Empire 214. The Empire of Frankincense & Myrrh
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Dec 24, 2024 In this engaging discussion, historian Bettany Hughes sheds light on the enigmatic Nabataean empire, renowned for its wealthy trade in frankincense and myrrh. These aromatic treasures were crucial during ancient times, often dubbed the 'tears of the gods.' Bettany delves into the impressive engineering and maritime skills of the Nabataeans, reveals their clever positioning in trade routes, and highlights their cultural legacy, including their remarkable city of Petra. Join in for an exploration of this influential yet overlooked civilization!
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Frankincense Mishap
- Bettany Hughes' mother once ate a handful of frankincense, mistaking it for sugar.
- This led to a frankincense ban in Hughes' household.
Frankincense and Myrrh
- Frankincense and myrrh, gifts given to the infant Jesus, are both tree saps with distinct properties.
- Frankincense is golden and lemony, while myrrh is reddish and spicy, both having antibiotic qualities.
Ancient Frankincense
- The use of frankincense dates back to ancient times, found in Tutankhamun's tomb and even earlier.
- Initially functional with antibacterial properties, it also became associated with divinity and used in rituals.