Its interest is of no wonder, considering that Bakhoor, Agarwood or Oud has been around for centuries since the ancient times of the Sanskrit, Torah, Gospel and the Muslim scriptures.
In the Islamic history, all Prophets are known to have used Bakhoor, but Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.), and his companions used Bakhoor regularly and more specifically on Fridays. This custom
was largely promoted firstly in Arabia and afterward in the vast territory of the Muslim world. The Holy Prophet made known that agarwood is a distinct item of Paradise in his saying, “The first group of people who will enter Paradise, will be glittering like the full moon and those who will follow them, will glitter like the most brilliant star in the sky. They will not urinate, relieve nature, spit, or have any nasal secretions. Their combs will be of gold, and their sweat will smell like musk. The aloes-wood will be used in their centers”. The Messenger of God also revealed the numerous healing properties of agarwood, which in the particular saying, referred to Hindi Oud and its
effectiveness in treating pleurisy.
The Song of Songs describes King Solomon as “coming up from the desert like a column of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and incense” and there are numerous references throughout this book of the Old Testament to “every kind of incense tree” which popular belief denotes to Oud. The bible mentioned several citations of Oud, including a text in which Jesus is said to have been perfumed with aloes (Oud).
The extremely wealthy ancient Chinese used to make their coffins out of this aloeswood while in Buddhism, the most precious Buddhist string of beads numbering to 108 is made of agarwood. The burning of fragrant wood chips to perfume homes and clothes are prominent among Chinese nobleman. Agarwood also has been associated with the Chinese tradition of Feng shui, a discipline of governing the flow of energy in a particular place, and the Oud wood and fragrant incense has been associated with producing good luck and positive energy wherever it is placed.
It was the eminent Queen of Yemen, Arwa Suleyhi, who would send large wooden boxes of Bakhoor to Najaf, Karbala and Egypt in the holy months of Ramadan, and Muharram in the lunar calendar. When it was burnt the atmosphere of the sacred cities became very pleasant and people knew that the gift from Yemen has reached its destination.
During conventions on the Sciences of Islam, especially by Queen Arwa, bakhoor have always been used to create a pious atmosphere. Learned students achieved both the benefits simultaneously and
spiritual knowledge with precious fragrances.
Romans and Greeks are also known to have used Bakhoor in religious rituals. It would be transported over thousands of miles up to the Mediterranean, before it could be traded on to Europe. Bakhoor was also used in vast quantities by the ancient Egyptians. History holds vast
evidence of the uses of Bakhoor in Biblical literature too. It was one of the fragrances presented to the infant Nabi Essa and is always used during religious ceremonies. After the fall of the Roman Empire the newly established Christian Church adopted several ceremonies – including the ritual burning of Bakhoor. It is well recorded that it was the practice of all king of England once a year to offer Bakhoor and Myrrh on the Feast of Epiphany (Jan. 6th)
In addition, Bakhoor was widely used for important ceremonies, such as the consecration of churches and bishops. Then of course Spain was ruled for centuries under Muslims, again giving a magnificent opportunity to spread the Muslim customs in those regions. Later on the Ottomans promoted the cultural heritage of Islam in the west through their military expeditions, whose evidence still remains visible today. According to the valuable sources of “Qaratees al Yamaniyah”, during the period of Suleyhi Power, first from Sana’a and later Zeejiblah, a large quantity of costly Bakhoor along with other fragrances were regularly presented to the Al Haramyn al Sharefyin, Kabah and Rauzat al Nabawi.
Bakhoor refers to scented bricks or a blend of natural traditional ingredients like woodchips Oud and Agarwood mixed with fragrant oils, resin, musk, Ambergris, Sandalwood, flower oils, and others. These chips/bricks are burned to produce a fragrant smoke used for various reasons such as religious rituals, ceremonies, and perfuming homes and clothing. Bakhoor has been an important part of Arabian heritage and culture for centuries and is still widely used today in different forms and variations in the Arab world and beyond.
Bakhoor is made mainly of natural ingredients and every maker that cooks the bakthoor has its secret recipe that distinguishes her/him from others. Some of these makers inherited the art of making Bakhoor from their great ancestors and still keep the secret from generation to generation. In some countries Bakhoor is hand-made using “cooking method” (on fire) while other countries use “baking method” where resins are made by baking (similar to clay where direct fire is not used). The longer the Bakhoor kept on a closed glass jar, the better the scent become.
