History of Myrrh and its Meaning in Religion, Culture, and Society

Introduction: What is Myrrh?

Myrrh is a fragrant resin that was used in ancient times for its medicinal properties and fragrance and has also been a part of religious ceremonies.

Myrrh trees or Commiphora myrrha are native to the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. They are small trees that grow up to 2.7 meters tall and their bark is light brown. The tree produces white flowers and Myrrh is harvested by collecting the tree’s gum.

What does Myrrh smell like? Myrrh scent notes are soft and warm with hints of earthy and woody notes as well as slightly medical notes. In some varieties, it can also have a lightly spicy note.

Myrrh was one of the gifts given by the wise men to Jesus when he was born, so it has been an important part of Christianity for thousands of years. Myrrh has also been used by Muslims and Hindus in religious ceremonies and rituals for centuries.

Commiphora myrrha Tree

Commiphora myrrha Tree what Myrrh resin and essential oil is extracted frrom

History of Myrrh

The word myrrh comes from the Arabic word “murr” meaning “bitter”. One of the first recorded stories of myrrh has been told since ancient times, but it’s unclear when it was first discovered or used. Some believe it was Queen Hatshepsut who first introduced myrrh to Egypt during her reign over 3,500 years ago or 1,500 BCE. It is said that Queen Hatshepsut sent an expedition to the Land of Punt where the trees were located and brought them back to please the god, Amon. The expedition was successful, and the Myrrh scent was introduced to Egypt.

In the New Testament, Myrrh was present in both Jesus’ birth and death. At his birth, three wise men brought gifts of Myrrh, Frankincense, and Gold. The gift of Myrrh represented death and mourning and was also used in Burial Embalming including in Jesus’ death.

What was myrrh used for?

Much like today, Myrrh has many ranges of use from healing and scent. Ancient Egyptians used Myrrh in religious ceremonies and burials. Myrrh would be burned with our scents such as Frankincense as incense. Myrrh resin has also been found to contain antimicrobial properties and can be used to treat mild wounds and swelling. Ancient Egyptians believed that myrrh was essential to the process of embalming and so it was included in all the mixtures they created. Myrrh was also burned as incense during religious rituals, especially those honouring gods who were associated with death, rebirth, and fertility.

Myrrh today is used in a variety of processes and products from candles, natural body products, perfumes, and pure essential oils. Myrrh can be found almost anywhere. Pure Myrrh Essential oils are formed by gathering the gum resin and then steam distilling the hard resin drops to produce different grades of pure Myrrh Essential oil.

Myrrh Resin

A bowl of myrrh yrrh resin used for incense

World Infused Candles has included the warm scents of myrrh in its frankincense and myrrh candle ‘Ancient Pharoah’ with scents of Frankincense, Myrrh, and Cinnamon while combining the natural goodness of soy wax. It is the perfect scent to experience the ancient Bazaars of Cairo and bring yourself closer to the scents of the gods.

Enjoyed this Article? Read next about Cleopatra’s Royal Bathing Regime for a Youthful Appearance

Ancient Pharaoh

$24.95$49.95

As ancient as the shifting sands that shaped an empire. Delight in the timeless scents of Frankincense, Myrrh and Cinnamon, as they float amongst the Bazaars of Cairo. These beguiling fragrances are the essence of Gods.

Our candles are created using clean soy wax for a more Fresh and healthy burning experience

Candle Care

  • Our candle with proper maintenance and care will provide up to 50 hours of burn time
  • Burn the candle no longer than 4 Hour periods giving enough rest for the candle to completely cool in-between uses
  • After use trim wick to 5mm high to ensure successful burning

SKU: N/A Category: Tag:
Read more

Egyptian Gods

$29.95

Frankincense and myrrh, the gift of kings, two powerful resins combined to harmonize the mind.

Immortelle, the everlasting flower, a honeyed rich exotic scent. The damask rose, symbolizing beauty and love, these beautiful flowers are delicately floral. These are the oils used by the ancient Egyptian Gods. They are indulgent, spiritual, powerful. Take a scentual journey to an ancient land, the birthplace of perfume and heighten your senses with Egyptian Gods.

Using the Pure Essential oils of Rose damask, Immortelle, Frankincense, Myrrh and Patchouli

Direction of use

  • Add a few drops to your steam diffuser or oil burner.
  • For Massage: Add 8 drops per 20ml of carrier oil.


ingredients

Rose damask, Immortelle, Frankincense, Myrrh, Patchouli

Warning

  • Seek medical advice before using if pregnant
  • Do not use on infants or children
  • Keep out of reach of children and pets
  • Do not ingest
  • Do not use on skin undiluted
  • Avoid eye contact

SKU: N/A Category:
Read more