The History of Bethlehem Incense: A Sacred Fragrance in Homage to the Place of the Nativity

Bethlehem, City of the Birth of the Saviour

Bethlehem, located in Judea, is a city at the heart of the history of Christianity. It was here that Jesus Christ was born, in a humble manger, bringing to the world the light and hope of salvation.

For over 2000 years, Bethlehem has been a place of pilgrimage and prayer, where millions of faithful come to honour the birth of Christ in the Basilica of the Nativity. This city evokes simplicity, purity and the fulfilment of the divine promise.

The Bethlehem incense was created to pay homage to this sacred place. Its soft, warm fragrance recalls the adoration of the Magi, the peace of Christmas night and the presence of Christ among us.

Burning this incense is revisiting the joy of the Nativity, welcoming the light of the Saviour into our hearts.

An Incense Inspired by the Offering of the Magi

The Gospels relate that the Wise Men, who had come from the East, brought the Infant Jesus gold, frankincense and myrrh (Matthew 2, 11).

Gold symbolises Christ's kingship.
The incense represents his divinity.
The myrrh announces his redemptive mission and Passion.

The Bethlehem incense takes up this symbolism by incorporating precious resins and natural essences evoking the fragrances of the Holy Land.

Composition and Manufacture of Bethlehem Incense

Bethlehem Incense is made using traditional artisanal methods, using ingredients that recall the spirituality and history of the Nativity.

His main ingredients:

Olibanum (sacred incense) : Symbol of prayer and elevation to God.
Myrrh : Associated with the adoration of the Magi and the mission of Christ.
Rose : Evokes the purity and tenderness of the Virgin Mary.
Benjoin : Brings a soft, soothing note.
Cedar : Symbolizes protection and spiritual strength.

This blend creates a warm, enveloping fragrance, ideal for prayer and contemplation.

The Spiritual Benefits of Bethlehem Incense

The Bethlehem Incense is used to sanctify a place, accompany prayer and rekindle the spirit of Christmas throughout the year.

1. An Incense of Joy and Praise

Ideal for prayers of thanks and praise.

Help to meditate on the birth of Christ and the hope he brings to the world.

Fosters a climate of peace and trust in God.

2. An Incense of Purification and Blessing

Used to bless a home or church.

Purifies the air and creates an atmosphere conducive to prayer.

Ideal for Christmas celebrations and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

3. An Incense of Peace and Comfort

Its gentle fragrance soothes the spirit and invites serenity.

It helps to strengthen faith in times of doubt or trial.

It evokes God's tenderness and benevolent presence.

How to Use Bethlehem Incense?

Bethlehem Incense can be used in various moments of prayer and meditation.

1. During the Feasts of Christmas and Epiphany

Light a burning coal in a censer.

Drop a few grains of Bethlehem incense.

Read the account of the Nativity (Luke 2, 1-20) or the adoration of the Magi (Matthew 2, 1-12).

Let the smoke and fragrance raise prayers to heaven.

2. For Family Prayer

Burn some incense before a time of family prayer.

Trust your home to the protection of the Holy Family.

To ask Jesus, Mary and Joseph to bless and sanctify the home.

3. To Bless a Place of Living

Burn Bethlehem incense in a room to be sanctified.

Accompany this moment with a prayer of blessing.
Let the smoke purify the space and bring peace and harmony.

Bethlehem Incense: A Light of Hope and Faith

The Incense Bethlehem is an invitation to relive the joy of Christmas and meditate on God's infinite love. Its sacred fragrance reminds us that Jesus is the Light of the world, come to bring peace and salvation to all mankind.

By burning him, we reaffirm our faith in God's presence among us and allow ourselves to be enveloped by Christ's tenderness and mercy.

May this incense accompany our prayers and meditations, reminding us of the importance of humility, love and trust in God.