### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term λίβανος (líbanos), transliterated as *líbanos*, directly translates to "frankincense." Its etymology traces back to the Hebrew `{{H3828}}` (levonah), which also denotes frankincense, highlighting its foreign origin and established meaning within the ancient Near Eastern context. The core meaning refers to the aromatic gum resin obtained from trees of the genus *Boswellia*, particularly *Boswellia sacra*, native to regions like Oman, Yemen, and Somalia. By implication, it can also refer to the tree itself, though its primary biblical usage is the resin. Frankincense was highly valued for its sweet fragrance when burned, its use in religious ceremonies, and its perceived medicinal properties.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term λίβανος appears in two distinct and highly significant contexts within the New Testament:
* **[[Matthew 2:11]]**: This is arguably the most iconic occurrence, where frankincense is presented as one of the three precious gifts offered by the Magi to the infant Jesus, alongside gold and myrrh.
* **Context:** The offering of frankincense here is replete with symbolic meaning. In the Old Testament, frankincense was an essential component of the sacred incense burned in the Tabernacle and Temple ([[Exodus 30:34-38]]), and it was mandated to be placed on grain offerings ([[Leviticus 2:1-2]], [[Leviticus 24:7]]). Its presentation to Jesus by the Magi, foreigners from the East, signifies their recognition of His divine and priestly status, acknowledging Him as worthy of worship typically reserved for God. It represents an act of profound homage and honor to the newborn King, underscoring His unique identity.
* **[[Revelation 18:13]]**: In this apocalyptic vision, frankincense is listed among the myriad luxurious commodities whose trade is lamented at the fall of "Babylon the Great," a symbol of corrupt worldly power.
* **Context:** Here, λίβανος functions as an item of high-value commerce and luxury, part of the extensive and decadent trade network of the condemned city. Its inclusion among "spices, incense, myrrh, frankincense" (among many other goods) emphasizes the city's opulence and its deep entanglement in worldly materialism. The lament over its loss underscores the complete economic and spiritual devastation that accompanies divine judgment upon such systems. This usage contrasts sharply with its sacred application in Matthew, highlighting how even intrinsically valuable substances can be debased when integrated into systems of worldly excess.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **Hebrew Counterpart:** The direct and most significant related term is the Hebrew `{{H3828}}` לְבוֹנָה (levonah), which is the source of λίβανος. This term is extensively used throughout the Old Testament, particularly within the Pentateuch, detailing its role in the sacrificial system. It was part of the holy anointing oil, placed on grain offerings, and used with the bread of the Presence, always signifying something set apart for God and highly valued.
* **Other Aromatic Substances:**
* `{{G2368}}` θυμίαμα (thymiāma): A broader term for "incense" or "perfume," often referring to the smoke produced or the act of burning.
* `{{G3464}}` μύρον (myron): "Myrrh," another precious aromatic resin, often used in anointing and embalming, and also given by the Magi.
* **Worship and Offering:** The concept of offering precious aromatics is deeply embedded in biblical worship, symbolizing prayer, praise, consecration, and the pleasing aroma of sacrifice ascending to God. This tradition is evident from the Tabernacle to the Temple and is recontextualized in the New Testament with the offering to Christ.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of λίβανος (líbanos) is multifaceted and profound, drawing heavily from its Old Testament roots and its pivotal New Testament appearances.
* **Divine Recognition and Worship of Christ:** The offering of frankincense by the Magi in [[Matthew 2:11]] is a powerful theological statement. As frankincense was reserved for divine worship in the Temple, its presentation to Jesus implicitly declares His divine nature and His supreme worthiness of worship. It is an act of homage to Him as the Messiah-King, foreshadowing His role as the Great High Priest.
* **Symbol of Purity and Acceptable Sacrifice:** The sweet aroma of burning frankincense was associated with prayers and offerings that were pleasing to God ([[Psalm 141:2]], [[Revelation 5:8]], [[Revelation 8:3-4]]). In the context of Christ, it symbolizes His perfect, pure life and His ultimate sacrifice, which is a "fragrant offering and sacrifice to God" ([[Ephesians 5:2]]).
* **Costly Devotion:** As a valuable commodity, frankincense represents costly devotion and sacrifice. The Magi's arduous journey and their precious gifts underscore the immense value and effort placed on worshipping the newborn King, setting a precedent for the costly nature of true discipleship.
* **Contrast of Sacred and Profane:** The contrasting usage in [[Matthew 2:11]] and [[Revelation 18:13]] highlights a crucial theological tension. While frankincense is inherently valuable and can be used for sacred purposes, its inclusion among the commodities of "Babylon" in Revelation demonstrates how even precious things can become objects of worldly greed and luxury, ultimately leading to divine judgment when divorced from their sacred purpose and used for self-aggrandizement.
### Summary
The Greek term λίβανος (líbanos), meaning "frankincense," is a word rich in theological import, deeply rooted in its Old Testament Hebrew counterpart `{{H3828}}`. Its most significant appearance in [[Matthew 2:11]] portrays it as a gift from the Magi, symbolizing worship, the recognition of Jesus' divine and priestly nature, and the costly devotion due to the Messiah. This act connects Jesus directly to the sacred worship of God in the Old Testament temple system. Conversely, its listing among the luxurious goods of "Babylon the Great" in [[Revelation 18:13]] serves as a stark reminder of how even valuable substances can be corrupted by worldly materialism and excess, ultimately facing divine judgment. Thus, λίβανος powerfully encapsulates themes of divine worship, the unique identity of Christ, and the fundamental contrast between sacred devotion and worldly accumulation.
TRV