Bible Dictionary
Balm
Balm was a fragrant resin or gum associated especially with Gilead and used as a valuable trade product. Its medicinal reputation provided the image behind the “balm in Gilead” that could soothe wounds.
Biblical Usage
Balm appears among gifts, merchandise, and exports. Jeremiah uses its reputed medicinal and soothing qualities figuratively when asking whether there is no balm in Gilead for the wound of the people.
Scripture References