Why did the magi give Jesus gold, frankincense, and myrrh?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

The magi brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Jesus for several reasons. Gold, a precious metal, symbolized wealth and royalty and recognized Jesus as king. Frankincense, a valuable resin used in worship and as a perfume, signified Jesus' divinity and role as a priest. Myrrh, used for anointing and embalming, foreshadowed Jesus' suffering and death, acknowledging Him as a sacrificial savior. The gold, frankincense, and myrrh that the magi gave Jesus were both practical and symbolic gifts, supporting Jesus' family and honoring Him as the prophesied Messiah. The magi's offerings reflected their recognition of Jesus' unique identity and their devotion to Him.

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• Frankincense is a white resin from Boswellia trees that has long been used for incense or perfume. This resin has also been used as a traditional medicine in some cultures. The wise men likely presented frankincense as a perfume or oil to be used for Jesus. Frankincense was also used during worship (Exodus 30:34), perhaps symbolizing holiness.
• Myrrh has been used throughout history in a variety of ways. Taken from the resin of trees in Arabia of the Commiphora family, it is often used as a perfume. Other uses have included medicinal as a digestive aid when mixed with wine, cosmetic or for purification (Esther 2:12), and embalming.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• When the wise men (or magi) found Jesus, they bowed down and presented Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:11).
• Gold has historically served as a precious metal and form of currency. This gift would have provided Joseph and Mary the ability to pay for expenses as new parents. This gift also likely supported the family during their time in Egypt (Matthew 2:13-15). Some traditions further note that gold is a symbol of divinity, recognizing Jesus as God in human form.
• Like the frankincense in the Old Testament, Jesus would be given up as an offering for the sins of humanity.
• Traditions often connect myrrh with the wine mix offered to Jesus on the cross (Mark 15:23) and associate its bitter taste with the suffering Jesus endured on the cross. The use of myrrh in embalming has also been associated with the death of Jesus.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

While the symbolism of the gold, frankincense, and myrrh is often highlighted more today, the gifts were both practical and generous. The wise men gave what they had to show their devotion to Jesus as the new king. They became the first non-Jews to recognize the importance of Jesus and traveled a great distance at great cost to worship Him. They left Him generous gifts and returned home as God directed to keep Jesus and His family safe. Their honorable legacy continues to impact lives today as those who sought the Son of God and recognized Him as king.

The story of the magi encourages us to deeply reflect on how we can offer the best to Jesus in daily life. The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, both valuable and practical, serve as a reminder to give generously from our time, talents, and resources, to honor Christ and support others (Proverbs 11:25; 2 Corinthians 9:6–7; 1 Timothy 6:17–19). We are called to give our lives as a living sacrifice to God (Romans 12:1). By recognizing Jesus as King and offering the best to Him, we can show devotion in practical ways, trusting that God will guide and protect just as He did for the magi. Their example fosters a life of generosity, faith, and devotion.

UNDERSTAND

• The magi brought Jesus gold, frankincense, and myrrh when they followed the star to find the newborn King.
• Gold symbolized royalty, frankincense represented divinity and worship, and myrrh foreshadowed Jesus' suffering and death.
• Practically, gold provided financial support for Mary and Joseph, while frankincense and myrrh had practical uses as perfumes, oils, and traditional medicines.

REFLECT

• What valuable or symbolic gifts can you offer to honor Jesus in daily life, whether in resources, time, or talents?
• The magi recognized Jesus as king and acted with devotion and generosity. How are you encouraged or challenged to do the same?
• Consider the practical support the Magi’s gifts provided to Jesus’ family. How can practical generosity be demonstrated towards those in need?

ENGAGE

• How are the connection of the magi’s gifts to themes of royalty, divinity, and sacrifice fitting as a response to who Jesus is?
• What is the importance of generosity in the life of a community?
• How does the magi's story challenge or inspire deeper spiritual commitment and practical generosity within your group or church community?