Balm

Balm in Scripture refers to an aromatic resinous substance prized for its medicinal and trade value. The Hebrew tsori (rendered balm in the KJV) is a product of Gilead, referred to in Jeremiah 8:22 and 46:11 as a medicine famous for its healing properties. Gilead east of the Jordan was known for its medicinal plants, and balm of Gilead became a byword for restorative medicine. The balm carried by Ishmaelite traders passing through Dothan — spices, balm, and myrrh going down to Egypt — was among the goods that provided Joseph's brothers the opportunity to sell him into slavery (Genesis 37:25).

Jacob sent balm among the gifts given to the unnamed official in Egypt (Genesis 43:11) and Ezekiel 27:17 lists balm among Judah's exports to Tyre. Jeremiah's rhetorical question — Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? (Jeremiah 8:22) — uses the famous remedy as a figure for the spiritual healing that Israel refuses, though the remedy is available. The passage became foundational in Christian hymnody as a metaphor for the healing available in Christ.