The adoration of the Magi is a powerful, heartwarming part of Nativity history. But do you sometimes wonder…were the Magi well-meaning but clumsy gift-givers? After all, they were older, learned, wealthy men who probably didn’t spend a lot of time around children. Couldn’t someone have told them to bring swaddling clothes, a crib, and some money?
Actually, the Magi were the very best gift-givers. Their offerings of gold, frankincense, and myrrh were more than a nice gesture—they proclaimed the mystery of God Incarnate. Here’s why:
Gold has always been highly valued due to its scarcity, the difficulty of purifying it, and its lustrous color. The only people able to flaunt gold for millennia were the royalty—so naturally, it became a symbol of blue blood. Depositing gold at the feet of the Child in Bethlehem means that this Child is royalty—Son of David, King of Kings.
Frankincense is a type of hardened plant resin that creates aromatic smoke when burned. Nearly all cultures have reserved it as an offering to divinity. For the Jews, incense reminded them of the mystery of God, its smoke forming a spiritual link between heaven and earth. Its presence tells us that the Christ Child is God.
Myrrh is also plant resin, but its most common use was as a burial ointment. This gift of myrrh foretells Christ’s death—that is, it undeniably announces His humanity and proclaims the salvific sacrifice He will undergo.
With one seemingly small gesture, the Magi declare to us that here is the Word Incarnate, God made man, born to be our King and our Salvation. Their offerings proved their homage and belief—that is why they were the best gift-givers.
Bring the gifts of the Magi into your own home with our heirloom Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh Set. In this gorgeous trio, each gift is couched in an intricately-detailed resin box. A truly stunning reminder of Christ our King, God, and Savior, these gifts will make a beautiful addition to your prayer space or home decor all year round. We sold out of the large set over Christmas, but our just-as-lovely smaller set is still available! Get yours today at The Catholic Company!
