Holy Smoke!



Myrrh incense burning  in an outdoor plant pot. Dec. 2022

A packet of myrrh incense was Rich's winning. Cool! It seemed a timely prize during Christmas season, considering the story of the Wise Men and their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. My research revealed that frankincense and myrrh, derived from the resin of then scarce trees, were as precious as gold. These essential oils have both ritual and healing properties in so many cultures.

Not typically fond of inhaling drifting smoke, I find the aroma of copal incense pleasing. During our recent trip to an ancient indigenous site near Oaxaca City, Mexico, I rubbed sap from the living copal tree on my hands and enjoyed its lingering scent. (photo below).

Though symbols and beliefs may differ greatly, one universal element in many spiritual traditions is the use of smoke. Beyond its aromatic qualities, smoke may be viewed as a bridge or veil between the world we can see and the one we cannot. Not surprisingly, smoke plays a vital role in indigenous ceremonies and prayers. Sage and sweetgrass are commonly burned for smudging to clear negative energy.

Pondering how to start anew in 2023? Invite creativity, joy, abundance, and positive loving energy with the light of a candle, or perhaps the aroma of a little holy smoke!

"Let the smoke pass to each their blessing, and do away with all sorrows and unhappiness.
Fill homes with love, light and wisdom."
 ~ excerpt from indigenous prayer

Holy smoke, it's our Julian's birthday already! Enjoy your special day. xo


Copal tree. Mount Alban, Oaxaca.

Comments

  1. AnnetteJanuary 1, 2023 at 10:02 AM

    Happy New Year to you and Rich and your family and friends. Love this post and what a wonderful opportunity to be able to rub the sap from the living copal tree on your hands enjoying its lingering scent.

    ReplyDelete

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