Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Chelbana and Ketoret


On the Ketoret (Incense) and Chalbenah (Galbanum):

Rav Chanan Morrison: "What is the root of the incense's secret power? The ketoret also encompasses the forces of destruction, so that they may contribute to building and perfecting the universe. Thus, we find that the ketoret bound together many fragrances, including galbanum (chelbenah), which was an essential ingredient, despite its pungent, unpleasant odor. In this way, these forces fulfill their ultimate purpose, to build and complete.
True realization of this transformation, however, will only occur in the distant future, as the path for sweetening the bitterness of the universe is hidden deeply within the divine secrets of Creation."

Galbanum (from Wikipedia):
It is occasionally used in the making of modern perfume, and is the ingredient which gives the distinctive smell to the fragrance "Must" by Cartier.

The Latin name Ferula derives in part from Ferule which is a schoolmaster's rod, such as a cane, stick, or flat piece of wood, used in punishing children

Amber Jayanti, in her book Living the Qabalistic Tarot says that Galbanum oil is linked with the Tarot card called The Fool, which is also linked to the herb ginseng. Also called Fiery Intelligence, the Fool represents the divine spark that animates the universe.

From http://www.scents-of-earth.com: Galbanum has long been valued for it's wonderfully complex green, spicy, woody, balsamlike fragrance. Galbanum was often used to relieve tensions due to anxiety and severe restlessness and to relieve muscle spasms.
Aroma Description: powerful, complex, fresh, earthy, rich green, spicy, woody, balsamic-resinous fragrance.
Emotional Attributes: calming, relaxing, meditation, prayer, sleep
Medicinal Attributes: used as a stimulant, antiseptic, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory. Used for bronchitis, asthma and externally to treat wounds, ulcers and other skin disorders. Also relieves indigestion and reduces muscle spasms
Magical Associations: spirituality, healing, protection, dreams

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