The Epiphany (manifestation) or Theophany (vision of God) is a Christian feast traditionally celebrated on January 6 to commemorate this visit of the three men known as Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar to the birthplace of Christ. This is why we celebrate twelve days of Christmas and where we get the popular '12 Days of Christmas' song.
The Epiphany is significant because it is a recognition and celebration of the Incarnation of God; the Second Person of the Trinity, who becomes man. As well, Jesus is recognized as "king of the Jews," sought out, and adored by Gentiles (the magi) while preparing to flee in exile from his own people to escape death.
The three gifts that were given were each valuable and rare. Gold, Frankincense (high quality incense made from the sap of the Olibanum tree), and Myrrh (fragrant oil from the Commiphora myrrha tree). Not only were the precious gifts valuable and rare, but they were also highly symbolic. Gold was brought primarily to kings and royalty. Frankincense was used by priests and considered holy to the Lord (Ex 30:34-38). Myrrh was used as an anointing oil (Ex 30:23-29) and for embalming (Jn 19:39-40).
The Magi asked in Matthew 2:2 when they came to Jerusalem, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him." For the prophet Micah had foretold this event (Mic 5:2, 4). Led by the star the Magi found and worshiped Christ before presenting him with their gifts.
The gift of gold symbolized the kingship and royalty of the Christ child. Frankincense symbolized his priesthood and divinity, and Myrrh symbolized his purity and foreshadowed his sacrificial death.
Theologian and Church Father Origen of Alexandria wrote in Contra Celsum, "gold, as to a king; myrrh, as to one who was mortal; and incense, as to a God."
I conclude with the traditional Christmas Carol, 'We Three Kings,' written in 1857. The familiar song is very accurate in depicting the gifts of the Magi and their symbolism.
We three kings of Orient are
Bearing gifts we traverse afar.
Field and fountain, moor and mountain,
Following yonder star.
O star of wonder, star of night,
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding,
Guide us to thy perfect Light.
Born a king on Bethlehem's plain,
Gold I bring to crown Him again,
King forever, ceasing never
Over us all to reign.
Frankincense to offer have I.
Incense owns a Deity nigh.
Prayer and praising all men raising,
Worship Him, God on high.
Myrrh is mine: it's bitter perfume
Breaths a life of gathering gloom.
Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding dying,
Sealed in the stone-cold tomb.
Glorious now behold Him arise,
King and God and Sacrifice.
Alleluia, alleluia!
Sounds through the earth and skies.
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