Opobalsamum, often referred to as "balm of Gilead," is a resinous substance mentioned in the Bible, known for its aromatic and medicinal properties. It is derived from the balsam tree, which was highly valued in ancient times for its healing qualities and fragrant scent. The term "opobalsamum" is derived from the Greek words "opos," meaning juice, and "balsamon," meaning balsam, indicating the sap or resin extracted from the tree.

Biblical References:

The balm of Gilead is mentioned in several passages in the Bible, highlighting its significance and value. In Genesis 37:25, the Ishmaelites are described as carrying balm, along with other goods, on their way to Egypt: "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 to take them down to Egypt" . This passage indicates the trade and demand for balm in the ancient world.

Jeremiah 8:22 poses a rhetorical question that underscores the healing reputation of the balm: "Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? Why then has the health of the daughter of my people not been restored?" . This verse metaphorically uses the balm to question why the spiritual and physical ailments of the people remain unhealed, despite the availability of a renowned remedy.

In Jeremiah 46:11, the prophet advises Egypt to seek healing in Gilead: "Go up to Gilead and get balm, O Virgin Daughter of Egypt. But you multiply remedies in vain; there is no healing for you" . Here, the balm symbolizes futile attempts at healing when divine judgment is at hand.

Historical and Cultural Context:

The balm of Gilead was a prized commodity in the ancient Near East, often associated with the region of Gilead, east of the Jordan River. The balsam tree, from which the balm was extracted, was cultivated in this area, making it a center for the production and trade of this valuable substance. The balm was used not only for its fragrance but also for its purported medicinal properties, including the treatment of wounds and ailments.

The high value of opobalsamum is further evidenced by its inclusion among the gifts brought to Joseph in Egypt by his brothers (Genesis 43:11). This indicates its status as a luxury item, suitable for presenting to a high-ranking official.

Symbolism and Theological Significance:

In a theological context, the balm of Gilead is often seen as a symbol of healing and restoration. Its mention in the prophetic books of the Bible serves as a metaphor for the spiritual healing that God offers to His people. The rhetorical questions posed by the prophets highlight the contrast between physical remedies and the deeper spiritual healing that only God can provide.

The balm's association with healing also points to the ultimate healing found in Christ, who is seen as the true "balm" for the sin-sick soul. This symbolism is reflected in Christian hymns and literature, where Christ is often referred to as the "Balm of Gilead," offering solace and redemption to believers.

Conclusion:

Opobalsamum, or the balm of Gilead, holds a significant place in biblical literature and ancient culture. Its references in Scripture underscore its value and serve as a powerful metaphor for divine healing and restoration. Through its rich symbolism, the balm continues to inspire theological reflection on the nature of God's healing grace.(n.) The old name of the aromatic resinous juice of the Balsamodendron opobalsamum, now commonly called balm of Gilead. See under Balm.OPOBALSAMUM

op-o-bal'-sa-mum: the Revised Version margin in Exodus 30:34.

See STACTE.

The Country of Jericho, and the Situation of the City.
... That place also feeds bees, and produceth opobalsamum, and cyprinum, and myrobalanum:
so that one might not call it amiss, 'a divine country,'" &c. ...
/.../lightfoot/from the talmud and hebraica/chapter 46 the country of.htm

Concerning Jehoshaphat Again; How He Constituted Judges And,
... hundred furlongs from Jerusalem. In that place grows the best kind of palm
trees, and the opobalsamum. [2] Now Jehoshaphat heard ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 1 concerning jehoshaphat again.htm

Opobalsamum
... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) The old name of the aromatic resinous juice of the
Balsamodendron opobalsamum, now commonly called balm of Gilead. ...OPOBALSAMUM. ...
/o/opobalsamum.htm - 6k

Gilead (130 Occurrences)
... The tree yielding this medicinal oil was probably the Balsamodendron opobalsamum
of botanists, and the Amyris opobalsamum of Linnaeus. ...
/g/gilead.htm - 56k

Stacte (1 Occurrence)
... Easton's Bible Dictionary (Hebrews nataph), one of the components of the perfume
which was offered on the golden altar (Exodus 30:34; RV marg., "opobalsamum"). ...
/s/stacte.htm - 8k

Balm (7 Occurrences)
... in early times. This is the exudation from the Balsamodendron opobalsamum,
a native of southern Arabia and Abyssinia. The tree is ...
/b/balm.htm - 14k

Opponent (13 Occurrences)

/o/opponent.htm - 10k

Opinions (7 Occurrences)

/o/opinions.htm - 8k

Trees (179 Occurrences)
... and American) "weeping," margin "balsam-trees"): According to Arabic writers the
Baca tree is similar to the balsam (Balsamodendron opobalsamum), and grows ...
/t/trees.htm - 45k

Myrrh (22 Occurrences)
... Exodus 30:23) and "liquid myrrh" (Songs 5:5, 13), Schweinfurth maintains that mor
was not a dried gum but the liquid balsam of Balsamodendron opobalsamum. ...
/m/myrrh.htm - 18k

Mulberry (6 Occurrences)
... and American) "weeping," margin "balsam-trees"): According to Arabic writers the
Baca tree is similar to the balsam (Balsamodendron opobalsamum), and grows ...
/m/mulberry.htm - 11k

Spices (64 Occurrences)
... These passages in So may refer in particular to balsam, the product of the balsam
plant, Balsamodendron opobalsamum, a plant growing in Arabia. ...
/s/spices.htm - 32k

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