The Scent of Now
Petrichor , the enchanting earthly aroma of freshly fallen rain on dry soil ( from Ancient Greek πέτρα 'rock' or πέτρος 'stone' and ἰχώρ, the ethereal fluid that is the blood of the gods in Greek mythology ) , is a complex phenomenon. Produced by a chemical called geosmin, secreted by Streptomyces bacteria, this scent serves a fascinating purpose: attracting small arthropods. These creatures, in turn, consume the bacteria and disperse its spores, aiding in reproduction. Remarkably, humans possess an acute sensitivity to geosmin, despite our relatively weak olfactory sense. We can detect this compound in concentrations as low as 100 parts per trillion. The Japanese Buddhist concept of jijimuge , meaning "the unimpeded interpenetration of all phenomena," offers a profound lens through which to view this ephemeral experience. It encapsulates the idea of a universe interconnected without barriers, where all beings and things are inhe...