Canon law has the Scriptures as its foundation. It seems that there is an agreement among most canon lawyers that there is no scriptural basis for the tria munera of Christ. However, I think there is. When Christ was born, the three kings gave him one gift each which can be compared with the threefold office of Christ. Firstly, the gift of gold means that these visitors recognised Christ as the King. Secondly, the incense shows that Christ is seen as a Priest. It is often used in the liturgy by priests for purification and blessings. Thirdly, the myrrh can be attributed to Christ as Prophet because as it was prophesied, he was to bring salvation for all through his suffering.

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