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MYRRH

Gum resin used as an ingredient in incense and oil of the sick. In ancient times it was used as a perfume, and often in embalming. Presented by one of the Magi to the Infant Jesus, it was an offering that Christian tradition has understood as a symbol of suffering.

All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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