Tag Archives: Boswellia Tree

Essential Oils in the Bible

“And thou shalt put pure frankincense upon each row, that it may be on the bread for a memorial, even an offering made by fire unto the Lord.”
— Leviticus 24:7

Frankincense held a sacred role in Israel’s worship, not merely for its fragrance but for what it represented. The instruction to place pure frankincense on the bread of the Presence was deeply symbolic—its aroma rising like prayer, connecting worshippers to God. The scent of burning resin was more than pleasant; it was an offering of devotion and remembrance, a way of setting apart holy things as belonging to the Lord.

Historically, frankincense was harvested from the Boswellia tree and considered among the most precious resins of the ancient world. It was imported across desert trade routes and often reserved for temples and royal courts. In biblical times, its costliness highlighted the value of devotion and reverence. Today, frankincense essential oil is still treasured for its calming and centering qualities, reminding us of how its sacred use in the Bible linked daily life with worship and reverence before God.