You probably know that incense is an integral part of religious life. Thus, monasteries have given rise to a very particular type of incense, in the form of resin and still distributed today under the name of monastic incense (or monastery incense). Generally, each monastery (in France or elsewhere) makes its own monastic incense while following the traditional method. Let’s explore this religious incense.
1. Incense in Monasteries
Historically, incense was adopted by Christian monasteries from the early centuries AD, inspired by earlier traditions, notably Jewish and pagan. Monks used incense not only as a means of purification and sanctification of sacred spaces but also to enhance concentration during prayers and meditations. In Buddhism, incense also has a long history, used to purify places of worship and as a meditation aid, symbolizing the ephemeral nature of life.
In Christian liturgy, incense is used to venerate the holy scriptures, relics, and icons, as well as to mark important moments of the religious service. The act of incensing is seen as a sign of respect and veneration, but also as a metaphor for prayer, where the rising smoke represents the prayers of the faithful ascending to heaven.
2. What is Monastery Incense?
Monastery incense comes in the form of resin. Indeed, resin is the purest and most natural form of incense. It is directly harvested as dried sap from various trees, such as Boswellia for frankincense or Commiphora for myrrh. Using incense in its resin form preserves its integrity and aromatic power without adding chemicals or binders that could alter its quality or properties.
Another advantage is its stability and thus its preservation without significant degradation of quality or scent. This is especially important in monasteries, where ritual practices require a regular and reliable supply of incense. The resin form ensures that the incense remains effective and usable for long periods.
3. Monastic Incense and Mount Athos
It is very common to see Greek monastic incense, and for good reason. Mount Athos, also known as the "Holy Mountain," is a unique place in the world of Orthodox Christianity and plays a central role in the tradition of monastic incense. This place is an autonomous monastic republic located in Greece, composed of 20 main monasteries as well as numerous hermitages and sketes. Mount Athos is renowned not only for its spiritual importance but also for its artisanal practices, notably incense production. It is thus one of the main places for manufacturing monastery incense.
4. What Are the Different Types of Monastery Incense?
Like all incense, there are many types available, derived from the fragrances and resins used. However, monastery incenses are especially known for these aromas:
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Frankincense, or Olibanum, is one of the oldest types of incense used in Christian traditions. Derived from the resin of Boswellia Sacra, a tree that grows in the Arabian Peninsula and East Africa, this incense emits a dense white smoke with a spicy and citrusy scent. It is particularly appreciated for its ability to elevate the spirit and promote a feeling of inner peace.
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Used both alone and blended with other resins, myrrh is known for its purifying properties and earthy, slightly bitter notes. It comes from the resin of various trees of the genus Commiphora, mainly found in Somalia and surrounding regions. In rituals, myrrh is often associated with healing and protection.
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Copal is an incense traditionally used in religious practices of the Americas, adopted by some monastic orders following cultural exchanges with the New World. This resin produces a clear smoke and a sweet scent believed to bring mental clarity and facilitate spiritual communication.
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Originating from Southeast Asia, benzoin is a resin that emits a sweet vanilla scent when burned. It is often used in monasteries for its soothing qualities and to help create an atmosphere conducive to meditation and prayer.
5. How to Use Monastery Incense?
5.1. Necessary Equipment
Using monastic incense is similar to using resin incense. You will need the following equipment:
- One or two grains of monastic incense of your choice
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An incense burner or thurible: this is the container used to hold the incense during burning. It can be made of metal, ceramic, or stone, and must withstand heat. Thuribles vary in shape, from portable versions used in liturgical rituals to simpler models for home use.
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A charcoal tablet: for burning resin incense, specially designed charcoal tablets are necessary. These charcoals ignite quickly and maintain a steady heat to allow the incense to burn evenly and release its fragrance.
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A charcoal tong: useful for handling hot charcoal without burning yourself. It also allows you to move the incense or remove it once burning is finished.
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Sand or salt: placed at the bottom of the incense burner, sand or salt helps distribute heat evenly and protects the base of the burner from the direct heat of the charcoal.
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A spoon: used to place the incense on the hot charcoal without risking burning your fingers.
5.2. Burning Monastery Incense
To properly prepare the incense burner, start by placing a layer of sand or salt at the bottom to insulate the heat. Then light a charcoal tablet with a lighter or match and carefully place it in the center of the burner. Wait for the charcoal to start glowing red and for a thin layer of ash to form on its surface, a sign that it is ready to use.
Regarding resin incense, it is recommended to crush it slightly to ensure even burning. However, avoid reducing it to a fine powder, as this would accelerate burning and could cause it to burn too quickly.
To place the incense, use a spoon or spatula to take a small amount of prepared incense and gently place it on the hot charcoal. Be careful not to overload the charcoal to avoid smothering the flame and producing excessive smoke.
During a ritual or meditation session, let the incense burn slowly, releasing its fragrance that will fill the space. If necessary, gradually add small amounts of incense to maintain a steady and controlled burn.
After use, it is important to let the charcoal burn out completely and cool in the burner before disposing of the ashes. Make sure everything is fully extinguished to avoid any fire risk. This process not only ensures safe use of incense but also helps create an atmosphere conducive to spirituality and contemplation.
6. What Are the Benefits of Monastery Incense?
Incense is more than just a source of pleasant fragrance; it also has qualities that positively influence the environment and personal well-being, while playing a crucial role in spiritual and meditative practices.
Using incense can significantly change the ambiance of a space, creating an atmosphere that promotes relaxation, concentration, and overall well-being. The scents released by incense have the ability to purify the air of negative energies and stimulate positive energy in the environment. This transformation helps establish a feeling of peace and tranquility, ideal for relaxation or meditation.
On the well-being level, incense can have several beneficial effects, including reducing anxiety and stress. Some studies suggest that the aroma of incense can increase serotonin production, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. Moreover, specific scents like lavandin, sage, and sandalwood are known for their calming properties and can help combat insomnia and promote better sleep.
Of course, incense is used to sanctify a space during ceremonies or rituals. The scent of incense is considered a divine offering, a way to honor deities or purify a place before worship. It also symbolizes the elevation of prayer and intention toward the divine.
7. Where to Buy Monastic Incense?
You can find this type of incense in monasteries, many of which have their own shops on site. Also, we offer it in our esoteric shop where you can purchase it without traveling, delivered to your home or a pickup point.
Now you know much more about monastic incense. Even though its origin is religious, you can of course use it even if you do not identify as religious. And if you do, you enjoy a very special connection with the Divine.
