The balm of Gilead – What is it?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The balm of Gilead is mentioned three times in the Bible, but takes no central part in any account and is used as a metaphor in two of the appearances. The balm of Gilead is an aromatic medicinal salve made from plant resin, possibly derived from flowering plants. It was known for its healing properties, but its exact composition remains unknown. This balm is mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing healing and restoration, yet also questioning its effectiveness in the face of divine judgment.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Gilead was an area east of the Jordan River.
• A balm is a salve mixture made from plants that is used to make medicine and is usually aromatic. We don't know the specific plants used to make the balm from Gilead, but it is thought to be made from the resin of a flowering plant.
• The balm of Gilead is also known as the "balsam of Mecca."
• Gilead's balm is first mentioned as part of the cargo of Ishmaelites as they encountered Joseph's brothers contemplating fratricide (Genesis 37:25).
• Jeremiah asks, "Is there no balm in Gilead?" upon learning from God that Babylon would be used to punish Judah (see Jeremiah 8:22).
• God describes His judgment on Egypt and suggests that even the balm of Gilead won't help them (Jeremiah 46:11).

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• The balm of Gilead is not mentioned in the New Testament.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

The balm of Gilead, known for its healing properties, can find application and fulfillment in Jesus, who offers spiritual healing to those who turn to Him. Just as the balm was sought for physical healing, Jesus provides healing for the soul. However, for those who reject Him, He represents the ultimate judgment, much like the balm's insufficiency in healing nations under God's judgment in Jeremiah. This duality underscores the importance of seeking Jesus for redemption and the consequences of ignoring His offer of salvation.

UNDERSTAND

• The balm of Gilead is an aromatic medicinal salve made from plant resin, though the exact plants used are unknown.
• The balm of Gilead is also known as the "balsam of Mecca."
• Mentioned in Genesis and Jeremiah, the balm of Gilead symbolizes healing and is used metaphorically to discuss divine judgment.

REFLECT

• How do you perceive the concept of healing, both physically and spiritually, in your own life?
• Reflect on the metaphor of the balm of Gilead. How are you challenged by the balm being known for healing and thus being a contrast when mentioned in pronouncements of judgment?
• Have you ever experienced a situation where you sought healing or restoration but felt like it was out of reach, similar to Jeremiah's question, "Is there no balm in Gilead?"

ENGAGE

• There is something poetic about the balm of Gilead. It has been used by authors such as Edgar Allen Poe in "The Raven" and by others. A popular African-American spiritual, "There is a Balm in Gilead" compares its healing power with the saving power of Jesus.
• What is the significance of the balm of Gilead being mentioned in the Bible as a symbol of healing and restoration, especially in the context of divine judgment?
• How does Jesus fulfill the role symbolized by the balm of Gilead today? How does this understanding impact our view of spiritual healing and judgment?