Matthew 2:11

KJV

And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} when they were come {G2064} into {G1519} the house {G3614}, they saw {G2147}{G1492} the young child {G3813} with {G3326} Mary {G3137} his {G846} mother {G3384}, and {G2532} fell down {G4098}, and worshipped {G4352} him {G846}: and {G2532} when they had opened {G455} their {G846} treasures {G2344}, they presented {G4374} unto him {G846} gifts {G1435}; gold {G5557}, and {G2532} frankincense {G3030}, and {G2532} myrrh {G4666}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Upon entering the house, they saw the child with his mother Miryam; and they prostrated themselves and worshipped him. Then they opened their bags and presented him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

Berean Standard Bible

On coming to the house, they saw the Child with His mother Mary, and they fell down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold and frankincense and myrrh.

American Standard Version

And they came into the house and saw the young child with Mary his mother; and they fell down and worshipped him; and opening their treasures they offered unto him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 2:11 records the climactic moment of the Magi's journey, as these wise men from the East finally locate the young child Jesus in Bethlehem. Their immediate response is one of profound reverence and adoration, falling down to worship Him. This act of homage is accompanied by the presentation of highly symbolic and costly gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—each signifying a crucial aspect of Jesus' identity and future mission, underscoring His unique status as King, God, and Suffering Servant.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the culmination of the Magi's arduous journey, which began in Matthew 2:1 with their arrival in Jerusalem, seeking the "King of the Jews." Their inquiry stirred King Herod, leading him to consult the chief priests and scribes who, citing Micah 5:2, identified Bethlehem as the Messiah's birthplace. Herod then deceitfully instructed the Magi to report back to him after finding the child, feigning a desire to worship Him, while secretly plotting His demise (as seen in [Matthew 2:7-8](/matthew/2-7-8 "Matthew 2:7-8 - Herod's Deceptive Inquiry")). The reappearance of the star (mentioned in [Matthew 2:9](/matthew/2-9 "Matthew 2:9 - The Star Reappears")) guides them directly to the house, highlighting divine providence. This encounter contrasts sharply with the indifference of the religious leaders and the hostility of Herod, setting the stage for Jesus' early life marked by both adoration and opposition.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The "Magi" were likely Persian or Babylonian astrologers and wise men, possibly priestly figures, who studied the stars and interpreted dreams. Their journey from the East, a significant distance, indicates their profound conviction and dedication. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the appearance of a new star was often associated with the birth of a king or a significant divine event. The act of "falling down" (proskynesis) was a common gesture of profound respect or worship, often directed towards royalty or deities. The gifts—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—were extremely valuable commodities. Gold was a universal symbol of wealth and royalty. Frankincense, an aromatic resin, was used in Temple worship and as perfume, associated with divinity and priestly functions. Myrrh, another aromatic resin, was used in perfumes, medicines, and, notably, for embalming the dead, making its inclusion particularly poignant.

