Three Kings Incense: Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh

Three Kings Incense: Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh

• Three Kings Incense Kit.
• 40 gr (1.41 oz) of incense with the aromas of frankincense, myrrh, and gold.
• 3.3 cm. diameter 10 charcoal tablets.
• An incense burner made of glazed clay.
  • 9.5 cm (3.74 in) in diameter at the top.
  • 7.5 cm (2.95 in) in height.
  • The color may vary due to the artisanal manufacturing process.
• Grid to place at the base of the censer to allow airflow and facilitate charcoal combustion.
• Metal tongs for handling the charcoal.
• Gold symbolizes Jesus as King, frankincense as God, and myrrh as Man.
• Three Kings Incense is also available in other formats.

The Three Wise Men

The Three Wise Men, also known as the Magi, are key figures in the Catholic tradition of Christmas.

Their story is based on the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 2:1-12), which tells how these wise men followed a star to Bethlehem to worship the child Jesus and offer him symbolic gifts (gold, frankincense, and myrrh).

Although the Bible does not mention their names, tradition identifies them as Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar. They are described as wise men or magi from the East, representing the different regions of the known world at the time: Asia, Africa, and Europe.

Each of the Magi brought a gift to the child Jesus, which has a special meaning in the Catholic tradition:

• Gold: Represents Jesus' royalty as King of Kings.
• Frankincense: Symbolizes his divinity and role as the Son of God.
• Myrrh: Foreshadows Jesus' suffering and death, as it was traditionally used for embalming.

The Three Wise Men holds significant importance in the Catholic tradition for several reasons.

First, they recognize Jesus as the Messiah, God's chosen one to save humanity from its sins. This event is celebrated on January 6 as Epiphany Day. Epiphany means "manifestation," marking the day Jesus was revealed to the world.

Another key aspect of the Three Wise Men is their representation of universality. In Catholic tradition, the Wise Men symbolize the corners of the known world, corresponding to what we now know as Europe, Africa, and Asia. They came to pay their respects and present their gifts to everyone in the known world.

The Wise Men represent the Christian faith as they followed the Star of Bethlehem. Their journey acknowledges the divinity of the child Jesus.

Biblical Meaning of Frankincense

Frankincense has been used since ancient times as a sacred offering. Its fragrance was considered a bridge between humans and the divine, representing prayers rising to heaven.

Frankincense is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures. In the Book of Exodus, God commands its use in the Tabernacle as part of sacred offerings. In Revelation, it symbolizes the prayers of the saints, highlighting its spiritual significance. It was also an essential element in the rituals of the Temple in Jerusalem.

• Who brought frankincense?

According to tradition, Melchior was the Magi who brought frankincense to the child Jesus. This gift symbolizes Christ's divinity, acknowledging him as the supreme priest.

Biblical Meaning of Myrrh

Myrrh, an aromatic resin, was used in ancient times to produce perfumes and funeral balms. In the biblical context, myrrh symbolizes Christ's suffering and humanity, anticipating his sacrifice.

Myrrh appears in multiple biblical accounts. In the Gospel of John, it is used to embalm Jesus' body. It was also a key ingredient in the sacred anointing oil mentioned in Exodus.

• Who brought myrrh?

Gaspar was the one who brought myrrh as a gift. This offering acknowledged Jesus as a mortal human destined to suffer for humanity's salvation.

Biblical Meaning of Gold

Gold has always been a symbol of wealth, divine glory, and royalty. In the context of the Magi, gold recognizes Jesus as the King of Kings, exalting his divine authority.

Gold is mentioned in numerous biblical passages, from the Tabernacle to the Temple of Solomon. It represents purity and divine glory, attributes given to Jesus as the Messiah.

Who brought gold?

Balthazar was the one who presented gold as a tribute to the child Jesus. This gift reflected Christ's royalty and his role as the heavenly sovereign.