Topical Encyclopedia Myrrh is a fragrant gum resin that has been highly valued since ancient times for its aromatic and medicinal properties. It is derived from the Commiphora species of trees, which are native to regions such as Arabia, Ethiopia, and parts of the land of Canaan. In the Bible, myrrh is frequently mentioned as a valuable commodity and is often associated with wealth, trade, and religious practices.Biblical References and Uses Myrrh is first mentioned in the Bible in Genesis 37:25, where it is listed among the goods carried by the Ishmaelite traders to Egypt: "As they sat down to eat their meal, they looked up and saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead. Their camels were loaded with spices, balm, and myrrh, and they were on their way down to Egypt" . This passage highlights myrrh's role as a significant trade item in the ancient Near East. In Exodus 30:23-25, myrrh is a key ingredient in the sacred anointing oil used in the Tabernacle: "Take the finest spices: 500 shekels of liquid myrrh, half as much (that is, 250 shekels) of fragrant cinnamon, 250 shekels of fragrant cane, 500 shekels of cassia—all according to the sanctuary shekel—and a hin of olive oil. Prepare from these a holy anointing oil, a fragrant blend, the work of a perfumer; it will be a sacred anointing oil" . This anointing oil was used to consecrate the Tabernacle and its furnishings, as well as the priests, signifying myrrh's importance in worship and dedication to God. Myrrh also appears in the context of royal and nuptial imagery. In Psalm 45:8, a messianic psalm, the king's garments are described as being fragrant with myrrh: "All your garments are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia; from palaces of ivory the harps make you glad" . This association with royalty and celebration underscores myrrh's luxurious and esteemed nature. In the New Testament, myrrh is notably one of the gifts presented to the infant Jesus by the Magi, as recorded 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 and frankincense and myrrh" . This gift symbolizes Jesus' future suffering and death, as myrrh was commonly used in embalming practices. Symbolism and Significance Throughout Scripture, myrrh is emblematic of both suffering and beauty. Its use in embalming and anointing for burial, as seen in John 19:39-40, where Nicodemus brings a mixture of myrrh and aloes to prepare Jesus' body for burial, highlights its association with death and mourning. Yet, its inclusion in perfumes and anointing oils also signifies joy, holiness, and the presence of God. The dual nature of myrrh—its bitter taste and sweet fragrance—serves as a metaphor for the Christian life, which encompasses both trials and the hope of eternal life. Myrrh's presence in the Bible as a product of the land of Canaan reflects its integral role in the cultural, religious, and economic life of the ancient world, and its enduring spiritual symbolism continues to resonate with believers today. Nave's Topical Index Songs 4:6,14Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, I will get me to the mountain of myrrh, and to the hill of frankincense. Nave's Topical Index Songs 5:1 Library Chapter x The Sibylline Oracles. Resources Why did the Magi bring gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Jesus? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about aromatherapy? | GotQuestions.org What is gall in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Myrrh: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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