The Hebrew word n'koth refers to spicery, aromatic gum, or fragrant spices. These were highly valued trade commodities in the ancient Near East, often carried by merchant caravans along trade routes connecting Arabia, Egypt, and Mesopotamia. The term likely refers to tragacanth gum or a similar aromatic resin used in perfumery and embalming.
Spices in the Old Testament represent value, luxury, and international commerce. When Jacob sends spices as a gift to the unknown ruler of Egypt (Genesis 43:11), he is offering the finest products of the land as an act of honor and diplomacy. The Ishmaelite caravan carrying spices to Egypt (Genesis 37:25) provides the vehicle for Joseph's providential journey into slavery — a seemingly tragic event that God would transform into the salvation of an entire family and nation. Spices also featured prominently in worship, being used in the sacred incense of the tabernacle.