A fragrant gum resin obtained from certain trees in Africa and Asia, used in perfumes and incense. It appears in ancient texts as a precious aromatic substance.
From Arabic muql al-yahūd meaning 'Jewish gum', referring to its use in Jewish religious practices. The word entered English via Latin bdellium and Greek bdellion, ultimately from a Semitic source. It was mentioned in the Bible as one of the precious substances found in the land of Havilah.
Bdellium was so mysterious to ancient writers that some thought it was the same as pearls mentioned in Genesis! The Arabic name 'Jewish gum' reflects how this resin became essential to religious ceremonies, creating a trade network that connected Africa to the Mediterranean.
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