Thoughts to think about

Have you ever wondered where the tradition of the Wisemen being present at the manger on the night of Christ’s birth came from? Here are five explanations for this tradition:

1. The Biblical Account: The Gospel of Matthew (2:1-12) narrates the visit of “Wisemen from the East” to Jesus. Although it doesn’t specify their number or names, it mentions that they visited Jesus at a house. They followed a star, known as the Star of Bethlehem, and worshiped Jesus, presenting Him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

2. Early Christian Art and Literature: In the 4th century, Christian artists and writers began portraying the Wisemen as three kings or Magi, often dressed in Persian attire, visiting Jesus in the manger. This artistic convention combined the biblical account with earlier traditions of Eastern sages and astrologers.

3. Medieval Influence: The 12th-century Byzantine calendar and the 13th-century “Golden Legend,” a popular medieval biography, further solidified the tradition of the Wisemen visiting the manger in Bethlehem. These works depicted the Wisemen as three kings, each representing a different continent, and emphasized their role in recognizing Jesus as the Messiah.

4. Renaissance and Baroque Art: During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, artists like Gentile da Fabriano (1423) and Diego Velázquez (1619) depicted the Wisemen visiting the manger, often with elaborate costumes and regalia. These works reinforced the popular image of the Wisemen as three kings, dressed in exotic attire and worshiping Jesus in a manger.

5. Modern Tradition: Today, the tradition of the Wisemen visiting the manger is a common feature in Christmas nativity scenes and decorations. These often showcase three kings or Wisemen, camels, and a manger with the Holy Family. This popular image has been shaped by centuries of artistic and literary influences, though its biblical foundation remains the account in Matthew 2.

I thought you might like to know.

Remember, it is the time to celebrate the birth of our Lord, our Savior, our Redeemer, Jesus Christ.

D. Charles Wilson 12-20-2024