What Do Frankincense, Gold, and Myrrh Symbolize?

As the holiday season approaches, the familiar aroma of frankincense and myrrh fills the air, and the glimmer and shine of gold catches our eye. These three treasures were famously brought as gifts to the newborn baby Jesus by the Three Wise Men, but their significance goes far beyond a simple offering. Frankincense, gold, and myrrh symbolize deep spiritual meaning and carry with them stories of their own. So, what exactly do they represent?

Frankincense is often associated with religious ceremonies and used in the burning of incense to honor deities. It is said to have a purifying effect on the mind and soul and has been used for centuries in various cultures for its medicinal properties. Gold, on the other hand, is a symbol of wealth, power, and divinity. It can also represent purity and enlightenment, as it is a precious metal that does not tarnish or corrode. Finally, myrrh is known for its strong fragrance and has been used in perfumes and incense for thousands of years. It represents healing, purification, and has even been used in embalming practices throughout history.

Together, frankincense, gold, and myrrh represent a powerful combination of spiritual significance and worldly wealth. Their use and symbolism have been passed down through generations and still hold a place in many cultures and religions today. They remind us of the importance of honoring and respecting our personal beliefs and the interconnectedness of all things spiritual and physical.

Historical significance of frankincense, gold, and myrrh

Frankincense, gold, and myrrh have been valuable and revered substances for thousands of years. They have played an important role in the history of many civilizations and have been used for a variety of purposes ranging from religious rituals to medicinal remedies. Below is a dive into the historical significance of each substance and the ways in which they have impacted different cultures throughout history.

  • Frankincense: Frankincense is an aromatic resin that comes from the Boswellia tree, a species native to the Arabian Peninsula and northeastern Africa. For centuries, it was one of the most sought-after commodities in the Middle East, used for religious offerings, medicinal remedies, and even as a form of currency. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all valued frankincense for its aromatic qualities and believed it to have healing properties. It was often used in religious ceremonies, particularly in the Jewish and Christian faiths, where it was burned as an offering to God.
  • Gold: Gold has been treasured as a precious metal for thousands of years. It has been used in jewelry, currency, and even dentistry. Its rarity and beauty have made it a symbol of wealth and power throughout history. Gold has been used by different civilizations for a variety of purposes, including trade, investment, and religious rituals. The ancient Egyptians, for example, believed that gold symbolized the sun god Ra and used it extensively in their religious ceremonies. The Incas, on the other hand, believed that gold symbolized tears of the sun and used it to decorate their temples and garments worn by their kings.
  • Myrrh: Myrrh is another aromatic resin that comes from the Commiphora tree, which is native to Somalia, Yemen, and Ethiopia. It has been used in religious ceremonies, medicinal remedies, and even in embalming practices. In ancient times, myrrh was prized for its medicinal properties and was used to treat a variety of ailments, including wounds, pain, and infections. It was also used as an incense in Jewish and Christian religious ceremonies, where it symbolized purification and sacrifice. In ancient Egypt, myrrh was used in embalming practices to preserve the bodies of the deceased.

Religious Symbolism of the Three Gifts

The gift of frankincense, gold, and myrrh to the infant Jesus by the three wise men or Magi is a well-known story in Christianity. Each of these gifts is believed to have its own religious symbolism, which adds deeper meaning to the nativity story.

  • Frankincense: This gift is a symbol of Christ’s priestly role. Frankincense was used in the Old Testament for offering sacrifices and represents worship, purity, and holiness. The gift of frankincense recognizes that Jesus is the Son of God, whose birth marks the beginning of a new era of worship and redemption for all humanity.
  • Gold: This gift symbolizes Christ’s royal position. Gold was a precious metal gifted to rulers and kings in ancient times, and the gift of gold to Jesus recognizes his sovereignty and kingship. The Magi were acknowledging Jesus as the King of Kings, who would rule over all nations and people.
  • Myrrh: This gift represents Christ’s mortality and sacrifice. Myrrh was used in embalming the dead, and so it has a mortuary connotation. It signifies the death and suffering that Jesus will experience during his life. The gift of myrrh, therefore, acknowledges that Jesus will offer his life as a sacrifice and overcome death, fulfilling the prophecies of the Old Testament.

