This is a BBC documentary of a women tracing an ancient Arab trade of an aromatic gum 'Frankincense' used by Arabs, Christians and Jews for centuries. It has been said that it was one of gifts given by the three wise men to the new born Christ.
In Arabic its known as 'Luban'. It was reported that once a man complained to Ali (May Allah be pleased with him) that he forgets and that Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) said to him "Resort to Luban, because it strengthens the heart and does away with forgetfulness." Healing with the Medicine of the Prophet - 337
Its an amazing 4 part documentary in which a British woman crosses through a few Muslims countries studying their cultures, practices and the use of Frankincense. As she travels from Oman through Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Eygpt and Palestine, she learns new ideas and beliefs held by the dwellers of these countries. Many of her misconceptions were cleared and new ideas were opened up.
Frankincense is used as an incense in the Arab world for decades and chewed on as a gum to improve memory. A close Yemani friend of mine told me that in her mothers house they always have frankincense (for burning and eating). Its mostly used in the form of essential oil in the west. It carries many health benefits, its used as aromatherapy to help in many psychological (i.e, fear, insecurity, paranoia, courage, panic attacks, forgetfulness) a and physical (.e, acne scaring, colds, nosebleeds, heart) conditions.
Its a MUST watch, it teaches about the history of this ancient herb, where it comes from. You will get a chance to also explore the history of some of these historic Arab countries.
The Frankincense Trail
PART 1
PART 2
PART 3
PART 4
I love the part where this women cries in Jeddah Saudi Arabia upon hearing the call for prayer for maghrib (the sunset prayer)
No comments:
Post a Comment