnecting with the scent of Scripture is now possible.
Explore our Balm of Gilead products.
Whether for spiritual use, anointing, or simply to bring the fragrance of the Bible into your home—this is more than a product. It is a living tradition.
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