Bakhoor is not a self-lit substance as Incense sticks. A burner such as an electrical one is required to fast start and safely burn Bakhoor. However, it is recommended to use charcoal to better burn the Bakhoor so as to slowly emitting the smoke of fragrance. In this method, burn a charcoal disc till it glows on a Mabkhara, a special metal or ceramic incense burner
The Bukhoor is usually burned in a traditional incense burner (also known as Mabkhara) using charcoal of wood or manufactured charcoal discs and briquettes.
By using the traditional incense burner and appropriate charcoal, the Bukhoor can be effectively burned, allowing the fragrant smoke to fill the space and create a pleasant environment.
1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Natural Resins contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects. It may help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially benefiting conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel diseases.
2. Immune System Support: Natural Resins has been traditionally used for its immune-boosting properties. It may help strengthen the immune system and support overall health and well-being.
3. Stress Relief and Relaxation: The aroma of Natural Resins has calming and soothing effects. It can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and alleviate anxiety. Burning Natural Resins resin or using it in aromatherapy may create a peaceful atmosphere and support mental and emotional well-being.
4. Skin Health: Natural Resins has been utilized for skincare due to its potential benefits for the skin. It may help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and blemishes. It is also believed to have moisturizing and rejuvenating properties.
5. Respiratory Health: Inhalation of Natural Resins vapor or steam may help clear the respiratory system, soothe coughs, and relieve congestion. It has been used to support respiratory health and address conditions like asthma and bronchitis.
6. Meditation and Spiritual Practices: Natural Resins has a long history of use in religious and spiritual ceremonies. Its
fragrance is believed to help create a sacred and focused atmosphere, enhance meditation, and facilitate a deeper connection with the divine.
It’s important to note that while Natural Resins has been traditionally used for these purposes, scientific research is ongoing to validate its potential benefits. As with any natural remedy, individual results may vary, and it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using Natural
Resins for specific health concerns or conditions.
Bakhoor is often associated with its ability to bring about calmness in the nervous system, its ability to cultivate focus and alertness when used and, as some say, the positive effect it gives to one’s libido system when used regularly. Bakhoor is indeed an aromatherapy, is not gender-specific and can be enjoyed by both sexes, though some females may prefer a blended version of Bakhoor due to the strong potent smell of the pure Oud Bakhoor. In the Middle East, men and women burn Bakhoor to fragrance their houses and also their clothes so that the lasting scent will permeate the whole garment.
The use of Oud oils, wood chips and bakhoors is ancient beyond memorial since the time of the Sanskrit, Toral, Gospel and the Moslem scriptures. Bakhoor calms the body and mind, invoking a feeling of harmony and vigor. The benefits that are involved with Bakhoor are vast, ranging from psychoactive and spiritual, to therapeutic and medicinal. Keep in mind that the information we share below is only for your general information and is not to be relied for diagnostic and treatment purposes.
Bakhoor calms the body, removes destructive and negative energies, provides enhanced awareness, reduces fear, invokes a feeling of vigor and harmony, and enhances mental functionality Bakhoor eases neurotic and obsessive behavior and helps create harmony and balance in our home Bakhoor is highly psychoactive Bakhoor is highly effective for meditation, enlightenment, bringing deep tranquility and relaxation Bakhoor is suggested by proficient masters for giving inspiration and the imperative affection for meditation.
Bakhoor is said to bring connection with the transcendent, stimulating the psyche, human body and consciousness. It is said that prayers rise with the scented smoke and carry the prayer to the Creator. The angels are attracted to the scent and Oud smoke. That is why Muslims love to burn Oud Bakhoor and fumigate their houses on Thursday nights, the holiest of the weeknights to them. Buddhists deploy oud woods for transmutation of ignorance. Tibetan monks utilize it to convey energy to wind down the mind and spirit. The Sufis and Japanese shamans use agarwood oil in their esoteric rites. Bakhoor helps to improve mental clarity, opens the third eye and all of the upper chakras while calming the whole entire spiritual system. Medically, Oud Bakhoor is a tonic, aphrodisiac, diuretic, relieves epilepsy, antimicrobial, carminative, anti-asthmatic.
