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The use of incense dates back to biblical times and may have originated in Egypt, where the gums and resins of aromatic trees were imported from the Arabian and Somali coasts to be used in religious ceremonies. It was also used by the Pharaohs, not only to counteract unpleasant odors, but as they believed, also to drive away demons and gratify the presence of gods. The Babylonians used incense extensively while offering prayers to divining oracles. In India, some 2000 years BC, various writings mention 'perfumers' and 'incense sellers'. Evidence suggests oils were used mainly for their aroma. Incense spread from there to Greece, and Rome. It was imported into Israel in the 5th century BC to be used in religious offerings. Brought to Japan in the 6th century by Chinese Buddhist monks, who used the mystical aromas in their purification rites, the delicate scents of Koh (high-quality Japanese incense) became a source of amusement and entertainment with nobles in the Imperial Court during the Heian Era 200 years later. |
