ISB ~ Matthew 2 v11

into the house:This setting suggests the event took place after Jesus’ presence in the “manger” (Lk 2:7) and the earlier visit of the shepherds (Lk 2:1517).

• The episode evokes Is 60:3, 6, where Gentile nations bring gifts of gold and frankincense to the God of Israel (cf. Tob 13:11; Ps 72:10-15).

myrrh:An anointing oil used to consecrate Levitical priests and the wilderness Tabernacle (Ex 30:23-33). It was also a burial ointment (Jn 19:39-40).

• Allegorically (St. Irenaeus, AH 3, 9, 2): the gifts of the Magi signify the mystery of Christ incarnate. Gold, a symbol of royalty, represents the kingship of Jesus. Frankincense, used in the worship of God, points to his divinity. Myrrh, a burial ointment, signifies the humanity of Christ, especially in his Passion and death. Morally (St. Gregory the Great, Hom. in Evan. 10): the treasures signify the gifts we present to Christ in our daily lives. Gold is Christ’s wisdom, which shines in us, frankincense is the prayer and adoration we give him (cf. Rev 8:3-4), and myrrh is our daily self-sacrifices (10:39; cf. Rom 12:1).