Bdellium — a fragrant, translucent resin or pearl-like substance. Mentioned in Genesis 2:12 as one of the precious materials found in the land of Havilah surrounding Eden, and in Numbers 11:7 as a comparison for the color and appearance of manna.
Bdellium appears at two crucial junctures in the Pentateuch. In Genesis 2, it marks the abundance and richness of Eden — the garden of God's presence was adorned with precious materials. In Numbers 11, the Israelites use it to describe manna — the miraculous bread of heaven had the look of bdellium, suggesting translucence and purity. The grumbling people had forgotten they were eating Eden's provision in the wilderness. Manna is a foretaste of the heavenly bread (John 6:35).