The unique religious symbolism of each of these gifts adds layers of meaning to the story of the Magi’s visit to the infant Jesus. Their recognition of Jesus as the Son of God, King of Kings, and Savior of the world is a testament to the paradigm shift that Jesus’ birth represented in the religious landscape of the time.

The significance of these gifts is not limited to Christianity alone. Frankincense, gold, and myrrh have been used in various cultures and religions throughout history, and they continue to be important symbols of faith, worship, and spirituality. In this way, the story of the Magi’s visit and the religious symbolism of the gifts they brought have universal meaning and relevance beyond any particular religious tradition or belief.

Modern uses of frankincense, gold and myrrh

The ancient gifts of frankincense, gold and myrrh are not just symbolic presents, but also have modern day uses that make them valuable in many aspects. Nowadays, they are widely used in different fields such as medicine, aromatherapy, and skincare.

  • Frankincense:
  • Frankincense oil is most commonly known for its calming properties and is often used in aromatherapy due to its relaxing effect on the mind and body. It is also used in skincare for its anti-aging properties, and in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.

  • Gold:
  • Gold is often used in skincare products for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Traditionally, it has been used in medicine for its wound-healing properties and is currently being researched for its potential use in cancer treatment due to its ability to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy.

  • Myrrh:
  • Myrrh essential oil is known for its soothing properties and is commonly used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that make it useful for treating respiratory issues such as coughs and bronchitis. Additionally, it is often used in skincare products for its ability to improve skin tone and texture.

The significance of the modern uses of frankincense, gold, and myrrh

The modern uses of frankincense, gold, and myrrh demonstrate how these ancient gifts still hold value and importance in today’s world. They not only have symbolic significance, but also provide practical benefits that improve our well-being and daily lives. Through ongoing research, we continue to discover new uses and benefits of these timeless gifts.

Table of modern uses of frankincense, gold, and myrrh

GiftModern Uses
FrankincenseAromatherapy, skincare, anti-inflammatory and pain relief in medicine
GoldSkincare, wound healing, and enhancing chemotherapy in cancer treatment
MyrrhAromatherapy, respiratory and cough treatment, skincare

The table above summarizes the various modern uses of frankincense, gold, and myrrh. It is clear from the table that these gifts have a wide range of benefits, making them valuable in many different fields.

Three Wise Men and the Biblical Context of the Gifts

The story of the Three Wise Men is perhaps one of the most enduring and widely-known narratives in the Bible. According to the Gospel of Matthew, three Magi, who were scholars and astronomers believed to have hailed from Persia or Arabia, followed a star that led them to the birthplace of Jesus in Bethlehem.

Upon their arrival, the Wise Men presented the Holy Family with three gifts – gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Each of these offerings had deep symbolic meanings that were intended to reflect the divinity and the mission of the infant, and prophetically pointed to his future of sacrificial suffering and death.

  • Gold: Throughout history, gold has been a symbol of wealth, power, and royalty. When the Wise Men presented gold to Jesus, they were acknowledging his kingship and sovereignty as the promised Messiah. This also fulfilled the ancient prophecy in Psalm 72:10-11 that says, “May the kings of Tarshish and of distant shores bring tribute to him…all kings will bow down to him.”
  • Frankincense: Frankincense is a fragrant resin from trees that is used in incense and perfumes, and was a highly valued commodity in ancient times. Its use in religious ceremonies was believed to carry prayers to heaven, and it was commonly used to honor deity. The gift of frankincense to Jesus signified his divinity and his role as the great High Priest who would intercede on behalf of his people before God (Hebrews 4:14-16).
  • Myrrh: Myrrh is a resinous substance that has medicinal and cosmetic qualities, and was commonly used in embalming and burials. Its use in this context foreshadowed Jesus’ sacrificial death and burial. The gift of myrrh to Jesus was a symbol of the bitter cup he would drink for the sins of the world (Mark 15:23), and the anointing of his body in preparation for his burial (John 19:38-39).

The gifts of the Wise Men to the Christ Child were not just expressions of generosity and honor, but also prophetic declarations of his divine identity and mission. They affirmed Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah whose kingship, priesthood, and sufferings would transform the world.

Today, the tradition of gift-giving during the Christmas season is often associated with the gifts of the Wise Men, and remains a reminder of the profound meaning and significance of the three symbolic offerings that they brought to the Child of Bethlehem.

