Agarwood in Holy Scriptures

Agarwood, also known as Oud, Aloeswood, and Gaharu, has been revered for centuries for its rich, woody aroma and spiritual significance. This highly prized resinous heartwood forms in the Aquilaria tree when it becomes infected with a specific type of mold. Its rarity and unique scent have made it a valuable commodity in various cultures and religions. This article explores the profound recognition of agarwood in holy scriptures across different faiths, highlighting its significance and use.

Agarwood in Hindu Texts

Mahābhārata: Symbol of Wealth and Status

The Sanskrit epic Mahābhārata (circa 1493–1443 B.C.E.) references Agarwood multiple times, emphasizing its use as a symbol of wealth and luxury. For instance, the city of Khandavaprastha is described as being filled with the “sweet scent of burning aloes” to welcome visitors (Book 1, Section CCXXIII). Additionally, the amphitheater in King Drupada’s capital was scented with black aloes (Book 1, Section CLXXXVII), and the mansions of monarchs were perfumed with excellent aloes (Book 2, Section XXXIII). The use of agarwood as tribute after the Bharatas conquered the Mlechchha tribes further highlights its importance (Book 2, Section XXIX).

Agarwood in Buddhist Texts

Rituals and Symbolism

Buddhist texts also reference agarwood in religious rituals. In the Jātaka tales, royal ladies adorned with aloes participate in a sacrificial ritual (Vol VI no. 542). The Mahāyāna Mahāparinirvāṇa Sūtra describes the cremation of Buddha’s body with fragrant woods, including aloes. In the Vimānavatthu text, agarwood is used in the funeral pyre of Sāriputta and in the consecration of valuable sculptures (Leidy and Strahan 2010), underscoring its symbolic significance.

Agarwood in Christian Scriptures

Old Testament References

In the Old Testament, agarwood is mentioned several times. Balaam, in his vision of Israel, likens their settlements to “aloes planted by the LORD” (Numbers 24:6). This metaphor highlights agarwood’s noble and seductive qualities.

In Psalm 45:8, recounting a king’s preparation for marriage, it states,

“All your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia;

from palaces adorned with ivory

the music of the strings makes you glad.”

Emphasizing the luxurious and sensual attributes of these fragrances. Similarly, in Song of Songs 4:14, the sexual attraction between lovers is celebrated with praise,

“nard and saffron,
calamus and cinnamon,
with every kind of incense tree,
with myrrh and aloes
and all the finest spices.”

New Testament Significance

The spiritual significance of agarwood is noted in the New Testament. After Jesus’ crucifixion, his body was anointed with a mixture of myrrh and aloes (John 20:39–40). Although there is some debate about whether this “aloe” refers to agarwood or a medicinal plant, many scholars believe it refers to the fragrant spice used in ancient perfumes and embalming practices.

Agarwood in Islamic Texts

Quranic Mentions

The Qur’an does not explicitly mention agarwood but references aromatics in general. In Sūrah 55 (Ar-Rahman), fragrant plants are among Allah’s abundant gifts to mankind (55:12). This signifies the spiritual reverence for aromatic plants.

Hadith and Prophetic Traditions

In Hadith, agarwood is frequently mentioned as a type of Indian incense, referred to as Oud Al-Hindi or aloes. The Prophet Muhammad described Paradise as a place where agarwood would be used in censers (Sahih al-Bukhari 3327. Book 60, Hadith 2). He recommended agarwood for medical treatments, citing its use for swollen uvulas and pleurisy (Sahih al-Bukhari 5692, Book 76, Hadith 15). These references highlight the medicinal value of agarwood.

In Islam, it is said that smelling good is considered an act of charity, as it pleases others even when we stop noticing the scent ourselves.

Fumigation and Purification Practices

Agarwood was also significant in fumigation and purification. Nafi’ reports Ibn ‘Umar fumigating with aloeswood alone or mixed with camphor (Sahih Muslim 2254, Book 40, Hadith 23). The Prophet Muhammad preferred the scent of aloes or a combination of aloes and camphor.

Use in Mosques and Personal Hygiene

The Prophet Muhammad advised men to bathe and perfume themselves for the Friday prayer and allowed women to use perfume at home but not at the mosque. Men and women could use perfume during sexual intimacy. These practices underline agarwood’s role in personal hygiene and religious rituals. The second caliph, Umar, initiated the practice of burning incense, believed to be aloes, in mosques.

Conclusion

The rich historical and religious contexts in which agarwood appears across various scriptures underscore its profound spiritual and cultural importance.

From its luxurious use in ancient Indian narratives to its symbolic presence in Buddhist rituals, its noble and seductive qualities in Christian texts, and its revered status in Islamic traditions, agarwood continues to be a cherished and revered substance.

Understanding these historical references enriches our appreciation of agarwood’s enduring legacy and its role in shaping cultural and religious practices throughout history.