Thousands of years ago, bakhoor first originated with Arabia's nomadic tribes, who upon setting up camp, would burn agarwood chips to both fragrance the air and deter insects.

Years later, the Egyptians continued to use bakhoor to keep bad smells away, but they also believed it served a higher purpose. They believed it kept away demons and bad spirits.

In Islamic history, all Prophets are known to have used Bakhoor, but Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W.), and his companions used Bakhoor regularly and more specifically on Fridays. This custom was largely promoted firstly in Arabia and afterward in the vast territory of the Muslim world.

An eminent Queen of Yemen, Arwa Suleyhi, would send large wooden boxes of Bakhoor to Najaf, Karbala and Egypt in the holy months of Ramadan and Muharram. When it was burnt the atmosphere of the sacred cities became very pleasant and people knew that the gift from Yemen has reached its destination. At this time, Yemeni women started making bakhoor in their kitchens. They combined various ingredients including agarwood ( also known as Oud), and these bakhoor recipes were guarded by the family as making the best bakhoor was a sign of immense prestige.

Romans and Greeks are also known to have used Bakhoor in religious rituals. It would be transported over thousands of miles up to the Mediterranean, before it could be traded on to Europe. History holds vast evidence of the use of oud bakhoor incense in Biblical literature too. Burning bakhoor was common practice during important ceremonies, such as the consecration of churches and bishops.

Today, we understand the science behind scent and how scent affects the mind and mood. So don’t miss scenting your home and prayer space with Arabic oud bakhoor incense! Historically its also been a spiritually pleasing item that was regularly gifted.

Explore Dukhni’s extensive range of bakhoors.