Balm in Gilead

Balm in Gilead –  Balm in Gilead is an African-American spiritual.  Gilead, on the shore of the River Jordan, was known in biblical times for its balm – an ointment that heals and soothes.  There are several references to the phrase ‘balm in Gilead’ in the bible.  For example, the prophet Jermimiah asks, “Is there no balm in Gilead?’ when the ungodly Israelites refuse to repent and return to God.  In the words of the hymn, Jesus is presented as the balm that will heal humanity of its sins  Baalm in Gilead is an African-American spiritual.  Gilead, on the shore of the River Jordan, was known in biblical times for its balm – an ointment that heals and soothes.  There are several references to the phrase ‘balm in Gilead’ in the bible.  For example, the prophet Jermimiah asks, “Is there no balm in Gilead?’ when the ungodly Israelites refuse to repent and return to God.  In the words of the hymn, Jesus is presented as the balm that will heal humanity of its sins