Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Context and SignificanceIncense, a fragrant substance often used in religious rituals, holds significant symbolic meaning in the biblical narrative. In the context of the New Testament, incense is notably mentioned as one of the gifts presented to Jesus by the Magi, or Wise Men, as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. This event is a pivotal moment in the nativity account, highlighting the recognition of Jesus' divine and kingly status by Gentile visitors from the East. Scriptural Reference The account of the Wise Men presenting gifts to Jesus is found in Matthew 2:11 : "On coming to the house, they saw the Child with His mother Mary, and they fell down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh." Symbolism and Interpretation The gift of incense, specifically frankincense, is rich in symbolic meaning. In the ancient world, frankincense was a valuable commodity, often used in worship and religious ceremonies. Its inclusion among the gifts to Jesus signifies several key theological themes: 1. Divine Worship: Frankincense was traditionally used in temple rituals as an offering to God, symbolizing prayer and worship. By presenting frankincense to Jesus, the Wise Men acknowledged His divine nature and role as the object of worship. 2. Priestly Role: The use of incense in the temple was closely associated with the priestly duties of offering sacrifices and prayers to God. The gift of frankincense to Jesus foreshadows His future role as the High Priest, who would mediate between God and humanity. 3. Prophetic Fulfillment: The presentation of frankincense fulfills Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. Isaiah 60:6 speaks of nations bringing gold and incense to honor the Lord: "Caravans of camels will cover your land—young camels of Midian and Ephah—all from Sheba will come, bearing gold and frankincense and proclaiming the praises of the LORD." Historical and Cultural Background Frankincense is derived from the resin of trees belonging to the genus Boswellia, native to the Arabian Peninsula and parts of Africa. In biblical times, it was a highly prized substance, often transported along trade routes from Arabia to the Mediterranean and beyond. Its value and rarity made it a fitting gift for a king, further emphasizing the recognition of Jesus' royal status by the Magi. Theological Implications The inclusion of frankincense among the gifts of the Wise Men underscores the multifaceted identity of Jesus as King, Priest, and God. It serves as a testament to the early acknowledgment of His mission and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Him. The act of worship by the Magi, as they presented their gifts, reflects the universal call to recognize and honor Jesus as Lord, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries. Conclusion The presentation of incense by the Wise Men to Jesus is a profound moment in the biblical narrative, rich with theological significance and prophetic fulfillment. It highlights the recognition of Jesus' divine nature and His role in God's redemptive plan for humanity. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 2:11And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented to him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh. Nave's Topical Index Library On the Feast of the Epiphany, iv. The Passover visit A Statement of the Manner in which Luke's Procedure is Proved to ... The First-Fruits of the Gentiles Recommendation. A Mystery! Saints Sorrowing and Jesus Glad! Thankfulness for Mercies Received, a Necessary Duty A Word in the Prayer. The Permanent Significance of the Old Testament The visit and Homage of the Magi, and the Flight into Egypt Resources Can a Christian burn incense? What does the Bible say about burning incense? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was the significance of the altar of incense? | GotQuestions.org What are the prayers of the saints in Revelation 5:8? | GotQuestions.org Incense: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Incense for God's Service Mixed With Sweet Spices Incense of an Acceptable Sacrifice Incense used in Idolatrous Worship Incense: An Article of Extensive Commerce Incense: Common, not to be offered to God Incense: Compounded by Bezaleel Incense: Designed for Atonement Incense: Formula for Compounding Incense: Korah and his Company Punished for offering Incense: Korah, Dathan, and Abiram Incense: Levites had Charge of Incense: Nadab and Abihu Destroyed for offering, With Strange Fire Incense: None But Priest to offer Incense: Offered by Nadab and Abihu in an Unauthorized Manner Incense: Offered by the High Priest in the Most Holy Place on the Day of Incense: Offered in Idolatrous Worship Incense: Offered Morning and Evening Incense: Offered with Fire from off the Altar of Burnt offering Incense: Offered: Morning and Evening Incense: Offered: On the Altar of Gold Incense: Offering of, Allotted to the Priests Incense: Presented by the Wise Men to Jesus Incense: Presented to Christ by the Wise Men Incense: Put on Meat offerings Incense: Symbolical of the Prayers of Saints Incense: The Jews Prayed at Time of offering Incense: The Jews: Not Accepted in offering, on Account of Sin Incense: The Jews: Offered, to Idols on Altars of Brick Incense: The Jews: Punished for offering, to Idols Incense: Uzziah Punished for offering Related Terms Incense-burners (1 Occurrence) |
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