“Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” – Matthew 2:11
Significance of Myrrh in Worship
We find myrrh highlighted throughout the Bible, representing its importance in our spiritual practices and devotion. As a valuable resin, myrrh was often used in sacred anointing oils and offerings, underscoring its role as a gift for God. The use of myrrh in worship signifies our willingness to offer our best to God, whether materially or spiritually. By including myrrh in our worship, we acknowledge God’s greatness and express our gratitude for His unending love.
Exodus 30:23
“Take the finest spices: of liquid myrrh, 500 shekels; of fragrant cinnamon, half as much (that is, 250 shekels); of fragrant calamus, 250 shekels.” – Exodus 30:23
Song of Solomon 1:13
“My beloved is to me a sachet of myrrh resting between my breasts.” – Song of Solomon 1:13
Mark 15:23
“Then they offered him wine mixed with myrrh, but he did not take it.” – Mark 15:23
Proverbs 7:17
“I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.” – Proverbs 7:17
John 19:39
“He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds.” – John 19:39
Myrrh as a Symbol of Suffering
Myrrh also represents suffering and affliction, as it was traditionally used in burial practices. This aspect highlights the humility of Jesus, who chose to face His suffering for our sake. It serves as a powerful reminder that suffering is a part of life, yet it can lead to growth and redemption. As we reflect on myrrh, we see the beauty in trials and how they mold us into stronger individuals dedicated to our faith.
Isaiah 53:5
“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.” – Isaiah 53:5
Matthew 26:12
“When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare for my burial.” – Matthew 26:12
Genesis 37:25
“And 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 to take them down to Egypt.” – Genesis 37:25
Psalm 119:50
“My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.” – Psalm 119:50
Revelation 6:6
“Then I heard what sounded like a voice among the four living creatures, saying, ‘Two pounds of wheat for a day’s wages, and six pounds of barley for a day’s wages, and do not damage the oil and the wine!'” – Revelation 6:6
Myrrh and the Birth of Jesus
At the birth of Christ, myrrh was presented to Him as one of the gifts. This gift was prophetic, foreshadowing His suffering and the ultimate sacrifice He would make. Celebrating the birth of Jesus goes beyond joy; we also remember the incredible burden He would bear for humanity. Myrrh allows us to connect with the reality of His impactful journey, as we embrace its meaning during this blessed season.
Matthew 2:11
“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” – Matthew 2:11
Luke 2:7
“And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.” – Luke 2:7
Isaiah 60:6
“Herds of camels will cover your land, young camels of Midian and Ephah. And all from Sheba will come, bearing gold and incense and proclaiming the praise of the Lord.” – Isaiah 60:6
John 12:3
“Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.” – John 12:3
Revelation 5:8
“And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of God’s people.” – Revelation 5:8
Myrrh and Its Medicinal Properties
Myrrh has been celebrated not only for its spiritual significance but also for its healing properties. As we explore its medicinal uses, we recall that God cares for our physical well-being alongside our spiritual health. In our prayers, we can ask for healing and restoration, trusting that God provides comfort in our times of need. This connection between myrrh and health encourages us to nurture both our physical bodies and our souls as we walk in faith.
Ezekiel 27:17
“Judah and Israel traded for your merchandise; they exchanged wheat from Minnith and confections, honey, olive oil, and balm.” – Ezekiel 27:17
Proverbs 21:20
“The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.” – Proverbs 21:20
1 Timothy 5:23
“Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.” – 1 Timothy 5:23
James 5:14
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.” – James 5:14
Luke 10:34
“He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him.” – Luke 10:34
Myrrh in Symbolic Contrast
Exploring myrrh allows us to look at the contrast within our lives as believers. While myrrh reminds us of suffering and hardship, it also represents our continual hope in Christ. Each time we face adversity, we can lean on God’s promises and grace. By understanding the duality of myrrh, we can find ways to grow and transform our challenges into opportunities to strengthen our faith and glorify His name.
2 Corinthians 4:17
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” – 2 Corinthians 4:17
Romans 5:3
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance.” – Romans 5:3
1 Peter 1:6
“In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.” – 1 Peter 1:6
Philippians 1:29
“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him but also to suffer for him.” – Philippians 1:29
Hebrews 12:2
“Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” – Hebrews 12:2
Myrrh: A Call to Sacrifice
Lastly, myrrh encourages us to embrace a life of sacrifice. Just as myrrh was a valuable gift, we are called to offer our time, talents, and treasures for the Kingdom. Embracing sacrifice is a beautiful aspect of our faith that allows us to grow closer to God and fulfill His purpose for us. Every sacrifice, whether big or small, can bless those around us, affirming our commitment to walk in love and service.
Luke 14:33
“In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.” – Luke 14:33
Matthew 16:24
“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.'” – Matthew 16:24
Romans 12:1
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” – Romans 12:1
2 Timothy 4:6
“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near.” – 2 Timothy 4:6
Philippians 4:18
“I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.” – Philippians 4:18
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the various aspects of myrrh in the Bible, we recall its significance in worship, its symbolism of suffering, and its essential role in Jesus’ life. Myrrh teaches us valuable lessons about sacrifice and serves as a reminder that our trials can lead to spiritual growth. Each time we encounter myrrh, whether in scripture or in our daily lives, let us be inspired to embrace our faith and share God’s love with others.
May we find encouragement in every aspect of our Christian journey, understanding the richness of God’s wisdom and guidance. Through the lens of myrrh, we can appreciate the sacrifices made, not just by Christ but also in our own lives, as we seek to honor Him wholeheartedly.
Let us continue exploring valuable topics that enrich our faith. Check out these resources on bible verses about frankincense and discover more insights on our spiritual journey at Bible Repository.