Day 18

The third gift was frankincense, another costly item, well known to the writers of the Bible. Throughout the Bible, incense is an integral part of the worship offered to God.

Frankincense is a particular gum resin, like myrrh, but has long been recognised for the beauty of its fragrance when heated. It is made from the tree who name today is Boswellia and grows in mountainous regions of the Middle East, Africa and India. The name ‘frankincense’ actually means ‘high quality incense’.

The burning of frankincense in worship is also a symbol of prayer, which derives from biblical practice. As the incense ascends to heaven, so we believe that our prayers are heard before the Throne of God.