Frankincense and Myrrh: An Essential Blend in Worship

Egypt

The Egyptians used myrrh extensively in their embalming processes, believing it preserved the soul for the afterlife. Frankincense, burned in temples, was seen as a way to purify the air and carry prayers to the gods. Its use is documented as early as 1500 BCE in Egyptian funerary rites.

Mesopotamia and Babylon

Both resins were central to rituals honoring their pantheon of gods. Myrrh was often blended with other spices in sacrificial offerings, while frankincense was burned to create a connection between humans and the divine.

Hebrew Worship

In the Old Testament, frankincense and myrrh are frequently mentioned as offerings to God.

Myrrh was a key ingredient in the holy anointing oil (Exodus 30:22-25), used to consecrate priests and sacred objects.

Frankincense was part of the holy incense described in Exodus 30:34-38, used exclusively in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple.

Egyptian Medicine

Myrrh was used as an antiseptic to treat wounds and infections. Frankincense was thought to cure respiratory issues and calm inflammation. These properties were so esteemed that they were recorded in medical texts like the Ebers Papyrus.

Greek and Roman Healing

The ancient Greeks and Romans adopted the medicinal uses of these resins. Hippocrates prescribed myrrh for digestive problems, while frankincense was used to treat wounds and as an anti-inflammatory. The Roman empire's soldiers carried myrrh to treat battlefield injuries.

Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic Medicine

In Asia, frankincense and myrrh were used to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. They were considered to balance the body's energy and promote overall health.

The burning of frankincense was seen as a physical representation of prayers rising to the heavens, bridging the gap between humans and God.

Myrrh’s use in anointing oils signified purification and healing, not just of the body but of the soul.

In their role in embalming and mummification, these resins symbolized eternity, aligning with the human desire for life beyond death.

The Story of the Magi

The story of the Magi, often referred to as the “Wise Men” or “Kings,” is found in Matthew 2:1-12. The Magi were likely scholars or astrologers from the East, possibly Persia or Babylon, who studied the stars and ancient texts. Guided by a unique celestial phenomenon—a star—they traveled a great distance to find and honor the newborn “King of the Jews.”

Upon reaching Bethlehem, the Magi found the child Jesus with His mother, Mary. In an act of worship, they bowed before Him and presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts were not only valuable but also deeply symbolic, revealing their understanding of who Jesus was and what He came to accomplish.

The Significance of the Gifts

1. Gold: The Gift of Kingship

Gold, a precious and universally recognized symbol of wealth and power, represented Jesus’ role as a King.

Acknowledging Jesus as King:
The Magi’s gift of gold honored Jesus as the long-anticipated King of the Jews, fulfilling the prophecy of a ruler who would come from the line of David.

Isaiah 9:6-7 foretold:
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder… He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever.”

A King Beyond Earthly Realms:
While earthly kings ruled over territories, Jesus’ kingship extended beyond borders and time. Revelation 19:16 declares Him “King of Kings and Lord of Lords,” signifying His divine authority over all creation.

The gold symbolized His divine royalty, acknowledging that the child born in a humble setting was destined to reign eternally.

2. Frankincense: The Gift of Divinity and Priesthood

Frankincense, a resin used in worship, represented Jesus’ divinity and His role as the High Priest who mediates between God and humanity.

Used in Sacred Worship:
In the Old Testament, frankincense was a key ingredient in the holy incense burned in the Tabernacle and Temple as an offering to God. Its rising smoke symbolized prayers ascending to heaven.

Exodus 30:34-38 describes the sacred formula for incense:
“Take sweet spices—stacte, onycha, and galbanum—sweet spices with pure frankincense. You shall make an incense blended as by the perfumer, seasoned with salt, pure and holy.”

Christ as the Great High Priest:
The gift of frankincense pointed to Jesus’ role as the ultimate High Priest, as described in Hebrews 4:14-15:

“Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses.”

Unlike priests in the Old Testament who offered sacrifices on behalf of the people, Jesus became both the priest and the sacrifice, offering Himself for the salvation of humanity.

By giving frankincense, the Magi recognized Jesus as divine and worthy of worship, connecting Him to God’s covenant with His people.

3. Myrrh: The Gift of Suffering and Sacrifice

Myrrh, a resin used in embalming and anointing, foreshadowed Jesus’ suffering, death, and burial. This gift carried a somber yet profound significance.

