Why Were Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh Given to Baby Jesus?
During the Christmas season, numerous stories and songs recount the miraculous event of God sending His Son to be born as a human baby, live among us, and ultimately save us. This act is a reason for joyous celebration. Among the many carols that capture the essence of this remarkable story is the poignant "We Three Kings." This song prompts contemplation about the wise men's journey and their choice to present gold, frankincense, and myrrh as gifts to the Christ child. Delving into Scripture starting from this song, the reasons behind the wise men's voyage and the symbolism of each of the gifts bestowed upon Jesus is fascinating.
When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary His mother, and fell down, and worshipped Him... (Matthew 2:10-11).
Why Did the Magi Travel to Bethlehem?
“We three kings of orient are
Bearing gifts, we traverse afar
Field and fountain, moor and mountain
Following yonder star”
(from the Carol “We Three Kings")
The Magi were a group of scholars from Persia with a keen interest in astronomy and alchemy, a science related to chemistry. Influenced by figures like Balaam, a sorcerer who conveyed a prophetic message about the arrival of the Messiah, the Magi sought knowledge and wisdom.
I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth. (Numbers 24:17).
Later in the Old Testament, Daniel, a member of this group during his time in Babylonian captivity, had a vision about the Christ through a message from the angel Gabriel.
Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: . . . (Daniel 9:25).
Anticipating the arrival of the "Anointed One," the Magi combined various prophecies and awaited a celestial sign, which they eventually recognized as a guiding star leading them to Bethlehem.
It's worth noting that although popular depictions often feature only three wise men, the actual number is not specified in the Bible. It is possible that more than three individuals traveled in a caravan through the desert to reach Bethlehem, and the concept of three wise men might have emerged to align with the three types of gifts presented rather than as a definitive truth.
Why Did They Bring Gifts?
And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary His mother, and fell down, and worshipped Him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. (Matthew 2:11).
In that society, individuals with the resources followed the custom of presenting gifts as a form of homage when visiting a king. This practice demonstrated their reverence for the king's authority and influence within their community.
And many brought gifts unto the LORD to Jerusalem, and presents to Hezekiah king of Judah: . . . (2 Chronicles 32:23).
The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts. (Psalm 72:10).
The Magi were aware that this infant would eventually become their Savior and, even more significantly, the leader of all countries. The presents they presented had to symbolize the admiration they harbored towards this King/Messiah.
Gold
The most commonly used term for gold in the Old Testament is "zahabh" (Hebrew) or "dhahab" (Arabic) and was often described as pure and refined. In both the ancient world and spiritual contexts, gold symbolized wealth and was considered a valuable treasure.
Initially used in decorative items like nose rings and bracelets in Genesis 24, gold became highly esteemed among the affluent individuals, eventually finding its way into their furniture, clothing, and even transportation. During that era, gold existed in various forms, such as nuggets, slabs, and dust.
The Hebrew people also held gold in high regard. Notably, the Ark of the Covenant was covered with pure gold, while items like the mercy seat of the Tabernacle and the drinking vessels of Solomon were adorned with gold as well. Other objects such as utensils, candlesticks, dishes, bowls, curtain rods, and numerous other items were also crafted from gold.
Gold became closely associated with:
Given their knowledge of the prophecies, the Magi would likely have thought about offering this valuable metal as a gift to the Christ child.
Frankincense
Frankincense is a scented resin derived from a species of Boswellia tree indigenous to present-day Arabia and Palestine. The term "frank" in its name signifies its ability to emit a potent fragrance when ignited, as well as its capacity to burn consistently and for an extended period. This resin has a pre-existing tradition of use in religious settings. The clergy employed it as a fundamental component in crafting incense and incorporating it into sacrificial offerings made on behalf of the faithful.
And when any will offer a meat offering unto the LORD, his offering shall be of fine flour; and he shall pour oil upon it, and put frankincense thereon. (Leviticus 2:1).
