Why was it called "the Wood of God"? The story of Agarwood

Introduction: The Mystique of the Wood of God

Agarwood, often called the “Wood of God,” has fascinated civilisations for centuries. Known for its exotic woody notes, resinous heartwood, and sacred fragrance, this rare treasure has inspired ancient myths, legends, sacred stories, and religious texts worldwide. People appreciate Agarwood for its quality, life-enhancing benefits, and sophisticated scent. Hence, it holds a unique place in history, spirituality, and perfumery.

Mentioned in sacred stories and ancient texts, treasured for its significance among gods and its status as one of the most precious plants cherished by various cultures, agarwood has been well-sought after

From ancient walls adorned with turquoise tiles in the Middle East to the serene temples of Japan, from travelling Buddhist monks to ancient texts of India, agarwood has always been a symbol of peace, joy, and divine presence. Its association with Gods and its role among precious plants in spiritual traditions further elevate its mystical allure. But why exactly was it called the Wood of God? Let’s explore.

Wood of God

The phrase “Wood of God” is not a simple poetic label, but a name that shows deep spiritual respect. For centuries, believers across cultures have linked agarwood with divinity. It has been burned in temples, infused into holy oils, and used as incense to carry prayers to the heavens. In some ancient myths, the smoke of agarwood was said to bridge the gap between mortals and gods, while in Buddhism it symbolised purity, peace, and release from suffering. Its scarcity, healing qualities, and unmistakable aroma cemented its reputation as a sacred gift of the divine.

Agarwood in Ancient Religious Texts

Christian

The Bible’s references to “aloeswood” (or “aloes”) have intrigued scholars, especially given the aromatic and symbolic role such woods play throughout the Scripture. Although the precise botanical identity of “aloes” in the biblical text is debated, many scholars link it to what we now call agarwood or aloeswood, due to its fragrance, ritual use, and high value (International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, n.d.; Bible Study Tools, n.d.).

• Numbers 24:5–6 (“As aloes which Jehovah has planted”)
  In the prophecy of Balaam, Israel is praised with imagery: “As gardens by the riverside, as trees of lign-aloes which the Lord has planted.” (Numbers 24:5–6, KJV). The Hebrew word here is ‘ahalim, often translated “aloes” or “aloeswood” (International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, n.d.; Easton’s Bible Dictionary, n.d.). The use of such a rare and fragrant wood in the metaphor elevates Israel’s tents and presence to the sacred realm.
  Though agarwood trees are not native to the Middle East, the imagery may be symbolic or poetic, reflecting a wood famed across the East for its fragrance and value (International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, n.d.; Bible Study Tools, n.d.).

• Other Biblical Mentions
  In Psalm 45:8, garments are said to be perfumed “with myrrh and aloes and cassia,” linking “aloes” to fragrant luxury (Bible Study Tools, n.d.).
  Proverbs 7:17 similarly mentions the perfuming of a bed with “myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon,” indicating its role in intimate, precious fragrance.
  In Song of Solomon 4:14, “myrrh and aloes, with all the chief spices” appear among the poetic descriptions of the beloved’s garden, again associating “aloes” with exalted, exotic scent.
  Finally, in John 19:39, Nicodemus is described as bringing “a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred litras” for the burial preparation of Jesus (Bible Study Tools, n.d.; International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, n.d.). This costly and aromatic act underscores the reverence given to Christ in death.

Agarwood's Esteemed Role in Anointing Practices

There is significant historical and biblical evidence that agarwood, often referred to as "aloes" in scripture, was a highly prized aromatic substance used in sacred anointing practices. While not an ingredient in the specific holy anointing oil recipe given to Moses for consecrating priests, its use in one of the most significant anointings in the New Testament underscores its sacred importance.

The most notable instance of agarwood's use in an anointing context is found in the Gospel of John. After the crucifixion, Nicodemus brought a substantial quantity of myrrh and "aloes" to prepare Jesus' body for burial (John 19:39-40). This act was one of profound reverence and honour, using some of the most valuable aromatic substances of the time. Biblical scholars widely agree that the "aloes" mentioned here is the resinous heartwood of the Aquilaria tree, known today as agarwood or oud. The immense quantity brought by Nicodemus, about one hundred Roman pounds, highlighted the immense value and esteem of the materials used

Taken together, these passages depict “aloeswood” not as a common shrub but as fragrant wood of distinction, associated with worship, love, honor, and the sacred. The biblical usage reinforces why agarwood is often called the Wood of God — a material that connects the earthly fragrance realm with divine worship in Islamic tradition

Islam

Agarwood (ʿūd or aloeswood) is mentioned in several hadith as significant for fragrance, healing, and even Paradise (Al-Bukhari, M. I. (n.d.))

• Ibn ʿUmar reported that when he used fumigation, he would either burn aloeswood alone or mix it with camphor, saying that this was how the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) fumigated himself (Muslim, n.d., Book 27, Hadith 5601).

