1. The copal resin: This is the most common meaning. Copal is a resin obtained from various trees, mainly in Mexico and Central America. It has a fragrant aroma and is often used in religious ceremonies and traditional medicine.
2. A type of tree: In some regions, "copal" may refer to a specific type of tree, like the Bursera simaruba, which is known for producing the copal resin.
So, the exact meaning of "el copal" depends on the context. If you see it used in a religious or spiritual context, it's most likely referring to the resin. If it's used in a botanical context, it might refer to the tree itself.