And thou shalt put oil upon it, and lay frankincense thereon: it is a meat offering. (Leviticus 2:15).
Then shall the man bring his wife unto the priest, and he shall bring her offering for her, the tenth part of an ephah of barley meal; he shall pour no oil upon it, nor put frankincense thereon; for it is an offering of jealousy, an offering of memorial, bringing iniquity to remembrance. (Numbers 5:15).
During that period, Frankincense was seen as a precious commodity due to its delightful scent and connection to the temple. It would have been logical for the Magi to present it as a gift to honor their Messiah.
Myrrh
According to certain scholars, myrrh, also known as "murr" in Arabic, was considered more valuable than gold during the time of Jesus' birth. It is a dried resin extracted from the balsam tree and was utilized for various ceremonial and practical purposes.
In Exodus 30, myrrh is mentioned as one of the ingredients in the "oil of holy anointment": Also take fine spices: of liquid myrrh, five hundred shekels (Exodus 30:23). It was also used in the temple incense.
The fragrance of myrrh is referenced in several passages in the Old Testament:
All thy garments smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia, out of the ivory palaces, whereby they have made thee glad. (Psalm 45:8).
I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon. (Proverbs 7:17).
Who is this that cometh out of the wilderness like pillars of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, with all powders of the merchant? (Song of Solomon 3:6).
Myrrh was known for its medicinal properties, particularly in improving oral health and treating arthritis. It was used by the Jews for pain relief and in the embalming process.
The gift of myrrh may have been unusual to celebrate a baby's birth, but the Magi likely presented it for its significant value rather than its practical use.
It is believed that the wise men brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh as symbols of Jesus: gold representing His Kingship, frankincense symbolizing His Deity, and myrrh foreshadowing His death. Alternatively, some suggest the gifts were given to support the child's family financially.
Regardless of the intention behind the gifts, my research revealed that the Magi were aware of the prophecies about the Messiah's arrival, made a deliberate journey to worship Him, and brought gifts they believed would honor Him. Studying their worship of Jesus has encouraged me to be more mindful of the ways I honor Him in my daily life.
When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary His mother, and fell down, and worshipped Him... (Matthew 2:10-11).
Why Did the Magi Travel to Bethlehem?
“We three kings of orient are
Bearing gifts, we traverse afar
Field and fountain, moor and mountain
Following yonder star”
(from the Carol “We Three Kings")
The Magi were a group of scholars from Persia with a keen interest in astronomy and alchemy, a science related to chemistry. Influenced by figures like Balaam, a sorcerer who conveyed a prophetic message about the arrival of the Messiah, the Magi sought knowledge and wisdom.
I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth. (Numbers 24:17).
Later in the Old Testament, Daniel, a member of this group during his time in Babylonian captivity, had a vision about the Christ through a message from the angel Gabriel.
Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: . . . (Daniel 9:25).
Anticipating the arrival of the "Anointed One," the Magi combined various prophecies and awaited a celestial sign, which they eventually recognized as a guiding star leading them to Bethlehem.
It's worth noting that although popular depictions often feature only three wise men, the actual number is not specified in the Bible. It is possible that more than three individuals traveled in a caravan through the desert to reach Bethlehem, and the concept of three wise men might have emerged to align with the three types of gifts presented rather than as a definitive truth.
Why Did They Bring Gifts?
And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary His mother, and fell down, and worshipped Him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. (Matthew 2:11).
In that society, individuals with the resources followed the custom of presenting gifts as a form of homage when visiting a king. This practice demonstrated their reverence for the king's authority and influence within their community.
And many brought gifts unto the LORD to Jerusalem, and presents to Hezekiah king of Judah: . . . (2 Chronicles 32:23).
The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts. (Psalm 72:10).
The Magi were aware that this infant would eventually become their Savior and, even more significantly, the leader of all countries. The presents they presented had to symbolize the admiration they harbored towards this King/Messiah.
