The History of the Mabkhara and Its Importance in the Arab World
Not many people know about the Mabkhara outside the Arab world. Similarly, the new generation has lost sight of its importance. If there is one item that represents all the Arabs, it is an incense burner or Mabkhara. It was traditionally made using soft stone and clay by hand. After it is made, the Mabkhara is painted and designed with beautiful symbols and designs. With the passage of time, the incense burner highlights the history of all Arabs.
Today, there are all types of Bakhoor burners in the Arab world. In fact, there are even electric Mabkharas that can be purchased. The fact is that the Mabkhara is important for all Arabs since it is part of the culture. When holidays are around the corner, it is used to mark the occasion. The same goes for weddings and parties where it is used to ensure that the place smells pleasant. Many houses have around 2 to 3 Mabkharas as the smell is necessary for Arabs to feel at home. In order to use the Mabkhara, you need the Mabkhara itself, Bakhoor, and a piece of charcoal. You must light the charcoal until it becomes red and put the Bakhoor on top of it. It will allow an amazing smell to permeate.
Role of Mabkhara and Incense in Islamic Culture
The truth is that Islamic culture places a huge value on one having a pleasant smell. Not only does a pleasant smell ensure that others are comfortable, but it also ensures that one is clean and pure. It is essential for discipline and hygiene. This is why Muslims care about how their homes, clothes, hair, and bodies smell even if they are alone. They must have a pleasant aroma surrounding them. In most places in Qatar and Saudi Arabia just like anywhere in the Middle East, one would be able to smell pleasant, sweet, and woody notes everywhere they go, from mosques to private living rooms. The aroma is the strongest during the holy month of Ramadan when incense is burnt even more frequently.
The main source of the aroma is the Mabkhara that contains Bakhoor, a traditional type of wood-based incense that is extremely popular throughout the Arab world. It is different from the incense sticks that are common in South Asia and South-East Asia. Arabs infuse their clothes with the scent and ensure that their homes are filled with the aroma to ensure that guests have a great time.
Benefits of the Mabkhara (Bakhoor Burner)
There are many benefits of using the Mabkhara as mentioned below.
1. Amazing Smell
One of the benefits of a Bakhoor burner is that it releases an amazing smell that fills the space instantly. Whenever someone is visiting an Arab home, the incense burner is used to ensure that visitors are delighted and welcomed by the smell. Similarly, it is used in mosques to invite Muslims and encourage them to spend time praying. There is just something about the smell that is released by the Mabkhara that cannot be rivalled. The traditional smell transports one to an ancient time when everything was possible.
2. Calms and Helps with Concentration
Another great benefit of using the Mabkhara is that it calms and helps with concentration. Whether you want to recite the holy Quran or study for an exam, it is just what you need. Since smell plays a huge role in concentration, the incense burner can help boost concentration. It will allow one to continue with studies or recitation without any distraction. In fact, it will eliminate distractions altogether and ensure that one feels connected to whatever they are doing.
3. Used for Religious Practices
A Mabkhara is commonly used for carrying out religious practices such as praying the obligatory prayers and reciting the Holy Quran. The aroma produced by the Bakhoor burner helps accentuate the experience. As the hot coals are also soaked in aromatic oils, the experience is unlike any other. The list of ingredients used for the best religious experience vary. Some popular options include Patchouli, Sandalwood, Frankincense, and Musk. In fact, Ahadith reveal that the Messenger of Allah used to anoint his body and infuse his clothes with the smell.
4. Drives Away Insects
In addition to the above, the Mabkhara has been used for generations due to its ability to drive away insects. The strong smell produced by the incense burner deters insects from entering the space. This makes it the ultimate item that one should definitely purchase for their home. If you want to prevent an insect or pest problem at home, you need to get a Mabkhara. It will help keep your home pest-free. There is nothing quite like it. You can use the Bakhoor burner regularly for its pleasant smell and deter insects from entering your home. Many believe the smell is also used to prevent evil spirits from entering a space.
5. Serve as Household Décor and Friendly Gift
Mabkharas are perceived as a household decoration item and friendly gift. There are all types of incense burners on the market and each of them are unique in their own way. If you are looking for something to decorate your home with, nothing will stand out more than a beautiful Mabkhara. The symbolism that is featured in the Bakhoor burner makes it a must-have. Placing it in your home will signify a state of inner peace, hospitality, and well-being.
Get a Mabkhara of Your Choice Today
Now that you know just how amazing Mabkharas are, it makes sense to get one for your home or a friend. The most common incense burners that are available today are made of glass or metal. However, if you want to differentiate yourself from the rest, then come take a look at our display of Resin Mabkharas. By getting a Mabkhara for yourself, you get to embrace the Arab heritage and pay homage to Arabian history. Come take a look!