A Balm in Gilead

The healing 'balm of Gilead' was a rare, costly aromatic resin from the ancient Middle East used as a medicinal ointment to treat wounds and skin conditions.

1st to 3rd Century Ribbed Glass Balm Jar from Roman Jerusalem

It came from Gilead, a rugged, mountainous area located east of the Jordan River.

The exact plant is debated, but historians link it to small trees or shrubs like Commiphora gileadensis (Mecca balsam) or the Atlantic pistachio tree.Ancient 

People used the thick sap to make perfumes, incense, cosmetics, and medicine to heal cuts, burns, and aches.

The Bible uses the physical balm as a metaphor for spiritual healing and relief from deep emotional or moral pain, so the Prophet Jeremiah, who once described the wound in his soul as 'incurable' asks God this question: Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there? (Jeremiah 8:22)

In our tradition there is, of course, a balm in Gilead. A balm for the incurable wound. The balm is Jesus, the ultimate healer for human suffering and sin.

Have a listen. The lyrics are printed below if you are interested. The song is a balm in itself.

There is a Balm in Gilead - Melanie DeMore and the VocalEssence Ensemble Singers

Refrain:

There is a balm in Gilead

to make the wounded whole.

There is a balm in Gilead

to heal the sinsick soul.

1. Sometimes I feel discouraged,

and think my work's in vain,

but then the Holy Spirit

revives my soul again.

(Refrain)

2. Don't ever feel discouraged,

for Jesus is your friend,

who, if you ask for knowledge,

will never fail to lend.

(Refrain)

3. If you cannot preach like Peter,

if you cannot pray like Paul,

you can tell the love of Jesus,

who died to save us all.

(Refrain)