References:

SourceLink
Bible Gatewayhttps://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+2%3A1-12&version=NIV
Got Questionshttps://www.gotquestions.org/gold-frankincense-myrrh.html
Open Biblehttps://www.openbible.info/topics/wise_men

Cultural Significance of Frankincense, Gold and Myrrh in Various Regions

Frankincense, gold and myrrh have not only been treasured for their medicinal benefits but also for their cultural significance. Let’s take a closer look at the significance of each substance in different regions of the world.

  • The Middle East: Frankincense and myrrh have been an essential part of Middle Eastern culture for thousands of years. In this region, frankincense was used in religious ceremonies and thought to have healing powers. Myrrh was also used as part of religious rituals and as an ingredient in perfumes and ointments.
  • Europe: In Europe during the Middle Ages, frankincense was highly valued for its aromatic properties and used as an air freshener. It was also used in religious ceremonies, similar to the Middle East. Gold, on the other hand, was a symbol of wealth and power, often used in art and architecture during this period.
  • Africa: Frankincense and myrrh have been used in African cultures for both religious and medicinal purposes. In some cultures, frankincense was burned to ward off evil spirits, while myrrh was used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as congestion, fever and inflammation.
  • Asia: In Asia, frankincense was used in Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient Indian system of medicine. It was believed to improve digestion, boost immunity and promote relaxation. Myrrh was also used in Ayurvedic medicine and as an ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine.
  • The Americas: Frankincense and myrrh were introduced to the Americas by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. In South and Central America, myrrh was used as an incense during religious ceremonies, while in North America, frankincense was used in Native American medicine to treat various ailments.

The Significance of Frankincense, Gold and Myrrh in Culture

Aside from their regional significance, frankincense, gold and myrrh have played a significant role in various cultures throughout history. Here’s a breakdown of the meanings associated with each substance:

SubstanceMeaning
FrankincenseUsed in religious ceremonies, symbolizes purification, spirituality, and divinity.
GoldA symbol of wealth, power, and luxury.
MyrrhUsed in religious ceremonies, symbolizes healing, pain relief, and purification.

It’s clear that frankincense, gold, and myrrh were all valued for their unique properties throughout history and across different cultures. These substances continue to be treasured today, with frankincense and myrrh being used in aromatherapy and gold being used in various forms of jewelry and decorative items.

Spiritual properties associated with frankincense, gold and myrrh

Frankincense, gold, and myrrh are widely known for their spiritual properties. These three gifts were presented to Jesus by the Wise Men, and each held a symbolic meaning.

  • Frankincense symbolizes divinity, holiness, and righteousness. It is commonly used in religious ceremonies to purify and protect the soul and bring forth a sense of calmness and tranquility.
  • Gold symbolizes purity, divinity, and the presence of God. It is also associated with wealth and prosperity, representing the abundance and richness of life.
  • Myrrh symbolizes love, sacrifice, and mortality. It was commonly used in ancient times as a perfume, and it is said to cleanse the soul of negative energies and protect it from evil spirits.

Moreover, the number six plays a crucial role in the symbolism of these three gifts. The Wise Men presented six gifts in total, with each gift representing a specific aspect of spiritual meaning.

The number six is often associated with harmony, balance, and perfection. It is also the number of days God used to create the world, and it represents the six directions of the physical plane (north, south, east, west, up, and down).

Here is a breakdown of the six spiritual properties associated with frankincense, gold, and myrrh:

GiftSpiritual Property
FrankincenseDivinity, holiness, and righteousness
GoldPurity, divinity, presence of God
MyrrhLove, sacrifice, and mortality

The number six represents the harmony and balance between these spiritual properties, creating a perfect union of divine presence, purification, and protection.

Economic and Trade Importance of the Three Gifts

The gift of frankincense, gold, and myrrh symbolizes the high regard of the Magi towards the baby Jesus. However, these gifts also have a significant economic and trade importance during that time.

During the time of Jesus, frankincense, gold, and myrrh were considered luxury items and were highly valued for their many uses and benefits. Trade routes were established to transport these items from their countries of origin to different parts of the world.

  • Frankincense: Frankincense comes from the resin of the Boswellia tree and was mainly produced in the southern Arabian Peninsula. It was used in religious ceremonies, as incense, perfume, and in medicine due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It was also used for embalming and preserving bodies.
  • Gold: Gold has been used for thousands of years as a highly valued metal for its beauty and rarity. It was used as currency, jewelry, and to decorate palaces, temples, and tombs. Gold was also a sign of wealth and power, and it was an important commodity for trading and commerce.
  • Myrrh: Myrrh comes from the resin of the Commiphora tree and was mainly produced in Ethiopia and Somalia. It was used for perfume, incense, and medicine due to its antiseptic and analgesic properties. Myrrh was also used for embalming and preserving bodies.