Gold
The most commonly used term for gold in the Old Testament is "zahabh" (Hebrew) or "dhahab" (Arabic) and was often described as pure and refined. In both the ancient world and spiritual contexts, gold symbolized wealth and was considered a valuable treasure.
Initially used in decorative items like nose rings and bracelets in Genesis 24, gold became highly esteemed among the affluent individuals, eventually finding its way into their furniture, clothing, and even transportation. During that era, gold existed in various forms, such as nuggets, slabs, and dust.
The Hebrew people also held gold in high regard. Notably, the Ark of the Covenant was covered with pure gold, while items like the mercy seat of the Tabernacle and the drinking vessels of Solomon were adorned with gold as well. Other objects such as utensils, candlesticks, dishes, bowls, curtain rods, and numerous other items were also crafted from gold.
Gold became closely associated with:
- Anything of great value: Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold. (Proverbs 8:10).
- Nobility: . . . so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti. (Esther 2:17).
- Worship to God: And this is the offering which ye shall take of them; gold, and silver, and brass. (Exodus 25:3).
Given their knowledge of the prophecies, the Magi would likely have thought about offering this valuable metal as a gift to the Christ child.
Frankincense
Frankincense is a scented resin derived from a species of Boswellia tree indigenous to present-day Arabia and Palestine. The term "frank" in its name signifies its ability to emit a potent fragrance when ignited, as well as its capacity to burn consistently and for an extended period. This resin has a pre-existing tradition of use in religious settings. The clergy employed it as a fundamental component in crafting incense and incorporating it into sacrificial offerings made on behalf of the faithful.
And when any will offer a meat offering unto the LORD, his offering shall be of fine flour; and he shall pour oil upon it, and put frankincense thereon. (Leviticus 2:1).
And thou shalt put oil upon it, and lay frankincense thereon: it is a meat offering. (Leviticus 2:15).
Then shall the man bring his wife unto the priest, and he shall bring her offering for her, the tenth part of an ephah of barley meal; he shall pour no oil upon it, nor put frankincense thereon; for it is an offering of jealousy, an offering of memorial, bringing iniquity to remembrance. (Numbers 5:15).
During that period, Frankincense was seen as a precious commodity due to its delightful scent and connection to the temple. It would have been logical for the Magi to present it as a gift to honor their Messiah.
Myrrh
According to certain scholars, myrrh, also known as "murr" in Arabic, was considered more valuable than gold during the time of Jesus' birth. It is a dried resin extracted from the balsam tree and was utilized for various ceremonial and practical purposes.
In Exodus 30, myrrh is mentioned as one of the ingredients in the "oil of holy anointment": Also take fine spices: of liquid myrrh, five hundred shekels (Exodus 30:23). It was also used in the temple incense.
The fragrance of myrrh is referenced in several passages in the Old Testament:
All thy garments smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia, out of the ivory palaces, whereby they have made thee glad. (Psalm 45:8).
I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon. (Proverbs 7:17).
Who is this that cometh out of the wilderness like pillars of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, with all powders of the merchant? (Song of Solomon 3:6).
Myrrh was known for its medicinal properties, particularly in improving oral health and treating arthritis. It was used by the Jews for pain relief and in the embalming process.
The gift of myrrh may have been unusual to celebrate a baby's birth, but the Magi likely presented it for its significant value rather than its practical use.
It is believed that the wise men brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh as symbols of Jesus: gold representing His Kingship, frankincense symbolizing His Deity, and myrrh foreshadowing His death. Alternatively, some suggest the gifts were given to support the child's family financially.
Regardless of the intention behind the gifts, my research revealed that the Magi were aware of the prophecies about the Messiah's arrival, made a deliberate journey to worship Him, and brought gifts they believed would honor Him. Studying their worship of Jesus has encouraged me to be more mindful of the ways I honor Him in my daily life.