The Greek word magoi is a transliteration of the Persian magush , who were Zoroastrian priests. They were experts on the motion and reading of the stars, i.e., astronomy and astrology. Greek authors did not have a clear understanding of either Zoroastrianism or what the Persian priests ( magush ) actually did. They viewed them as involved in the... See more

The Revised Standard Version (1952) and New Revised Standard Version (1989) both used wise men, but the New International Version (1983) and New American Bible (2011), and the latest version of NRSV (2021) all have used Magi, following Jerome’s transliteration.

The shift to Magi and away from wise men indicates that recent scholarship has become... See more

Beginning in the 4th century BCE, the use of the term magus became ambiguous and had a double significance. It often acquired contemptuous connation and was used to designate conjurers, sorcerers, and soothsayers (Bidez and Cumont, I, p. 174; Bickerman and Tadmor, p. 252; Papathcophances, p. 105). But the same word was also used for designating... See more

The Magi follow the star from the east. The east is the place of exile, as emphasized in the third part of the genealogy that opens this gospel: “after the deportation to Babylon” (Matthew 1:12). They enter the holy city of Jerusalem which is the home of King Herod. Matthew’s gospel is remapping sacred geography. The holy city becomes a place of... See more

There is a comical element here. As experts on the stars, they follow it all the way from “the east” and then lose it as they approach their final destination. And of all people to ask for directions, they choose King Herod who tricks them into betraying the new king of the Jews. This is a bit of a Marx Brothers routine with a dark side.

As soon as... See more