Balthazar, Gaspar, and Melchior.
Peter Paul Rubens: The Adoration of the Magi
Who were the men who visited the Christ? Scholars describe them as kings, wise men, and magi. How do we see them? Why do they persist in finding the Christ? Where do they find the strength and fidelity to continue on their pilgrimage?
Frankincense, gold and myrrh.
Why these particular gifts? Again, scholars offer several views. Do they signify faith, hope and love? Do they represent the Trinity?
Edward Burne-Jones: The Adoration of the Magi
Three magi, three gifts.
January 6th is the traditional date on which many Christians celebrate the wisdom these men represent in Jesus’s Infancy Narrative. Some denominations celebrate on the weekend nearest this date; but no matter our perspective, this feast day brings to each of us an opportunity to rejoice and be glad like the angels and shepherds who first witnessed the coming of God among us in human form.
Over the next few days, we might ponder what these magi and these gifts mean to us as we explore the internet for other images that speak to us.
For insights, click on the image, or visit: http://www.christianitytoday.com/history/holidays/christmas/magi-wise-men-or-kings-its-complicated.html
As we reflect on our own perceptions, we might visit: https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/people-cultures-in-the-bible/jesus-historical-jesus/why-did-the-magi-bring-gold-frankincense-and-myrrh/
Click on the tapestry image for more about the tapestry itself, and more about the riddle the magi present to us. http://www.patheos.com/blogs/standingonmyhead/2015/01/the-riddle-of-the-three-wise-men.html
