Which of the following is not a gift that the wise men brought for Jesus?

The story of the wise men, or Magi, who traveled to see the newborn Jesus is one of the most well-known episodes in the Christmas narrative. In Matthew 2:11, they offer three specific gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Each gift carries deep symbolic meaning reflecting different aspects of Jesus' identity and mission.

Gold represents kingship, as it is a tribute typically paid to royalty. Frankincense, often used in worship and examining acts of adoration, signifies Jesus' divine nature—it reflects his relationship with God. Myrrh, a spice used for anointing and also for preparing the deceased, foreshadows Jesus' suffering and ultimate sacrifice.

It’s fascinating to note that in ancient times, each of these gifts was highly valuable and often used in trade, signaling that these gifts were not only meaningful, but also represented wealth—therefore their choice might emotionally resonate with the nascent gospel message by connecting with the everyman.

Interestingly, while silver was a common precious metal of the time, it was notably absent from the gifts. Given that silver has historical significance in various biblical tales as the price of betrayal (Judas's 30 pieces of silver), the omission here resonates, serving as a stark reminder of the purity and grace in the gifts that found their way to Jesus.

Furthermore, tracking the tradition of the gifts reveals how profoundly connected these early depictions of Jesus have shaped Christian teachings throughout the centuries—even inspiring countless carols recited today!