Biblical Magi
The term Biblical Magi in its most basic form may be used for someone who is a bearer of gifts or even someone connected with the church. In olden times, all over the Middle East, the term was not particularly associated with any form of worship, but to a certain extent with priestly occupation. The Catholic Encyclopedia describes the Magi as the ‘wise men from the East’ who came to adore Jesus in Bethlehem. Interestingly, the term - ‘magi’ is also the origin of the word magic.
The names of the Magi and their gifts
According to the Christians the wise men that came to Bethlehem from the East to pay their respects to baby Jesus were called the Magi. Their names, as per the later Christian tradition, were Melchior, Balthazar and Gaspar and they were said to be kings. They followed an inexplicable star that guided them to the place of His birth. The Magi bore gifts of gold and frankincense and myrrh for the infant Jesus. On meeting their King the magi fell on their knees in joyous praise and put their gifts at His feet. Since they brought three gifts it is assumed that the wise men were three in number and not vice-versa.
The gift of gold is supposed to signify riches and wealth while the other two gifts of frankincense and myrrh are respectively supposed to denote perfume and anointing oil.
Legend of King Herod
When they enquired about their new king, the magi were directed to Bethlehem by King Herod, governor of Judea. When Herod asked them to reveal the location of His birth on their return journey, they changed their route because an angel warned them of Herod’s evil intentions (another version speaks of a dream warning) of wanting to put Baby Jesus to death. Later, in frustration, Herod had all newborns in Bethlehem massacred.