Myrrh

True myrrh belongs to the balsam tree family and gives off a tear-shaped resin that hardens into a bitter, aromatic gum. In this way, myrrh is a reminder of the sufferings of the Savior. In the Bible, it is

• a component of the holy anointing oil ( Ex 30:23)
• a very valuable perfume (Song of Songs 1:13; 3:6; 4:6.14; 5:1.5.13)

The wise men from the East brought myrrh as one of the gifts at the birth of the Lord (Mt 2:11). Mixed with wine, it was offered to Jesus as an anesthetic potion before he was crucified, which he refused (John 19:39). It was also used at the burial of the Lord. (Mk 15:23).