Mastick, also known as mastic, is a resin obtained from the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus), a small evergreen tree native to the Mediterranean region. This aromatic resin has been used since ancient times for various purposes, including as a spice, in medicine, and in the production of incense and varnishes. In biblical times, mastick was a valuable commodity and was often associated with trade and commerce.

Biblical References:

While the specific term "mastick" does not appear in most English translations of the Bible, it is often associated with the "balm" or "spices" mentioned in the Scriptures. The Berean Standard Bible provides insight into the use of aromatic substances in biblical times, which may include mastick.

1. Genesis 37:25 : "As they sat down to eat their meal, they looked up and saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead. Their camels were loaded with spices, balm, and myrrh, and they were on their way down to Egypt." This passage highlights the trade of aromatic substances, including balm, which could encompass mastick, as part of the goods transported by traders.

2. Genesis 43:11 : "Then their father Israel said to them, 'If it must be so, then do this: Take some of the best products of the land in your bags, and carry them down as a gift for the man—a little balm and a little honey, spices and myrrh, pistachios and almonds.'" Here, the mention of "spices" and "balm" suggests the inclusion of valuable aromatic resins like mastick among the gifts intended to appease the Egyptian ruler.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In the ancient Near East, mastick was highly prized for its fragrance and medicinal properties. It was often used in the preparation of incense, which played a significant role in religious rituals and ceremonies. The resin's pleasant aroma made it a desirable component in the anointing oils and perfumes of the time.

Mastick's medicinal uses were also well-documented in ancient texts. It was believed to have healing properties and was used to treat various ailments, including digestive issues and respiratory problems. The resin's antiseptic qualities made it a valuable ingredient in traditional medicine.

Symbolism and Significance:

In the biblical context, aromatic substances like mastick often symbolize wealth, trade, and divine favor. The inclusion of such resins in offerings and gifts underscores their value and the esteem in which they were held. The use of mastick in religious rituals also highlights the importance of fragrance in worship and the desire to create a pleasing atmosphere for divine encounters.

The trade of mastick and other aromatic resins reflects the interconnectedness of ancient economies and the movement of goods across regions. This trade facilitated cultural exchanges and the spread of ideas, contributing to the rich tapestry of biblical history.

Conclusion:

Mastick, though not explicitly named in the Bible, is an integral part of the aromatic substances that played a significant role in the cultural and religious practices of the ancient world. Its presence in biblical narratives underscores the importance of trade, the value of aromatic resins, and their symbolic significance in worship and daily life.MASTIC, MASTICK

mas'-tik (schinos): A tree mentioned only in Susanna verse 54 (compare Genesis 37:25 margin). It is the Pistacia lentiscus (Arabic, Mistaki), a shrub which attains a height of 10 to 12 ft., growing in thickets on the slopes round the Mediterranean. The gum which exudes through incisions made in the bark is greatly prized as a masticatory. The smell and flavor are suggestive of the terebinth. It is chewed in order to preserve the teeth and gums. But often men chew it without any special purpose, just because they like it. The mastick produced in Chios is most highly esteemed. It is employed in making perfumes and sweetmeats; in preparing bread a little is sometimes added to the dough just before it is put into the oven.

W. Ewing

A Brief Examination of the Construction of Our Bodies from a ...
... in saffron, in balsam, in the poppy: for in one it becomes hot, in another cold,
in another it obtains the middle quality: and in laurel and mastick it is ...
/.../gregory/gregory of nyssa dogmatic treatises etc/xxx a brief examination of.htm

Mastick
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia MASTIC, MASTICK. mas'-tik (schinos ... like it.
The mastick produced in Chios is most highly esteemed. It ...
/m/mastick.htm - 7k

Mastic
... etc. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. MASTIC, MASTICK. mas'-tik ... like it.
The mastick produced in Chios is most highly esteemed. It ...
/m/mastic.htm - 7k

Masts (1 Occurrence)

/m/masts.htm - 6k

Susanna (1 Occurrence)
... The following are some of the grounds: (1) There are several paronomasias or
word-plays, as in Susanna verses 54, schinon ("under a mastick tree")... ...
/s/susanna.htm - 17k

History (57 Occurrences)
... The following are some of the grounds: (1) There are several paronomasias or
word-plays, as in Susanna verses 54, schinon ("under a mastick tree")... ...
/h/history.htm - 67k

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