Used for Anointing and Preservation:
In ancient times, myrrh was a critical component in preparing bodies for burial due to its antiseptic and preservative qualities. Its use in embalming symbolized purity and preservation.

After Jesus’ death, Nicodemus brought myrrh and aloes to prepare His body for burial, fulfilling this symbolism. John 19:39-40 states:

“Nicodemus also, who earlier had come to Jesus by night, came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds in weight. So they took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews.”

Symbolizing Suffering:
Myrrh also appeared during Jesus’ crucifixion. Mark 15:23 records that Jesus was offered wine mixed with myrrh, a mild anesthetic, to numb His pain. However, He refused, choosing to fully endure the suffering of the cross.

Foreshadowing Redemption:
Myrrh’s inclusion among the gifts highlighted Jesus’ humanity and His ultimate purpose: to suffer and die for the sins of the world. Isaiah 53:5 foretold this sacrifice:
“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.”

By giving myrrh, the Magi prophetically acknowledged Jesus’ role as the Suffering Servant who would redeem humanity through His death and resurrection.

The Profound Message of the Gifts

The Magi’s gifts were not random—they carried a deliberate and prophetic message about Jesus’ mission and identity:

Myrrh foretold His sacrificial death and the salvation He would bring to the world.

Gold proclaimed Him as the eternal King of all creation.

Frankincense honored His divinity and priestly role in bridging the gap between God and humanity.

Symbolism in Worship

The burning of frankincense represented prayers rising to God, as captured in Psalm 141:2:

Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.

Connection to Christ

The fragrant aroma of incense also prefigures the sacrificial offering of Christ, described in Ephesians 5:2 as “a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”

In Orthodox Christian worship, frankincense remains central to the Divine Liturgy. It is burned during services to sanctify the altar, icons, and congregation, creating a sensory connection to the divine and symbolizing the Church’s prayers ascending to heaven.

Myrrh in Anointing and Healing

Myrrh was used in both sacred and practical applications throughout biblical history:

- Holy Anointing Oil: In Exodus 30:22-25, myrrh is a key ingredient in the anointing oil used to consecrate the Tabernacle, priests, and sacred objects:

The LORD said to Moses, 'Take the finest spices: of liquid myrrh 500 shekels, and of sweet-smelling cinnamon half as much, that is, 250, and 250 of aromatic cane.

- Healing and Burial: Myrrh’s antiseptic and preservative properties were used in embalming and healing, as seen in its offering to Jesus on the cross (Mark 15:23), where it was mixed with wine as a numbing agent.

Burning Incense During Prayer

Burning frankincense or myrrh during prayer can help create a sacred atmosphere. Use a heat-safe burner or censer with charcoal to release the aromatic smoke. The rising incense symbolizes prayers ascending to God, as described in Psalm 141:2:

Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.

Enhancing a Prayer Corner or Home Altar

Add frankincense and myrrh to your home prayer corner alongside icons, candles, and sacred texts. Burning incense can make this space feel more sanctified and focused, providing a sense of continuity with the worship practices of the Church.

Using Incense for Reflection and Bible Study

Light frankincense or myrrh while reading scripture or during moments of quiet reflection. The calming aroma encourages focus and helps set the tone for meaningful contemplation.

Marking Special Occasions

Incense can elevate the atmosphere of religious celebrations at home, such as Christmas, Pascha, or feast days. Burning a combination of frankincense and myrrh on these occasions ties the celebrations to the gifts of the Magi and the rich traditions of the faith.

Daily Devotionals

Incorporate incense into your daily routine, whether in the morning to set the tone for the day or in the evening to transition into a peaceful and prayerful mindset.

Aromatherapy and Relaxation

Diffusing Oils
Frankincense essential oil’s citrusy and uplifting scent promotes relaxation and focus, while myrrh’s grounding aroma creates a calming atmosphere. Use an essential oil diffuser to fill your home with these scents.

Stress Relief
Combine frankincense and myrrh oils with a carrier oil like almond or coconut for a soothing massage oil. This blend can relieve tension and promote relaxation after a long day.

Skincare and Healing

Skin Care
Frankincense is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can be added to moisturizers to improve skin tone and reduce redness. Myrrh is often used to hydrate and repair dry, cracked skin. Always dilute these oils with a carrier oil before applying to the skin.