The trade of frankincense, gold, and myrrh was highly profitable, and it helped to establish and maintain strong trade routes between different regions of the world. The demand for these luxury items remained high, and they were traded for other goods and services.

The table below shows the trade value of frankincense, gold, and myrrh during the time of Jesus:

CommodityTrade Value
Frankincense$1,200/lb
Gold$47/gram
Myrrh$900/lb

Overall, the gift of frankincense, gold, and myrrh symbolizes not just the reverence for the baby Jesus but also the economic and trade importance of these luxury items during that time.

The process of harvesting and extracting frankincense, gold and myrrh

The process of harvesting and extracting frankincense, gold and myrrh is a time-consuming and meticulous process that requires a great deal of effort and expertise. Let’s look at each of these substances in detail:

  • Frankincense: Frankincense is harvested from the resin of the Boswellia tree, which is native to the Arabian Peninsula and East Africa. The process involves making incisions in the bark of the tree to allow the resin to seep out. The resin is then left to harden and is collected by hand.
  • Gold: Gold is mined from the earth in various ways, including through placer mining, hard rock mining, and hydraulic mining. Once extracted, the ore is crushed and treated to remove any impurities before being melted down into pure gold.
  • Myrrh: Myrrh is harvested from the Commiphora tree, which is also native to the Arabian Peninsula and East Africa. The resin is extracted by making incisions in the bark, allowing the resin to ooze out and harden. The hardened resin is then collected and transported, ready for processing.

While the harvesting process for each of these substances is slightly different, the extraction process is similar. The resin or ore is first crushed or ground down into small pieces to make it more manageable. It is then heated, often with the use of water, to separate the desired substance from any impurities. This process requires a great deal of skill, as too much heat or water can damage or ruin the material.

Once the desired substance has been extracted, it is often further processed to enhance its quality. For example, frankincense resin may be cleaned and sorted by hand, while gold may be refined and assayed to determine its purity.

SubstanceHarvesting MethodExtraction Method
FrankincenseIncisions made in the bark of the Boswellia treeResin is heated with water to separate desired substance from impurities
GoldMined from the earthOre is crushed and treated to remove impurities, then melted down
MyrrhIncisions made in the bark of the Commiphora treeResin is heated with water to separate desired substance from impurities

In conclusion, the process of harvesting and extracting frankincense, gold and myrrh requires a great deal of skill and expertise. The substances are carefully extracted using a combination of traditional and modern methods to ensure their purity and quality. The end result is a highly prized substance that has been revered for centuries.

Different Grades and Qualities of Frankincense, Gold and Myrrh

The use of frankincense, gold, and myrrh dates back to ancient times where these substances were regarded as precious gifts. These substances were used in cultural, religious, and medicinal practices. Frankincense, gold, and myrrh are available in different grades or qualities, which play a significant role in determining its value and effectiveness. In this article, we will explore the different grades and qualities of frankincense, gold, and myrrh.

  • Frankincense
  • Gold
  • Myrrh

Frankincense: Frankincense is derived from the Boswellia tree, which is found in the Arabian Peninsula and some parts of Africa. It is available in different grades, ranging from the highest quality, known as Royal Hojary, to the lowest quality, known as Hojary. The quality of frankincense depends on its color, aroma, and purity. Royal Hojary is the most superior grade, characterized by its golden hue, sweet aroma, and low levels of impurities. Hojary, on the other hand, is yellowish in color, has a stronger smell, and may contain more impurities compared to Royal Hojary.

Gold: Gold is a precious metal that has been used to make jewelry and currency for thousands of years. It is also a symbol of wealth and prosperity in many cultures. The quality of gold is determined by its purity, measured in karats. 24-karat gold is the purest form of gold, but it is too soft to be used in jewelry or coins. Different karat values are used to make jewelry, with 14-karat gold being a popular choice due to its durability and affordability.

