In Matthew 2:11, the wise men (or Magi) visited Jesus after His birth, bringing gifts of great significance: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts were not random; they were deeply symbolic and valuable in their time.

• Gold: A gift fit for a king, symbolizing Jesus’ royalty and His role as the King of Kings.
• Frankincense: A fragrant resin used in worship and as incense in temples, representing Jesus’ divine nature and His role as a priest who connects humanity with God.
• Myrrh: Another resin, often used in anointing oils and embalming, foreshadowing Jesus’ suffering and sacrifice.

Frankincense and myrrh were highly prized in the ancient world for their aromatic, medicinal, and spiritual uses. These essential oils were extracted from tree sap and were considered luxuries, traded along ancient trade routes. Their inclusion as gifts emphasized Jesus’ importance and the acknowledgment of His divine mission, even as a child.