Ruqyah is a term used in Islamic tradition to refer to the recitation of specific verses from the Quran and supplications for the purpose of seeking protection, healing, and spiritual purification. It is a form of spiritual remedy believed to have the power to ward off evil, alleviate afflictions, and bring about healing.
1. Quranic Recitation: Ruqyah involves the recitation of verses from the Quran, which is considered the sacred book of Islam. These verses are recited with the belief that they contain divine power and blessings. Certain chapters or verses, such as Ayat al-Kursi (Verse of the Throne), Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah An- Nas, are commonly recited in Ruqyah.
2. Seeking Protection: Ruqyah is often performed to seek protection from evil influences, negative energies, and harm caused by supernatural beings, such as jinn (spirits) or black magic. The recitation of Quranic verses is believed to create a barrier of divine protection.
3. Healing and Spiritual Purification: Ruqyah is also employed as a means of healing physical, psychological, and spiritual ailments. It is believed to have a positive effect on the well- being of an individual by alleviating afflictions and promoting spiritual purification.
4. Specific Rituals and Practices: Ruqyah may involve specific rituals and practices alongside Quranic recitation, such as blowing on water or oil, using specific supplications (dua), or performing acts of worship. These additional practices may vary depending on cultural traditions and individual interpretations.
5. scholars or experts in Ruqyah: It is crucial to emphasize that the practice of Ruqyah should be conducted by individuals who possess the necessary knowledge, skills, as well as the associated rituals and etiquettes. Seeking guidance from qualified religious scholars or experts in Ruqyah is highly recommended to ensure that the practice is performed correctly and in accordance with Islamic teachings.
1. Set the Intention: Before using Ruqyah Bakhoor, set your intention for its use. Intentions can vary depending on your personal needs, such as seeking spiritual protection, healing, or seeking blessings.
2. Select the Right Bakhoor: Choose a bakhoor that is made from natural ingredients and has a pleasant scent. Different types of bakhoor may have different fragrances, so select one that appeals to you.
3. Prepare the Space: Find a quiet and clean area where you can perform ruqyah. Ensure the space is well-ventilated to allow the smoke to disperse.
4. Light the Bakhoor: Ignite the bakhoor using a match or lighter. Allow the flame to burn for a few seconds until the bakhoor starts to smolder and release fragrant smoke.
5. Add Ruqyah Bakhoor: Take a small piece or a pinch of Ruqyah Bakhoor and place it on the glowing charcoal. Allow the incense to catch fire and release fragrant smoke.
6. Recite Prayers or Verses: While the Ruqyah Bakhoor is smoldering, you may recite specific prayers or verses from the Quran for protection or healing. This can include Ayat al-Kursi, Surah Al-Falaq, Surah An-Nas, or any other relevant verses or supplications. Recite them with focus, concentration, and a sincere heart.
7. Move the Bakhoor: As you recite the ruqyah, Walk around the space or pass the smoking Bakhoor around yourself or others, allowing the fragrant smoke to spread and fill the area. You can also gently fan the smoke using your hand or a feather to distribute it evenly.
8. Intentional Breathing: Inhale the fragrant smoke intentionally, visualizing that it is purifying and protecting you from negative energies or invoking healing energies. Focus on your breath and feel the positive energy entering your body.
9. Focus and Intent: During the ruqyah practice, maintain focus and intention on seeking protection, healing, and spiritual well-being. Allow the aroma of the bakhoor to enhance the atmosphere and aid in concentration.
10. Complete the Practice: Once you have completed the ruqyah practice, ensure the bakhoor is fully extinguished and safely dispose of the remains. Open windows or use proper ventilation to allow the smoke to dissipate.
11. Silent Reflection or Meditation: After performing the Ruqyah Bakhoor, take a moment for silent reflection, meditation, or prayer. Connect with your inner self and express gratitude for the blessings and protection you seek.
12. Seek Protection and Healing: While the Bakhoor is burning, you can engage in acts of worship, such as reciting Quranic verses, making supplications, or performing ruqyah (recitation for spiritual healing) with the intention of seeking protection, healing, or spiritual benefit. You can sit or stand near the burning Bakhoor and focus on your intentions and prayers.
13. Safety Precautions: Always ensure proper ventilation while burning Bakhoor to prevent excessive smoke accumulation. Be cautious of hot charcoal and keep it out of reach of children and pets. Safely dispose of the ashes and charcoal remnants once they have cooled down.
