Bible Dictionaries
Balsam

Holman Bible Dictionary

Translation of two Hebrew words. Baka' is translated as balsam trees in the modern versions ( 2 Samuel 5:23-24; 1 Chronicles 14:14-15; NAS, NIV, NRSV, and TEV). The KJV reads “mulberry trees,” while REB has “aspens.” Neither the balsam nor mulberry tree has been known to grow around Jerusalem, making the identification of the tree uncertain. Poplar and mastic tree have also been suggested as translations. Balsam is also a translation of basam in the NAS, where other versions have “spice” and “spices” (Song of Song of Solomon 5:1 ,Song of Song of Solomon 5:13; Song of Song of Solomon 6:2 ).