Mastic, Mastick
What Is Mastic?
Mastic refers to the aromatic resin produced by the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus), a hardy evergreen shrub that grows throughout the Mediterranean basin. The plant typically reaches 10 to 12 feet in height and thrives in rocky, sun-drenched slopes. When the bark is cut, a pale, translucent resin seeps out that hardens into small, tear-shaped drops. This resin has a mild, slightly piney flavor and was one of the most popular chewing substances in the ancient world.
Biblical and Apocryphal References
The mastic tree is mentioned specifically in the story of Susanna (verse 54), one of the additions to the book of Daniel found in the Septuagint and recognized in Catholic and Orthodox canons. In this narrative, the prophet Daniel cross-examines two elders who have falsely accused Susanna of adultery. One elder claims the encounter occurred under a mastic tree, while the other names a different tree, exposing their lies. The wordplay in the Greek text between the tree name and the punishment announced creates a literary connection that underscores divine justice.
The mastic tree is also closely related to other resinous plants mentioned in canonical Scripture. Genesis 37:25 references a caravan of Ishmaelites carrying spices, balm, and myrrh to Egypt, and some scholars have connected the balm mentioned here with mastic resin. The terebinth tree, a close relative of the mastic in the Pistacia family, appears frequently throughout the Old Testament (Genesis 12:6; Judges 6:11; 1 Samuel 17:2).
Uses in the Ancient World
Mastic resin served many purposes in antiquity. Its most widespread use was as a chewing gum, valued for freshening breath and preserving dental health. People throughout the eastern Mediterranean chewed mastic simply for pleasure as well. The resin from the island of Chios was considered the finest quality and commanded premium prices.
Beyond chewing, mastic was incorporated into perfumes, medicines, and food preparation. Bakers sometimes added small amounts to bread dough just before baking to impart a distinctive aroma. The resin was also used to make varnishes and was valued in embalming practices. Its versatility made it an important trade commodity throughout the ancient Near East.
Theological Significance in Susanna
In the story of Susanna, the mastic tree becomes an instrument of divine justice. Daniel's use of the specific tree names to trap the lying elders demonstrates that God provides wisdom to the faithful and exposes the wickedness of those who bear false witness. The narrative reinforces biblical teachings about the importance of truthful testimony (Exodus 20:16; Proverbs 19:5) and God's protection of the innocent.
The Mastic Tree in Its Natural Setting
The Pistacia lentiscus grows in dense thickets across the Mediterranean coastlands, from Portugal to Palestine. In biblical lands, it was common on the hillsides of Lebanon, Galilee, and the coastal plains. The tree's resilience in poor, rocky soil made it a familiar sight in landscapes that might otherwise appear barren. Its presence in gardens and groves would have been well known to ancient audiences, making it a natural detail for the author of Susanna to include in the story.
Biblical Context
Mastic is directly named in Susanna verse 54, part of the Greek additions to Daniel. It is connected to the broader family of resinous plants referenced in Genesis 37:25 (balm carried to Egypt) and to the terebinth trees that appear throughout the Old Testament narratives.
Theological Significance
In the story of Susanna, the mastic tree serves as a tool of divine justice, as Daniel uses it to expose false witnesses. This reinforces the biblical principle that God defends the innocent and that truth will ultimately prevail over deception.
Historical Background
Mastic resin from the Pistacia lentiscus was a major trade commodity in the ancient Mediterranean. The island of Chios was especially renowned for its high-quality mastic. Archaeological evidence confirms widespread use of the resin for chewing, medicine, perfumery, and food preparation across the ancient Near East and Greco-Roman world.