Let this beautiful book guide you around the incense world, 21 Feb 2001

Let this beautiful, highly informative book guide you around the aromatic world of incense. For those who think that incense burning is confined to religious ceremony or new age travellers then read on

The Complete Incense Book is just that, a comprehensive outline of the source and uses of incense through the ages to present day.

Susanne Fischer-Rizzi takes you on a highly informative and most enjoyable journey to Northern Europe, Mesopotamia, Egypt, Crete, Greece, Arabia, Israel, America, India, The Himalayas and Japan. Through beautiful photography, fine illustrations and a comprehensive writing style, the reader is introduced to the myths and legends of ancient cultures and the importance that they placed on burning incense. It is fascinating to read that the ancient, common recognition of burning incense has stood the test of time.

For those who thought that incense burning was only associated with the eastern cultures, then an excursion into Chapter 2, introduces the reader to the traditions and beliefs of the Celts of Northern Europe and the part that incense burning played in their daily lives. There is even a recipe with the magical name - 'The Game of Elves'. The Celtic practice of burning incense around the period of the shortest day is reflected in the Christian traditions of the twelve nights of Christmas. After reading this chapter, the 21st century Christmas shopper may have a different perspective as to why they feel so tired around the festive season!

We are told that by gently burning properly harvested and dried plants there is an aroma given off. It is this aroma, coupled with the gentle rising of the smoke that is believed to release the qualities of the natural plant. The perfume from specifically selected plants was found to induce a range of emotions, clarity of thought, dreams and relief from pain. To day 'scientific dream labs have recently discovered, fragrances and aromas have a strong effect on dream activity.'

Gods and Goddesses, Kings, Queens and Pharaohs, philosophers and scientists, Arabian physicians, Native American Indians and characters in the Bible are amongst the many who are mentioned in this book as having recognised the value of burning incense. Whether incense is burned for rituals or ceremony, meditation or prayer, to stimulate the senses, healing, assist with creativity or just getting a good nights sleep - Suzanne brings together the history, recipes and tools as well as the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of this ancient practice bang up to date in this superb book.

From philomena@hiddentalents.net

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