The word incense comes from Latin incendere meaning 'to burn'.
Egyptian incense burner, 7th century BC
Combustible bouquets were used by the ancient Egyptians, who employed incense in both pragmatic and mystical capacities. Incense was burnt to counteract or obscure malodorous products of human habitation, but was widely perceived to also deter malevolent demons and appease the gods with its pleasant aroma.[3] Resin balls were found in many prehistoric Egyptian tombs in El Mahasna, giving evidence for the prominence of incense and related compounds in Egyptian antiquity.[8] One of the oldest extant incense burners originates from the 5th dynasty.[8] The Temple of Deir-el-Bahari in Egypt contains a series of carvings that depict an expedition for incense.[9]
The Babylonians used incense while offering prayers to divine[10] oracles.[11] Incense spread from there to Greece and Rome.
Incense burners have been found in the Indus Civilization (3300–1300 BCE).[12] Evidence suggests oils were used mainly for their aroma. This was the first usage of subterranean plant parts in incense.[13]
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