Who were these Magi, also known as “wise men” who came to Christ? These men were believed to be Zervanism, a religious branch of Zoroastrianism which was pagan in essence worshiping the god Ahura Mazda, whose name in part means intelligent or wise. The men were astrologers as well, likely studying the heavens as part of their religion.
Though traditionally we see three wise men pictured in the nativity scene, the Bible gives no exact reference to how many actually came to see Jesus. We know there were three types of gifts that were brought for Christ: gold, frankincense and myrrh. These gifts were typically given to kings and it was obvious they recognized Jesus as King.
Were the wise men referred to as wise because of the god they served? Was it because they inquired of the signs in the sky or because they recognized Jesus as King and paid respect to Him? The best explanation I could find was during that era, astrologers, fortune-tellers and Chaldeans were referred to as “wise men”.
The Bible does not elaborate much on these men who came to visit Christ. I find it so interesting how men of a different faith were drawn through their beliefs and studying of the sky to Jesus. Where were the religious leaders? Did they not seek Christ to serve? I’m left with so many questions and assumptions on this subject. So why does there seem to be such significance around Christmas and the wise men? My guess is they may have been some of the first visitors to worship Jesus who was believed to be around two years old at the time.
Could it be that perhaps the attention given to the wise men as a part of the traditional Christmas story is a bit overrated? Personally, I think so. The emphasis on Christ in the Bible focuses on His entrance into the world and more so, His purpose for being here. I don’t believe Jesus came here for the purpose of seeking glory for Himself, rather to set us free unto salvation. For this, He is truly worthy of glory and praise.