• In a narration from Sahih al-Bukhari, Paradise is described as a place where the first group to enter will shine like the full moon, their sweat will smell like musk, and aloeswood will be used in their dwellings (Al-Bukhari, n.d., Book 55, Hadith 544).

• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also recommended Indian aloeswood (al-ʿūd al-hindī) as having seven healing properties, including a treatment for pleurisy, applied either through the nostrils or by mouth depending on the ailment (Muslim, n.d., Book 26, Hadith 5487).

Agarwood in Hindu, Especially in Vedic & Classical Texts

Agarwood (Sanskrit agāru, or aguru) is among the earliest aromatic substances recorded in India, esteemed not only as fragrant wood but also as a ritual and medicinal agent.

• Vedas & Early Sanskrit References
  In the Vedas (c. 1500–1000 BCE), aromatic substances including aloes/aloeswood (interpreted by scholars as agarwood) are referenced as offerings in Agni-centered fire rituals, serving as a bridge between humans and the divine realm (Griffith, as cited in Economic Botany) (Turner, 2004; Groom, 1981; cited in History of Use and Trade of Agarwood, 2018). Economic Botany notes that Sanskrit texts early on described agarwood as a “fragrant product” (Arora & Beek, 2018, p. 84).
  
  Photo by Rajesh Mishra on Unsplash

• Epic & Medicinal Traditions
  In the Mahābhārata, scenes evoke the burning of “sweet aloes” to scent royal palaces and receptions, understood by many scholars as references to agarwood, marking it as symbol of luxury and divine favour (Arora & Beek, 2018).
  Ayurvedic works such as the Susruta Samhitā and related classical medicinal treatises record agarwood’s use in calming the mind, respiratory ailments, and as an aromatic tonic (cited in AGARWOOD: The Precious Tree, Devi, 2021).

Thus, in Hindu tradition, agarwood emerges as a precious plant deeply entwined with ritual, medicine, and spiritual symbolism.

In Japan, agarwood was introduced alongside Buddhism, often carried by travelling Buddhist monks. In Vietnam, ancient texts celebrated its role in both medicine and ritual incense, symbolising peace and spiritual elevation.

Agarwood in Buddhist Texts & Tradition

In Buddhism, agarwood carries powerful symbolic and ritual weight. It is not merely incense, but often treated as sacred fragrance, evoking purity, devotion, and meditative clarity.

• Scriptural & Canonical Mentions
  The Vimānavatthu (a Pāli canonical text) credits agarwood incense in ceremonies around the consecration of relics and sacred images (Buddhist Journal, n.d.).
  In Mahāyāna literature such as the Avataṃsaka Sūtra, agarwood is listed among the most honored offerings to the Buddha; offering fragrant woods is said to accrue great merit (Buddhist Journal, n.d.).
  Jātaka tales recount acts of kings and nobles perfuming themselves and their halls with aloes (interpreted as agarwood) to honor the Buddha’s past lives (Buddhist Journal, n.d.).

• Ritual, Meditation & Symbolism
  Buddhist practice often places agarwood incense at altars, during chanting, and in meditation chambers. The pure scent is believed to purify the six senses (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch, mind) and foster concentration (Buddhist Journal, n.d.). Some texts regard the fragrance of agarwood as symbolic of coming closer to the “Pure Lands,” where divine aroma fills the air (Buddhist Journal, n.d.).
  Because of its rarity and profound aroma, agarwood is considered not ordinary incense, but a symbolic offering of highest reverence (Buddhist Journal, n.d.).

In sum, Buddhist texts and traditions treat agarwood as more than a fragrant wood; they view it as a divine medium connecting senses, ritual, and spiritual aspiration.

Integration & Significance

By situating agarwood in both Vedic–Hindu and Buddhist frameworks, we see how its label “Wood of God” is not just a poetic phrase but reflects deep interreligious meaning: as sacred fragrance, ritual medium, and symbol of divine presence. Its usage in both traditions underscores its status among the rarest and most revered of precious plants and fragrant woods.

The Scent of the Divine: Fragrance and Notes

The allure of agarwood lies in its scent, a complex masterpiece created by a rare natural process. The unique scents produced by agarwood have been prized for centuries for their historical, cultural, and medicinal significance. When the heartwood of Aquilaria trees becomes infected with mold, it produces a dark, resinous wood with one of the most expensive and rare aromas in the world.

Exotic Woody Notes

Agarwood is most admired for its exotic woody notes, which combine smokiness, warmth, and sweetness in a way no other wood can replicate. These notes are layered and complex, revealing hints of earth, resin, spice, and subtle floral undertones. They are the foundation of many luxury perfumes, where agarwood provides depth, mystery, and sophistication. In incense, these woody notes linger in the air, transforming ordinary spaces into sacred sanctuaries filled with calm and reverence.