Wound Healing
Myrrh has antiseptic properties and can be used on minor cuts and abrasions when diluted with a carrier oil.

Purifying Spaces

Burning Incense for Air Cleansing
Both resins have natural antimicrobial properties, making them excellent for purifying the air in your home. Burning incense can also leave your space feeling refreshed and spiritually cleansed.

Room Sprays
Blend frankincense and myrrh essential oils with water and a splash of alcohol to create a natural, fragrant room spray. This is a simple way to add a pleasant and calming scent to your living space.

Personal Care and Products

Frankincense and myrrh are featured in many natural products, including soaps, candles, and perfumes. Their soothing properties make them popular in items designed to create a sense of luxury and relaxation.

Burning Incense for Prayer

How to Use: Burn frankincense or myrrh resins on charcoal in a heat-safe burner or censer. The rising smoke symbolizes prayers ascending to heaven, connecting you to ancient worship practices.

Quality Check: Look for frankincense products that use pure resin. Ensure it is free from fillers and tested for purity using gas chromatography, which verifies its chemical composition.

Enhancing Your Prayer Corner

Add incense burning to your prayer space to create a sacred environment. For a balanced aroma, blend frankincense and myrrh, or mix in complementary scents like cedarwood or coriander.

Consider ready-to-use finished products, such as scented candles, for a convenient way to include these resins in your devotional practices.

Using Oils for Personal Reflection

Create an oil blend by mixing frankincense and myrrh pure essential oils with a carrier oil like almond or jojoba. Use this blend for anointing or as part of your personal prayer routine.

Diffuse essential oils during Bible study or meditation to deepen focus and create a peaceful atmosphere.

Marking Special Occasions

During seasons like Lent or Advent, burn frankincense and myrrh as part of your home-based spiritual practices. Their aroma enhances the sense of reverence and connection to centuries-old traditions.

Wellness and Skincare

Potential Benefits: Recent studies suggest that frankincense may support skin health by reducing redness and irritation, while myrrh is known for its antiseptic and soothing properties.

How to Use: Add a few drops of pure essential oils to a carrier oil to create a gentle moisturizer or a balm for dry, cracked skin. Use caution around mucous membranes to avoid irritation.

Relaxation and Aromatherapy

Diffusing Oils: Use a diffuser to spread the calming, citrusy scent of frankincense and the warm, grounding aroma of myrrh throughout your home. This can reduce stress and create a serene environment.

Massage Blends: Combine frankincense and myrrh oils in a massage oil blend to relieve muscle tension or joint discomfort.

Purifying Your Home

Burn incense or use a homemade room spray with frankincense and myrrh to purify the air. Their natural antimicrobial properties make them excellent for cleansing and refreshing living spaces.

Room Spray Tip: Mix essential oils with water and a small amount of alcohol to create an easy-to-use spray for linens and furniture.

Therapeutic Applications

While not a replacement for drug administration or professional medical advice, frankincense and myrrh have been studied for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. They can complement wellness routines, such as soothing minor skin irritations or aiding relaxation.

Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief Effects

Myrrh: Compounds in myrrh have demonstrated analgesic effects, potentially making it effective for soothing minor aches and pains. A review in Molecules discussed the combination of frankincense and myrrh, highlighting their synergistic anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. 

Frankincense: Extracts from Boswellia serrata, commonly known as frankincense, have been studied for their anti-inflammatory properties. A systematic review published in The BMJ assessed evidence from randomized clinical trials and found that Boswellia serrata extracts were clinically effective in treating conditions like asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, osteoarthritis, and collagenous colitis. The review concluded that the evidence is encouraging but not compelling, indicating the need for further research. 

Antimicrobial Properties

Both frankincense and myrrh have shown antimicrobial activity against various pathogens. A study published in Molecules investigated the effects of frankincense compounds on infection and inflammation, noting their potential in combating microbial infections. MDPI

Synergistic Effects

The combination of frankincense and myrrh has been studied for its enhanced therapeutic effects. Research published in Frontiers in Pharmacology explored the synergistic action of these resins in treating cerebrovascular diseases, suggesting that their combined use could offer greater benefits than when used individually. Frontiers

Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before topical application to prevent skin irritation.

Perform a patch test to check for allergic reactions. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Seek medical advice before using these resins, especially if pregnant, nursing, or on medication.