2006-12-23 15:27:25 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
In western Christianity, tradition holds that the wise men were three kings on camels: Melchior, of Arabia, bringing gold to represent Jesus' royal nature; Balthasar, from Ethiopia, bringing frankincense, representing his divinity; and Caspar, from Tarsus (modern Turkey), bearing myrrh, another sap incense once used in death rites, presaging the Crucifixion.
2006-12-23 15:29:30 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
First there was three gifts, not three wise men according to the Bible.
Gold represented Jesus' royal nature, Frankincense, representing his divine nature, and myrrh.
Myrrh is an interesting one. Whats interesting in it to me, is that the word / name Smyrna means "myrrh."
It is a very fitting name because myrrh is a perfume, the fragrance of which is released by crushing.
So, I see it representing the crucifixion of Jesus, and his death which releases the sweet fragrance of Salvation to all who believe.
2006-12-23 23:48:32 · answer #2 · answered by n_007pen 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Gold, Frankincense, Myrrh. These represent the fact that He was a King, a Priest, and a Prophet respectively.
2006-12-23 23:29:45 · answer #3 · answered by jonathan x 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Gold typifies divinity; that which is incorruptible.
Frankincense speaks of worship, hence the priestly ministry of Jesus.
Myrrh typifies suffering. Compare the church of Smyrna (derived from the same word), which typifies the suffering Church (Revelation 2:8-11)
2006-12-23 23:56:47 · answer #4 · answered by wefmeister 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
They gave things that were sweet smelling, very expensive, and beautiful. At the time it was the best gifts you could get.
2006-12-23 23:29:44 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