An example of Fragrance Composition

• Top Notes: fresh hints of violet, lily of the valley, almond, and rose, evoking spring and light,

• Heart Notes: rich oud, patchouli, saffron, and incense, delivering everyday sophistication and spiritual depth,

• Base Notes: warm musk, resin, powder, and wood, offering dark, wild, and complex layers of joy, peace, and happiness,

This unique fragrance inspired countless perfumes, many bottled as liquid luxury. When agarwood is smelled, its aroma evokes a sense of rejuvenation and transports the wearer to an exotic land, inspiring emotions and memories. Each bottle tells a story, influenced by ancient myths, cultural legends, and centuries of refinement.

Lily of the Valley

While agarwood itself is earthy and resinous, it is often paired in perfumery with lighter floral notes such as lily of the valley. This delicate flower introduces freshness and sweetness, balancing the deep woody base of oud. The contrast creates harmony — a blend of the divine heaviness of agarwood with the uplifting brightness of spring flowers. Together, they symbolise the duality of life, the balance between darkness and light, depth and freshness.

Agarwood in Ancient Myths and Legends

Throughout ancient times, agarwood (also known as agar wood) was a symbol of life, godly presence, and sacred connection. Revered in religious rituals for its unique formation process, where the wood becomes infused with a fragrant resin after being affected by mold, agar wood has long held spiritual significance and is valued as a sacred, highly prized material.

• In India, it was burned as incense during religious rituals.

• In the Middle East, it was traded as one of the most expensive woods alongside saffron and gold,

• In China and Japan, it became part of Buddhist meditation practices, symbolising peace, wisdom, and enlightenment.

• In Indonesia, agarwood trees grew wild in dense forests, influencing both local markets and global perfume trades,

The ancient walls of temples, adorned with turquoise tiles, were often perfumed with incense smoke from agarwood, creating a sense of sacredness and divine connection.

Precious Plants with fragrant wood

Agarwood is more than just fragrant wood; it belongs to the family of precious plants valued by humanity since ancient times. Alongside saffron, frankincense, and myrrh, agarwood has been treasured for its rarity, medicinal uses, and ability to inspire spiritual devotion. Cultures across the Middle East, India, and East Asia ranked it among the finest natural treasures, worthy of temples, palaces, and the most sacred rituals. Today, it continues to hold this position as one of nature’s rarest and most prized gifts.

The Most Expensive Woods in the World

Agarwood ranks among the most expensive woods globally, alongside ebony and sandalwood. Its rarity stems from the fact that only infected heartwood produces the fragrant resin. This scarcity has made agarwood a precious plant product, driving its value to thousands of dollars per kilogram in today’s market.

Its price depends on,

• Origin (Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam)

• Quality of resin and depth of aroma,

• The distillation process used to extract the essential oil (oud),

Recent data has shown notable changes in the demand and supply of agarwood, as well as increased attention to conservation efforts. Recently, the market and regulations have shifted in response to new data and emerging trends, impacting both availability and pricing.

Even today, CITES regulations protect agarwood trees due to overharvesting and increasing global demand.

Reference List (APA 7th Edition)

Al-Bukhari, M. I. (n.d.). Sahih al-Bukhari. In M. Muhsin Khan (Trans.), Hadith collection. Sacred Texts. https://sacred-texts.com/isl/bukhari/bh4/bh4_547.htm

Muslim, I. H. (n.d.). Sahih Muslim. In H. Siddiqui (Trans.), Hadith collection. Qurango. https://qurango.com/muslim/027.smt.html

Muslim, I. H. (n.d.). Sahih Muslim. In H. Siddiqui (Trans.), Hadith collection. Hadith Collection. https://hadithcollection.com/sahihmuslim/sahih-muslim-book-26-on-salutations-and-greetings/sahih-muslim-book-026-hadith-number-5487

Arora, A., & Beek, H. (2018). History of Use and Trade of Agarwood. Economic Botany, 72(1), 84–92. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12231-018-9408-4

Devi, G. (2021). AGARWOOD: The Precious Tree. International Journal of Research, 9(7). https://doi.org/10.29121/granthaalayah.v9.i7.2021.4103

“Buddhism and Agarwood.” (n.d.). Buddhist Journal. Retrieved from https://www.buddhistjournal.org/bam4-agarwood

Turner, J. (2004). Aromatics and the Spirit: Studies in Ancient Cultures (as cited in Arora & Beek, 2018).

Bible Study Tools. (n.d.). Aloes: Meaning and references in the Bible. https://www.biblestudytools.com/dictionary/aloes/

Easton’s Bible Dictionary. (n.d.). Aloes. https://www.bibletools.org/index.cfm/fuseaction/Def.show/RTD/easton/ID/183/Aloes.htm

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. (n.d.). Aloes; Lignaloes. https://www.bibletools.org/index.cfm/fuseaction/Def.show/RTD/isbe/ID/415/Aloes-Lignaloes.htm