Bdellium

BDELLIUM del'-i-um (bedholach):

The word occurs twice in the Pentateuch:

(1) in Genesis 2:12, in conjunction with gold and onyx, as a product of the land of HAVILAH (which see), and

(2) in Numbers 11:7, where the manna is likened to this substance in appearance:

"The appearance thereof as the appearance of bdellium." The latter comparison excludes the idea of bedholach being a precious stone, and points to the identification of it with the fragrant resinous gum known to the Greeks as bdellion, several kinds being mentioned by Dioscorides and Pliny. It was a product of Arabia, India, Afghanistan, etc.

James Orr

Copyright Statement

These files are public domain.

Bibliography Information

Orr, James, M.A., D.D. General Editor. "Entry for 'BDELLIUM'".  "International Standard Bible Encyclopedia".  1915.