Pronunciation: [ˈɒnɪt͡ʃə] (IPA) 
The word "Onycha" is a biblical term used to describe a fragrant resin obtained from the shell of a particular mollusc. The spelling of this word can be tricky as it is not commonly used in modern language. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced as /ˈɒnɪkə/. The "o" sound is short, followed by the "n" sound with a schwa in the second syllable. The final syllable is pronounced with a short "uh" sound.
Onycha is a noun that refers to a type of aromatic substance derived from the shell of a mollusk, specifically the murex trunculus or murex brandaris species. This substance is often described as a resin or a gum and has a distinct, pleasant smell.
Onycha has a long history of use, dating back to ancient times. It has been mentioned in various religious texts and was used in the preparation of sacred incenses and perfumes. In biblical references, onycha is one of the ingredients mentioned in the recipe for the sacred incense used in religious ceremonies. It was valued for its fragrance and was believed to have purifying and soothing properties.
The process of extracting onycha involves collecting the mollusk shells, usually found in the Mediterranean region, and drying them either in the sun or through careful heating. The resulting substance is then ground or crushed into a fine powder or a resinous material.
Due to its rarity and historical significance, onycha is relatively uncommon and not widely available in modern times. However, it continues to be referenced in literature and studies related to ancient perfumes and medicinal practices.
In summary, onycha is an aromatic substance derived from the shells of specific mollusk species, historically used in sacred incense and perfumes. It possesses a unique fragrance and is considered to have purifying properties.
The shell of the E. India onyx-fish; the onyx.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Onycha" has its roots in Greek and Hebrew. In the Bible, specifically in the Book of Exodus, it is mentioned as an ingredient used in the sacred incense. The Hebrew word for Onycha is "shecheleth" which likely derived from the root word "shachal" meaning "black". This is because the resin obtained from the Onycha tree has a black coloring.
The Greek translation of "shecheleth" is "onycha" which refers to the fingernail or claw of a bird. This translation might be due to the fact that the resin-bearing branches of the Onycha tree resemble a bird's claw. Over time, the word "Onycha" came to be associated with the resin itself, and it continues to be recognized as the name of this aromatic substance today.
