The First Christmas Gifts

Why did they bring Gold, Frankincense & Myrrh?

Christmas is the time of year where we love to celebrate with our loved ones. It originated from the Nativity Story which was about the birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God .

Gifts are often given during Christmas and here is where the tradition came from

In the bible the three Wise men (also known as Kings) followed the star, so that they could worship the birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

When they arrived, “they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.” (Matthew 2:11).

Gold is known to be a symbol of divinity and is also a valuable commodity as well as a precious metal. This may have helped to finance Joseph and Mary’s journey to Egypt as it also displayed the wealth of a King. Gold is still highly valued today.

Frankincense is known to symbolise holiness and also righteousness. It is a white resin or gum that comes from the bark of a Boswelia tree. It is very fragrant, particularly after being burnt and is often used for worship. It is said that this was also part of the reason it was given as a gift to Christ as it symbolises how he gave himself up as a sacrifice. Frankincense can also be found in essential oils today

Myrrh came from a Commiphora tree and was a spice that was frequently used in embalming and it was also a rare perfume that could be intoxicating, which was why it was often mixed with wine to drink. Hence, it was given to Christ to drink before he was crucified (Mark 15:23).   Myrrh is said to symbolise bitterness, pain and suffering. This was appropriate as the baby Jesus, later suffered and then went on to give his life on the cross for all who believe in him, so that they can have their sins forgiven.

So, the next time you open a Christmas gift you’ll know how it all began…

by Pamela Sommers

Pamela is a London wedding jewellery specialist and founder of SommerSparkle, an award-winning online boutique creating fairytale weddings with their beautiful bridal jewellery & accessories.

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