* **Key Themes:** Matthew 2:11 powerfully contributes to several key themes within the Gospel of Matthew. The most prominent is the **universal recognition of Jesus' kingship and divine identity**, even by Gentiles from distant lands, contrasting with the rejection by the Jewish authorities in Jerusalem. This foreshadows the broader scope of salvation that extends beyond Israel, a theme Matthew emphasizes throughout his Gospel, culminating in the Great Commission (see [Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")). The **fulfillment of prophecy** is another crucial theme, as the Magi's journey and the gifts they bring align with Old Testament prophecies regarding Gentile homage to the Messiah (e.g., [Isaiah 60:6](/isaiah/60-6 "Isaiah 60:6 - Gentiles Bringing Gifts to Zion") and [Psalm 72:10-11](/psalms/72-10-11 "Psalm 72:10-11 - Kings of Tarshish and Sheba Bringing Gifts")). Furthermore, the gifts themselves introduce the themes of **Jesus' multifaceted role** as King, God, and Suffering Servant, laying foundational theological markers for His entire ministry, death, and resurrection.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **worshipped (Greek, _proskynéō'_):** (G4352) This word, derived from a root meaning "to kiss, like a dog licking his master's hand," signifies to fawn or crouch to, to prostrate oneself in homage, or to do reverence to, adore. In a religious context, as here, it denotes an act of profound spiritual adoration and submission to a divine being. The Magi's act was not merely bowing to a king but acknowledging Jesus' supreme, divine authority and worthiness of ultimate honor.
* **young child (Greek, _paidíon'_):** (G3813) A neuter diminutive of _país_ (child), this term refers to an infant or a half-grown boy or girl. Its use here indicates that Jesus was no longer a newborn in a manger but a toddler, likely between one and two years old, dwelling in a house. This detail helps to contextualize the timing of the Magi's visit, which occurred some time after Jesus' birth.
* **treasures (Greek, _thēsaurós'_):** (G2344) Derived from _títhēmi_ (to place), this word literally means a deposit, and by extension, wealth or a treasury. In this context, it refers to the valuable stores from which the Magi drew their precious gifts. The term emphasizes the costly and significant nature of the offerings, indicating that these were not casual presents but items of great value, befitting a king.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when they were come into the house":** This phrase indicates the culmination of the Magi's guided journey. The use of "house" (G3614, _oikía_) rather than "stable" or "inn" suggests that Joseph and Mary had settled into more permanent lodging in Bethlehem, and some time had passed since Jesus' birth. This detail provides a more realistic timeline for the Magi's lengthy journey and their arrival.
* **"they saw the young child with Mary his mother":** Upon entering, the Magi's focus is immediately on "the young child" (G3813, _paidíon_). The presence of Mary is noted, but the primary object of their attention and subsequent worship is Jesus, underscoring His unique identity and significance. Joseph is notably absent from this specific mention, possibly indicating he was elsewhere or simply that the focus is on the child and his mother in this particular scene.
* **"and fell down, and worshipped him":** This is the central action of the verse. The Magi's immediate response is one of humble prostration and profound worship (G4352, _proskynéō_). This act goes beyond mere respect for a king; it is an acknowledgment of Jesus' divine nature and supreme authority, a recognition that distinguishes them from Herod and the Jerusalem elite.
* **"and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts":** Following their worship, the Magi open their "treasures" (G2344, _thēsaurós_), signifying the costly nature of their offerings. The act of "presenting" (G4374, _prosphérō_) implies a formal and respectful offering, particularly to a superior or deity. These were not casual presents but tribute.
* **"gold, and frankincense, and myrrh":** These three specific gifts are highly symbolic. **Gold** signifies royalty and kingship, acknowledging Jesus as the King of Kings. **Frankincense**, used in Temple worship and associated with divine presence, points to Jesus' deity and His role as the Great High Priest. **Myrrh**, often used for embalming, prophetically foreshadows Jesus' future suffering, death, and burial, which would ultimately lead to salvation.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 2:11 is rich in **Symbolism**, primarily through the three distinct gifts. **Gold** universally symbolizes royalty and kingship, explicitly identifying Jesus as the rightful King. **Frankincense**, used in priestly rituals and associated with the divine, points to Jesus' divine nature and His role as the ultimate High Priest. **Myrrh**, a funerary spice, serves as a poignant **Foreshadowing** of Jesus' suffering, death, and burial, hinting at the sacrificial nature of His mission. The narrative also employs **Contrast**, highlighting the Magi's genuine worship and recognition of Jesus' identity against Herod's murderous jealousy and the indifference of the religious leaders in Jerusalem. This scene marks the **Climax** of the Magi's quest, bringing their long journey to a divinely guided conclusion and establishing Jesus' early life as one already attracting both adoration and opposition.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 2:11 profoundly establishes Jesus' identity and the universal scope of His mission. The Magi, as Gentiles, represent the nations of the world coming to worship the newborn King, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies that anticipated the inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan. Their worship of Jesus, accompanied by gifts reserved for royalty and deity, underscores His unique status as both King and God. The prophetic nature of the gifts—gold for kingship, frankincense for deity and priesthood, and myrrh for suffering and death—lays the theological groundwork for understanding Jesus' multifaceted role as the Messiah who reigns, intercedes, and atones. This moment reveals that Jesus' kingdom is not merely for Israel but for all who will come to Him in worship.

* [Psalm 72:10-11](/psalms/72-10-11 "Psalm 72:10-11 - Kings of Tarshish and the isles shall bring presents")
* [Isaiah 60:6](/isaiah/60-6 "Isaiah 60:6 - They shall bring gold and frankincense")
* [Revelation 5:12](/revelation/5-12 "Revelation 5:12 - Worthy is the Lamb to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The Magi's journey and their encounter with Jesus in Matthew 2:11 offer a profound model for our own spiritual lives. Their persistence in seeking Jesus, guided by divine signs, reminds us of the importance of diligently pursuing Christ in our own lives, even when the path is long or uncertain. Their immediate response of falling down and worshipping Him teaches us the posture of humility and adoration appropriate for approaching the King of Kings. Furthermore, their costly gifts challenge us to consider what "treasures" we are willing to offer to Jesus. These are not merely material possessions, but our time, talents, resources, and ultimately, our very lives, dedicated to His service and glory. Just as the Magi recognized Jesus' unique identity as King, God, and Savior, we are called to acknowledge Him in all His fullness and to offer Him our best, not out of obligation, but out of heartfelt love and devotion for the One who is truly worthy of all worship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "star" or guidance has led you to seek Jesus more deeply in your life?**
* **In what ways do you "fall down and worship" Jesus, acknowledging His supreme authority and divine nature?**
* **What "treasures"—whether material, spiritual, or relational—are you holding back from offering to Christ?**
* **How does understanding the symbolism of gold, frankincense, and myrrh deepen your appreciation for Jesus' identity and mission?**