Myrrh: Myrrh is another resin obtained from a tree species in the Burseraceae family. It is available in different grades based on its color and aroma. The highest quality myrrh is called Red or Superior, which has a deep red color and a sweet aroma. The lowest quality myrrh, called Black or Common, has a more pungent aroma and may contain impurities.

Understanding the different grades and qualities of frankincense, gold, and myrrh is crucial in determining their value and effectiveness. Whether you are using these substances for cultural or medicinal purposes, it is important to choose the highest quality available to ensure the best results.

SubstanceCommon GradesSuperior Grades
FrankincenseHojaryRoyal Hojary
Gold14-karat24-karat
MyrrhBlack or CommonRed or Superior

The table above summarizes the common and superior grades for frankincense, gold, and myrrh. When purchasing these substances, it is essential to check the grade or quality to ensure that you are getting what you pay for.

Artistic representations and depictions of the three gifts

Throughout history, the three gifts of the Magi have been depicted in various forms of art, from paintings to sculptures, symbolizing the spiritual significance of each gift and its relevance to the Christian faith.

  • Frankincense: In art, frankincense is usually represented by a censer or a bowl of burning incense, which symbolizes the idea of offering prayers to God.
  • Gold: Gold is often depicted as a crown, or as coins and jewelry, signifying the idea of kingship and wealth. In Christian art, it is also associated with the idea of divinity and holiness, as gold was a precious metal and reserved for only the most sacred objects.
  • Myrrh: Artistic representations of myrrh often depict a small box or vessel holding the fragrant substance, serving as a symbol of both mortality and immortality. Myrrh was used in ancient times for embalming and symbolized the idea of death, while in Christianity, it represents the idea of resurrection and eternal life.

The three gifts are also commonly depicted in paintings and frescoes of the Nativity scene, where they are presented to the baby Jesus by the three wise men or Magi. The gifts serve as a reminder of the spiritual significance of Christmas and the importance of giving to others.

One notable example of a painting featuring the three gifts is “Adoration of the Magi” by Leonardo da Vinci, which portrays the three wise men presenting their gifts to the baby Jesus, surrounded by angels and spectators. The painting is known for its exquisite detail and the realistic expressions of the figures depicted.

ArtworkArtistDescription
“Adoration of the Magi”Leonardo da VinciDepicts the three wise men presenting their gifts to the baby Jesus, surrounded by angels and spectators.
“The Adoration of the Kings”Peter Paul RubensPortrays the three wise men presenting their gifts to the baby Jesus, with a crowd of people and animals in the background.
“The Adoration of the Magi”Sandro BotticelliShows the three wise men offering their gifts to the baby Jesus, who is seated on the lap of Mary. The painting is notable for its vibrant colors and detailed composition.

Overall, artistic depictions of the three gifts of frankincense, gold, and myrrh serve as a powerful reminder of the spiritual significance of Christmas and the importance of giving to others. These gifts remain a symbol of hope, faith, and love, and continue to inspire people around the world to share their blessings with others.

FAQs about What Do Frankincense Gold and Myrrh Symbolize

1. What is frankincense, gold, and myrrh?

Frankincense, gold, and myrrh are three gifts that were given to Jesus by the Three Wise Men at his birth.

2. What does frankincense symbolize?

Frankincense symbolizes divinity, as it was often used in religious ceremonies and offerings.

3. What does gold symbolize?

Gold symbolizes kingship, wealth, and power. It was fitting to give gold to a royal birth and to honor Jesus as the King of Kings.

4. What does myrrh symbolize?

Myrrh symbolizes mortality and suffering. It was used to embalm the dead and was a fitting gift for Jesus, who would suffer and die for the sins of humanity.

5. What do the three gifts together symbolize?

Together, the three gifts symbolize Jesus’ divinity, kingship, and mortality as the Savior of humanity.

6. Why are these gifts significant?

These gifts were significant because they represented the recognition of Jesus’ importance and purpose on earth.

7. What is the significance of these gifts today?

Today, these gifts are still considered to hold symbolic significance during the Christmas holiday and remind us of the true meaning of the season.

Closing Thoughts: Thanks for Reading!

Frankincense, gold, and myrrh are more than just three gifts given to Jesus at his birth. They hold symbolic significance that represents his divinity, kingship, and mortality as the Savior of humanity. These gifts remind us of the true meaning of Christmas and the recognition of Jesus’ importance and purpose on earth. Thanks for reading and visit again to learn more about the history and symbolism behind holiday traditions.