Bdĕll'ium, n.

(dĕl'yum), n. [Lat. bdellium, Gr. βδέλλιον, Heb. b'dolakh. Bochart and Parkhurst translate it pearl, Gen. ii. 12. But it is doubtful whether the bdellium of the Scripture is that now used.] A gummy, resinous exudation from an Oriental tree or shrub.

☞ It is externally of a dark brown color, internally clear, and not unlike glue in appearance, slightly bitterish and pungent in taste, and of an agreeable odor. It is used both as a perfume and a medicine. Two kinds are common; the Indian, a product of Amyris commiphora which grows in India and Madagascar; and the African, produced by Heudelotia Africana, which grows in Senegal. Dunglison. The nature of the bdellium of the Scriptures (Gen. ii. 12, and Num. xi. 7) has been a matter of much discussion. By some it is considered a precious stone, by others the resinous gum above mentioned as produced in India. Kitto.