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The principle that benefiting from the world requires a blessing (section 2 above) also applies to the enjoyment of a pleasant scent. Giving thanks for a fragrance teaches us to be aware of the subtle pleasures God created that enrich our lives and enhance our emotional experiences. To precisely tailor our gratitude, the Sages composed separate blessings for each of four sources of aromas:
- The blessing on the aroma of a tree or perennial bush is “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, Who creates fragrant trees.”
- The blessing on the scent of an annual or biennial plant is “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, Who creates fragrant plants.”
- The blessing on the smell of a fruit is “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, Who gives pleasant fragrance to fruits.”
- The blessing on the perfume of anything else, whether natural or synthetic, is “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, Who creates various spices.” This blessing is also recited in cases of doubt. For example, if someone is uncertain whether one smelling a bush or a plant, one recites this blessing, as it covers all pleasant aromas.
No blessing is recited on something whose purpose is to eliminate a bad smell. This includes deodorants and bathroom deodorizers.
