What is the symbolism of gold frankincense and myrrh?
Myrrh being commonly used as an anointing oil, frankincense as a perfume, and gold as a valuable. The three gifts had a spiritual meaning: gold as a symbol of kingship on earth, frankincense (an incense) as a symbol of deity, and myrrh (an embalming oil) as a symbol of death.
What does the Bible say about frankincense and myrrh?
As per the Biblical tale, as recounted in Matthew 2:1-12, an infant Jesus of Nazareth was visited in Bethlehem on the eve of his birth by Magi bearing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Frankincense was often burned as an incense, while myrrh made its way into medicine and perfume.
What is the purpose of frankincense and myrrh?
In the West, frankincense and myrrh have been used as incense in religious and cultural ceremonies since ancient times; in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, they are used mainly for the treatment of chronic diseases. The main chemical constituents of frankincense and myrrh are terpenoids and essential oils.
What is frankincense resin used for?
frankincense, also called olibanum, aromatic gum resin containing a volatile oil that is used in incense and perfumes. Frankincense was valued in ancient times in worship and as a medicine and is still an important incense resin, particularly in Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches.
What is the spiritual significance of myrrh?
Myrrh is a gift for your body, mind and spirit. Myrrh had a spiritual significance in the ancient world and was used as a sacred anointment oil in religious ceremonies, as well as being known as a powerful healing essence.
What gifts did the Three Kings bring to baby Jesus?
The magi knelt down for the baby Jesus and “offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” Their gifts are possibly an allusion to Isaiah’s vision of nations rendering tribute to Jerusalem: “A multitude of camels shall cover you.
Can you eat myrrh resin?
When taken by mouth: Myrrh is LIKELY SAFE for most people when used in the small amounts found in food. Myrrh is POSSIBLY SAFE when used appropriately as medicine. It can cause some side effects such as diarrhea. But large doses of myrrh are POSSIBLY UNSAFE.
What is frankincense resin good for?
Frankincense is used in traditional medicine to treat a wide variety of medical conditions. This resin may benefit asthma and arthritis, as well as gut and oral health. It may even have anticancer properties.
Why was gold frankincense and myrrh given to Jesus?
One aspect of the visit that has largely escaped alteration is the list of gifts presented to Jesus: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. If you’re wondering what use an infant would have for these gifts, you’re not alone. The primary significance of the gifts lay in their great value—they were indeed gifts fit for a king.
Why did the wise men bring frankincense to Christ?
So when the wise men brought frankincense to Christ, they brought it to worship Him, knowing that Christ was holy and set apart. We can give gifts of frankincense today, by giving gifts for spiritual growth; gifts that help others worship God. This can be a Bible, journal, devotional, Bible Belles for young girls, Christ-centered home décor, etc.
What to do with the gift of myrrh?
Use the gifts of Myrrh gift tags with red ribbon on gifts for the body (clothes, perfume, etc.). Receiving gifts is probably the most favorite tradition of Christmas for many. However, let’s be purposeful and intentional about our gifts, so that they point others to Jesus Christ.
Why was liquid myrrh given as a gift to Jesus?
Just like the first two gifts, there is a Temple connection with myrrh as well. Exodus 30 tells us that liquid myrrh was a main ingredient in the anointing oil used to ceremonially prepare the priests, the instruments, the altar, and the Temple itself before sacrifices could be made.