Why are the three wise men in the nativity scene?
Scholars are thought to have arrived at the number of three because of the three gifts that were mentioned. However, in Eastern traditions, it is believed that as many as twelve wise men came to Bethlehem to meet Jesus. The same disparity is evident in their exact arrival.
What is the symbolism of the Three wise men?
The three gifts had a spiritual meaning: gold as a symbol of kingship on earth, frankincense (an incense) as a symbol of deity, and myrrh (an embalming oil) as a symbol of death. This dates back to Origen in Contra Celsum: “gold, as to a king; myrrh, as to one who was mortal; and incense, as to a God.”
What is the significance of frankincense and myrrh?
Frankincense has long been mixed with various spices to form incense, and myrrh was used by the ancient Egyptians as an embalming agent. Both have been promoted as cures for a variety of ailments, from digestive trouble to pain relief. At the time of Jesus, these gifts were worth the same as, if not more than, gold.
Was there an angel at the manger?
Luke’s narrative describes an angel announcing the birth of Jesus to shepherds who then visit the humble site where Jesus is found lying in a manger, a trough for cattle feed.
When should I take my nativity scene down?
While most home nativity scenes are packed away at Christmas or shortly thereafter, nativity scenes in churches usually remain on display until the feast of the Baptism of the Lord.
Why did the angels tell the shepherds?
There were shepherds taking care of their flocks at night. An angel appeared to them and told them not to be afraid as he brought good news, “This very day in David’s town your saviour was born – Christ the Lord!” They would find the baby wrapped in cloth, lying in a manger.
Who was the angel that appeared to the shepherds?
The angel Gabriel
The angel Gabriel appears to shepherds at night to tell of Christ’s birth. Elisabeth and Zacharias come to name their son. The angel Gabriel appears to tell of Christ’s birth.
What did frankincense mean about Jesus?
The frankincense represents Jesus’ deity. In the Old Testament, frankincense was traditionally burned in the temple as an offering to God (Leviticus 2:2). By bringing this gift, the Magi affirmed Jesus was no ordinary man; he is both fully man and fully God.
Who is the angel that announced the birth of Jesus?
the angel Gabriel
Summary. God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth with a message for Mary, who was promised in marriage to Joseph. The angel told Mary that she would have a son, whom she was to name Jesus.