When the Biblical Magi, also referred to as the Three Wise Men, visited the newborn Jesus, they brought him three gifts, gold, incense and myrrh.
Why did the Three Wise Men choose these particular items? Is it possible that the gifts of the Magi mean Jesus' salvation from the pain of arthritis?
Biblical scholars and theologians have long debated the meaning of the three gifts. In the ancient world, these items were very valuable. Gold, frankincense, and myrrh were very expensive and highly prized in the ancient world. But is it also possible that the Three Wise Men knew about the healing properties of incense when they offered it to baby Jesus?
Researchers at Cardiff University in Wales who have studied the medical uses of frankincense have found that it contains an active ingredient that can help reduce arthritis by inhibiting inflammation that destroys cartilage tissue and causes arthritis pain.
The study confirms the traditional use of frankincense as an herbal remedy for arthritis in communities in North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, where trees that produce this aromatic resin grow.
Usually scholars say that the three gifts were chosen for their special spiritual symbolism in relation to Jesus himself - gold, representing his reign, incense, a symbol of his priestly role, and myrrh - an anticipation of his death and embalming - interpretation, the famous Christmas carol “We, three king."
However, it is possible that the three gifts were not only symbolic, but also practical and given to Jesus to make his life better.