The title of O. Henry’s story, ‘The Gift of the Magi,’ holds deep significance as it reflects the central theme of selfless love and sacrifice. The Magi, or the Three Wise Men, are known for bringing valuable gifts to the newborn Jesus. In the story, the characters Jim and Della also give valuable gifts to each other, but their gifts are not material wealth. Instead, they give up their most prized possessions out of love for one another.
Della sells her beautiful hair to buy a chain for Jim’s watch, while Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della’s hair. Their gifts, though rendered useless by their sacrifices, symbolize the true spirit of giving—putting the other person’s happiness above one’s own. The title thus highlights the idea that the greatest gifts are those given out of love and selflessness, much like the gifts of the Magi.