CategoryObject / Worship, Gift, and Burial Term
Modern Equivalentaromatic resins used in worship, gifts, anointing, and burial.
KJV Word TypeWorship object / aromatic resin term
DefinitionFrankincense and myrrh are valuable aromatic resins. Frankincense was used in offerings and incense, while myrrh was used in anointing, perfume, and burial preparation.
Key Verses"And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother... they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh." (Matthew 2:11); "And thou shalt put oil upon it, and lay frankincense thereon: it is a meat offering." (Leviticus 2:15)
KJV Usage NoteFrankincense is associated with worship, incense, and offerings; myrrh is associated with perfume, anointing, suffering, and burial. Together in Matthew 2:11, they highlight the value and significance of the gifts brought to Christ.
Common MisunderstandingThey are not merely decorative fragrances; in biblical usage they are costly substances tied to worship, consecration, honor, and burial.
Etymology“Frankincense” comes from Old French meaning "pure incense"; “myrrh” comes from Hebrew mor, meaning "bitter resin."