Matthew 2:1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,
Who were the wise men?
Probably Jews who knew the Scripture and were looking for the Messiah. Many say they were gentiles because they were astrologers (Couldn’t Jews be astrologers?). They felt compelled by God and when they saw a new star in the sky to go to Jerusalem and bring gifts to the son of God who was to be born, King of the Jews.
What are Magi?
The word Magi comes from the greek word ‘magos’ (where the english word ‘magic’ comes from). Magos itself comes from the old persian word ‘Magupati’. This was the title given to priests in a sect of the ancient Persian religions such as Zoroastrianism. Today we’d called them astrologers.
Where did they come from?
In the ancient Middle Eastern world Magi were trusted advisors to kings, were learned men proficient in the knowledge of mathematical calculations, astronomy, medicine, astrology, alchemy, dream interpretation and history as well as practitioners of magic and paranormal arts.
Daniel 2:2 Then the king commanded to call the magicians, and the astrologers, and the sorcerers, and the Chaldeans, for to shew the king his dreams. So they came and stood before the king.
How did they travel?
The Magi travelled in a large group with many camels and horses moving in a caravan. The camels are usually capable of adjusting with the toughest kind of journeys in the desert.
How long did they stay in Jerusalem?
Until they had met and consulted with the King and then again when the Star reappeared.
Itwould appear the star had disappeared from view for a short time, perhaps by an overcast sky. But once Bethlehem was affirmed as the place the King of the Jews was to be born, the star reappeared over Bethlehem leading them there.
Matthew 2:9-10 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
How did they get to Bethlehem?
They “followed” the star (Bethlehem was only 5 miles from Jerusalem) The star did not move.
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