Labdanum

Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia

(Hebrew lot) (Gen 43:11) - a fragrant plant resin that hardens in the air and was gathered from Cistus creticus. This thorny shrub grows in Cyprus, Arabia, Syria, and Palestine and reaches eight or nine feet. Labdanum was an important article of ancient trade (Gen 37:25; 43:11) and one of the costly gifts presented to kings, nobles, and other distinguished persons as a token of reverence. The source connects it with the incense offered among the gifts to the Christ Child (Matt 2:11).

Scripture cited

Genesis 43:11 Genesis 37:25 Matthew 2:11

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