What were the three gifts of the Magi? Origin, meaning, and legacy

This article explores in depth the three gifts of the Magi, their meaning, their history, and their place in Christian tradition. From the 4th century to the 19th century, these gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—were offered to Jesus Christ, the infant child given to the world as the son of God.

This biblical episode, celebrated every day from Epiphany to January, has been recounted through the centuries, from the Old Testament to medieval narratives, and including the writing of famous chronicles such as the Golden Legend. The visit of the Magi has become a central symbol of God's miracle, bringing great joy to all the world.

What gifts did the three wise men offer according to the Bible?

The biblical account in the Gospel according to Matthew

According to the Gospel of Matthew, wise men from the East, guided by the star of Bethlehem, came to the city called Bethlehem. They entered the house, saw the child with Mary, his mother, and went to worship the new king. They opened their treasures, and each gift was offered as a sacrifice of worship.

The text speaks neither of toys nor of material gifts for a young child, but of profoundly symbolic gifts intended to worship and acknowledge the divinity of Christ. This episode fulfills an ancient prophecy, already known in Jewish tradition.

Why are we talking about three gifts and not more?

The number three appears very early on as a key to understanding the story. As early as the 3rd century, the Church Fathers associated the three Magi with three aspects of Christ. Although the biblical text does not specify the number of Magi, this triad became a consistent reference point in the story of the Three Wise Men. In some accounts, such as the Armenian Gospel, there are more Magi, but Western tradition has fixed the number at three, reinforcing the symbolic coherence of the episode. This interpretation spread to Italy, Persia, and throughout Christian Europe.

What do gold, frankincense, and myrrh mean?

Gold: the symbol of royalty

Gold symbolizes reign, power, and legitimacy. Offering gold to Jesus was to recognize him as a king, distinct from Herod, then enthroned in his palace. This gesture heralded a return to a spiritual, non-violent kingship. In some commentaries attributed to Saint Paul or Peter the Eater, gold is interpreted as a gift of the heart, of what is most precious to humankind. This gift is not a mere object, but an act of faith.

Incense: the recognition of the divine

Incense, sometimes spelled encen in ancient texts, is used in worship. It was reserved for the priest and the deity. In offering it, the Magi recognizes Jesus as the son of God. In Christian liturgy, incense is used to mark the presence of the sacred. It is also mentioned as a symbolic relic in some writings from the 6th and 8th centuries. Incense is a sign of elevation and of a direct relationship between God and humankind.

Myrrh: the harbinger of suffering and death

Myrrh is a resin used to embalm bodies. It alludes to human mortality and foreshadows the Passion. Offering myrrh to a small child may seem surprising, but this gesture underscores the fully human aspect of Jesus. According to Jacobus de Voragine, author of the Golden Legend, myrrh reminds us that Christ will experience death before the great miracle of the resurrection. It connects birth to the earthly end.

Why did the three wise men offer these particular gifts?

A theological reading: king, god and man

From the 4th century onward, theologians explained that gold, frankincense, and myrrh formed a perfect synthesis: gold for the king, frankincense for God, and myrrh for mortal man. This interpretation persisted through the 12th, 14th, and 15th centuries, and even into the late 15th century in illuminated manuscripts. It allows us to understand the profound meaning of these gifts and their universal significance for every Christian.

A cultural and geopolitical reading

The Magi came from the land of Sheba, a region rich in gold and precious resins. These gifts were brought during diplomatic visits to sovereigns. This gesture was also a respectful welcome to a new king, distinct from the ruling power of Herod. Some chroniclers, such as John Long, a chronicler from Liège, or John Mandeville, describe these exchanges as common in the ancient world.

Who are the three wise men and what is their connection to the gifts?

Melchior, Gaspar and Balthazar: a late tradition

The names appear in medieval texts, notably in the works of John of Hildesheim in the 14th century. Melchior is often depicted as an old man with a long beard, Caspar as a young king, and Balthazar as a dark-skinned king. Each figure represents a continent. This iconography is widely disseminated in religious art, stained glass, and nativity scenes.

Why did Balthazar turn black?

Balthazar gradually became associated with Africa, with dark skin, sometimes described as black or dark-skinned. This representation became common from the 15th century onward. It symbolizes the universality of the Christian message. In some works, he is described as wise, coming from a distant kingdom. This visual diversity reinforces the scope of the narrative.

What is the connection between the gifts of the Three Wise Men and Epiphany?

Epiphany: meaning and origin of the holiday

Epiphany celebrates the visit of the Magi and their adoration of them. It marks the moment when Jesus was revealed to the world. This feast is celebrated every year, often with the galette des rois (king cake), following the tradition of the galette in France. This popular custom is part of a broader Western tradition, distinct from the Santa Claus associated with Christmas.

Gifts as a revelation to the world

The Magi offer gifts to Jesus as a sign of gratitude. Their gesture transcends mere individual piety. It affirms that salvation concerns the whole earth, from the shepherd to the king. The scene is often set in the Church of the Nativity, an emblematic location of this revelation.

The Three Wise Men's Gifts Tested by the Modern World

What would gold, frankincense, and myrrh represent today?

Today, gold could represent what we hold most dear. Frankincense would symbolize the search for meaning, and myrrh the acceptance of human fragility. This modern interpretation allows us to see these gifts as an invitation to a more conscious relationship with the world.

Exercise in personal reflection: and you, what would you give?

This question addresses a contemporary need: to give meaning to giving. What would we give today to a small child who embodies hope? This questioning allows us to connect tradition and modern life, going beyond mere ritual.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the gifts of the Three Wise Men

What gifts were given to Jesus?

Gold, frankincense, and myrrh are the three gifts offered to Jesus Christ. They are mentioned in the Gospel and repeated throughout Christian history. Their symbolic significance is immense. They are not insignificant objects.

Why were there three wise men?

The number three comes from gifts. This tradition was established very early, as early as the 3rd century, and adopted by theologians. It has become an essential reference.

Did the gifts have any real material value?

Yes, these products were extremely valuable. They were used in temples, palaces, and funeral rites. Their economic value was high.

Did the Three Wise Men really exist?

Their historical existence remains debated. However, their symbolic role is central. Their story is recounted in numerous texts, images, and even in modern media such as a DVD collection or cultural content inviting viewers to discover our DVDs.