12 December: Myrrh
We’ve had a closer look at gold and frankincense over the last two Advent calendar days, so here is the final gift from the Three Kings to the newborn Jesus: myrrh. Like frankincense, myrrh is also a type of tree resin, this time from a small, thorny type of tree called Commiphora. Since ancient times, myrrh resin has been used as a perfume, incense and medicine.
Commiphora gileadensis illustration (detail), 1881, University of Amsterdam (Image: Wikipedia)
Commiphora gileadensis illustration (detail), 1881, University of Amsterdam (Image: Wikipedia)
1 minute video about myrrh’s medicinal significance for both past and present societies:
Myrrh also plays a central role in an ancient Greek myth which has been depicted by various Western artists. According to ancient Greek mythology, the Goddess Myrrha was transformed into a myrrh tree after having intercourse with her father. While in plant form, she gives birth to her son Adonis. According to legend, the aromatic resin of the myrrh tree are the goddess’ tears. Here are
The myth details the incestuous relationship between Myrrha and her father, Cinyras. Myrrha falls in love with her father and tricks him into sexual intercourse. After discovering her identity, Cinyras draws his sword and pursues Myrrha. She flees across Arabia and, after nine months, turns to the gods for help. They take pity on her and transform her into a myrrh tree. While in plant form, Myrrha gives birth to Adonis. According to legend, the aromatic exudings of the myrrh tree are Myrrha's tears.