### FAQ

**Who were the Magi, and where did they come from?**

Answer: The Magi (singular "Magus") were likely a class of wise men, possibly astrologers, astronomers, or even priests, from the East, traditionally thought to be from Persia or Babylonia. They were revered for their wisdom and knowledge, particularly in interpreting dreams and celestial phenomena. Their origin "from the East" (as mentioned in [Matthew 2:1](/matthew/2-1 "Matthew 2:1 - The Magi from the East")) suggests a non-Jewish background, making their worship of the "King of the Jews" particularly significant as it foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles into God's kingdom.

**Why did the Magi present these specific gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh?**

Answer: The gifts were not arbitrary but deeply symbolic, reflecting the Magi's profound understanding, or perhaps prophetic intuition, of Jesus' identity and future. **Gold** (G5557, _chrysós_) was a gift fit for a king, signifying Jesus' royalty and His eternal kingship, as prophesied in passages like [Psalm 72:10-11](/psalms/72-10-11 "Psalm 72:10-11 - Kings bringing gifts"). **Frankincense** (G3030, _líbanos_), an aromatic resin used in Temple worship and as incense, pointed to Jesus' divine nature and His role as the Great High Priest, the mediator between God and humanity (see [Hebrews 4:14](/hebrews/4-14 "Hebrews 4:14 - Jesus, our Great High Priest")). **Myrrh** (G4666, _smýrna_), a bitter gum used for embalming the dead and as a perfume, prophetically foreshadowed Jesus' suffering, death, and burial, which would ultimately bring salvation (as seen in [John 19:39](/john/19-39 "John 19:39 - Nicodemus bringing myrrh for Jesus' burial")).

**Why did the Magi find Jesus in a "house" and not a stable, as often depicted?**

Answer: The biblical text in [Matthew 2:11](/matthew/2-11 "Matthew 2:11 - Magi visit Jesus in a house") explicitly states that the Magi "were come into the house." This suggests that some time had passed since Jesus' birth in the stable (as described in [Luke 2:7](/luke/2-7 "Luke 2:7 - Jesus born in a manger")), and Joseph and Mary had likely found more permanent lodging in Bethlehem. Given the Magi's long journey, it is generally believed that Jesus was no longer a newborn but a "young child" (G3813, _paidíon_), possibly a toddler between one and two years old, when they arrived.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 2:11 offers a profound Christ-centered fulfillment, revealing Jesus as the universally recognized King, God, and Suffering Servant. The gold presented by the Magi acknowledges Jesus' true identity as the promised King, whose kingdom is not of this world (as He declared in [John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Not of This World")) but is eternal and spiritual, ultimately reigning over all creation (as proclaimed in [Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")). The frankincense points to His divine nature and His role as the Great High Priest, the one through whom humanity can draw near to God (as described in [Hebrews 10:19-22](/hebrews/10-19-22 "Hebrews 10:19-22 - Access to God through Christ")). Most poignantly, the myrrh foreshadows Jesus' ultimate sacrifice on the cross, where He would lay down His life as the Lamb of God (as seen in [John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")) to take away the sin of the world, fulfilling the prophecies of the suffering servant in [Isaiah 53](/isaiah/53 "Isaiah 53 - The Suffering Servant"). Thus, this early scene in Matthew's Gospel encapsulates the entire redemptive arc of Christ: His royal authority, His divine essence, and His sacrificial mission, all culminating in His triumph over sin and death for the salvation of all who would worship Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 60:6

The multitude of camels shall cover thee, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; all they from Sheba shall come: they shall bring gold and incense; and they shall shew forth the praises of the LORD.

Psalms 72:10

The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts.

Matthew 2:2

Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.

Luke 2:16

And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

Psalms 95:6

O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker.

Acts 10:25

And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped [him].

Acts 10:26

But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man.