Remember that the intention behind ruqyah is important, as it is a spiritual practice seeking protection and healing. The use of bakhoor is a personal choice to create a peaceful environment during the practice. It’s important to approach both ruqyah and bakhoor with respect and reverence, following your own beliefs and practices.
Attar oils are commonly used in many spiritual paths as they aid in preparing for religious or spiritual pursuits. Applying the oils to the body during a ritual helps to maintain focus and prevent wandering thoughts, with the fragrances acting as a point of concentration. In the present day, attar oils continue to play a vital role in various ceremonies and practices.
Incense is the perfect companion for meditation as it helps quiet the mind and increase concentration. If you’re looking for a way to improve your meditation sessions, burning incense can really help with focus. Many meditators also like to use incense to time meditation sessions rather than using a timer.
Incense was used in Solomon’s Temple The book of Exodus and the Talmud list the original ingredients that include rankincense, galbanum, onycha, stacte, myrrh, cassia, spikenard. Every morning and evening this sacred incense was burned on the incense altar in the temple.
The LORD describes how to make the incense, its use, and the demand for complete obedience in the Bible.
Biblical Text: Exodus 30:34-38
34 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Take for yourself spices, stacte and onycha and galbanum, spices with pure frankincense; there shall be an equal part of each. 35 With it you shall make incense, a perfume, the work of a perfumer, salted, pure, and holy. 36 You shall beat some of it very fine, and put part of it before the testimony in the tent of meeting where I will meet with you; it shall be most holy to you. 37 The incense which you shall make, you shall not make in the same proportions for yourselves; it shall be holy to you for the Lord. 38 Whoever shall make any like it, to use as perfume, shall be cut off from his people.”
The Jews and the christians used incense in their temples as part of their spiritual practices. It is believed that the use of incense was a way to enhance the spiritual experience and create a sacred atmosphere. Frankincense and other natural aromatics were used to produce the incense. Many Jewish temples around the world continue to use incense in their regular or ceremonial practices to this day.
Is burning of Bakhoor considered a shirk?
The burning of bakhoor and oud chips and other resins by Muslims is in no way solely something which Muslims do. The burning of Franckincense and Myrrh resins, Agarwood chips and bakhoor is actually traditional to the Middle East which undoubtedly goes back since probably the dawn of humanity. In addition to this, the burning of fragrant materials to enrich ones atmosphere is not solely a Middle Eastern thing but is found worldwide in most cultures.
Issue of bakhoor being a ‘shirk’ arises on simple facts that other religious bodies such as Buddhist temples and Churches also burn resins for their holidays.
First, we would say that in traditional Arabian culture especially in Bedouin culture, it’s traditional to burn agarwood or bakhoor when guests come and to offer the scented smoke to each guest so they can scent their hair, clothing and hands, this is as integral to hospitality as serving coffee and dates. Given that this tradition is such a mainstay of Middle Eastern culture it leaves no doubt that since Christianity and Judaism were also born in the Middle East that they would have their own uses for these materials too, as it’s not just limited to Muslims. Arab Christians, Jews and even the Chinese and Japanese use agarwood and burn bakhoor and frankincense too. It’s not a tradition linked to any one nationality, culture or religion. It’s a universal tradition.
Cleanliness, uplifting scents with tranquil atmospheres are always appreciated in spiritual and prayer places.
We found the list of the benefits of Bakhoor from the perspective of a Sunni discussion which we find may be informative. (“Al Risalatil Nadirah Fil Attur al Fakhirah”, Syedi Abdulqadir bin Qazi Habibullah, manuscript, Hiraaz, Yemen)
It’s disturbing to have people attributing something harmless to shirk. Attributing something to shirk is no small matter. It is mindboggling to have some “religious people” to just go around and attributing whatever they wish to shirk. Shirk is a grave matter, it is associating partners with Allah and has 2 aspects. The major one is associating partners with Allah, such as praying one salat to someone else, and the minor aspect is swearing an oath to someone other than Allah. Unless it is specifically laid out in the Quran or the Hadiths that an activity is haram, people should not assign every category of matters to haram and halal at their whims and fancies. Islam is a beautiful religion of ease, and people are not supposed to make it difficult or to make more out of something than what it really is. Unfortunately, we will always have new converts or those who experience a sudden religious zeal to go around and scrutinize everything – even things which do not need to be scrutinized just to find something wrong with it and assign them as haram.
